The RoadRanger partnership of Eaton and Dana has added a fully automated wet clutch to the Eaton Fuller six-speed AutoShift to make it a true two-pedal automatic for medium-duty applications. And in line with expectations of customers more used to Allison torque-converter automatics, Eaton has introduced a creep feature that it is calling Urge-to-Move.

The creep keeps a constant 45 pounds-feet torque to the transmission through the wet-clutch pack so that the driver senses engagement when the shifter is in the “drive” position. This dictates a cooler for the auto-transmission fluid and gives the Eaton Fuller ASW-equipped truck the ability to move ahead on a 6% grade when the driver takes his foot off the brake.

The automatic clutch is an added feature for the AutoShift 6-speed, an electronics enables automated 6-speed Eaton Fuller mechanical transmission. The new two-pedal transmission uses the same base mechanical transmission and identical electronics control module, but the new transmission differs in being 4 1/2 inches longer. Two models are launched in the range, the FO-6406A-ASW for 660 pounds feet applications and the FO-8406A-ASW for 860 pounds feet medium duty powertrains.

The main box is lubricated with 50 weight synthetic oil and has 250,000-mile drain intervals. Warranty is 3 years/150,000 miles and the 2-pedal transmission is to be available first in Freightliner and International mediums in September.

The trailer axle announcement is for the AdVANtage air-ride, an integrated suspension for van and reefer applications based on Hutchens technologies.

The suspension features a unique angled trailing beam that forms a straight line through the forward bushing to the large capacity air spring. An adjustment Sta-Align cam allows for accurate axle alignment and the suspension includes a mechanical anti-dock-walk feature that automatically engages when the brakes are set.

Suspensions are rated 36,000 to 46,000 pounds and are claimed to be lighter than current fully integrated suspensions systems. They are to be available starting in September.

-Steve Sturgess, Truckinginfo.com