Western Star Trucks showcased style updates and product upgrades for vocational applications at the 2007 Mid-America Trucking Show.
Western Star introduced new exterior badging for both the grille bezel and the side of the hood. The grille-mounted black ‘W’ with its burgundy star now features a three-dimensional appearance and a crowned star, providing for a jeweled appearance, the company said. Also, the side-mounted Western Star script has been updated with a modern font and beveled edges for a cleaner look and richer reflection.
The company also introduced several product improvements targeted toward the vocational market, including EPA ’07 enhancements, an upgraded MBE 4000 engine, Detroit Diesel Tier III off-highway engine emission ratings for 100 percent off-road trucks, high-strength, reduced-weight frame rails, and body builder-friendly after treatment device packaging for vocational applications.
As a result of the new emissions standards, Western Star’s radiator packages have expanded. Available in sizes ranging from 1,375 to 1,875 sq. in, these radiators offer increased cooling capacity for high horsepower applications and offer the additional benefit of optimal fuel economy as a result of reduced fan-on time, the company said. Material options include lightweight aluminum for on-highway applications and copper brass for vocational applications.
In order to accommodate these larger radiators, the company added a drop front frame casting for the axle configurations on the 4900 FA, 4900 SA, and 4900 EX models. This allows for increased cooling capacity without exterior modifications to the traditional Western Star hood and grille.
Accommodating increased radiator sizes also allowed for improvements in front suspensions, the company said. A 56-in. asymmetric spring provides improved roll stiffness and better handling in turns due to a shortened front length while maintaining the soft ride characteristics from the longer rear length. Plus, new steering gears and optimized geometry improve road feel, overall wheel cut, and turning radius.
Western Star added two 18,000 lb. steer axles to its vocational axle offerings. Designed for rugged vocational applications, the 18,000-lb. axle provides weight and cost savings as compared to 20,000-lb. axles. Both the Meritor MFS-18-133A and the proprietary AF 18.05 are available on the 4900 FA, 4900 SA, and 4900 EX models.
The MBE 4000 has been upgraded to include a maximum torque rating of 1,650 foot-pounds. The lightweight and powerful MBE 4000 engine is designed for weight-sensitive vocational applications. Plus, the optional premium braking system was improved by providing an additional 42 BHP, giving it the most braking horsepower in its class, the company said.
For more information, visit http://www.westernstartrucks.com/.
