PORTLAND, Ore. — Engineers with Portland’s light rail project used a Western Star to haul the train onto the rails.

Engineers used a highly customized Western Star 4900 SA heavy-duty truck to haul the 100-ton MAX train onto the new railway alignment for the first time.

To ensure smooth travel along those lines, the 4900 SA was specially outfitted by Canada-based Brandt Industries.

Steel wheels guided the truck on rails while the tandem tires stayed on the track to drive the vehicle.

“The 4900 SA is an excellent all-around truck and one of our most versatile models,” said Cary Gatzke, Engineering Director for Western Star. “The 4900 SA is adaptable to a wide range of commercial vehicle jobs and we are very pleased the truck was able to meet the Interstate MAX challenge.

“We’re especially happy that a Western Star was able to show off its
capabilities in Portland, Ore., where these trucks are built.”

Western Star trucks are produced at the Portland Truck Manufacturing Plant on Swan Island, in Portland, Ore.
The 4900 SA line of vehicles feature a single steer front axle range of up to 20,000 pounds and tandem steer axles to 40,000 pounds. The rear axle capacity ranges up to 58,000 pounds. A full range of manual, automated, and automatic transmissions also are available. Engines vary in horsepower. All 4900 SA Line vehicles come standard with a high-visibility hood.

For more information visit the Western Star Web Site at http://www.westernstartrucks.com