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Mack introduces MP8 Econodyne+, new suspensions

July 17, 2013
MACK Trucks used the Mid-America Trucking Show as the stage for introducing the newest generation of the Econodyne family. The truck manufacturer also unveiled two new suspension offerings with Mack proprietary axles.

MACK Trucks used the Mid-America Trucking Show as the stage for introducing the newest generation of the Econodyne family. The truck manufacturer also unveiled two new suspension offerings with Mack proprietary axles.

The MP8 Econodyne+ is a powerful and high-performing engine ideal for on-highway customers who require additional muscle to move their loads. The 13-liter MP8 Econodyne + engine is available in Pinnacle models and offers 505 horsepower with 1,860 lb-ft of torque when operating in either of the top two gears. This maximizes fuel efficiency while also providing the necessary power to help drivers conquer long and steep grades. When ascending a steep incline, engine rpms drop to around peak torque output. When a driver is applying 100% throttle and the rpms reach 1,300, Mack’s intelligent torque management strategy, called EconoBoost, kicks in, providing the driver with an additional 200 lb-ft of torque, enabling the truck to remain in top gear for a longer time period until the hill is crested. Drivers get more torque at lower engine speeds, allowing the vehicle to remain in higher gears for an extended period of time, resulting in greater fuel efficiency.

“Customers demanded greater power, and we delivered it with the advanced MP8 engine platform,” said David McKenna, Mack director of powertrain sales and marketing.

“Mack customers working in mountainous areas requiring higher torque output can remain in top gear for longer, supplying more power and preserving fuel economy.”

Mack officials said the Twin Y Air Suspension is the trucking industry’s first suspension to utilize an innovative Y-shaped high-strength steel design. Delivering unmatched comfort, handling and fuel efficiency for highway customers desiring a smoother, more stable ride, the Twin Y is up to 403 pounds lighter than other air suspensions, offering customers a significantly lighter weight option.

Field-tested by customers for more than three million miles and available on Pinnacle axle-back and axleforward models, the Mack Twin Y features Mack S38 and S40 series axles with C125/126, C150/151 and 200 Series carriers.

The design of the Twin Y air suspension includes two stamped high-strength steel Y-shaped blades per wheel end. Clamping the axle with both upper and lower axle seats, the Twin Y blades greatly reduce suspension windup and significantly improve tire traction and braking control, as well as increase tire life by up to 25%.

The axle seats are clamped to the axle housing by Huck U-bolts on both sides and never need to be re-torqued. Bushings in the upper and lower axle seats offer greater roll control and deliver easier handling with a more comfortable ride. The Twin Y’s lighter weight and reduced torque reactivity means less maintenance and extended tire and component life, which also significantly improves customer ROI.

The Mack mRIDE spring suspension, now offered with Mack axles, is ideal for vocational customers demanding a durable, stable ride with greater articulation. Paired with the Mack C150/151 series axle carriers, the Mack mRIDE is available on the Granite, Titan by MACK, Pinnacle Axle Forward, and the TerraPro model trucks.

Use of spring leafs over four separate rubber block packs on the mRIDE provides stability and articulation, while also allowing the needed clearance for larger tires and brake components required in construction and vocational applications.

In addition to being lighter than other spring suspensions, the mRIDE delivers a smoother ride, improved stability and greater ground clearance over difficult terrain. The Mack mRIDE provides constant ground contact for all wheels over its articulation range, which in turn maximizes traction on any jobsite.

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