Dodge Trucks will soon offer Ram 2500HD and 3500HD pickup buyers a more powerful, better performing, and quieter Cummins B5.9 diesel.
When ordered with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the optional turbocharged engine will be capable of cranking out 215 hp. with 420 lb.-ft. of peak torque. With a 5-speed manual, it will deliver 235 hp. and 460 lb.-ft.
A 24-valve cylinder head and full-authority electronics are among the major changes that Cummins incorporated into the newest version of its engine. With four valves serving each cylinder, the new head provides increased air flow. The valve layout enables the injectors to be vertically mounted over the center of the piston bowl, resulting in more low-end torque and faster response.
The Cummins full-authority electronics package manages operations of the Bosch VP44 electronic fuel pump. This blend of technologies provides higher injection pressures with better control over injection timing throughout the entire operating range.
The engine's noise level has been brought down by three developments: a new single-piece valve; gear train covers; and redesigned castings.
A comprehensive instrument package introduced by Stewart Warner Instrument Corp. at the SAE International Truck & Bus Meeting & Exposition is designed to interact with engines utilizing the SAE J1708/ J1587 protocol.
In addition to a speedometer, tachometer, and voltmeter, the Infotrak 2000 Data Bus system includes gauges for water temperature, oil pressure, oil temperature, fuel, rear and front air pressure, and transmission oil temperature. Each gauge features a 270 degree dial sweep for greater definition of scale.
The system improves instrument reliability by eliminating the need for redundant senders and switches. Also, the system's IC MAX controller drives the gauges digitally, transferring information directly from the data bus to each gauge, thereby improving accuracy.
The controller can drive up to ten SAE gauge functions and up to sixteen SAE J1708/J1587 LED warning-lamp functions, as well as being able to activate an audible alarm.
Quick-connect Packard connectors simplify system installation and serviceability.
Phillips & Temro Industries' ZeroStart diesel-powered engine/cab heater runs independently of the engine, making it both economical to use and environmentally friendly. The electronically controlled heater can operate for eight hours on a gallon of fuel. By contrast, idling the engine to heat the cab would consume about eight gallons of fuel.
By enabling a driver to heat the cab without running the engine, Phillips & Temro claims ZeroStart heaters can reduce the ratio of idling time to operating time, lengthen engine life, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize exhaust emissions.
The unit can be set up to warm both the engine water jacket and the cab, or for engine preheat only. When the vehicle is running, ZeroStart can be used as an auxiliary heating system for fuel and battery systems.
A self-contained unit, ZeroStart has its own fuel pump, coolant pump, and self-regulating electronic controller.
