Refrigerated Transporter

Lightweight International 9200i sheds almost 1,500 pounds with weight-saving components

March 1, 2004

For those seeking improved freight capacity and better fuel economy without sacrificing strength or durability, International Truck and Engine Corp has

For those seeking improved freight capacity and better fuel economy without sacrificing strength or durability, International Truck and Engine Corp has a lighter weight configuration on its International 9200i heavy-duty tractor.

Offered in 4×2 and 6×4 axle configurations, the lightweight International 9200i/6×4 integrates a series of weight-saving components to weigh 13,500 pounds, a savings of almost 1,500 pounds over standard models.

The aerodynamic shape of the International 9200i makes it up to 5% more fuel-efficient. Criteria for this component include:

Seeking to reduce weight when possible on major powertrain components. The Eaton Fuller Lightning Series transmission features an aluminum clutch housing with weight savings up to 129 pounds.
Specifying the Eaton Solo clutch can remove nine pounds.
Selecting the right sleeper configuration.
Those running larger bunks can pare down sleeper weight by choosing the International Sky-Rise sleeper with its built-in roof faring. A 50-lb weight saving can be realized over a Hi-Rise sleeper with a roof faring and side extensions.
Not using full chassis skirting can eliminate 450 pounds of truck weight, including 434 pounds of skirting and an additional 16 pounds with the under-bumper valance panel.
Switching to aluminum wheels and hubs can save an additional 550 pounds.
Wide-aspect tires should erase an additional 500 pounds. Michelin and Goodyear both offer alternatives that replace eight rear tires with four.
Spec'ing Motor Wheel CentriFuse brake drums on a 6×4 tractor reduces overall weight by an additional 108 pounds.
International offers a new Fontaine fifthwheel 33 pounds lighter than its standard fifthwheel.
Opting for lighter rear axles can save up to 89 pounds by using Meritor RT-40-145A axles with aluminum housings.
International offers front and rear suspension systems for the weight-conscious customer. Composite front springs and multi-leaf rear steel suspensions offer weight saving opportunities versus many air suspension systems.
With the International 9200i day cab model, even the cab mounting system is offered in a special weight-saving version.
Customers can choose fewer and smaller fuel tanks.