Freightliner Interior Upgrades
Freightliner Trucks has unveiled a new soft-trim interior upgrade for the 120-inch BBC Classic and 132-inch BBC Classic XL heavy-duty vehicles, as well as the 120-inch BBC FLD 120SD truck model.
The Classic and Classic XL truck models feature five upgraded interior colors, available in cloth or vinyl, for the new Chaparral interior package. Oasis Tan vinyl interior comes as standard, with Opal Gray, Autumn Red, Horizon Blue and Graphite Black packages available as options.
The Chaparral interior also features a more plush upholstery and distinctive diamond-stitch pattern with button accents on the seats, walls, headliners and door panels.
The new colors easily complement the wood grain or rosewood accents on the dashboard in the SleeperCabs, providing a luxurious and well-appointed cab interior.
The plush interior padding on the SleeperCab walls and the under-panel of the bunk adds to the enhancement of the interior cab appearance and environment.
In addition to a basic interior level, four new premium Chaparral vinyl interior color options and two new Chaparral cloth interior color options are also available for Freightliner Trucks' severe-duty vehicle, the FLD 120SD. Graphite Black, Opal Gray, Horizon Blue and Oasis Tan colors are available for the vinyl option, while Graphite Black and Horizon Blue are offered in cloth.
Western Star Stratosphere Sleeper
The longest and tallest Western Star sleeper - at 82 inches - is the Stratosphere, adding more interior room and exterior styling to the Star Light sleeper lineup. It has full stand-up room, a completely flat floor, extensive storage space, and a variety of bunk and window options to enhance life on the road. Tall overhead room extends into the cab, so driver and passenger can stand up and walk into the sleeper. Yet the forward portion of the cab's roof retains enough area for mounting of air horns - an important styling desire of many owner-operators and small fleets, WS executives said.
International Delivers UltraShift
International Truck and Engine Corp. is now offering the Eaton Fuller UltraShift automated transmission in its 8600 and 9000i Series tractors.
The UltraShift transmission is Eaton's first, fully automated, two-pedal transmission product. The UltraShift transmission offers fully automatic shifting with industry-proven Eaton Fuller 10-speed transmission technology.
The UltraShift transmission features an automatic start with no clutch pedal and computer-controlled shifts at ideal engine speeds for improved fuel efficiency and performance.
Acterra Performance Options
Enhancements to the Sterling Acterra include two-pedal automatic transmissions, all-wheel-drive and tighter turning.
The transmission options include Eaton UltraShift 6-speed and the Mercedes-Benz Automated Gear Shift (AGS), both two-pedal automated mechanical transmissions.
The AGS transmission offers enhanced performance and economy, says Sterling, because it is load sensing and evaluates road conditions to precisely determine shift points.
Both provide protection for the driveline through smooth application of the clutch and closely matched shifts.
The all-wheel-drive option is now factory installed and features full four-wheel automatic traction control. Acterras that are equipped with AWD feature a three-step cab entry and front axles rated 12,000, 14,000 and 16,000 pounds.
The tighter turning radius is enabled by the use of a new standard TRW THP60 high-pressure steering gear. It allows five degrees additional wheel cut creating a shorter turning radius.
International Premium Eagle 9900ix
International Truck and Engine unveils its latest Class 8 - the American Eagle 9900ix.
The limited-edition truck features the graphic design of an American eagle along the cab and a unique ornament on its long-nose hood that depicts a silver American eagle soaring over the International badge.
Individually numbered for authenticity, the cab features boldly rendered and crafted elements both inside and out. Western saddle tan seats include the embroidered American Eagle scripted logo on headrest cover and complement blue suede inserts on seats, doors, sleeper area doors and the sleeper back wall.
Other key features of the American Eagle 9900ix include:
• A sleek, aerodynamic hood combined with a fully curved wraparound windshield with enlarged windows for superior viewing and front-forward visibility.
• Standard wide-track front axles for improved wheel-cut, a tighter turning radius and better maneuverability.
• Superior cab room with a wider extended sleeper cab.
• Cab aesthetics that feature a visually appealing dashboard and a higher steering wheel placement for better turning radius.
• International Ride Optimization Suspension for improved vehicle ride and handling, as well as increased driver comfort and control.
• Innovative flow-through aerodynamic sunshade to keep airflow unrestricted.
Kenworth Extended Daycab
Kenworth's new extended daycab for its lineup of heavy duty trucks provides drivers with more room and storage space. Available on the T600, T800 and W900, the option will be well-suited for both regional hauling applications and vocational customers who are looking for more cab comfort. The extended daycab offers more than two cubic feet of added interior storage. Available interior packages include the Diamond and Splendor lining options in standard Kenworth colors. Also available is the QuietCab package to reduce interior noise. Among exterior options are exhaust placement. Aerodynamic devices also are available.
Western Star LowMax Mid-Hood
Western Star Trucks announces a LowMax option for the 4900 FA model. Expanding the popular LowMax package to include a 123-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) Western Star configuration, this option fits the bill for premium owner-operators looking for a shorter hood, stylish design and the same big bore engine power as the original 4900 EX LowMax.
The 123-inch BBC 4900FA LowMax offers many of the features of the original EX, including 22.5-inch low-profile tires, reduced rear suspension height, redesigned lower cab mounting, low-profile oil pan, and special exhaust routing packages. While shortening the hood length by about nine inches, Western Star continues to offer some of the most powerful engines available, including Caterpillar and the Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine. In addition, the Front AirLiner suspension is now available for the LowMax, which features a lower axle drop and suspension height.
With a cab height almost a foot lower than standard, the LowMax features a road-hugging design that provides advantages in handling and stability. Ideally suited for premium car haulers who run sleeper units, this new LowMax package also appeals to any customer who values comfort, spaciousness, handling and premium power.
Cummins Launches APU
Cummins introduces the ComfortGuard auxiliary power unit based on its Onan engine division power. Cummins says the competitively priced gen-set provides significant fuel savings and reduced emissions over idling the truck's diesel engine while heating or cooling the cab.
ComfortGuard is designed to be fully integrated with the vehicle's heating/ventilation/ air-conditioning (HVAC) system, so that the vehicle's main engine does not have to be idled. This capability is provided by an Onan two-cylinder diesel engine and generator that's been a mainstay of the RV and marine markets for many years.
According to Cummins, the reduction in idle time will provide the end user with up to an 8.5% overall truck fuel economy improvement, based on 2,000 hours of operation in a 12-month period. The ComfortGuard system also provides enhanced functionality from a power standpoint, so that end users will be able to operate computers, microwave ovens and other electronic devices with its 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC auxiliary power.
ComfortGuard will be available in early 2005.
Peterbilt 387 Keyless Entry
A new remote keyless entry system for Peterbilt's Model 387 tractor puts added convenience and security at customers' fingertips.
The new optional system locks and unlocks both driver and passenger doors, and the truck's marker lights illuminate to confirm when either operation is complete.
The system has a range of up to 30 feet and uses random signal technology to safeguard the signal.
Cummins adds Top Rating for ISM
Cummins has announced an added rating for the 11-liter ISM. A 410-horsepower rating, with 1,550 lbs.-ft. peak torque is claimed the highest horsepower and torque available for engines in its class.
The ISM engine is now offered with ratings that range from 280 horsepower with 1,150 lbs.-ft. torque up to the 410-horsepower rating with 1,550 lbs.-ft. torque.
The ISM engines feature the patented Cummins Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VG Turbo) by Holset that constantly adjusts airflow based on several factors - including engine load, altitude and temperature - providing improved transient response and vehicle performance. Because the Cummins VG Turbo has only one moving part in the hot exhaust stream, it is more reliable and durable than competitive turbo designs that use flexible vanes with dozens of wear points and moving parts, says Cummins.
The new 410 rating is covered by Cummins Uptime Guarantee, like all Cummins ISM and ISX engines.
Caterpillar C-15 is King of the Hill
Caterpillar will offer the high performance "King of the Hill" 625 horsepower C15 in the fall. Cat will also offer the C15 in a 600-horsepower rating. These ratings complement the Cat lineup of C7, C9, C11 and C13 - all equipped with the ACERT technology. Several new ratings will be introduced for the C11 and C13 at the same time.
With 2,050 lbs.-ft. of torque at 1,200 rpm and constant torque to 1,700 rpm, the King of the Hill C15 will provide performance for owner-operators and heavy haulers working in the most extreme heavy-duty applications. Maximum horsepower of 625 is developed at 1,800 rpm, with 595 horsepower at 2,100 rpm. This rating has 38% torque rise.
The engine has higher flow series turbochargers, a unique camshaft and the next-generation Caterpillar electronic control module (ECM).
The new engine has optional engine retarders, the Caterpillar compression brake and the Caterpillar BrakeSaver hydraulic retarder. The Cat compression brake provides 600 retarding horsepower, while BrakeSaver delivers 260 horsepower engine braking. For maximum retarding capability, these two retarders can be combined.
Caterpillar also will introduce a 600 horsepower C15 with 1,850 lbs.-ft. of torque. This rating also is well suited for recreational vehicles, emergency vehicles and fire trucks.
In the fourth quarter 2004, five new horsepower ratings will be available for the C13: 470 horsepower with 1,550 lbs.-ft. of torque; 470 horsepower with 1,650 lbs.-ft. of torque; an economy rating of 470 horsepower Multi-torque with 1,550/1,750 lbs.-ft. of torque, which yields maximum fuel economy when spec'd with Cat's "Gear-Fast-Run-Super-Slow" gearing recommendations and the Eaton RTLOC16909A T-2 transmission; and 500 horsepower with 1,650 lbs.-ft. of torque available as a field up-rate.
Two new horsepower ratings also will be offered for the C11 engine: 350 horsepower with 1,450 lbs.-ft. of torque and 370 horsepower with 1,450 lbs.-ft. of torque. These ratings, combined with the rear power takeoff capability and low weight of the C11, make this engine an excellent option for the mixer and dump truck market.
Wing Dash for Business Class M2
Freightliner Trucks says it is offering an optional wing dash for its new Business Class M2 112V, featuring enhanced ergonomics and extra space for additional gauges and switches.
The wing dash is particularly beneficial to the vocational truck operator who utilizes controls and switches often while operating different types of body equipment. The controls and gauges are brought closer to the driver, making them easier to reach.
The wing dash offers extra space for up to eight more switches or up to four more gauges than the already broad flat dash, allowing for more options and versatility. The first six additional optional gauges are located on either side of the Driver Information Module directly in front of the driver for easy readability.
Kenworth Sleeper Trim Options
Kenworth expands its sleeper choices for owner-operators and fleets with the introduction of the 86-inch and 72-inch AeroCab Diamond sleepers.
Kenworth says its customers now have more sleeper choices. They can select the 86-inch Studio AeroCab or the 72-inch AeroCab VIT loaded with all the comforts and amenities, or they can order a premium AeroCab Diamond sleeper, then customize it to their liking and budget.
The new Diamond options offer a fixed 42-inch by 80-inch lower bunk with an optional upper bunk for team drivers, up to 69 cubic feet of storage with room for an optional refrigerator, plus a weight savings of up to 150 pounds.
Thanks to the unique AeroCab design, the transition from cab to sleeper is easy in both the 86-inch and 72-inch AeroCab Diamond sleepers. The increased space will enhance drivers' comfort when they have to spend additional time in the sleeper due to the new hours of service regulations, says the company.
Both sleepers feature four color schemes, vista windows and a wall-mounted console that enables independent temperature control in the sleeper and adjustment for ambient lighting. An entertainment jack is available to plug in headphones.
Caterpillar C15 Compression Brake
The Caterpillar heavy duty compression brake - currently available as an option for the C11 and C13 - is introduced as an option on the C15 this fall. The system provides 25% more braking power in the recommended operating range compared to previous systems.
The engine ECM can be programmed to operate the brake in manual, coast and latch. The coast and latch modes require that the Cruise Enable Switch be on. In the manual mode, the brake system becomes active when the operator removes his foot from the accelerator. In the coast mode, the compression brake does not automatically activate until the operator applies the foot brake, and disengages as soon as the operator releases the foot brake. In the latch mode, compression braking operates as in the coast mode, except that it remains on when the driver releases the brake.
PACCAR Offering Dana Corp. Disc Brakes
Dana Corp. has announced that Peterbilt and Kenworth - subsidiaries of Paccar Inc. - have elected to offer Dana Spicer air-disc brakes on select commercial vehicle models.
According to Dana's Heavy Vehicle Technologies and Systems Group, these Dana Spicer air-disc brakes feature enhanced vehicle performance through improved stopping distance, steering stability and driver comfort. Additionally, the system-design philosophy ensures that all components are balanced for optimal, long-term vehicle performance, the company says.
The Dana Spicer model ESD225 selected by the two Paccar truck manufacturers are for 22.5-inch and 24.5-inch wheels. The brake comes equipped with proprietary linings and rotor designs for longer life and exceptional performance. The unhanded caliper design with four enclosed slide pins provides superior caliper support, minimal slide pin wear, reduced lining and rotor wear, and reduces service issues, because the same caliper can be used on either side of the vehicle.
Quick-change brake linings also provide easy access to minimize maintenance labor and expense. The exclusive actuator/adjuster features a dual piston gear synchronized design and can be serviced as a removable unit. Metal piston shields expand to protect the actuator piston boots.
The Dana Spicer air disc brake system is enhanced by the Dana Spicer LMS hub system, standard at both Peterbilt and Kenworth, and the new Dana Spicer LMS hubcap. The LMS hubcap's patent-pending robust contaminant exclusion system and corrosion resistant material maximizes wheel-end life.
Kenworth Super Lite Lift Axle
Kenworth is offering the Watson & Chalin Tru-Track Super Lite steerable lift axle as an option to reduce weight and boost payload.
The Super Lite lift axle option is targeted to dump truck and mixer fleet owners who want to increase their hauling capacity and still keep the overall weight down. The axle can function as a tag or pusher axle.
The lift axle, available for Kenworth T800 and W900 models, is offered in single, double or triple configurations. The axle is equipped with lightweight brakes and specialized hubs and is available with 17.5-inch tires and aluminum wheels.
With a gross axle capacity of 8,000 pounds, the axle assembly weighs 895 pounds with wheels and tires. That is 374 pounds less than Watson & Chalin's conventional 13,200-pound Tru-Track assembly, or a total savings of more than 1,100 pounds on a truck equipped with three lift axles.
Telematics Service Solution
International Truck says it is the first OEM to offer a complete telematics solution that creates visibility into the operation of every truck in a fleet. The new International telematics solution delivers all operating information to customers via wireless connectivity.
International telematics combines remote vehicle monitoring, performance diagnostics and security elements into a single tool that is designed and validated to OEM specifications. According to International, it's as if the fleet manager or technician is able to be with every truck in person, with full diagnostic capability.
The technology from International builds on the foundation established with the company's Diamond Logic electrical system, which includes multiplexed wiring, advanced diagnostics, truck-body integration software and auxiliary power sources. International telematics is designed to integrate with customers currently using the Diamond Logic electrical system.
The technology allows users to know everything about the performance and productivity of their vehicles out on the road. International telematics offers a way to track location, monitor performance, diagnose maintenance issues, and ensure driver and vehicle security by taking advantage of wireless telemetry.
IBM was a key technology provider and consultant for International telematics, providing back-end hardware and software and developing the web site for the product.
InfoMax Wireless Data Transfer
InfoMax Wireless is an information management and utilization system designed to help fleets cut operating costs. Using Wi-Fi short-range wireless technology, InfoMax Wireless allows fleet managers to extract key performance information from their trucks without physically connecting to the actual vehicles. A Short-Range Wireless (SRW) Module, mounted out-of-sight under the dash, automatically transmits information from DataMax - Mack's onboard data logger - to a Network Access Point (NAP) located within the terminal building. The NAP receives the information from the truck and forwards it to the customer's computer network. InfoMax software then sorts, analyzes, plots or reports this information in whatever form the customer requires.
Class Eight Specs continued...
