LOUISVILLE, Ky. The newly named Eaton Fuller UltraShift 6-Speed transmission (formerly known as the Eaton Fuller Automatic 6-speed) has entered into volume production, with limited quantities available until October 1 of this year.

Full production follows immediately after October 1.

"Anyone currently running medium duty vehicles may now specify an Eaton Fuller UltraShift 6-Speed transmission," said Bill Gross, medium duty product planning manager for North America. "We see virtually any application now using a conventional medium-duty automatic benefiting from the improved efficiency, driver ease and reduced service requirements of the UltraShift 6-speed. It should be especially popular in beverage, P&D, LTL and municipality applications."

The medium-duty "2-pedal" fully automated 6-speed is available with two torque capacities. The FO-6406A- ASW is rated to 660 lb/ft, and the FO-8406A-ASW is rated to 860 lb/ft.

The UltraShift 6-speed utilizes the Eaton Fuller FSO Series 6-speed manual transmission as its foundation. The synchronizers now unnecessary have been removed, and an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) has been added to enable communication between the engine and transmission via the SAE J1939 data link. An "electro-hydraulically" actuated clutch also was incorporated into the design to electronically link the clutch to the ECU and shift controls.

Eaton’s Automated Products division and Eaton’s Clutch division jointly developed the technology. The result is a true 2-pedal automated transmission without the inherent complexities or cooling requirements of a planetary automatic and torque converter.

Gross noted that progressive ratios in the Eaton Fuller UltraShift 6-Speed result in less shifting through the lower gears, while maintaining close steps at highway speeds for improved fuel economy. An exclusive "urge to move" feature improves low-speed maneuvering, and assists in providing a responsive launch.

Diagnosis and service is enhanced through continuous electronic self-diagnostics, alerting drivers and technicians to service conditions through a simple fault-code system.

For more information about Eaton Fuller UltraShift transmissions, visit Roadranger on the web at www.roadranger.com/automatics.