Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has introduced Detroit Axles - a complete line of axles covering every trucking segment.
A key component of the Detroit family of powertrain-related components, the launch of Detroit Axles marks the first time Detroit Diesel Corporation has offered axles.
Detroit Diesel is a Daimler company.
With the launch of the new Detroit brand in October 2011, DTNA announced its intentions to rapidly expand the Detroit product offering to encompass additional powertrain components while leveraging its world class engineering and manufacturing expertise.
The new Detroit brand of axles embraces Daimler Trucks’ strategy of uniform production standards and processes, as well as engineering and manufacturing processes that draws upon Daimler’s global resources.
Detroit Axles are now available to order for Freightliner Trucks, Western Star, Thomas Built Bus and Freightliner Custom Chassis vehicles.
DTNA plans to introduce Detroit brand transmissions as well, as part of the company’s strategy to provide customers with differentiated value in all areas of the operation, says Mark Lampert, senior vice president of sales and marketing for DTNA.
Global engineering
“Detroit has a long history of innovation, and our axles will grow our product offering while continuing to provide the performance, efficiency and support customers demand,” says David Hames, DTNA’s general manager, marketing and strategy. “From our global engineering resources to our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Detroit Axles enable our customers to demand it all from Detroit.”
Produced at the same Redford, MI, facility as Detroit’s industry-leading engines, Detroit Axles include a wide range of configuration options and compatibility with all braking systems offered by Daimler Trucks.
Steer axles
The new axles are available with ratings from 6,000 to 20,000 pounds, and included a unique 12,500-pound rating. All feature a weight optimized I-beam.
Detroit’s steer axles are up to 40 pounds lighter than competitors, resulting in more payload capacity and greater productivity, said Brad Williamson, manager, engine and component marketing, DTNA.
“Our steer axles have a variety of weight ratings to fit any application, making it easy for customers to spec the perfect fit,” he notes.
Detroit’s steer axles have an innovative needle-bearing design that reduces wear and tightens tolerances, resulting in better performance and less maintenance, while friction and thrust bearings reduce chatter and enhance steerability.
The unique I-beam design is coupled with an advanced steering layout, resulting in a sharper wheel cut of up to 55 degrees - enhancing maneuverability with even the tightest of turns.
Tandem rear axles
By eliminating the pinion head bearing, Detroit’s tandem axles feature more space for a larger and stronger differential.
Together with the innovative Topoid off-set design with above-center rear axle pinion position, Detroit’s tandem axles improve driveline angles, reducing vibrations and increasing durability, Williamson says.
Additional benefits of Detroit’s tandem axles include:
- An oil deflector which ensures full lubrication of the power divider at very low speeds, eliminating the need for an expensive oil pump.
- An input seal located inside the bearing cage and separated from the threaded ring for improved sealing, reducing degradation and oil leaks.
- A larger power divider for improved stability and reliability. Optional driver-controlled or automatic differential locks further enhance grip and traction.
Detroit tandem axles are available from 34,000 to 46,000 pounds, including an intermediate track 40,000-pound alternative for easy switching between wide-based single and dual tires.
Single rear axles
Available with weight ratings from 13,000 to 23,000 pounds, Detroit’s proprietary single rear axles have precision-machined gear sets, resulting in enhanced efficiency, higher torque applications and quieter operations, says Williamson. Designed with fewer parts and a larger differential, Detroit’s rear drive axles offer greater stability on the road and improved durability.
“We have the right solution for every application,” he says. “Detroit Axles are engineered tough and built to withstand the harshest of conditions.”
Quality and commitment
With more than 600 locations in the United States and Canada, Detroit axles are backed by Detroit’s “unmatched dealer network and factory-trained technicians,” says Hames.
A comprehensive warranty program and the Detroit Carrier Exchange Program - which enables dealers to exchange carriers or upgrade axles on trucks post-build - further extends value and performance.
For more information, go to www.DetroitDiesel.com.
Detroit Diesel Corporation is a leading manufacturer of on-highway diesel engines, steer axles, and drive axles for the commercial truck market.
Headquartered in Detroit, MI, the company is engaged in the design, manufacture, sale and service of these products for the commercial truck marketplace.
