Workhorse enters new category with 16,000-pound GVWR chassis

May 2, 2006
Workhorse Custom Chassis has entered a new market with the introduction of a 16,000-pound GVWR version of its new W42 chassis. The platform is now available with either a diesel or gas engine for companies using walk-in trucks in the package delivery, laundry, utility, mobile tool sales and newspaper industries.

Workhorse Custom Chassis has entered a new market with the introduction of a 16,000-pound GVWR version of its new W42 chassis. The platform is now available with either a diesel or gas engine for companies using walk-in trucks in the package delivery, laundry, utility, mobile tool sales and newspaper industries.

"We'e very excited about bringing our customers a whole new category of chassis," said Jay Sandler, vice president of commercial product for Workhorse. "We know our customers have needed another choice in this GVWR, and now we¹ve given it to them."

The previous GVWR range of the Workhorse W42 chassis was 9,400 to 14,500 lb. GVWR.

"But there are a lot of companies now specing in the 16,000 lb. range or higher," said Sandler. "The 16,000 lb. W42 opens up that market for us and enables us to bring the upgraded technology of the new W42 platform into its service."

The diesel platform is powered by the International VT 275 V-6 engine coupled to an Allison LCT-1000 electronic 5-speed transmission, while the gas version boasts the 6.0L GM Vortec 6000 coupled to GM's 4L80-E Hydromatic electronic transmission with overdrive. The chassis has wheelbases of 125, 133, 157, 178 and 190 inches and will be initially marketed for use in the above industries, among others.

"We've added very little weight to the chassis, which boosts the payload capacity even more," said Sandler. "Bottom lines are demanding that our customers carry more goods more effectively than ever before. This chassis gives them an edge in that challenge."

The new International diesel engine delivers 200 horsepower and 440 lbs.-ft. of torque. Its dual-staged turbocharging system provides excellent acceleration, using a small turbo for quick, low-speed responsiveness and a second turbo for power at higher RPMs. The International Electro-Hydraulic Generation Two (G2) fuel injection system delivers higher injection pressures with precise control, which enhances performance, fuel economy and emissions control. The engine has a 250,000-mile lifecycle design and also simplifies routine maintenance with mechanic-friendly features such as easily accessible cartridge-style fuel and oil filters.

The GM Vortec 6.0L gas engine provides 300 horsepower and 355 lb.-ft. of torque and is 50-state emissions compliant. It features the latest in gas engine technology for exceptional performance and durability. Maintenance costs are also reduced by such features as Texaco DexCool anti-freeze coolant (150,000-mile service interval), long life sparkplugs (100,000 miles) and axles lubed for life.