Mack Trucks will offer its mDrive HD automated manual transmission in Mack TerraPro concrete pumper models beginning in 2019.

Mack says the fully integrated 12- and 14-speed mDrive HD AMTs will improve performance and offer durability and uptime benefits in an easy-to-operate package. All Mack mDrive HD AMTs come standard with split-shaft PTO functionality. Instead of taking power from a transmission- or engine-mounted PTO, split-shaft PTOs receive output directly from the transmission, supplying higher torque for large auxiliary equipment including concrete pumps.

“The mDrive HD is the only AMT available with split-shaft PTO functionality, which enables us to offer concrete pumper customers all the benefits of the mDrive HD and our fully integrated powertrain,” said John Walsh, vice president of marketing for Mack Trucks. “In addition to improved performance and productivity, the mDrive HD helps increase jobsite safety. Eliminating traditional shifting allows drivers to focus on safely operating their equipment.”

In TerraPro concrete pumpers, the mDrive HD will be paired exclusively with the 11-liter Mack MP7 engine, and will be available with higher horsepower and torque ratings than equivalent models with conventional automatic transmissions. That includes the MP7’s top rating of 425 hp and 1,560 lb.-ft. of torque. The mDrive HD for TerraPro concrete pumper models is available as a 13-speed direct drive or overdrive, as well as a 14-speed direct drive.

With ruggedized internal components, including stronger gears and synchros, the mDrive HD is built to withstand the frequent shifting often found in construction applications. The 13- and 14-speed variants also feature low-ratio creeper gears, offering improved startability and ultra-low speed maneuverability.

All mDrive HD AMTs feature a transmission-mounted oil cooler to help maintain optimal operating temperatures, even in the face of repeated, heat-generating shifts. The transmission also includes advanced standard features like Rock Free, which allows drivers to free stuck vehicles by rocking the truck back and forth simply by pumping the accelerator, and Auto Neutral, which improves jobsite safety by automatically putting the mDrive into neutral when the parking brake is set. Additional features like Grade Gripper, which helps prevent rolling backward on an incline, are also included, as well as MaxBrake, and Performance Mode.

The Mack mDrive HD in Mack TerraPro concrete pumper models will be available for order in February 2019.