With its lightweight component options, Western Star’s 4900SA is a good fit for tank and dry bulk fleets.

Western Star 4900 Series drops pounds to raise payloads

May 1, 2010
WESTERN Star Truck Sales Inc announced the availability of lightweight spec options for its 4900 Series trucks during the 2010 Mid-America Trucking Show.

WESTERN Star Truck Sales Inc announced the availability of lightweight spec options for its 4900 Series trucks during the 2010 Mid-America Trucking Show. A 4900SA bulk hauler with lightweight components was displayed at the event.

Ideal for liquid and dry bulk applications, as well as agricultural markets, more than 200 lightweight options are available for customers to spec on their tractors. Weight savings can add up to as much as 1,200 pounds-per-load at a modest investment cost.

“Our lightweight specs options provide Western Star customers with a customized solution that matches the premium quality and durability of our trucks,” said Mike Jackson, general manager, Western Star. “With more than 200 weight-saving options, our customers can not only increase payload capacity, but increase the impact on the bottom line.”

Lightweight options include a variety of aluminum parts that customers can choose to incorporate, such as aluminum rear engine supports, aluminum clutch housings, aluminum air tanks, an aluminum fifthwheel, and extruded aluminum cross members. In addition, Western Star offers Meritor Steelite brake components and a wide range of single frame rail options the meet strength requirements without the added weight.

Western Star also showed off the Detroit Diesel DD16 engine with Blue Tec emissions technology. The DD16 displaces 15.6 liters and features a large variety of output and multi-torque power ratings from 1,750 to 2,050 lb-ft torque and 475 to 600 horsepower.

Now available exclusively for Western Star customers, the DD16 — Detroit Diesel's most powerful engine — is ideal for owner-operators, small fleets, and specialty applications that include the mining, petroleum, agriculture, logging, hazardous materials, and heavy-haul segments.  ♦