At the Great American Trucking Show, Dana Corp. and Eaton Corp. jointly released a new Roadranger drivetrain package designed to reduce the damage that can result from torsional vibrations.
A key component of the system is the new Dana Spicer DST40 “Torsionally Tuned-40” tandem drive axle. According to Steve Slesinski, program manager-Spicer Heavy Axle & Brake Div., the 40,000-lb.-capacity axle significantly reduces excessive inter-axle driveline angles and improves overall drivetrain durability. He said it also “minimizes size, cost and weight concerns” for fleet owners.
“The DST40 reduces torsional vibrations by avoiding excessive U-joint accelerations that can lead to premature failures and cause expensive repairs,” said Slesinski. “When the axle is specified with other leading Roadranger components, the result is the industry's only torsionally tuned system of drivetrain components.”
The DST40 is engineered for linehaul as well as various vocational applications up to 110,000-lb. GCW with engine ratings of up to 500 hp. and 1,650 lb.-ft. torque. The tandem axle is currently available on a limited basis with full production slated to begin next July.
At the same news conference, Dana Corp.'s Spicer Heavy Axle & Brake Div. introduced its “Tire Maintenance System for Trailers” as part of the Roadranger System of drivetrain components that Dana and Eaton Corp. co-market.
Gary Schultz, product manager-Tire Management Systems, said the new trailer system ensures that correct tire pressure is maintained to at least a minimum level.
The system, said Schultz, maintains cold tire settings, prevents downtime from small leaks, reduces run-flat failures, and improves casing longevity. It directs air “as needed” to re-pressurize tires to the level preset by the operator, records low-pressure incidents in its memory for recalling during maintenance checks, and boasts a “Check Tire” light to alert drivers to systems status.
Schultz pointed out that since it is an “intelligent” system, constant air pressurization to the tires is not required.
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