DENTON, Texas (January 29, 2004) – New standard steer axles for Peterbilt heavy-duty, over-the-road vehicles feature reduced maintenance requirements, improved tire wear and exceptional maneuverability, Peterbilt Motors Company recently announced.

The new Dana Spicer axles are the E1202I (base model axle) and the E1202W, both rated at 12,000 pounds, and the E1322W Series, rated at 13,200 pounds.  The “I” designates the standard axle width and the “W” designates the wide-trac version of the axle.

All of the axles feature an enhanced Low Maintenance System that extends lube intervals to one year or 100,000 miles.  “The extended maintenance interval will help our customers reduce their service costs and experience greater uptime,” says Dan Sobic, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President.

The Dana Spicer axles feature lightweight, forged integral steering arms with a power rib beam.  Two in-line drawkeys with spring washers, a common large diameter kingpin and compressible kingpin inserts help improve axle alignment and durability, as well as improve tire wear by reducing toe change (tire bowing) under load.

Wheel cut with the new axles is up to 55 degrees, providing a tight turning radius for exceptional maneuverability.  The axles also have a 1.25-inch center drop in the axle beam for greater clearance with the engine oil plan, providing enhanced access for improved serviceability.

The new axles are standard for Peterbilt Models 379, 387, 385, 378 and 362.  They are also available for Peterbilt’s vocational Model 357 and medium duty Model 330.

Peterbilt Motors Company, a division of PACCAR Inc, manufactures premium quality trucks for a wide range of markets, including over-the-road, construction, municipal and medium-duty.  Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt combines classic styling, innovative design and superior-quality features in a comprehensive, custom-engineered truck that stands as the "Class" of the industry.  Through its 200-plus North American dealer locations, Peterbilt also provides a comprehensive array of TruckCare aftermarket support programs, including preventive maintenance plans, expedited QuickCare services, automated parts inventory replenishment and 24/7 complimentary Customer Assistance through 1-800-4-PETERBILT.  For more information about Peterbilt, visit http://www.peterbilt.com.