Mack Granite Axle Back: a step forward for trucks

Feb. 1, 2005
Mack Trucks Inc has unveiled an axle back version of its Granite model heavy-duty Class 8 conventional straight truck. The Granite Axle Back vehicle combines

Mack Trucks Inc has unveiled an axle back version of its Granite model heavy-duty Class 8 conventional straight truck. The Granite Axle Back vehicle combines all the advantages of the current Granite model with a new exterior featuring flexible fender extensions, sleek halogen headlamps, available stylized mirrors, and the Mack “M” grille.

Front bumper types — including flush, extended, and stylized — offered in either painted steel or chrome, enhance the truck's looks. The 27-inch front extension version provides optimum protection for a front-mounted PTO. The stylized option is designed in sections, which eliminates the need to replace the entire bumper if only part of it is damaged.

A range of frame rail thicknesses and crossmember options make it possible to optimally configure the vehicle as a straight truck or tractor for almost any application, including mixer, dump, roll-off, and rear loader.

Mack engineered Granite Axle Back from the ground up to reduce maintenance costs. Air lines and the electrical harness are easily accessed. All air valves — including the relay valve, ABS modulators and spring brake valves — are centrally and conveniently located. Air and electrical lines are properly supported and protected in brackets designed to reduce fraying. All fittings feature reusable quick connects.

The re-engineered BodyLink system features two quick-connect electrical connectors along the left hand frame rail that allow a bodybuilder to more efficiently and effectively wire into the truck's electrical system.

Central Tire Inflation is a factory-installed option as well. CTI allows drivers to adjust tire pressure “on the fly” from inside the truck to improve traction.

The backbone of Granite Axle Back is a new Mack vocational chassis called Cornerstone. Crossmembers offered on this new chassis were developed and rigorously tested by Mack engineers. The range of Cornerstone constant-height frame rail options, 300 mm high with thicknesses from 7 mm to 11.1 mm, are all made from high-strength, low-alloy steel that's quenched and tempered to a minimum of 120,000 psi. Rail reinforcement liners are also available.

Contact Mack, 2100 Mack Blvd, Box M, Allentown PA 18105-5000 for more details.