STERLING Truck Corporation used the 2004 Mid-America Trucking Show to announce enhancements to its medium-duty Acterra model. Upgrades include new transmission options, factory-installed all-wheel drive, and improved steering.
The Mercedes-Benz Automated Gear Shift (AGS) transmission will be available later this year. The two-pedal transmission requires no manual shifting or clutching, allowing operators to focus on the driving task ahead.
Eaton Fuller's UltraShift six-speed transmission also is joining the lineup. Combining the reliability and durability of a manual transmission, UltraShift offers increased uptime and lower lifecycle costs.
Optional factory-installed all-wheel drive (AWD) gives the Acterra four-wheel automatic traction control, using an exclusive automatic lock control transfer case coupled with the standard front and rear wheel traction control systems. AWD axle capacities range from 12,000 to 16,000 pounds.
A result of Sterling's chassis developments, the Acterra now features a five-degree improvement in its wheel cut angle, creating a shorter turning radius.
Acterra is among the Sterling models getting a wider range of engine options, including Mercedes-Benz, Detroit Diesel, and Caterpillar. Providing outstanding performance, fuel economy, and electronic capabilities, the comprehensive line of powerful engines is available for the wide variety of Sterling models and applications.
“In 2004, Sterling continues to offer a wide variety of engine options to meet our customers' diverse operations,” said John Merrifield, Sterling's senior vice-president, sales and marketing.
Sterling Trucks offers the Mercedes-Benz MBE900 engine for medium-duty applications and the MBE4000 engine for on-highway and vocational applications. The 2004 MBE900 and MBE4000 engines provide several capabilities that improve truck performance and increase driver satisfaction
With more than 300,000 engines in service worldwide, the MBE900 is available in four- and six-cylinder configurations with horsepower ratings up to 330 and torque ratings up to 800 lb/ft. The medium-duty engine, available in 4.8-, 6.4- and 7.2-liter displacements, provides maximum power at a minimum weight and maintains a high torque at a lower RPM for better drivability and fewer shifts. A combination of high-pressure fuel injection systems and a responsive turbocharger eliminate throttle lag and improve fuel economy.
Designed for on-highway and vocational applications, the Mercedes-Benz MBE4000 is one of the strongest and lightest engines in its class. The engine comes standard with an exhaust brake and produces additional horsepower when combined with the optional Turbo Brake.
The lightweight 12.8-liter engine uses advanced materials and components for an excellent power-to-weight ratio, which allows for a greater payload and increased efficiency. Six-unit injection pumps are driven from the new camshaft for an accurate injection control, four valves per cylinder allow the engine to breathe better, and a single cylinder air compressor uses less horsepower.
Available on Sterling's L-Line and A-Line models, the Detroit Diesel 2004 Series 60 engine offers customers an excellent combination of a popular and proven product that is fully certified to the new emissions standards. The latest Series 60 engines features include improved performance, efficiency, and electronic capabilities.
To meet the latest emissions regulations, the Series 60 is equipped with EGR, and does not require an aftertreatment device of any kind or any changes in usual maintenance procedures. The engine offers several performance features including an EGR cooler with a lightweight tube-in-shell design for improved efficiency, and a new electronic fuel injector for faster response time and increased durability.
In addition, the 12.7- and 14-liter Series 60 features a new DDEC V electronic control for increased capability and reliability, which provides additional microprocessor power, four-times more memory, and 150 output pins. Also new in the 2004 Series 60 is the one-piece (Monotherm) piston with a closed oil gallery for better cooling and more durability.
Sterling Trucks offers a complete line of 2004 Cat engines with ACERT Technology, including the C7, C9, C11, C13, and C15. To meet 2004 EPA standards, ACERT Technology reduces emissions while also achieving excellent reliability, durability and maintenance requirements.
The mid-range C7 engine is available on the Sterling Acterra and L-Line models. The lightweight C9 and C11 engines are available on A-Line and L-Line models for vocational and day cab operations. Available on A-Line and L-Line models, the C13 and C15 engines are designed for heavy-duty vocational and hauling applications.