Sterling beefs up Bullet

Nov. 1, 2008
Improved fuel economy, a new ambulance prep package with anti-spin rear differential; 220 amp alternator; low voltage idle-up; and HVAC taps are among

Improved fuel economy, a new ambulance prep package with anti-spin rear differential; 220 amp alternator; low voltage idle-up; and HVAC taps are among the changes made to the 2009 Sterling Bullet Class 4-5 chassis cab.

The Bullet now has a programmable single-set speed throttle control for the PTO, optional low-voltage monitoring an idle-up feature, and optional remote start.

The newest member of the Sterling family, the Bullet is designed for applications such as construction, utility, municipal services, and local pickup and delivery. Standard on the Bullet are a Cummins ISB 6.7L engine with exhaust brake, Mercedes-Benz 6-speed manual transmission, a 34“ wide, 50,000 psi frame for easy body builder upfit, and 19.5“ wheels.

The engine produces 305 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque and is the next generation of Cummins-designed cooled EGR engines. It operates on Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel as well as Biodiesel and features variable geometry turbo charging for air handling.

Offered as a regular cab in four wheelbases or as a quad cab in two wheelbases, the Bullet also features two- or four-wheel drive and optional snowplow and towing packages.

Sterling 360

The new Class 3 Sterling 360 is the lightest product in Sterling's full range of Class 3-8 trucks. Every 360 — Class 3, 4, and 5 — will be rolling off the line with several new product enhancements, including increased horsepower, a lowered chassis, and standard cruise control.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of 12,500 lb, the Class 3 Sterling 360 is an ideal tool for businesses that don't require the capacity of a Class 4 or 5 truck.

The Class 3 model also features an on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II), a new standard for light vehicles. OBD-II provides a universal inspection and diagnosis method to be sure the vehicle is performing correctly and to EPA emissions standards. This feature will also be available on Class 4 and 5 Sterling 360 trucks.

The diesel particulate filter has been tested and used in the Japanese market for several years. Its compact design reduces interference with body installation and also safeguards the Sterling 360's ground clearance. The engine changes also resulted in increased power, upgrading the Sterling 360's engine from 175 to 185 hp.

Due to the improved cooling system and a change in frame height, the Sterling 360's chassis could be lowered 2“, making it easier for operators to load and unload the vehicle.

It has a 56,560 psi straight frame rail, and a wheel-cut angle results in a smaller turning radius for exceptional maneuverability — resulting in improved efficiency and reduced driver stress.

The placement of fuel tanks, batteries, fuel lines, exhaust systems, and crossmember locations are engineered for efficient upfitting. Fuel lines and wiring are all tucked away and routed for clean CAs and easy body installation. Cab-to-body clearance of 7.9“ allows for longer bodies with greater load-carrying capacity.

Set-Back 113

Sterling this year rolled out a new natural gas (NG)-fueled tractor. The Sterling Set-Back 113 fueled with Natural Gas is ideal for port operations, as well as natural gas utilities and municipalities. An OEM factory-built product, this truck is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G.

Natural gas technology can save an estimated $6000 in annual fuel and operating costs per truck. Customers in states such as California will also benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles. Fuel providers take advantage of these incentives, too, which means that accessibility to NG fuel is on the rise.

The Cummins Westport ISL G is an 8.9-liter stoichiometric cooled-exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) engine. Available in ratings up to 320 hp, the ISL G already meets EPA 2010 standards with 85% lower NOx emissions than the C Gas Plus engine. The ISL G also features a maintenance-free exhaust system with a three-way catalyst (TWC). No further technology or after treatment will be required to meet 2010 emissions standards.

About the Author

Rick Weber | Associate Editor

Rick Weber has been an associate editor for Trailer/Body Builders since February 2000. A national award-winning sportswriter, he covered the Miami Dolphins for the Fort Myers News-Press following service with publications in California and Australia. He is a graduate of Penn State University.