International’s “Big Brother” work truck looking out for needs of vocational haulers

by Ingrid Phaneuf

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – International Truck and Engine Corp. launched a new work truck at this year’s World of Concrete Show in Las Vegas.

Dubbed by company officials as the “Big Brother” of the International CXT – the International 7700 is available in three models: the International 7700 set-forward front axle 4×2 and 6×4 models and the International 7700 setback axle 6×4 model.

Full production of the three new International 7700 models is scheduled to begin in February 2005.

The new models include many of the same standard features and benefits available with the current 7600 models – plus some new options. The new features specifically target bridge formula mixer, super dump and block hauler applications. Additional applications include severe service tanks and logger trucks.

“The International 7700 models are the newest members of the International 7000 Series that combine the style and drivability of the 7000 with the chassis strength and packaging our popular 5000i,” said Bill Sixsmith, marketing director, Severe Service Vehicle Centre, International Truck and Engine. “It is something we like to call ‘Polished Power’ – the great look of an International truck with the rugged power and smooth ride that vocational customers demand.”

Sixsmith pointed to the chrome features of the International 7700 as a selling point.

“The chrome features provide an emotional appeal that will leave customers thunderstruck,” said Sixsmith. “Plus, with a new front taper leaf spring system from International, the International 7700 delivers a smoother ride so drivers won’t be shaken up, even with empty payload.”

For drivers of construction trucks looking to optimize payload weight, International is delivering a new solution with the design of the International 7700. Two of the new models have a new front bumper to axle setting of 29.1 inches and frame system that optimizes payload weights for states that follow bridge formula limits.

Another example of the new features includes an improvement in body mounting.

The location of components on a chassis is critical when mounting various bodies such as mixers and multiple lift axle trucks. The International 7700 offers new clean CA chassis packaging options that create a faster, more economical and easier process for mounting truck bodies, company officials claim.

The frame system of the International 7700 includes a single 12.25-inch frame that is 400 pounds lighter than many double 10-inch frames. This feature allows customers the ability to haul greater payloads.

The standard engine on the International 7700 is a 305-hp Cummins ISM with an 1150-pound-foot torque rating. The Eaton Fuller 10-speed overdrive transmission is also standard. The engine options also include an upgrade in power to a 470-horsepower Caterpillar or Cummins engine.

The following is a list of the new truck’s strengths, according to company officials:

* The chrome grille, resistant to road debris, cracking and breaking, is attached by six easily removable bolts for quick replacement if damaged.

* International provides standard powder base coating on certain bumpers, mirrors, battery boxes and fuel tanks to minimize chipping and corrosion.

* The multi-piece hood and headlight assembly make repairs easier because in the event of damage, only one piece needs to be replaced. The leading competitor requires the replacement of the entire hood, which can cost up to $2,400 or more, according to International.

* The front windshield is nearly 11 per cent larger than a leading competitor’s windshield for superior visibility and a commanding view of the road, it is claimed.

* The standard base coat/clear coat paint process seals the truck’s colour coat from the environment and protects the base coat paint.

* The hood easily tilts and is made of a sheet molded compound that is less expensive to repair than the fiberglass hood offered by other OEMs.

* The International 7700 has dual-power steering, on axles over 16,000 lbs., and wheel cut up to 50-degrees, allowing for improved maneuverability. It also reduces turning effort and allows more control on soft dirt or sand surfaces

* The “Fit and Finish” door includes a cab exhauster to let the air out so that the door is tight and noise is significantly reduced for a quieter cab.

* The standard cab space exceeds the leading competitor’s cab with more storage such as two overhead compartments and side-door storage areas. Additional compass, wind and temperature gauges can be added to the truck.

* The steering wheel includes mounted controls such as cruise control.

The International 7700 also includes the latest in truck electronics, say company officials. It includes the Diamond Logic self-diagnosing system that electronically checks the status of the truck. When the key is turned to the “on” position, error codes will appear if there is a problem to let the technician know of the precise electrical fault.

There are more than 517 fault codes that are diagnosed through the Diamond Logic system. Reduced diagnostic time over the life of the vehicle can save a substantial amount of resources. No other competitors have anything similar to this system, claim company officials.

“The unrivaled features integrated into the International 7700 illustrate the commitment to delivering solutions to the customer,” said Sixsmith. “This truck is designed specifically for the unique needs of the vocational market.”

For more information visit www.InternationalDelivers.com.


Have your say


This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.

*