Peterbilt Service Truck Models, How They Work, And What Features To Look For

PACCAR's line of high-performance engines includes some of its class's best power-to-weight ratios.

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Peterbilt Service Truck Models, How They Work, And What Features To Look For

A service truck can be essential to many business owners but also a hassle. There are many different models, and knowing which one to choose can be confusing. In this article, we will cover some other models available and some of the more essential features to look out for when buying a service truck.

Peterbilt 579EV, The Truck Of The Future

Whether a small job on a local trucking company's lot or a large regional haul, Peterbilt's lineup of work trucks is sure to have something for you. From a model 337 to a Model 520EV, you're sure to find a car that's just right for your needs.

PACCAR's line of high-performance engines includes some of its class's best power-to-weight ratios. They're crafted in Mississippi and feature lightweight materials that improve fuel efficiency.

A new model, the 579EV, offers the best of both worlds. It's a pickup and delivery machine that uses thermally controlled lithium iron phosphate battery packs and can climb Pikes Peak. It's also the first Peterbilt to feature a full-time damage mode.

The company also recently introduced a new, low-volume production electric vehicle that will start rolling off the production line in late 2020. In addition, the company is collaborating with Toyota Motor North America on a hydrogen fuel cell-electric powertrain that will offer 470 hp and a 350-mile range.

Peterbilt Motors Company has a knack for building some of the best trucks on the road. The company has earned several awards and accolades from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and is the highway king for North American trucking companies. Among other things, it has won two Operational Excellence Leadership Awards from the International Fleet Management Association.

The company's SmartSpec sales tool will include BEVs in the second quarter of 2020. They've also a few new conventional products to boast about. You can see the latest and greatest in the company's booth at the NTEA Work Truck Show March 3-6 in Indianapolis. A special rebate will be available to show attendees.

The model 520EV, for instance, is the first to use the Meritor/TransPower energy storage subsystem, which features a whopping 308 kWh of storage in a chassis that weighs in at only a modest 1,500 pounds. It also features a DC fast-charging system, a first for Peterbilt. The company has also paired up with Dana to integrate the Spicer Electrified (TM) e-propulsion systems into its Model 220EV chassis.

K5LA Locomotive Train Air Horn by Nathan AirChime

Probably, the best-known locomotive air horn of all time, the Nathan AirChime K5LA train horn is one of the market's most powerful and durable train horns. With five large die-cast aluminum bells, it offers an upbeat tone and is built to last for many years.

Initially designed for Amtrak's Chessie System, the K5LA has been used on commercial locomotives in the U.S. and Canada for decades. It is the godfather of train air horns. Today, it is standard equipment on GE, CSX, and NS locomotives. In addition, Amtrak uses the K5LA in their Acela and HHP-8 electric locomotives.

While the original K5LA had five bells, some later versions were shipped with an odd bell. This bell is nicknamed the "K5LAM" and is used to produce the unique sound of the Amtrak Acela and HHP-8 electric locomotives. It has a different sound than the regular K3LA bells, which sounds like a B-major 6th chord.

The K series horns were first introduced in the 1950s. They produced a mellow sound, which was reminiscent of the steam whistle. They were designed to operate on a lower air pressure, which reduced air consumption. They also had adjustable back caps. In addition, they had two diaphragms per bell, which was a significant change from the earlier P horns, which had a single diaphragm for each bell.

When the Federal Railroad Administration published a law in 2004 requiring minimum volume, AirChime produced two more five-chime horns to meet the requirements. The new horns were similar to the standard M3 horn. The new models also have a scalloped base around the bells, which helps reduce the aluminum used in casting.

The later version M3 horn also has larger 5/16 air orifices in the diaphragm head. This allows for a rich, three-chime sound. It is also known for its loudness. The later versions of the M3 have larger power chambers, which allow for a high volume.

During the 1950s and 1960s, the AirChime P model horn was also produced. This model was designed to be easier to work on than the M horn. Its diaphragms were standard sizes. In addition, the horn had a slender design.

Everything You Need To Know About The New Model Nomenclature From Peterbilt

Several years ago, Peterbilt began revising its model nomenclature. By the time it was finished, the company had changed its model terminology to reflect the changes in its product line.

The original Peterbilt Model 260, a single-axle chain drive truck, was released in April 1939. It was built on a Peterbilt frame and produced in 112-inch and 120-inch models. Peterbilt eventually replaced the 377 with the 120-inch Model 385. In the years that followed, Peterbilt made several models, including a raised-roof sleeper, a day cab, and a cab-over-engine model.

During World War II, Peterbilt produced trucks for the lumber industry. After World War II, Peterbilt's trucks were used for freight and vocational purposes. It was known for its distinctive styling and all-steel cab. Depending on model and configuration, Peterbilt's trucks weighed between 37,000 and 44,000 pounds.

Peterbilt Motors Company's 39-year journey

Peterbilt Motors Company was incorporated in 1939 in Oakland, California. The company initially planned to produce chain-drive trucks for the lumber industry. It later transitioned into highway freight transport. In 1958, it was purchased by Pacific Car & Foundry. In 1960, Peterbilt relocated to Newark, CA. It then built a new manufacturing facility in Denton, TX. The company closed its Newark facility in 1986.

Peterbilt trucks were designed for highway freight transport. The company's Model 330 was the first medium-duty conventional-cab truck. It also introduced the self-steering lift axle. The Model 365 was built for the construction industry. It features improved handling and ride. It is a durable truck that can withstand the rigors of construction sites.

In 1979, Peterbilt began renaming its models. The company changed the model nomenclature for many models, including the Model 357. It also introduced Model 210/220 COE in 1998. The model is a re-engineered version of the DAF LF. It was adapted to an American powertrain.

Peterbilt also introduced the Model 579, the first aerodynamic truck manufactured in the U.S. Its cab structure was shared with Kenworth T2000. Its PACCAR MX-13 engine and Complete Aerodynamic Package broke new ground in fuel economy and aerodynamic efficiency.