Dana launched the new Spicer S140 axle series at Mid-America, a new family of single-drive, medium-duty axles. They’re specifically engineered to improve fuel economy, reduce maintenance costs, increase operator comfort, and boost overall vehicle performance, the company says.

Now available on International 4300, 4400, 7300, & 7400 vehicle platforms, the new Spicer S140 series single-reduction axle was specifically developed for  medium-duty vehicles — straight trucks, school buses, and rescue, municipal, and utility vehicles, among others.  In mid-2010, says Dana, the S-140 will also be the standard class-6 axle at another major OEM.

Spicer S140 Series axles are said to be nearly 100 lb lighter, compared with current competitive medium-duty axles. With an initial Roadranger lubrication drain at 250,000 miles and 32% less lubrication required overall, these axles are easier to maintain and more environmentally friendly than previous Dana and current competitive designs.

The new axles offer 23 mm more ground clearance while improving NVH performance by nearly 240% over other axles with the same GAWR, says Spicer. 

Optimized to perform in vehicles with drivetrain ratings up to 860 lb ft of torque and up to 300 hp, Spicer S140 Series axles support gross combination weight ratings up to 46,000 lb and typical gross vehicle weight ratings up to 31,000 lb in most vocational applications.  Maximum GCW ratings of 50,000 lb and GVW ratings of 33,000 lb are available under specific application approvals.

Spicer S140 Series axles are also available with options such as a carrier-integrated parking brake or electromagnetic retarder mount; a wide-track design for maximum stability; a patented axle breather design supplying unrestricted air flow and minimizing the risk of seal leaks due to axle pressurization; and integral, welded suspension brackets for increased strength and durability.