Mack Trucks introduced a new line of construction trucks, a new series of Class 6-7 cabovers, a new transmission, and a routine maintenance monitoring system at a press conference last June.
GRANITE SERIES
“When you think about Mack, you think about construction,” said Stephen Homcha, exec. vp-Class 8 programs. “It's our core. The Granite series offers a complete new vehicle environment for construction trucks, and it will go head-to-head with anyone when it comes to weight.”
According to Homcha, the base model Granite weighs in at just 15,300 lb. when equipped with Mack's own E-Tech engine and a trimmer-still 13,900 lb. with the optional Cummins ISL Series engine, even when mounted under the Granite's galvanized steel cab. The E-Tech is available in horsepower ratings from 300 to 460 and the Cummins engine from 310 to 330 hp.
New Mack Maxitorque ES transmissions in 5-speed to 10-, 13- or 18-speed versions, are standard on the Granite with gear ratios and PTO options for all vocational requirements. A variety of wheelbases, axle configurations and carriers are also available, including rear tandem axle options up to 65,000 lb.
Mack is also equipping the Granite with its Body-Link electrical interface. The Body-Link is designed to simplify the work of body installers by allowing them to prewire body equipment and plug into the chassis without splicing chassis wires or cutting holes in cab panels. Body-Link offers 21 electrical pins for connection to standard electrical circuits.
The Granite features a construction-specific air-ride cab mounting system, padded steering wheel, ergonomic repositioning of pedals and controls, a new dash panel with flush-mounted gauges, a “visibility” door with an enlarged viewing area, and a big windshield and contoured hood.
FREEDOM SERIES
Mack's new Class 6-7 cabover product line is called the Mack Freedom series. Manufactured in France, the new line has been designed to reduce operating costs while maximizing operator comfort and efficiency, according to Mack.
The four Freedom series models include the Class 6 M model equipped with 17.5-in. wheels to provide one-step cab access and a very low loading height; the Class 6 L and Class 7 XL models, which include 19.5-in. wheels and two-step cab access; and the Class 7 XXL with 22.5-in. wheels, two-step cab access and a standard frame height.
Each of the models is available in two cab sizes — the standard 63-in.-BBC length or the 79-in.-BBC XTRa cab. The XTRa cab offers an additional 16 in. of length and the option of two new interior designs.
The new Freedom line is powered by the Mack E3 diesel engine at 210 hp., with the option of a 250-hp. engine for the XL and XXL models. The oil change interval on the E3 engine has been extended to 20,000 mi. or every two years.
The trucks also include the V-MAC system, electronic instrumentation, and a high-power heating and ventilation system.
Wheel cut is maximized at 50 deg. to help ensure a tight turning capability regardless of application. Four-wheel disc brakes and a new suspension system featuring parabolic springs, gas shocks and stabilizer bars on the front and rear axles are standard.
Go to www.macktrucks.com or circle 300 for Granite Series or 301 for Freedom series.
Maxitorque ES transmissions and GuardDog
Mack also introduced a new line of lightweight, driver-friendly transmissions designed to maximize the performance of a Mack engine/transmission powertrain. The Maxitorque ES (Easy Shift) T300 transmissions feature a triple countershaft design, high torque capacities, lightweight one-piece aluminum case/clutch housings, and revised ratios for on- and off-highway applications.
Customers can choose from two new 10-speed models, the T310M and T310MLR; three 9-speeds, the T309, T309L and T309LR; or new 13- and 18-speed models, the ES 13 and ES 18 for heavy hauler and performance-oriented operators. Five-, 6-, 7- and 8-speed versions are also still available and feature key design improvements, including better, easier shifting.
Mack's GuardDog is a new “active” monitoring system that alerts drivers to routine maintenance needs via an in-cab dashboard display. Service items include a high or low engine oil level, low coolant level, low fuel level, low windshield washer fluid level, high air filter restriction, worn steer axle brake shoes, and worn drive axle(s) brake shoes.
Circle 302 on reply card
For daily trucking news, go to www.fleetowner.com
