Dana Corporation Continues To Roll Out New Heavy-Axle Lineup

Louisville, KY -- Mar 25, 2004 -- With the introduction of a new robust family of single-reduction, high GCW tandem-drive axles, Dana Corporation’s (NYSE: DCN) Commercial Vehicle Systems group continues to enhance its lineup of heavy-duty axles to meet and exceed the powertrain requirements for new and future vehicles. A prime illustration of this evolution is the new Dana® Spicer® D170 series axle, which has been designed to improve truck performance in some of the industry’s most demanding applications, including logging, refuse, construction, and other heavy hauling.

With Gross Axle Weight ratings from 46,000 to 50,000 lbs., and the industry’s broadest range and greatest number of gear ratios – from 3.07 through 7.17 – the D170 series allows for maximum performance across a variety of vocations. Dana expects the axles to be particularly popular in Mexico and Canada, where payloads often exceed those that are typically experienced in the U.S.

“We are committed to providing drivers and fleet owners with the axle solutions they need to be successful in today’s trucking industry,” said Steve Slesinski, director of product planning for Dana’s Commercial Vehicle Systems. “These axles have the dependability and reliability features that are vital to reducing our customers’ maintenance requirements, while also providing enhanced performance features, improved fuel efficiency, and more quality time on the road.”

Like many of the other recent additions to Dana’s new line of axles, the D170 series includes extra wide face-width gearing for increased strength and durability with heavier loads and significantly larger wheel differential gearing for maximum strength and reliability. For optimal spinout protection, improved fuel efficiency, and cooler operating temperatures, a patented on-demand lube pump with internal no-maintenance filter is offered as an option. 

Additional D170 features include forged, heat-treated steel differential cases; integrated ring gear and wheel differential mounting system; integral pinion cage and carrier; high precision bearing adjustment system; and best-in-class inter-axle driveline angles that considerably reduce harmful vibrations. Through the use of advanced technology processes and six new patented or patent-pending features, Dana engineers increased heavy-tandem axle performance and reliability while reducing overall part count by more than 50 percent when compared to conventional heavy-duty axles. 

Dana also is offering a wide range of options with the D170 series to further optimize performance and reliability, as well as reduce maintenance. These include:

Wide-track axles for maximum stability;

Integral welded suspension brackets for reduced weight;

High efficiency lube pump with internal lifetime filter for spinout protection and cooler operating temperatures;

A carrier integrated electro-magnet retarder mount for enhancing braking performance and increasing drivetrain options;

Driver-controlled wheel differential lock for maximizing traction;

Dana Spicer LMSTM Hub System for reduced maintenance; and 

Compatibility with the patented Dana Spicer Tire Pressure Control System.

Dana’s Commercial Vehicle Systems group, part of the Heavy Vehicle Technologies and Systems Group, designs, manufactures, and markets front-steer, rear-drive, trailer, and auxiliary axles; driveshafts; steering shafts; brakes; suspensions; and related systems, modules, and services for the commercial vehicle market. Major components and modules are marketed under the Spicer®brand name.

For more information on Dana Spicer D170 series tandem axles and other Roadranger®products and services, visit the Internet at www.roadranger.com, or write to Roadranger Marketing, P.O. Box 4013, Kalamazoo, MI 49003. To reach a Roadranger right now, dial 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada. In Mexico, dial 01-800-826-4357.

The Roadranger®Solution is an unbeatable combination of the best drivetrain, chassis, and safety components from Dana Corporation and Eaton Corporation, all backed by the Roadrangers – the most experienced, most expert, and most accessible drivetrain consultants in the business. 

Dana Corporation is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacture of value-added products and systems for automotive, commercial, and off-highway vehicles. Delivering on a century of innovation, the company's continuing operations employ approximately 45,000 people worldwide dedicated to advancing the science of mobility. Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, Dana operates technology, manufacturing, and customer-service facilities in 30 countries. Sales from continuing operations totaled $7.9 billion in 2003.