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Dana Corporation Continues to Roll Out New Heavy-Axle Lineup Technology Advances, Product Line Expansion Address Today's Heavy-Duty Challenges LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the Mid-America Truck Show here, Dana Corporation continued to enhance its lineup of heavy-duty axles by introducing two new products designed to exceed the powertrain requirements for new and future vehicles. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19990903/DANA ) DRIVE AXLES LAUNCHED Dana's new Spicer(R) D170 series single-reduction, high GCW, tandem-drive axle has been designed to improve truck performance in some of the industry's most demanding applications, including logging, refuse, construction, and other heavy hauling. Dana expects the axles to be particularly popular in Mexico and Canada, where payloads often exceed those that are typically experienced in the United States. "Dana is committed to providing drivers and fleet owners with the axle solutions they need to be successful in today's trucking industry," said Dana CEO and President Michael J. Burns. "These axles have the dependability and reliability features that are vital to reducing our customers' maintenance requirements, while also providing enhanced performance features, improved fuel efficiency, and more quality time on and off the road." Through the use of advanced technology processes and six new patented or patent-pending features, Dana engineers increased heavy-tandem axle performance and reliability while reducing overall part count by more than 50 percent when compared to conventional heavy-duty axles. The D170 series features Gross Axle Weight ratings from 46,000 to 50,000 lbs., the industry's broadest range, and greatest number of gear ratios --from 3.07 through 7.17. Like other recent additions to Dana's axle line-up, the D170 series includes extra-wide face-width gearing for increased strength and durability and significantly larger wheel differential gearing for maximum reliability. For optimal spinout protection, improved fuel efficiency, and cooler operating temperatures, a patented on-demand lube pump with internal no- maintenance filter is offered as an option. Additional D170 features include forged, heat-treated steel differential cases; integrated ring gear and wheel differential mounting system; integral pinion cage and carrier; high-precision bearing adjustment system; and best- in-class inter-axle driveline angles that considerably reduce harmful vibrations. STEER AXLES INTRODUCED Dana also introduced two new steer axle models at the show. The new Dana(R) Spicer(R) D-600N and D-700N axles are specially designed for the Class 4 and 5 low-cab-forward (LCF) market. Both the D-600N (6,000-lb. GAWR) and the D-700N (7,000-lb. GAWR) feature a host of patented innovations, including: -- A new power rib design that optimizes weight and improves handling for increased vehicle productivity; -- Two in-line draw keys with spring washer retention that improves durability and alignment capability; and -- New tie rod ends with a sealed boot and grease purge valve that improves durability and reduces maintenance. "More and more domestic truck OEMs are introducing new low-cab-forward vehicles, and overall LCF sales have increased by 50 percent over the last 10 years," said Nick Cole, president of Dana's Heavy Vehicle Technology and Systems Group. "Our new axles provide the right solutions that this type of growth dictates." The new axles have common service components with current Dana Spicer steer axles. In addition, a new, reduced 74-in. track width has been implemented specifically for LCF applications. Additional component highlights include a high, 9-degree kingpin angle and reduced scrub radius to improve steering and vehicle handling; and up to 55-degree turn angle capability for increased maneuverability and productivity. The axles are targeted for limited-quantity production during this year's second quarter, with full production scheduled to begin in November. Dana Corporation is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacture of value-added products and systems for automotive, commercial, and off-highway vehicles. Delivering on a century of innovation, the company's continuing operations employ approximately 45,000 people worldwide dedicated to advancing the science of mobility. Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, Dana operates technology, manufacturing, and customer-service facilities in 30 countries. Sales from continuing operations totaled $7.9 billion in 2003. http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19990903/DANA http://photoarchive.ap.org/ DATASOURCE: Dana Corporation CONTACT: Jeff Cole of Dana Corporation, +1-419-535-4704, or Web site: http://www.dana.com/ Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/226839.html

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