Daimler Trucks North America introduced Detroit axles, which the company said is 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 Corp. has offered axles.
With the launch of the new Detroit brand in October 2011, the company announced its intentions to rapidly expand the Detroit product offering to encompass additional powertrain components. Detroit axles are now available to order for Freightliner Trucks, Western Star, Thomas Built Bus and Freightliner Custom Chassis vehicles.
“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,” said David Hames, general manager, marketing and strategy, DTNA. “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 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
Available with ratings from 6,000-20,000 lbs. – including a unique 12,500-lb. rating – and featuring a weight optimized I-beam, Detroit’s steer axles are up to 40 lbs. lighter than competitors, resulting in more payload capacity and greater productivity, the maker said. Detroit’s steer axles have a 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 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, the company noted.
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 Topoid offset design with above-center rear axle pinion position, Detroit’s tandem axles improve driveline angles, reducing vibrations, and increasing durability. According to the company, additional benefits include an oil deflector to ensure 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; and 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 34,000-46,000 lbs., including an intermediate track 40,000-lb. alternative for easy switching between wide-based single and dual tires.
Single Rear Axles
Available with weight ratings from 13,000-23,000 lbs., Detroit’s single rear axles have precision-machined gear sets, resulting in enhanced efficiency, higher torque applications, and quieter operations, the company said. Designed with fewer parts and a larger differential, they offer greater stability on the road and improved durability.
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.