KALAMAZOO, Mich. … Three of the new UltraShift PLUS automated transmissions from diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation have been specifically designed to enhance the operation of dump trucks, concrete mixers and other vehicles involved in demanding vocational/construction trucking applications. 

Each of the new fully automated transmissions feature new automated clutch technology and intelligent shift selection software that employs grade sensing, weight computation, and driver throttle commands to make intelligent shift decisions for more efficient, safe and profitable vehicle performance.

The new Vocational UltraShift PLUS platforms, all with built-in application-specific performance features and representing a wide range of new customized transmission designs, include:
• The UltraShift PLUS Vocational Construction Series (VCS), with an overall ratio of 20:1, has been designed with deep reduction gearing and multiple high-speed reverse to best meet the specific needs required for highway construction work and general dump operations requiring extended reverse operation. It features 10 forward and 3 reverse speeds.
• The UltraShift PLUS Vocational Multipurpose Series (VMS), with an overall ratio of 36:1, features an ultra-low gear reduction to enhance low-speed maneuverability for concrete curb pouring and other vocations where creeping is required. It features 11 forward and 3 reverse speeds.
• The UltraShift PLUS Vocational Extreme Performance (VXP), with an overall ratio of 20:1, provides users with maximum power capacity – no vehicle weight limits apply – and excellent grade-ability features for the toughest of operating environments. It features 18 forward and 4 reverse speeds.

“We targeted the vocational markets with the development of these new transmissions,” said Michael Holahan, Eaton’s program manager for the UltraShift PLUS family.  “These demanding environments have a host of unique applications with very specific transmission requirements.  That’s why we decided on three separate platforms - each fine-tuned to fit the needs of our vocational customers. The feedback that we have been receiving from test fleets has been highly favorable.  We’re extremely confident now that the UltraShift PLUS transmissions will be well received as a very viable alternative to torque converter automatic designs.”

“I would like to see many, many more of the UltraShift PLUS transmissions in our fleet,” said Mike Haugan, equipment manager, Knife River – Belgrade Division, Belgrade, Montana.   “Our drivers love the transmissions.  I simply have nothing negative to say about them.” Holahan added that many of the test fleets are already set to place their orders. 

The Vocational Series of UltraShift PLUS transmissions feature the highest torque capacity in the trucking industry – ranging from 1450 lb-ft through 2250 lb-ft – as well as world class start-ability and ratio coverage.  Each has been designed for on/off highway performance, and each has been manufactured with important driveline protection features such as stall prevention, engine over-speed protection, clutch abuse protection, and auto gear selection. 

The new transmissions also feature enhanced low-speed maneuverability, as well as the new Hill Start Aid that prevents rolling while on steep grades. This allows all drivers to have a controlled launch – knowing that the truck won’t roll back.   Driver-friendly operating modes include Drive, Reverse, Manual and Low. 

With an installed weight savings of up to 300 pounds when compared to a torque-converted automatic transmission, the Vocational Series of UltraShift Plus transmissions also contribute to fuel efficiency and potential increased revenue.

The new UltraShift PLUS Vocational Series of transmissions will soon be available for limited quantity release for all makes and models of heavy trucks manufactured in North America.  Full production is expected to begin in 2010. 

For more information on Eaton transmissions and other Roadranger products and services, visit www.roadranger.com , where the latest product information is available, as well as service, parts and training assistance, 24 hours a day. Experts are available in the Roadranger Call Center by dialing 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada.  In Mexico, dial 01-800-826-4357.

Roadranger® is a marketing alliance of Dana Holding Corporation, Eaton Corporation and other trusted partners, providing a complete line of drivetrain components, systems, lubricants, safety products and service tools, including manual and automatic transmissions, hybrid power systems, clutches, driveshafts, steer and drive axles, brakes, tire pressure management systems and collision warning systems with adaptive cruise control.  Truck makers, dealers, owners and service providers are supported by the Roadranger support team – providing specification assistance, training, service, parts and warranty expertise throughout North America.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2008 sales of $15.4 billion. Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 70,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com .