Mack Debuts Advantage Chassis

Mack Trucks
Mack Trucks has unveiled its new Advantage chassis for its Vision and CH highway models with no upcharge. You can choose from four rail options – 6, 7, 8, and 9.5 mm – all with increased resistance bending moment, or RBM, for greater strength. The 7-mm rail actually has a higher RBM than the current 8-mm, but it’s up to 100 pounds lighter depending on wheelbase. And if you’re looking for something very heavy-duty, the new 9.5-mm rail is said to be an excellent alternative for 6-mm rails with 1/4-inch inside channel reinforcement.

Mack says the new chassis offers enhanced ride and handling, due to things like the standard front taper-leaf suspension with new springs spaced slightly apart to reduce friction. And the spring rate has been reduced to provide a softer ride. Interior noise and vibration are said to have been much reduced thanks to a new engine support crossmember and new cab-mounting system, along with new sound-dampening material in Mack’s cabs. New rear engine mounts simplify transmission removal and greatly reduce the amount of time it takes to do so.

Additional Advantage features include a wider front frame section allowing for a 10% larger cooling system; optional MaxLite rear air suspension with outboard-mounted shocks for increased stability and more accessible ride-height adjustment; push-to-connect air fittings to reduce the risk of leaks; and the new Lo-Pro deck plate that accommodates lower fifth-wheel heights and meets driver demand for a surface that’s easier on the knees. The driveshaft is also
covered to help keep debris from being thrown up on to the deck plate.