ArvinMeritor’s new wide-based tire hubs for drive and trailer axles are said to offer improved fuel economy, better handling, and greater stability. The new hub
requires no modification to the drive axle. The new drive- and trailer-axle hubs will be available on new tractors and trailers as well as through the company’s Commercial Vehicle Aftermarket for users who want to retrofit wide-base single tires. The hubs are backward-compatible with dual tires and carry a full 40,000-lb application rating.

Benefits also include more robust axle bearings that improve bearing life over conventional bearings, and two-inch outset wheels that increase track width and improve handling and stability for greater safety at all speeds. Improved cooling lowers braking temperatures and improves brake lining wear, the company says.

A major feature of the tire/hub/axle system is reduced weight of nearly 900 lb – when combined with the trailer – for increased cargo hauling capacity.

The new hub-and-axle system will feature Pre-Set lightweight ductile-iron Meritor hubs with bearings designed to perform in the application. Drive axle applications will utilize Meritor R Series hubs and are 35 lb lighter than traditional iron hubs, while trailer axle applications will feature TP Series hubs. The system
requires no changes to the brake system.