Eaton expanded its UltraShift Plus line of automated transmissions, adding two new vocational platforms, more application approvals within a multipurpose platform and a lower range of torque for its linehaul platform.


The newly released UltraShift Plus vocational platforms include the Vocational Active Shifting and Vocational High Performance models, both designed for linehaul vocational use. The 10-speed VAS platform is available between 1,050 and 1,650 lb-ft as well as multi-torque, and the 13-speed VHP platform is available in models ranging between 1,650 and 2,050 lb-ft.

In addition to the VAS and VHP releases, the Multipurpose Extreme Performance platform of UltraShift Plus has been approved for additional applications.

The original applications approved for the MXP platform included linehaul and heavy haul. It is now approved for the original applications, as well as logging, mining, oil field, construction, city delivery, refuse and off-road applications.

The MXP platform of UltraShift Plus automated transmissions is based upon the Fuller Super 18-speed transmission. This versatile transmission handles extreme loads, offering startability and gradeability in challenging environments. It has an unlimited gross combination weight rating and torque up to 2,250 lb-ft.

To further expand the UltraShift Plus line, Eaton has released lower torque models of the Vocational Construction Series and Vocational Multipurpose Series transmissions to include 1,050 and 1,250 lb-ft versions.

Availability of the UltraShift Plus has further increased as Western Star joins Freightliner, International, Peterbilt, Kenworth and Volvo in offering the transmission as an option in its data book for DD13-equipped Western Star 4900 day-cab trucks.

UltraShift Plus will be available for DD13 and Cummins ISL-equipped Western Star 4700 trucks in January 2012. This follows the recent approval of UltraShift Plus with Cummins ISL engines.

All of Eaton's UltraShift Plus transmissions, available in overdrive and direct-drive models, feature use of a self-adjusting electronic clutch actuator for fast, smooth engagements. Intelligent shift selection software employs grade sensing, weight computation and driver throttle commands to make shift decisions.