Peterbilt Motors Co. has unveiled a new front axle for its heavy-duty conventional trucks designed specifically to meet the high-weight needs of car carriers.
The new optional axle, the Dana Spicer E1320W, is rated at 13,200 lbs., allowing for an additional 1,200 lbs. of front-axle payload over previous axles available for car hauling and other low-frame-height applications. The axle also has a 5-inch drop center section – 1.5 inches lower than the standard axle – for lower overall vehicle height. It also improves turning radius through a 71-inch kingpin setting.
“Through its greater durability and the resulting lower frame height, this new front axle helps car haulers maximize the over-the-cab space by accommodating a heavier, taller vehicle,” said Dan Sobic, Peterbilt’s assistant gm.
The new axle will be available for Peterbilt Models 379, 378, 385 and 357 beginning this month. However, tractors spec’d with the new axle will exceed a 96-inch width, which may restrict travel on some local and state highways.
