Freightliner rolls out new O/O truck

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 27, 2000) — The new owner-operator flagship at Freightliner Trucks is the Coronado, a Century Class-based rig with a big new hood, 132-inch BBC, lots of chrome, dual cab-mounted stacks, and the truck maker’s plush Chaparral interior.

The Coronado, which will replace the FLD-based Classic XL some time after production begins in January, has a touch of retro-styling, with bolt-on fenders that can be replaced separately from the hood and running boards that incorporate polished aluminum fuel tanks and tool boxes.

The standard engine is a Detroit Diesel 500, with Cat and Cummins diesels up to 600 horses optional. All are cooled by a 1500-square-inch radiator, fronted by a grille with bars that promote maximum air flow (there’s another grille in the bumper for more cooling capacity).

The Coronado also sports long-stroke brake chambers, a self-adjusting clutch, and front and rear aluminum hubs with pre-set bearings and oil seals.

See-through fluid reservoirs allow easy inspection of coolant, power steering, and windshield-washer fluid levels. Headlights use off-the-shelf halogen bulbs that can be replaced without tools.

The truck carries a host of new features worth mentioning, among them the Equiflow fuel system, designed to ensure an equal level of fuel in both tanks, provide better mixing of returned fuel from the engine, and improve ground clearance by eliminating cross-over lines and bottom fittings.

Freightliner’s lightweight AirLiner rear suspension is standard, as is a unique leaf-and-a-half front spring suspension that enhances ride quality. Optional is the new Hendrickson AIRTEK front air suspension.

One of the truck’s best features, despite the long hood and set-forward front axle, is its 50-degree wheel cut, which makes for a small turning circle and excellent manoeuvrability.

The Coronado is available with Freightliner’s 70-inch Raised Roof SleeperCab, 70-inch Mid-Roof XT SleeperCab (standard), or a day cab. The company’s Chaparral interior package has padded leather or vinyl seat upholstery, plus a rugged “distressed leather” cloth on the walls, headliner, and door panel. The truck comes standard with Freightliner’s EzyRider seat, with extra height and width and an advanced suspension. An optional factory-installed AC power inverter allows use of televisions, VCRs, stereos, microwave ovens, coffee makers, and other AC appliances. Another standard feature is the Driver Message Center, an in-dash, 40-character LED display that can monitor trip mileage, fuel economy, and vehicle status, among other information. Standard safety features include slip-resistant grab handles, a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, and an optional driver-side airbag.