The Commercial Vehicle Systems group of Dana Holding Corp. has introduced a new Spicer 5.24-in. (133mm) drop wide-track axle for heavy-use specialty vehicles requiring a high degree of maneuverability. The new axle includes several of Dana’s patented technologies and was specifically developed for applications that require a solid beam forged design for withstanding extreme conditions, the maker said.

The D-2000W is available in 20,000-lb. and 22,800-lb. capacities and permits turn angles up to 50 degrees to assist with tighter, sharper turns often required with fire trucks, rescue vehicles and motor homes. The axle also supports the growing need for air disc brakes for improved stopping power.

Through Dana’s LMS kingpin design, the steer axles also promote excellent grease retention while preventing contamination in both pressurized and vacuum situations, the company noted. This is achieved through a patented compressible insert that allows for longer kingpin joint life and trouble-free maintenance. In addition, the company said the Dana LMS kingpin design consists of a dual-draw key system, which improves the alignment of king pins resulting in improved tire life over the life of the vehicle versus single-draw key systems.

Other Dana steer axle features include:

• A patented purge valve for improved tie rod end life through the reduction of contaminates.
• A patented “Power Rib Beam” design for improved beam deflection that also reduces tire wear, as well as promoting better vehicle control under severe braking conditions.
• Compatible with Spicer LMS hubs

“Over the years, our lineup of steer axles has consistently helped improve vehicle performance, whether it’s on-highway, city delivery or other chassis,” said Dan Souhan, product planning manager – steer and auxiliary axle systems for Dana. “Dana’s steer axles also feature one of the industry’s best warranty packages, with plans for heavy-duty axles available for up to three years of coverage with unlimited miles depending on the vehicle’s vocational use.

“The D-2000W complements other popular Dana products, including Dana’s S170 and S190 series drive axles,” adds Souhan.

For more information, visit http://www.roadranger.com/, or dial 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada.