Freightliner Classic, Classic XL get new chassis

Freightliner Trucks
Freightliner Trucks unveiled a host of enhancements to its Classic and Classic XL truck models, including a new chassis design that promises benefits in ride and handling.

Designed to appeal to independent truckers and vocational operators, the Classic XL has a 132-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) measurement, while the Classic has a 120-inch BBC configuration. The new chassis design includes a new leaf-and-a-half taper-leaf front suspension with a lower dynamic rate helps to smooth out rough roads. The Freightliner AirLiner front air suspension is now available on the Classic XL, to join the rear AirLiner suspension already offered. In addition, the cab suspension now features larger rear air springs for improved ride. Day cabs feature an air-ride cab mount as standard equipment, giving these trucks an added level of comfort and support.

Freightliner engineers improved the exhaust system’s sound damping capability and incorporated a quieter clutch linkage design. Front cab mounts dampen vibration, while the new rear cab air ride suspension and improved engine mounts provide levels of quiet and comfort uncommon in a traditional truck design. The chevron-shaped engine mount, made of natural rubber, minimizes the transmission of engine vibration. The front cab isolator housing dampens vibration, for a smoother ride.

In addition to the chassis noise reduction measures, high density sound-damping materials have been applied to the cab floor and firewall, for reduced interior noise.

Most of the available axle configurations also offer improved manoeuvrability due to new, narrow high-pressure steering gears which give the tires more room to turn. Classic and Classic XL chassis are available with set-forward front axles in variety of wheelbases.

The new Classic XL chassis features higher strength steel frame rails rated at 120,000 pounds per square inch – 10,000 PSI higher than on the original chassis. The steel rails have a yield strength approximately 9 per cent higher than rails on the original chassis, for a stronger and even more durable frame. In addition, an aluminum front casting delivers weight savings.

The trucks are available with a choice of diesel engines from Detroit Diesel and Caterpillar. The chassis features larger radiators with increased cooling capacity for the new engine designs. Radiators with up to 1,400-square-inch frontal areas are available for optimum engine cooling.

The Classic and Classic XL are available as day cabs for vocational jobs or with sleeper units for long-haul applications.