Kenworth is making the Dana Spicer EconoTrek 6x2 tandem axle available on its Class 8 on-highway trucks. The Spicer EconoTrek lightweight drive and tag axle configuration enhances fuel economy, reduces weight, improves performance, and reduces maintenance, Kenworth said.
“The 6x2 configuration is becoming more popular with fleets and truck operators in their efforts to achieve fuel economy gains while also saving weight and increasing payload,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director. “The addition of Spicer EconoTrek provides Kenworth customers with yet another avenue to fuel efficiency.”
According to Dana, Spicer EconoTrek is up to 3% more fuel efficient compared to traditional 6x4 tandem axles. It also is more than 300 lbs. lighter than Kenworth’s standard 40,000-lb. drive axle configuration. The drive and tag axles can accommodate both dual and wide-base tires and gear ratios range from 2.53 to 7.83.
EconoTrek features a robust housing design. It is optimized for use with electronic controlled load distribution air suspension systems and must be specified with the Kenworth AG380 or AG400L suspensions. Operators also must spec a driver-controlled differential lock and the Bendix eTrac Traction Enhancement option, which transfers weight to the drive axle for better low-speed traction.
