Workhorse Custom Chassis has introduced a 16,000 lb. GVWR version of its W42 chassis. The platform is available with either a diesel or gas engine for companies using walk-in trucks in the package delivery, laundry, utility, mobile tool sales and newspaper industries.
“We’re very excited about bringing our customers a whole new category of chassis,” says Jay Sandler, vice president of commercial product for Union City, Ind.-based Workhorse. “We know our customers have needed another choice in this GVWR, and now we’ve given it to them.”
The previous GVWR range of the Workhorse W42 chassis was 9,400 to 14,500 lb. GVWR. “But there are a lot of companies now specing in the 16,000 lb. range or higher,” says Sandler. “The 16,000 lb. W42 opens up that market for us and enables us to bring the upgraded technology of the new W42 platform into its service.”
The diesel platform is powered by the International VT 275 V6 engine coupled to an Allison LCT-1000 electronic 5-speed transmission, while the gas version boasts the 6.0L GM Vortec 6000 coupled to GM’s 4L80-E Hydromatic electronic transmission with overdrive. The chassis has wheelbases of 125, 133, 157, 178 and 190 inches and initially will be marketed for use in the above industries, among others.
“We’ve added very little weight to the chassis, which boosts the payload capacity even more,” says Sandler. “Bottom lines are demanding that our customers carry more goods more effectively than ever before. This chassis gives them an edge in that challenge.”
The International diesel engine delivers 200 hp and 440 lb.-ft. of torque. Its dual-staged turbocharging system is said to provide excellent acceleration, using a small turbo for quick, low-speed responsiveness and a second turbo for power at higher RPMs. The International Electro-Hydraulic Generation Two (G2) fuel injection system delivers higher injection pressures with precise control, which enhances performance, fuel economy and emissions control, the company says; while the engine has a 250,000-mile lifecycle design and also simplifies routine maintenance with mechanic-friendly features such as easily accessible cartridge-style fuel and oil filters.
The GM Vortec 6.0L gas engine, which provides 300 hp and 355 lb.-ft. of torque and is 50-state emissions compliant, features the latest in gas engine technology for exceptional performance and durability, according to International; maintenance costs also are reduced by such features as Texaco DexCool anti-freeze coolant (150,000-mile service interval), long life sparkplugs (100,000 miles) and axles lubed for life.
Workhorse says other upgraded features — such as high-performance four-wheel Brembo disc brakes, a new Westport Wide Track I-Beam front axle with a full 50-degree wheel cut, new Meritor WABCO four-channel ABS system and a new ZF variable ratio power steering box — contribute to exceptional handling and driver control. New parabolic taper leaf suspension springs and custom-tuned shocks are engineered to improve stability and comfort on the road; and the chassis has full J-1939 diagnostics capability and a new Smart Cluster instrument panel with LCD screen for driver and diagnostic information.
“The superior ride and handling of the W42 makes it easier for drivers to perform at an outstanding level, while the extra load capacity lets companies do more with the truck,” says Sandler.
For more information, go to www.workhorse.com.
