DENTON, Texas (December 9, 2008) – Peterbilt’s SmartWay certified aerodynamic Model 387 has been enhanced with new standard multiplex instrumentation and the addition of a State of the Art Driver Information Center. The enhanced system and new instrumentation provides drivers with real time information to improve their fuel efficiency, performance and serviceability.
The driver’s environment now features new elegant stylized instrumentation and rocker switches, and efficient LED backlit gauges, switches and controls. The new LED powered environment provides a consistent appearance, reliability, and a reduction of eye fatigue in nighttime driving situations. A new multi-functional turnstalk also enhances the driving experience by integrating a number of commonly used functions, such as flash-to-pass and windshield wiper controls, into one convenient location.
“The enhanced driver environment makes it safer and easier to monitor the vehicle systems and engine information,” said Landon Sproull, Peterbilt Chief Engineer. “We’ve improved the entire system, and drivers will notice the ease of serviceability and troubleshooting. Wiring has been simplified by color-coding and numbering, and reliability has been improved through the addition of positive locking connectors at the critical connections.”
The enhanced functionality of the Driver Information Center provides drivers with a new tool to cut costs improve fuel performance. By having access to critical vehicle performance data via the system display, drivers can easily monitor the engine and transmission and adjust their fuel economy for optimal operating performance. No longer will drivers have to look up fault codes, as they are replaced by easy-to-understand text-based readouts for more accurate diagnostics and less downtime, all controlled by a conveniently mounted MCS (menu control switch) for display navigation. Other features include an integrated clock w/alarm, an automatic transmission display, and an optional controlled idle timer. The system is also equipped with the ability to change driver settings for items like language (English, Spanish, & French) and time format (12H/24H) to help accommodate multiple drivers and truck resale.
The new multiplexed electrical system is supported by Peterbilt’s Electronic Service Analyst (ESA), a computer based diagnostic tool which accurately monitors the electrical system, isolates sensors and gauges, and maintains an event log for historical purposes. ESA enables technicians to review codes stored in the components, verify instrument functions to accurately pinpoint a malfunction, and quickly troubleshoot dashboard electronics.
