Western Star Expands LowMax
Western Star Trucks announced several updates to its popular LowMax chassis package during the Mid-America Trucking Show.
These enhancements include new lowered front and rear suspensions, horizontal exhaust availability, forward-mounted 23-inch fuel tanks and daycab availability.
"These LowMax updates strengthen our ability to create highly customized, premium trucks for our customers," said Jim Crowcroft, product marketing manager for Western Star Trucks. "Auto hauler customers in particular will appreciate such specs as the horizontal exhaust and forward-mounted fuel tanks."
Ultra Low RideFront Suspension
For applications like auto or boat hauling, when the lowest configuration possible is needed, Western Star has introduced an even lower LowMax package. With the front suspension dropped two and a half inches more than the standard LowMax, customers will appreciate the low height and ultra-sleek look.
Low-Ride Rear Suspension
Another component contributing to the ultra-low LowMax is the newly introduced low-ride AirLiner rear suspension. Normally spec'd at a ride height of eight inches, this lowered suspension now rides at six inches, with the same superior support expected from AirLiner.
These updated front and rear suspension offerings can help deliver a 101-inch ground-to-roof height - three inches lower than the standard LowMax configuration, and ideal for customers looking for a low profile and low center of gravity.
Horizontal Exhaust Availability
For premium auto haulers who want to keep their cargo clean and in top condition, Western Star now offers the option of a horizontal exhaust. This option also is ideal for Western Star customers who need to maximize cab clearance for rack or body installation.
Forward-Mounted Fuel Tanks
To help enable even weight distribution, Western Star has unveiled a solution. For customers who haul heavy cargo and require additional weight on the front of the truck for correct distribution, forward-mounted fuel tanks can help. Mounted under the cab door, these tanks can be relocated to safely preserve the LowMax low profile.
Because not all trips require an overnight stay, Western Star has introduced daycab availability for the 4900 FA and 4900 EX.
Product Line Enhancements
Western Star Trucks also announced several enhancements to its premium line of trucks and tractors.
These updates, which include a new insulation in the cab and sleeper, an all-wheel drive option for the 6900 XD Twin-Steer, and a restyled 4900 SA hood with a 109-inch bumper to back of cab dimension, were introduced at the Mid-America Trucking Show.
Later this year, all Western Star models will be manufactured with new insulation in the cab and sleeper. Already known as one of the quietest cabs in the industry, the new insulation will provide even more sound absorption as well as weight savings.
The insulation will be installed on the walls, ceiling and along the alcove by the exhaust cut-out in the sleeper and cab. Reflective film on the insulation will help improve the thermal control properties.
An all-wheel drive option is now available on the Western Star 6900 XD Twin-Steer. Designed for off-road mobility, the all-wheel drive option is ideal for jobs demanding additional traction and power, such as maneuvering through deep mud and climbing up and down slick ramps while dismantling oil rigs in oil field applications.
Similar to the 8x6 Twin-Steer, the all-wheel drive Twin-Steer incorporates several advances in steering and suspensions, and is larger and more powerful than previous models. The truck offers the benefit of a dual circuit steering system to provide increased capacity to steer the oversize floatation tires in deep mud. For superior mobility, the front suspension utilizes four asymmetrical taper-leaf slipper springs with four parallel torque rods to control each front steer axle through the 12 inches of suspension travel.
The Western Star 109-inch BBC 4900 SA has been restyled to reflect the same family look as the 123-inch BBC 4900 SA.
With new stainless steel side intakes, improved visibility and increased aerodynamics, the restyled truck is great for vocational customers who want a shorter BBC with set-back axle. It works well for small dump trucks and mixers and in urban settings where maneuverability is crucial.
All Western Star models offer the Hendrickson HAULMAXX rear suspension and the PRIMAXX rear air suspension.
HAULMAXX features a walking beam suspension that allows truck owners to maximize their payload on each run, while also providing superior ride and handling. With higher strength materials and advanced manufacturing processes, HAULMAXX provides reliability, quality and lower maintenance.
PRIMAXX is a premium heavy-duty air suspension designed specifically for the rigorous demands of vocational and heavy-haul applications. It features a non-torque reactive design that offers improved articulation and mobility on the job site while providing superior ride quality for driver comfort and equipment protection.
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