UNION CITY, IN — The new W42 platform from Workhorse Custom Chassis features a new International VT 275 V-6 diesel engine that brings 200 horsepower and 440 lbs.-ft. of torque into the service of walk-in applications. Unveiled at the March National Transportation Equipment Association Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, the W42 is Workhorse’s most significant advancement in commercial Class 2 to 4 chassis to date. It replaces the P42 chassis that Workhorse bought from General Motors in 1999 and which, with some modifications, has been the staple of the Workhorse commercial line. But the “W” in front of the 42 represents a new level of power, performance and handling for walk-in truck users. Significant changes include:
New state-of-the-art, high-performance Brembo four-wheel disc brakes, which replace the previous Bosch brakes.
A new Westport Wide Track I-Beam front axle with a full 50-degree wheel cut. It has a 5-inch wider track than the Dana axle for more stability and better handling while replacing the previous 30-degree wheel cut. The rear axle track is also wider.
An upgraded transmission for its diesel application, the Allison LCT-1000 electronic 5-speed, provides smooth shifting and longer lifecycle.
New parabolic taper leaf suspension springs, front and rear, with custom tuned 32mm shock absorbers.
Rear axle ratio changed from 5.13:1 to 4.63:1 on the diesel application, resulting in reduced prop shaft speeds and longer drive line life along with quieter operation.
New Meritor WABCO four-channel ABS system with full J-1939 diagnostics capability, replacing the three-channel TRW system.
New ZF variable ratio power steering box and ZF belt-driven power steering pump.
Bigger radiator and cooling fan.
New Smart Cluster instrument panel with LCD screen for driver and diagnostic information. Introduced earlier on the gasoline-powered chassis, this is now included in the diesel-powered chassis.
The addition of the International VT 275 4.5L V-6 diesel engine can generate up to 200 horsepower and 440 lbs.-ft. of torque. Its dual staged turbocharging system provides excellent acceleration for a diesel engine — it uses a small turbo for quick, low-speed responsiveness and a second, larger 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. At the same time, four valves per cylinder boost airflow for reduced emissions and optimum fuel efficiency. It has a 250,000-mile lifecycle design and also simplifies routine maintenance with features such as easily accessible cartridge-style fuel and oil filters. Workhorse offers the new W42 in GVWR ranges from 9,400 lbs. to 14,500 lbs., with wheelbases from 125 inches to 190 inches. A single-rear wheel option will also be available from 9,400 lbs. to 12,000 lbs. The W42 also retains the current gasoline engine options that include GM Vortec 4.8L and 6.0L engines.
