Dana Inc. announced the launch of two new Spicer axles: The D172 series heavy-duty tandem axle for construction, heavy-haul, and severe-service applications; and the Spicer S172 series single drive axle for Class 7 and 8 vehicles. Both announcements were made at the 2018 Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition.
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The D172 is more than 60 lbs. lighter than existing D170 series tandem axles. It builds upon Dana’s existing, heavy-duty product by offering a broad range of gear ratios, from 3.07 to 6.14, to serve a variety of needs. Wide-face, High-Power Density AdvanTek gearing maximizes strength while reducing weight, Dana explained. In addition, a passive lube management system requires less lube while using a patented meter to optimize the amount of lube flow to the high-efficiency bearings.
The S172 axle retains the robustness and strength of the existing S170 single drive axle, which the new iteration is replacing, but weighs more than 60 lbs. less. The axle is crafted for 4×2, 6×2, and 8×2 applications up to 25,000 lbs. GAWR. It offers a broad range of gear ratios, from 3.07 to 6.14, and features a low hypoid offset with High-Power Density AdvanTek gearing to drive maximum efficiency. The high-strength pinion bearings allow for greater lifespan under heavy loads, the company explained, improving durability and overall performance. The axle also employs a passive lube system similar to its D172 counterpart.
The single drive axle can also be paired with the Dana tag axle as part of the Spicer EconoTrek tandem axle, a durable, lightweight 6×2 configuration that offers increased fuel economy, improved performance, and reduced maintenance for heavy-duty linehaul tractors. This system is up to 3% more efficient and up to 380 lbs. lighter than typical 6×4 offerings, Dana stated.
