Hino adds high-torque engine to 338

Nov. 1, 2010
For the 2011 model year, Hino has eliminated the LDT models (Class 4 and 5, models 145, 165, and 185), added a high-torque engine (260 hp/660 ft-lbs)

For the 2011 model year, Hino has eliminated the LDT models (Class 4 and 5, models 145, 165, and 185), added a high-torque engine (260 hp/660 ft-lbs) on the 338 model, and released the only medium-duty conventional truck to meet the 2010 emissions regulations without the use of credits.

Glenn Ellis, vice president of marketing and dealer operations, said new standard features include: Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) EPA10 emissions system; engine compartment upgrades (130-amp alternator, more efficient turbo with an 11 curved vane design, improved combustion chamber design, more efficient single EGR cooler, and fuel filter now under-hood); redesigned gauge cluster with new configurable advanced driver information display; up to six additional auxiliary switch spaces in the cab; improved driver seat comfort with added armrest and seat cushion and dome light timer.

New optional features include: Allison 2500 RDS transmission for the 338 model; 14,000-lb front axle for the 338 model (rated only to 13,200 lbs because of tire capacity); 4,500-lb auxiliary rubber rear suspension spring; remote keyless entry; power heated driver and passenger side mirrors; and improved air suspension driver seat comfort, with added armrest and seat cushion.

Changes for 2011:

  • Electrical component identification: connector identification by letter, circuit application, wire capacity, and connector part number. The PTO/engine control connector is relocated on the frame side near the fusible link box.

  • Cab power drop location: two wires (Q,R) added; cab-to-frame through six wires added; the PTO/ engine control sensor relocated.

  • Battery: When disconnecting the battery, you must wait four minutes after key-off. See Chapter 4 of Body Builders CD.

  • Factory installed vertical exhaust: Vertical stack exhaust system from Hino has been located on the right side of the cab, three inches from back of cab to van body; optional vertical exhaust does not affect the installation or the rear body onto the vehicle; a 90-gallon fuel tank is available with vertical exhaust.

Ellis listed these bodybuilder cautions:

  • Beware when installing the wire harness and other items around DRP and exhaust due to high temperatures.

  • Caution must be used when mounting the superstructure above the exhaust pipe. There must be the following clearances between the exhaust pipe and others to be mounted on the vehicle: over four inches from wood, rubber, cloth, resins, and the like; over eight inches from electric wire, brake hose, or tube. When it is impossible to provide these clearances, use the heat insulating plate or other means of insulation.

Ellis said Hino has sold 170 trucks to West Virginia in snowplow applications. Class 7 product under development includes a stationary grille and front frame extension, which were assembled in October. The chassis will be 35,000 lbs GVWR, with a front axle of 12,000 lbs and rear axle of 23,000 lbs. He said the ideal applications are municipality bid, dump, digger, or bucket truck.

He said the 2012 MY will include the introduction of the Class 4-5 COE (including a hybrid model), featuring a 5.1-liter, four-cycle engine 200-plus hp, a six-speed automatic transmission, a 33" width frame, GVWRs of 14,050, 14,500, 17,950, and 19,500, and 215/85R16 and 225/70R19.5 tires.

The hybrid model has the same GVWRs, with a permanent magnetic motor, Ni-MH traction battery, and next-generation hybrid system.

“One of the things that makes the Hino hybrid system unique is that it's designed and engineered by Hino 100%, so you have the harmony between engine and transmission working together to maximize the hybrid,” he said. “Using the Toyota group advantage, we adapted the Lexus battery for commercial use. We utilize other Toyota Mega Parts to the fullest extent as well. In addition to vehicle and hybrid system development, Hino is responsible for control and compatibility technology needed to achieve the highest hybrid performance, while incorporating the specialty hybrid components.”

Key dates in the COE launch schedule: diesel demos to arrive in early summer 2011; unveiling at The Work Truck Show 2011 in Indianapolis in March; diesel trucks will start to show up at dealers in late summer; hybrid demos to arrive in early fall; hybrid trucks will start to show up at Dealers in late fourth quarter 2011.

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.