| | | KALAMAZOO, Mich…Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation (NYSE: ETN) has introduced the newest member of its heavy-duty UltraShift family – the Fuller® UltraShift® LHP (Linehaul High Performance) transmission.
The UltraShift LHP was specifically designed for on-highway applications where superior low-end and high-end performance, as well as excellent ratio coverage, is required to handle varying terrain and load conditions. Based upon the industry proven success of the Fuller “RT” transmission, the UltraShift LHP provides fully automatic “2-pedal” operation, and is capable of handling torque capacities up to 1,750 lbs/ft. and loads up to 110,000 lbs. gross combined weight (GCW).
“The LHP has been designed to provide best-in-class performance with gathered ratios in the top and bottom gears for excellent launch quality, unsurpassed low-speed and reverse maneuverability, and superior shiftability on grades” explained Scott Steurer, Product Line Manager for Heavy Duty Transmission – Performance/Vocational. “Although the LHP is aimed at the high-performance segment of the market, it offers the same benefits as the rest of the UltraShift family including improved driver comfort and satisfaction, simplified driver recruitment and reduced training costs, reduced maintenance costs and increased uptime.”
The LHP features 13 speeds plus a selectable low starting gear of 12.2:1, which has been designated by an “L” in the model nomenclature. In addition to these 14 gears, the LHP features progressive gearing, that provides gathered ratios in the low-end and high-end gears for superior start-ability and better operating efficiency. These “gathered gears” enable the engine to operate within a tighter RPM range, thus permitting a more efficient use of available power. More over, the LHP’s three reverse gears provide more than enough maneuvering flexibility to take the stress out of backing-up and trailer hookup.
Steurer went on to stress that, “although the LHP has been called a 13-speed, we want our manual 13-speed customers to understand that this transmission is purpose-built for highway performance, and is not intended for extensive off road use.”
Additional key features and benefits of the UltraShift LHP include:
Two torque capacities, both approved to 110,000 lbs. GCW: 1650 lb-ft and 1650 “M” (Multi-Torque) model with 1750 lb-ft operation in top two gears.
Automatic starts, utilizing a dry clutch module, based on the industry standard 15 ½ inch twin plate, ceramic-facing technology.
Electronic shift protection and totally automated operation reduces the potential for drivetrain abuse.
Electronics, controls and XY shifter are the same as Generation 3 AutoShift reducing part count and improving serviceability.
Several unique electronic service features are part of the new “Gen 3” electronics in the HV and all other new UltraShift transmissions, including:
“Electronic Snapshot” – takes a data picture of the system when the fault occurred.
“Wiggle Test” – tests system connections by simulating an operating environment with vibrations and jarring.
Service Port – Separate test port allows technician to test the system without disturbing the current condition of the components and wiring
Driver-triggered Data Logger – captures 10 seconds of system performance data to capture and record hard-to-replicate faults when they occur in actual operation.
The UltraShift LHP has undergone extensive testing both on the road and in the lab. Since beginning road testing in September of 2004, LHP test trucks have been tested in seven fleets and have logged more than 800,000 miles with excellent results. The LHP is currently in its “LQR” phase (limited quantity release), with an initial production quantity of 400 over the next 6 months. Full production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2005.
Among those touting the merits of the UltraShift LHP is Gary Coleman, president of Big Freight Systems, Inc., a flatbed carrier based in Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada. Big Freight hauls construction equipment, building products, recreational vehicles and glass across Canada and internationally between Canada and the United States.
“Our Roadranger rep felt the LHP would provide our fleet with the same reliable performance as the manual 13-speed while reducing the overall maintenance costs for our drivelines and allow us to select from a more diverse pool of drivers, “ explained Coleman.
“We have been testing five units and have had such great results that we recently placed an order for 45 additional LHP units,” continued Coleman. “Our driverslike the performance and we consider the reliability to be equal to that of the 13- and 18-speed manual transmissions.”
The UltraShift transmission incorporates an advanced shift-by-wire system, utilizing SAE-J1939 protocol to communicate with electronic engines, allowing precise control of engine and transmission functions. The Eaton Fuller UltraShift totally eliminates mechanical lever shifting and the mechanical clutch pedal, providing smooth, automatic shifting and vehicle launches, giving the driver the ability to maintain better vehicle control, and allowing both hands on the wheel at all times.
For more information on the UltraShift LHP and other Roadranger products and services, visit the Internet at www.roadranger.com. To reach a Roadranger right now, dial 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada. In Mexico, dial 01-800-826-4357.
The Roadranger Solution is an unbeatable combination of the best drivetrain, chassis and safety components from Dana Corporation and Eaton Corporation, all backed by the Roadrangers – the most experienced, expert, and accessible drivetrain consultants in the business.
Eaton is the leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of drivetrain systems and components for medium-duty and heavy-duty commercial vehicles on the American continents. In concert with its manufacturing and marketing partners, principally Dana Corporation, Eaton markets the “Roadranger System” – a complete line of drivetrain components, systems, safety products and service tools, including manual and automatic transmissions, clutches, driveshafts, steer and drive axles, trailer axles and suspensions, brakes, anti-lock braking systems, tire pressure management systems, collision warning systems with adaptive cruise control, and mobile diagnostic tools and software.
Eaton Corporation is a diversified industrial manufacturer with 2004 sales of $9.8 billion. Eaton is a global leader in electrical systems and components for power quality, distribution and control; fluid power systems and services for industrial, mobile and aircraft equipment; intelligent truck drivetrain systems for safety and fuel economy; and automotive engine air management systems, powertrain solutions and specialty controls for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has 56,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 125 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.
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