For Class 8 customers seeking improved freight capacity and better fuel economy without sacrificing strength and durability, International Truck and Engine Corp. offers a lighter weight configuration on its International 9200i heavy-duty tractor.

Offered in 4 x 2 and 6 x 4 axle configurations, the lightweight version of the International 9200i 6 x 4 integrates a series of weight-saving components to weigh in at 13,500 pounds, which represents a savings of almost 1,800 pounds over its standard configuration.
"Our customers, especially those in bulk and tank-hauling businesses, must scrutinize every detail contributing to vehicle weight in order to haul more goods, improve fuel economy and increase resale values," said Mark Vehlewald, marketing director for International. "The lightweight features that are offered on our International 9200i tractor deliver these bottom-line benefits while maintaining the vehicle's leading aerodynamic, reliability and durability performance."
The aerodynamic shape of the International 9200i makes it up to 5% more fuel-efficient than the competition, an advantage magnified by its lightweight configuration. Among the weight-saving steps that can be taken:
-- Seeking to reduce weight when possible on major powertrain components. For example, the Eaton Fuller Lightning Series transmission features a weight-saving, aluminum clutch housing with weight savings up to 129 pounds.
-- Specifying the Eaton Solo clutch can remove another nine pounds.
-- Selecting the right sleeper configuration. International offers a variety of sleeper configurations with the 9200i tractor. This decision impacts storage features, bunk alternatives and roof height, all of which must be considered with each customer application.
-- Even those customers running larger bunks can pare down sleeper weight by choosing the International Sky-Rise sleeper with its "built-in" roof faring. A 50-pound weight saving can be realized over a Hi-Rise sleeper with a roof faring and side extensions.
-- Not utilizing full chassis skirting can eliminate 450 pounds of truck weight, including 434 pounds of skirting and an additional 16 pounds with the under-bumper valance panel.
-- Switching to aluminum wheels and hubs can save an additional 550 pounds.
-- Wide aspect tires should erase an additional 500 pounds. For example, Michelin and Bridgestone both offer alternatives that replace eight rear tires with four.
-- Spec'ing Motor Wheel CentriFuse brake drums on a 6x4 tractor reduces overall weight by an additional 108 pounds.
-- International is the first Class 8 OEM to offer a new Fontaine fifth wheel that is 33 pounds lighter than its standard fifth wheel.
-- Opting for lighter rear axles can save up to 89 pounds by using Meritor RT-40-145A axles with aluminum housings.
-- International offers front and rear suspension systems for the weight conscious customer. Composite front springs and multi-leaf rear steel suspensions offer weight saving opportunities versus many air suspension systems.
-- With the International 9200i day cab model, even the cab mounting system is offered in a special weight saving version.
-- Customers can choose fewer and smaller fuel tanks. Selecting the optimum tank package to best meet your needs can have significant impact on total weight.
International Truck and Engine Corp. is the operating company of Navistar International Corp.
Additional information is available at www.InternationalDelivers.com.