Dana's Commercial Vehicle Systems group has enhanced its lineup of 40,000-pound tandem axles by incorporating its patented OnDemand lube pump option into several popular models.

The OnDemand pump results in operating efficiency improvements by reducing parasitic losses, reducing weight, lowering operating temperatures, extending and improving lubricant performance, and also contributes to reducing overall fuel consumption.

Currently used widely with Dana's D170 and D190 series of tandems, the OnDemand pump is now available with heavy-duty highway tandem axles, vocational tandem axles, as well as Dana's Torsionally-tuned and High-Performance single-speed, tandem drive axles. The current model numbers include: DS404(P), DS405(P), DST40(P), DST41(P), DSH40(P), and DSH44(P). All existing approved applications will remain in effect, as will Dana's 5-year/750,000-mile warranty coverage with approved lubricants and seals.

"Our lubrication system is unique in that it operates precisely when needed, only during a spinout situation. More than 99 percent of the time, the pump avoids engagement during normal vehicle operation," said Steve Slesinski, director - global product planning for Dana. "Conversely, competitive axles have pumps that operate continuously. The result is wasted horsepower, higher temperatures in the sump, and reduced lubricant life. In addition, the axles with Dana's OnDemand pumps require no external filters to service and maintain, thereby lowering lifecycle costs when compared to other axle models.

"The additional horsepower and heat increases, depending on application, will often have a negative impact on fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, we know that that the use of external filters and the added lubrication that are a part of competitive axles also has the potential to bring about environmentally harmful disposal issues and additional cost."

Dana axles equipped with the pumps also feature carriers designed with weight optimization software that results in up to 12 pounds of weight savings per tandem.

For more information: www.roadranger.com