KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Dana Corporation’s Commercial Vehicle System group has introduced the Dana Spicer XC Center Bearing designed to simplify installation and alignment of multiple driveshaft assemblies for vehicle manufacturers, while providing improved reliability and durability for the end user.

“Proper alignment is critical to the successful installation of a multiple driveshaft configuration,” said Jim Holman, engineering manager in Dana’s commercial and off-highway applications group. “Our new centre bearing accomplishes this better than prior models because the design has flexibility engineered into the system that allows the specially engineered elastomer isolator to pivot in a new integrated hanger bracket and self-align as it is being installed. This ensures the system is properly aligned when the vehicle leaves the factory and ultimately provides a more efficient and longer life drivetrain enhancement.”

The result, according to company officials, is better overall service life of the drivetrain system by effectively eliminating the likelihood of damage that can occur to the isolator and internal bearings. “With the new design, our OEM customers will also see improved plant efficiency and flexibility as we have successfully reduced the number of brackets that were once required,” Holman said. “In the past, multiple hanger bracket configurations were needed to accommodate a wide range of driveshaft angle configurations and alignment issues.”

Officials say the new XC Center Bearing has an extended life ball bearing with improved sealing and upgraded rubber cushion designs. These features are designed to completely eliminate the need for slingers and provide improved performance and reduced maintenance for a variety of heavy-duty applications. The elastomer isolator system is designed to maintain optimal performance at angle fluctuations of plus or minus 10 degrees, ensuring that the driveline system is correctly aligned and operating smoothly and efficiently. The XC Center Bearing weighs roughly 1.5 lbs. less than current designs for added weight savings.

For more information on Dana Spicer driveshaft assemblies and other Roadranger products and services, visit www.roadranger.com.