A tandem axial turbine that comprises a front confusor, a funnel-shaped runner having inner blades and capable of accelerating and directing an oncoming flow toward a co-axial rear runner which rotates in an opposite direction. The lift axle assembly selectively lowers and raises supplemental wheels of the vehicle into and out of engagement with a support surface and forms a part of the support system for the vehicle when the supplemental wheels are lowered. The present invention is also directed to articles, particularly for use in gas turbine engines, produced by the methods of the invention.