Gearing Up

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly summarized the relationship between various components on Heil Environmental's STARR System. Waste Age regrets the error.

REFUSE TRUCK BODIES

Heil Environmental

Heil Environmental, Chattanooga, Tenn., manufactures the STARR automated side loader system for collection refuse and recycling materials. The STARR (Semi-Trailer Automated Rapid Rail) system automated side loader consists of interchangeable packer bodies and an automated Rapid Rail arm mounted on a truck tractor. Designed for increased maneuverability in confined spaces, the body can be detached when it is full and replaced with an empty one. According to the company, two trailers can be attached to a standard truck, creating a payload capacity of up to 18-tons.

Labrie Environmental Group

Labrie Environmental Group, St. Nicolas, Quebec, Canada, offers the Wittke Starlight front loader for handling residential and commercial waste. The Starlight is constructed of Hardox steel to prevent abrasions and increase body life, the company says. Its sidewalls are manufactured with a single, 1/8-in. piece of Hardox steel with a 175,000 pounds-per square-inch-rating. The front loader features an internally braced box construction. The curved arm provides strength and helps to distribute stress points evenly, the company says. Fork cylinders that are mounted behind the lifting arms are designed for visibility and cylinder protection. A tailgate auto-latch system can be controlled from a panel inside the cab. The hopper has a 12-cu.yd. capacity and the Packer Panel features a “snowplow” design that prevents refuse from entering the face of the packer, the company says.

The Starlight also can be equipped with Labrie's new Digiload weighing system, which consists of sensors placed in the lifting arm that detect the weight of materials in a waste container while the container is being lifted. The system is available for other Labrie bodies as well.

McNeilus

McNeilus, Dodge Center, Minn., offers the Pacific Series front loader. It features AR 450 sidewalls and a semi-round floor design. It also features the company's Excalibre ejection cylinders with T1 steel scrapers and nitrided cylinder rods. The front loader also is available in a heavy-duty configuration that includes a thicker hopper, hopper sidewalls and body floor.

Pak-Mor

The FPE800C pack/eject front loader from Pak-Mor, Seguin, Texas, is available with automatic tailgate locks, hydraulic hopper cover and a full cab shield. The front loader also includes a hopper sump, access door and ladder.

PendPac

PendPac, Fairview, Okla., introduces the Feenix front loader, which features a 12-foot (ft.) 5-inch (in.) low-profile design. According to the company, the front loader's lightweight design helps operators use less fuel. The hopper, wind guard and wing design are designed to keep trash inside the truck and away from the hard top. Its packer panel is intended to reduce rollovers while the truck is designed to perform clean sweeps and full ejection of packed materials.

Petersen

Petersen, Lake Wales, Fla., manufactures the Lightning Loader grapple truck for collecting bulky waste such as brush, stumps, white goods and furniture. It is available with a 20-ft. hydraulic knuckle boom and a clamshell grapple bucket.

Scranton Manufacturing

Scranton Manufacturing, Scranton, Iowa, manufactures the New Way Mammoth West Coast front loader. Available with 6,500-pound (lb.) and 8,000-lb. capacity arms, the front loader features a 12-second arm cycle and a 21-second packing cycle, the company says. It also features a lightweight design and is available in full-eject and dump configurations. Additional standard features include LED lights and a rear vision camera system. A body services hoist, special lighting packages and residential carry cans are optional.

Walinga

Walinga, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, offers the Champion Recycler curbside recycling truck body. The truck is available in 39-cubic yard (cu.yd.) and 42-cu.yd. capacities and is available with an additional 2-, 4-, or 7-cu.yd. capacity bustle tailgates. Featuring a hydraulically powered flexible rack and pinion bucket drive lifting mechanism, the truck is available with fiberglass reinforced plywood sides for billboards. Constructed of heavy gauge steel, the Recycler includes a cab conversion feature to simplify operation, the company says.

Wayne Engineering

Wayne Engineering, Cedar Falls, Iowa, manufactures the TomCat manual side loader refuse truck for collecting solid waste and recyclable materials. The lightweight truck features a small body and can be mounted on a lightweight chassis. It is available in 6-, 8-, 10-, 12- and 14-yard capacities and has a 14 to 16 second cycling time. The TomCat can be manually loaded from either side or equipped with a semi-automated cart tipper. Operators also can control compaction for collecting recyclables.

CLASS 8 TRUCKS

Autocar

Autocar LLC has introduced a completely re-designed cab for its Xpeditor line of Class 8 low-cab forward refuse trucks. The new ACX cab features an additional 18 cubic feet of operator area, and improved ingress and egress, the company says. New design features include dash-integrated body switches and controls, and ergonomically placed instruments both on the dash and in the overhead control console, the company says. An available tilt steering wheel further improves operator ergonomics, the company adds. The cab is made of fully welded, two-sided galvanized steel.

External cab improvements include window and visibility enhancements, top-mounted windshield wipers, and a front-mounted pump housed entirely behind the front bumper. Other new features include an electronic, fully blended HVAC system with 28 percent improved efficiency, and multiplexed electrical systems with integrated diagnostic capabilities, the company says.

On its Xpeditor WX/WXR and WXLL models, Autocar offers a choice of diesel or natural gas Cummins engines as well as Allison automatic transmissions. The OEM also has developed a prototype hybrid truck — the E3 — that stores energy from braking to supplement the power of a diesel engine to improve fuel savings and reduce emissions. Designed for high start-and-stop applications, the E3 incorporates RunWise hybrid technology developed by Parker Hannifin.

Crane Carrier Corp.

Crane Carrier Corp., Tulsa, Okla., offers a line of Class 7 and 8 heavy-duty trucks, including the COE2, LE2, LDT2, LET2 and the LWT2. The models feature a low-entry cab with left hand, right hand or dual steer configurations.

Available with diesel or compressed natural gas (CNG) engines, the models also are available in multi-, front- and rear-axle configurations. The remote-mounted radiator's location behind the cab, over the engine and centered with the front axle is designed to reduce heat and noise from the engine and cooling system. Operator views to front and sides are clear without an engine cover between two passenger seat positions in LE2, LDT2, LET2 and LWT2.

Freightliner

Freightliner Trucks has expanded its Cascadia line of Class 8 highway tractors with a 72-inch (in.) XT sleeper version. The 72-in. XT is designed especially for flatbed and tanker operations and features a sleeper measuring 78 in. from the base of the bunk to the ceiling. It is available with an optional upper bunk or with storage cabinets placed against the back wall of the cab. The company plans to roll out additional Cascadia sleeper variations, including a 60-in. raised roof, a 60-in. XT and a 48-in. XT version.

Freightliner also announced that the new Bendix ADB22X-V air disc brake now is a factory-installed option for its Class 8 models. Two other factory-installed options now available are the Meritor Wabco electronic stability control (ESC) and the Eaton Vorad collision warning system. These can be spec'd on Cascadia, Coronado, Columbia and Century Class S/T models.

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), which builds Freightliner as well as Sterling and Western Star trucks, says it will use Daimler's Blue-Tec technology on its Detroit Diesel engines beginning in 2010. Production of Freightliner and other DTNA trucks powered by the new 15-liter (L) Detroit Diesel DD15 engine began earlier this year. This engine will be offered as a base model 450-horsepower (hp.) unit, producing 1,550 to 1,650 lbs.-ft. of torque, according to the OEM, as well as in a 560-hp. version that produces 1,750 to 1,850 lbs.-ft. of torque.

International Truck & Engine

International has rolled out a new flagship model — the LoneStar. The OEM says the LoneStar was designed to deliver the fuel economy of aerodynamic tractor models along with the comfort, customization and chromed looks of the long-nosed conventional models.

According to International, the LoneStar is expected to be 5 to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than other “classic” truck models. It features standard antilock brakes as well as roll stability and traction control systems, Bluetooth integration for hands-free phone use, and an automotive-styled dash and gauges with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Despite the forward placement of the front axle, the LoneStar provides a 50-deg. wheel cut and the low, chromed front bumper is one piece of vacuum-formed aluminum.

Also new to the International Class 8 lineup is the PayStar 5900i Set-Back Axle (SBA), a Class 8 vocational on/off-highway truck aimed at severe-service applications such as construction, oil field, logging, heavy-hauling, mining and recovery. The truck features a wide-track, set-back axle design for better front axle load distribution and improved maneuverability, the company says. It can be powered with Caterpillar or Cummins diesel engines up to 15L and 625 hp.

Kenworth

Kenworth Truck Co. will begin production of T800 Class 8 models fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG) in 2009. The trucks will use Westport Innovations Inc.'s LNG fuel system technology adapted for the Cummins ISX 15L engine.

Initially introduced for the T660, Kenworth Clean Power will become a factory-installed option for new W900s and T800s equipped with the 72-in. AeroCab sleeper. Kenworth Clean Power uses deep-cycle batteries that power a thermal storage cooler with 21,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of cooling capacity. The system has the capability to provide engine-off cooling and heating, plus 120V for hotel loads. Once the truck is shut off, a thermostat regulates the desired temperature and a variable speed fan circulates chilled air through a duct located near the bunk.

The T2000 now has the Kenworth Driver Information Center and new standard multiplex instrumentation. The driver center provides information on miles per gallon, engine and idle hours, idle percentage, and optimum rpm range. The T2000's new dash offers a more ergonomic, modern and visually appealing instrumentation system, the company says.

Kenworth has added new front and rear suspensions for its heavy-duty trucks. The AG130 is a proprietary front axle air spring suspension, and the AG400L tandem rear suspension offers a smooth ride by using a trailing arm design, the OEM says.

The company also has added new automatic transmission offerings for customers in construction and short-haul applications with high-horsepower requirements.

Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks has unveiled the Titan. Aimed at both off-highway and on-highway heavy-hauling applications such as logging and heavy-equipment transport, it is the only Mack model powered by the OEM's new 16L MP10 diesel engine, which produces up to 605 hp. and peak torque of 2,060 lbs.-ft. The Titan is available in both truck and tractor configuration, and Mack says initial deliveries are scheduled for this year.

The 16L MP10 is an inline 6-cylinder engine certified for the 2007 emission regulations and offered in ratings of 515, 565 and 605 hp. Maximum torque ranges from 1,860 to 2,060 lbs.-ft. at 1,200 rpm. The Mack T300ES transmission can be spec'd with 10, 13 or 18 speeds; Eaton transmissions are optional.

The truck features a long hood and high cab with an aggressive “heavy-hauler” design that features high airflow for better cooling and chrome accents, the company says. Rounding out the Titan's specs is Mack's Cornerstone chassis, originally developed for its Granite vocational truck models. The Titan's Cornerstone chassis is available in three frame-rail thicknesses with optional inside channel reinforcements and application-specific crossmembers. The front axle is positioned for high load capacity (12,000 to 20,000 lbs.) and maneuverability, according to Mack. Available rear axle and suspension capacities range from 38,000 to 65,000 lbs. The Titan cab, which sits on an air-ride suspension, was designed to minimize noise and vibration for the driver.

Peterbilt Motors Co.

Peterbilt has unveiled the Model 320 Hydraulic Launch Assist (HLA) truck that is engineered specifically for stop-and-go refuse applications. The hybrid vehicle will improve fuel economy, reduce emissions and reduce annual brake realignment service, the OEM says. The truck uses HLA technology developed by Eaton Corp.

HLA technology recovers up to 75 percent of the energy normally lost as heat during braking and storing the energy as pressurized hydraulic fluid. This fluid is stored in an onboard accumulator until the driver accelerates the vehicle. The OEM says the system captures the truck's kinetic energy while braking to help launch and accelerate the vehicle, improving fuel economy and reducing annual brake realignment services.

The OEM also is now offering its ComfortClass system on Peterbilt Model 365, 367, 384, 386, 388 and 389 trucks equipped with a 63-in. Unibilt sleeper; it had earlier been introduced on trucks with 70-in. sleepers. According to Peterbilt, ComfortClass provides a temperature-controlled environment and the capacity to run electronic devices in the sleeper for up to 10 hours without running the engine.

Peterbilt also has added a new proprietary front air-leaf suspension. The suspension has a lower spring rate for better isolation of road inputs while maintaining the roll stiffness and handling performance of a taperleaf suspension, the company says. It is available on Models 384, 386, 388 and 389.

Sterling Truck Corp.

Sterling Truck Corp. has launched its first natural gas-powered vehicle, a Set-Back 113 tractor model equipped with a Cummins Westport ISL G engine. According to the OEM, the factory-built truck is ideal for port operations, natural gas utilities and municipalities, and can save up to $6,000 in fuel and operating costs a year per truck. The OEM notes customers in states such as California will benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles and that accessibility to natural gas fuel is on the rise.

According to Sterling, the Cummins Westport ISL G, an 8.9L stoichiometric cooled-exhaust gas recirculation engine, is available in ratings up to 320 hp. and already meets the U.S. EPA's 2010 emissions standards.

Sterling also is making a new Cummins engine available for vocational applications. The 8.9L Cummins ISL is built for dump, mixer, LTL and government applications, and the OEM says it features improved fuel economy and longer maintenance intervals. The engine is offered in both the Sterling Set-Forward L-Line 111-in. bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) length and the Set-Back L-Line 113-in. BBC model. The OEM says the ISL is rated for either 1,150 or 1,250 lbs.-ft. of torque. Options include a compression brake and available rear engine power take-off (PTO).

Sterling also has introduced several new factory-installed safety options on set-back axle models of the A-Line as well as on all L-Line tractors. These include air disc brakes, a new collision warning system from Eaton, and roll stability control (RSC) from Meritor Wabco.

The OEM also is offering the new Eaton Vorad VS-400 collision warning system, which includes features such as a cruise control regulating tool, a more compact sensor, and a driver interface unit.

Volvo

Volvo Trucks North America has added a 42-in. sleeper cab model, designated the VHD 430, to its VHD vocational line. The new sleeper model is offered as a 6×4, 8×4 and 8×6 truck or tractor and is offered in axle-forward and axle-back configurations.

The sleeper has 118 cu. ft. of space. Specs include a Volvo D13 engine, with up to 485 hp. and 1,650 lbs.-ft. of torque, and a choice of Volvo I-Shift 12-spd. automatic transmission or Eaton Fuller 10- to 18-spd. manual and AutoShift transmissions.

Volvo also has begun using LEDs for the marker lamps and side turn signal repeater lamps on all of its trucks. Compared to incandescent bulbs, LEDs provide longer life and reduced service and replacement costs, the OEM says.

Increased visibility also is the goal of another new component: mirrors with integrated high-intensity LED turn signals. The mirrors display a flashing red arrow when a turn signal is activated by the driver. The signal has two light levels — one for day and one for night driving, and has a 70-deg. viewing angle. It is visible to the driver, as well as to other drivers who may be blocked from seeing turn signals at the back or side of the truck. The component now is available on the VN, VT and VHD models.

TRAILERS

East Manufacturing

The Genesis tipping platform transfer trailer from East Manufacturing, Randolph, Ohio, can accommodate 101 to 145 cubic yards (cu.yds.). It features a fuel-efficient smooth-side construction. According to the company, the 120-cu.-yd. trailer can weigh as little as 12,985 pounds (lbs.). The trailer's sidewall design eliminates a center bar or pipe for efficient top loading, the company says. V-shaped cross members are manufactured to increase aerodynamics and maintain structural strength.

J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers

J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers, Somerset, Pa., offers the DynaHauler open and closed top, steel and aluminum push out trailers for handling municipal solid waste, disaster clean-up debris, sludge and other materials. According to the company, the trailers' size and stability help haulers handle the maximum payload without rolling over on uneven ground. The trailers are available with ejector ram cylinders to quickly unload waste. Operators can choose the length, width and height of the trailers. Additional features include mud guards, mud flaps, ladders and tarp rails.

Titan Trailers

Titan Trailers, Ontario, Canada, manufactures a line of V-Floor trailers for heavy-duty applications that handle materials such as scrap metal, stumps and demolition debris. The trailers incorporate the company's Thinwall aluminum construction with a Keith Walking Floor V-Floor system. Constructed of high-wear steel to minimize weight, the V-Floor's design is intended to withstand heavy impacts, the company says. The overlapping V-slats on a full-length bearing prevent seals on the walking floor, reducing damage from abrasives.

Travis Body & Trailer

Travis Body & Trailer, Houston, manufactures the Wave transfer trailer. The trailer is available in aluminum lightweight, heavy-duty live floor or tipper-type configurations. It features aerodynamic, smooth-sided extruded panels. The trailer's panels measure 12 in. tall and 2 in. wide, and include six stiffeners for added strength, the company says. The trailer's height from front to rear can be tapered to increase its capacity.

Wilkens Industries

Wilkens Industries, Morris, Minn., offers a line of walking floor transfer trailers that can be used for a variety of applications, including the X-Series Expanding Wall walking floor trailer. The company also manufactures heavy-duty or lightweight aluminum trailers and heavy-duty steel trailers. According to the company, the trailers can be customized to user specifications.

Waste Age Assistant Editor Deanna Hart compiled the trailer and refuse body portions of this article. Fleet Owner, a sister publication of Waste Age, compiled the majority of information on Class 8 truck models.