Western Star Adds Construction Options

June 16, 2022

New options on the Western Star 49X heavy truck are aimed at heavy haul and construction applications. 

The optional Power Hood is designed to allow for higher horsepower and more cooling for set-forward front axle configurations. Made from the same impact-resistant, durable, lightweight molded resin material as the sloped 49X hood, the Power Hood is designed for applications that require higher horsepower ratings.

The Power Hood is available with the Detroit DD16—up to 600 horsepower and 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque—or the Cummins X15—up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque—engines and the 49X’s 1600-square-inch radiator.

“The 49X already is the most advanced vocational truck on the market,” said Mary Aufdemberg, general manager, product strategy and market development, Daimler Truck North America. “These new features make it more powerful and versatile so it can deliver even better performance and results for customers. Western Star loyalists will appreciate how the more traditional design of the Power Hood evokes the brand’s storied heritage.”

The second option is the Meritor P600 planetary drive axle. Available in tandem or tridem rear axle configurations, and paired with the Neway AD260 or AD390 rear suspensions, the P600 is designed for heavy haul applications with GCWs greater than 200,000 pounds.

The Power Hood and P600 drive axle will begin production on the 49X starting September 2022.

Also available for order now on the Western Star 49X and 47X trucks are factory-installed twin steer front axle options available in set-back axle configurations. These twin steer configurations are designed for heavy construction applications.

The 49X offers Detroit tandem front axle ratings of 40,000 and 36,000 pounds, paired with equalized flat leaf front slippered suspensions. The 47X features a Detroit tandem front axle rating of 40,000 pounds, paired with equalized taper leaf front suspensions. These twin steer options offer increased load capabilities on the front axles along with improved steering traction, weight distribution, and easier cab access compared to previous Western Star models.

Source: Western Star