Hello,
For those of you who are not familiar with my equipment, here is a quick run down of my equipment specifications and the reason for my selections.
First, I'll begin with my tractor:
- Model: 2011 Freightliner, Cascadia 72” RR Sleeper Cab (offers plenty of space, comfort and the aerodynamic profile matches my trailer.)
- Engine: Detroit DD15 455HP, 1150/175 lb/ft.(I went after the highest torque and the lowest horsepower for maximum fuel economy.) 1750 lbs of torque in the top 2 gears keeps me in the top 2 gears more often.
- Transmission: Eaton Fuller RTLOM – 16913L-DM Ultra-shift (for me, this was as much a comfort and convenience item as it was a fuel economy item.) I view this option much the same as power windows, power locks and power steering with added benefit of fuel economy.
- Front Axle / Suspension 13,200 lb.(This option gave me added versatility when it comes to fifth wheel positions.)
- Rear Axle / Suspension Airliner 40,000 lb. Tag Rear Axle 6x2 (The 6x2 tag axle was also done in the name of fuel economy. By powering only one axle, it eliminates the parasitic losses of a power divider, 2 U joints and a rear differential.)
- Fuel Tanks: Dual 140 gallon (Plenty of range to search out best fuel prices.) I have often been able to travel more than 2,400 miles without fueling. This can take fueling strategy to a whole new level.
- Park Smart HVAC ( Most of the benefits without having to maintain another engine along with nearly silent operation.)
- Tires: All tires were selected with the lowest rolling resistance in mind.
- Steer Axle – Michelin XZA 3+ 275/80R22.5 load range H
- Drive Axle - X One XDA Energy 445/50R22.5 load range L
- Tag Axle – X One XTA 445/50R22.5
Trailer: I've completed many modifications to the trailer in the name of fuel economy, however, here are just the basic specifications. I will offer more detailed information on this subject at a later date.
- 2009 Utility 53ft. 102 wide air ride 4000 D-X composite dry van equipped with side skirts, nose cone and numerous other aerodynamic enhancements. The tires on the trailer are the same as the tag axle of my tractor.
This combination has been working well for me over the last 228,307 miles with an average fuel mileage of 8.6 mpg. Next time, I'll go over some thoughts on selecting the components of a truck.
Henry Albert