What engines are on the Fredliner?

Review of Fredliner trucks

“The holidays are coming to us...” Oh, those famous Coca-Cola Christmas commercials with brightly lit trucks! The American Freightliner Classic, decorated with garlands and driving to a simple and catchy song, has become as much a symbol of the New Year holidays as the Christmas tree, tangerines and sparklers.

Many probably remember the scene from the legendary film “Terminator 2”, in which young John Connor on a motorcycle ran away from the “liquid” T1000, which was chasing him in a black truck. It was a 1987 Freightliner FLA 9664. A tractor with a tank transporting liquid nitrogen (model FLC 120 64) also received its share of fame.

Freightliner equipment is a heavy vehicle that is actively used in long-distance cargo transportation. They were produced exclusively in the United States, but over time they successfully entered both the European and Russian markets. Let's take a closer look at which models are produced under this brand, and their general and specific characteristics.

Review from the owner of Freightliner M2 (Freightliner M2) 2004

Freightliner M2, 2004 Business Class 106

Year of manufacture: 2004

Body: Isothermal van

Engine:

65.5 l, Diesel, manual transmission, 230 hp

Mileage:

682,000 km

Drive unit:

Rear

A true American, simple, reliable and hardworking. Americans generally like to extract the maximum benefit from nothing, which is what they embodied in this truck. A large range before refueling, high traction properties will not allow you to crawl next to KAMAZ and MAZ trucks even when fully loaded, the ease of engaging the Ayton Full gearbox generally means engaging the clutch only when starting off.

The driver's seat with the ability to adjust the shock absorption cushion will allow you to sit as if on a throne, and the armrests will allow you to set the angle of support according to your parameters. All controls are accessible.

I like the Caterpillar engine of the C7 Asert series with a Huey nose (traction from the bottom - if you hesitate when approaching an intersection in 6th gear, it will easily pull even from 35 km/h, fuel economy, long service life before overhaul 1.5 mil. km, in contrast from European analogues), the market is full of consumables, services are already familiar with this device and know its problems, there are plenty of sensors for cooling, lubrication and fuel, so that you don’t accidentally ruin the engine, a plastic cabin and an aluminum body coupled with a light-alloy frame will not an eyesore with numerous pockets of rust - and the scales with a full 10t load will not inspire fear. Good visibility, 1.5 meters from the bumper to the driver. Comfortable driving position (two armrests, adjustable column height and angle), Ayton Full 6speed gearbox, except for the first, the rest can be engaged without a clutch, the Meritor axle is the key to long-term reliability. Almost everything is smeared, there are a lot of grease spots, like on our Soviet cars. There are automatic ratchet brakes and clutches.

The lineup

Over many years of work, a huge amount of different equipment has rolled off the Freightliner assembly line. The Fredliner truck is actually considered a designer, since the current model range is assembled taking into account many customer wishes.

The manufacturer offers several options for engine components, gearboxes, brakes and chassis. Brochures with a brief description of the equipment and photographs of cars can be downloaded from the company’s official website.

Let's talk about the most popular models of the concern, found in the vast expanses of Russia.

Columbia

This truck was developed as a successor to the Century Class.

The design features teardrop-shaped headlights, hidden fuel tanks and plenty of chrome-plated parts.

The cabin is highly aerodynamic, adjusted due to the specially designed shape of the bumper, hood and vertical fairings added to the spoiler.

There are seven sleeper cab options, not counting the standard day cab. Excellent sound insulation and climate control, a flat floor and a full-fledged sleeping place make you feel at home. In addition, there are additional separate doors to both the sleeping and luggage compartments.

Many transport companies are leaning towards this unpretentious workhorse, with excellent aerodynamic design and good handling.

Century

The Century Class model is a truck tractor designed for comfortable long-term transportation. The car uses a special cabin setup to reduce vibrations from road vibration. Driver safety is ensured not only by airbags, but also by a special robotic control that sends signals when skidding or driving outside the markings.

This Freelander is produced in two modifications: C112 and C120. This is the distance from the bumper to the rear wall of the cab (in inches). It has a movable seat platform, air suspension of the rear bogie, is equipped with a locking center and cross-axle differentials and a useful semi-trailer braking option to prevent folding on icy or slippery slopes.

Argosy

Historically, this word in English referred to large merchant ships.

A cabover truck is designed for transporting long cargo.

The cabin of this freelander model consists of 2/3 of light alloys, similar in weight to aluminum, and has a full tilt, convenient for repair and maintenance of the machine. The panel grille rises 120 degrees to provide wide access to the engine.

The sharp steering angle of the front wheels of 50 degrees and the location of the center of the front axle, located at a distance of one meter from the bumper, provide high maneuverability.

The length of the cabin varies from 160 cm (no berth) to 279 cm.

Coronado

These trucks were developed as premium models, combining stylish tuning, improved interiors, maximum performance and efficiency.

According to the standard, the car is equipped with a Detroit Diesel series 60 engine with 515 hp. s., and the engine from Caterpillar C15 is available in options from 435 to 625 hp. With.

Increased power, modern equipment, an ergonomic cabin and interior with luxurious finishing, and economical diesel fuel consumption distinguish this model among its peers.

The instrument panel has a curved shape, providing quick and convenient control. The on-board computer displays information about mileage and downtime, travel time, external temperature, fluid levels, malfunctions, etc.

The high cabin makes it possible to stand in it at full height. The long hood swings out easily, supported by two rod struts. Long thresholds have built-in drawers. The windshield is made of two separate parts, making it easy to replace.

The excellent combination of modern technology and magnificent appearance does not leave buyers of these trucks indifferent.

Other models

FL – this version of tractors is universal, therefore it is in high demand among carriers. The power of diesel engines produced at Cummins or Caterpillar plants depends on the modification, so the range is from 161 to 332 horsepower. It is worth paying attention that when using trucks in Russian conditions, you will have to change fuel filters more often. This is due to the quality of domestic diesel fuel.

Classic is the most popular tractor. A typical representative of the American automobile industry with a powerful engine, 6x4 wheel arrangement, fuel tanks on the side of the cab and a rectangular hood design.

Engines from Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel with a volume of 14.6 and 12.7 liters, respectively. The Classic cabin has a length of 305–335 cm. The noise insulation on these trucks is worse than that of their counterparts. Visibility is such that the driver has almost no blind spots.

In 2022, Freightliner e-Cascadia electric tractors appeared on American roads. The range from one charge is approximately 400 kilometers, so they are not yet used for full-fledged long-distance transportation.

Business Class M2 is a model range of medium-duty trucks, modifications 106, 112 and the E-M2 electric truck. The vehicles are equipped with a front spring or air suspension and a rear air or reinforced spring suspension.

The new versions have improved visibility from the cockpit and a state-of-the-art on-board computer. Engines are supplied from Cummins factories - ISL I6, ISL-G I6 and Detroit Diesel - DD13 I6, only on the M2 112. The fuel consumption of the truck varies from 18 to 25 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on the model. The M2 can be equipped with a day cabin, an extended version and a crew cabin.

MBE900

Manufactured by Mercedes-Benz specifically for the demanding North American medium-duty truck market, the MBE900 is offered in four- and six-cylinder versions, ranging from 170 to 330 horsepower, with peak torque up to 1,000 lb-ft. High torque operation at low speeds is ideal for automatic transmissions. Key features of the MBE900 engine include:

Extended intervals for engine oil changes, fuel refills and cooling systems help reduce costs and equipment downtime.
High torque at low engine speeds for more practical, productive operation with fewer gear changes.
Best-in-class engine braking.
Class-leading power-to-weight ratio for superior vehicle performance and increased payload capacity.
Convenient electronic controls to protect the engine and vehicle, including self-diagnosis for troubleshooting.

American trucks – Freightliner

Where can I buy

The official dealers of Freightliner trucks in our country are:
But the bulk of sales of used cars are through private hands on the websites Avto.ru (https://auto.ru/rossiya/artic/freightliner/used/), Drom.ru ( https://spec.drom.ru/truck/truck-tractor/+/Freightliner/), Avito.

Prices for tractors produced in the 1990s start at 600,000 rubles.

Models from the early 2000s have an average cost of around 1,400,000–1,700,000 rubles, depending on the configuration and mileage.

Extended road trains are becoming increasingly common on our highways. Fredliner trucks coupled with European semi-trailers cope with increased volumes of cargo, solving the problem of size restrictions.

Increased comfort, high-quality assembly, reliability, safety, as well as a spectacular appearance and excellent technical characteristics contributed to the fact that this symbol of America has taken root on domestic tracks.

You can watch the test drive of the truck in the following video:

Source

General characteristics of Fredliner trucks

The main product produced by the corporation is long-haul trucks and tractors. A third of the production is made up of prestigious Class 8 trucks. Tonnage ranges from 4 tons (small vans) to 41 tons (heavy equipment).

Purpose and benefits

Russian carriers prefer to buy used heavy mainline tractors. Even when used, the American Freelander truck is very popular due to its rationally designed huge resource, which allows it to travel about two million kilometers before major repairs.

A big plus is the absence of a transmission maximum speed limit. With an electronic limiter on an American truck, you can accelerate to 130 km/h, and in its absence, a powerful engine will accelerate the car even more.

Usually in Russia you can find tractors of the Columbia and Century model range, but the Classic and the representative Coronado are infrequent guests on our roads.

When purchasing, consider the following points:

simple and reliable design;
comfortable cabin with a large sleeping compartment (in most modifications);
excellent visibility from the cockpit;
user-friendly dashboard interface;
reduced fuel consumption;
economical service.

Design Features

Most of the freightliners plying our roads are bonneted. These meters of hood protrusion are an additional safety feature for the driver in case of road accidents.

The cabins have a steel or aluminum frame on which duralumin panels are fixed with rivets. This achieves a reduction in the weight of the structure, thereby increasing the loading capacity of the trailer. A hood made of plastic or lightweight composite materials also reduces the overall weight of the truck. One of the lightest tractor models weighs only 6.2 tons.

Detailed information is visible in the video:

Trucks from the Western continent usually have three axles, unlike European two-axles. Wheel formula – 6x4. Two rear axles are driven, which is very helpful on slippery long climbs. In addition, three-axle trucks are preferable for container semi-trailers, and the problem of rear end overload will not be as acute.

The front suspension is on leaf springs. The drive axles have individual suspensions with beam springs from Eaton and Arvin Meritor.

Cabin dimensions depend on the configuration:

Day Cab – regular cab, no bed;
Flat Roof – low cabin with a small berth;
Mid-Roof - with a medium roof, a large sleeping compartment;
Raised Roof - a cabin with a high roof and an enlarged sleeping compartment.

Fuel consumption

One of the advantages is economical fuel consumption.

On models such as Columbia, diesel fuel consumption is up to 40 liters per 100 km with a full load, and without load – 30 liters per 100 km. In Century Class trucks - about 35–42 liters per 100 km.

Specifications

All freightliner trucks are equipped with 6-cylinder turbodiesel engines from three main ones (Cummins), Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel. The most popular engine is the Detroit Diesel Series 60, with a volume of 12.4 liters and a power of 375–500 hp. With. or 14 liters, 450–665 l. With.

Manual transmissions have from 9 to 15 gears, more often 10. Mechanics and automatic transmissions are installed on trucks from Arvin Merito, Eaton or Allison. The Smart Shift robotic gear shift system on modern models allows operation in both manual and automatic modes.

Braking system – pneumatic, drum type.

The characteristics of the models most often used in our conditions are presented in the table:

9, 10, 13, 15, 18 steps;

MBE4000

Manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, the MBE 4000 offers the best combination of performance, fuel economy, cost of ownership, reliability, ease of maintenance, warranty and long life. engine, producing between 350 and 450 horsepower and peak torque of up to 1,550 lb-ft. Weight

This high-power engine is designed for use in regional trucking, special equipment, and heavy-duty transportation. Currently used on Freightliner Business Class M2 112, Columbia and MBE4000 trucks. Key features of the MBE4000 include:

Detroit Diesel Series 60

Detroit Diesel 60 Series is one of the world's most popular high-performance diesel engines. This diesel has a long list of innovative features that provide unique benefits to heavy truck operators:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) reduces emissions while maintaining superior handling, performance, fuel economy and long engine life.
High-performance variable geometry turbocharger technology allows the engine to be precisely tuned to provide optimal performance and fuel economy while continuing to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
Excellent fuel economy.
Low operating costs.
Excellent long service life before major overhaul, and long engine life.
Easy to maintain.

Freightliner engines

code F 027, Freightliner (CATERPILLAR), 2006, engine model CAT-3126

code F 026, Freightliner (CATERPILLAR), 2006, engine model CAT-13 (CATERPILLAR G3E 02713, 2888591)

code F 023, Freightliner (VOLVO VNL 780), 2008, engine model D 13 F

code F 022, Freightliner CL 120, manufactured in 2003, engine model Detroit 12.7 (6067MK60) - 430 horsepower

code F 021, Freightliner MACK DM 690 S, manufactured in 1998, engine model MACK EM 7 (275 horsepower)

code F 020, Freightliner FLD 120, 2004, engine block model 6067 MV6E (Detroit 12.7) - 425 horsepower (with USR)

code F 019, Freightliner FLD 120, 2004, engine model 6067MV6E (Detroit 12.7) - 425 horsepower (EGR removed)

code F 018, Freightliner MACK CX 613, 2002, engine block model MACK E7 (355 horsepower)

code F 017, Freightliner INTERNATIONAL 9800, 1998, engine model Cummins11

code F 009, Freightliner INTERNATIONAL 9700, 1995, VIN: 1HSRKAHRXTH344717, 330 HP, Cummins11 engine No. 34800396 - (engine block)

Review of Fredliner trucks

Many probably remember the scene from the legendary film “Terminator 2”, in which young John Connor on a motorcycle ran away from the “liquid” T1000, which was chasing him in a black truck. It was a 1987 Freightliner FLA 9664. A tractor with a tank transporting liquid nitrogen (model FLC 120 64) also received its share of fame.

The lineup

Let's talk about the most popular models of the concern, found in the vast expanses of Russia.

Columbia

This truck was developed as a successor to the Century Class.

The design features teardrop-shaped headlights, hidden fuel tanks and plenty of chrome-plated parts.

The cabin is highly aerodynamic, adjusted due to the specially designed shape of the bumper, hood and vertical fairings added to the spoiler.

Many transport companies are leaning towards this unpretentious workhorse, with excellent aerodynamic design and good handling.

Century

Argosy

Historically, this word in English referred to large merchant ships.

A cabover truck is designed for transporting long cargo.

The sharp steering angle of the front wheels of 50 degrees and the location of the center of the front axle, located at a distance of one meter from the bumper, provide high maneuverability.

The length of the cabin varies from 160 cm (no berth) to 279 cm.

Coronado

These trucks were developed as premium models, combining stylish tuning, improved interiors, maximum performance and efficiency.

According to the standard, the car is equipped with a Detroit Diesel series 60 engine with 515 hp. s., and the engine from Caterpillar C15 is available in options from 435 to 625 hp. With.

Increased power, modern equipment, an ergonomic cabin and interior with luxurious finishing, and economical diesel fuel consumption distinguish this model among its peers.

The excellent combination of modern technology and magnificent appearance does not leave buyers of these trucks indifferent.

Other models

The new versions have improved visibility from the cockpit and a state-of-the-art on-board computer. Engines are supplied from Cummins factories - ISL I6, ISL-G I6 and Detroit Diesel - DD13 I6, only on M2 112. Fuel consumption varies from 18 to 25 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on the model. The M2 can be equipped with a day cabin, an extended version and a crew cabin.

Review: Freightliner Century truck tractor, 2002

Acquisition.
We have always mostly had Kamaz trucks, but the time has come to change something, and we decided to buy a Fredliner (Fedora). I admit, it was scary to buy such a car, firstly, we didn’t know anything about it, and secondly, we were worried about the condition of the engine (Capital costs approximately 500,000 rubles). And yet they decided, but there was a question of where to get it, in our city they were sold either in poor condition or expensive, the budget allowed no more than 1,500,000 rubles. First they called St. Petersburg, but there were no used ones in the parking lot; new ones cost 3,000,000 and more. We decided to look in the city. After a week of searching, we came across an advertisement saying Fedka was for sale for 1,250,000 rubles. They called and agreed to meet and take a look, but only in a week, since it is in a warm box, and the owner of the box will be there in a week. Well, wait, wait. And then a call a week later, we make an appointment for the next day. We think we’ll come, take it for diagnostics, and then we’ll decide. But it was not the same, fortunately we were the first in line to view the car. The owner appointed several people for one day. There was a person with us who more or less understood something about them. We go into the garage and there stands this handsome black brutal 500 horsepower, with a 12.7 Detroit engine. Initially they chose until 2003, the main thing is that without the USR. Well, we started it, it seemed to be working smoothly, there was no time to think, there were competitors behind the fence. We decided to take it, left an advance payment of 400,000 rubles, and two days later we were at the traffic police station. After completing the paperwork, we drove home with grief (the gearbox is 10 speeds, you press the clutch only when you start moving, after that there is no clutch.) The end of January, it was freezing, there was no automatic transmission on it, we decided not to turn it off for 2.3 days until we decide with heating, as soon as we arrived at our place, we started climbing everywhere, looking at everything, it’s interesting, except for the fact that we haven’t sat anywhere in a Kamaz, there are a lot of sensors on it, a lot of buttons, it’s not clear, everything is Fahrenheit. To be honest, on the first day we washed ourselves and drank to Fedka’s health. On the second we went to install the autonomous system, we wanted Webasto, but it costs 81,000 rubles, together with the timer and installation..... So the costs: We decided not to install Webasto, it’s expensive. We installed a simple heater 220V-4000 RUR, bought a 30 kW kerosene gun - 22500 RUR and a dry heater for the interior - 20000 RUR and all heating cost 46500 RUR + installation 8000 RUR. We bought 6 shock absorbers for 18,000 rubles, a kingpin 7500 + installation 5,000 rubles, changed the oil for 12,000 rubles, and now it’s inside. The torpedo was made to look like black carbon fiber and the boxes cost 15,000 rubles (since the varnish was peeling off and it wasn’t pretty), they installed a TV (LCD) DVD, 15,000 rubles, Pioneer music 8,000 rubles, and a walkie-talkie 6,800 rubles. We bought a Kersh, the car wash costs 1,200 rubles, he decided will pay off. All that remains is to buy a refrigerator and a microwave. We can say about the cabin in one word - it’s a home, 2 sofas, by the way, are wider than in the train, tables, drawers, made for people, you stand at full height, and you can’t reach the hatch with your hand. Electric windows, electric heated mirrors. Exploitation. But then we got on the flight, at first I got used to it after the Kamaz, after a month I became an ace, almost! After Kamaz you feel a huge difference, it feels like we are 100 years behind, seriously! Empty and without a load, you go uphill at 120-125 and it doesn’t even chug, it’s free and easy, you can feel the American power when you go uphill in passenger cars. By the way, diesel fuel consumption is less than on a KamAZ, and the difference between them is 260 hp. But Kamaz is also a hard worker. What else I like about it is its self-diagnosis, if something happens, ugh, ugh, ugh, you press the button and it reads the codes, then you look in the book and that’s it, the reason is clear. If something is serious, you call a diagnostician (1500 rubles), he connects to it right in the cabin and looks at what and how. And in conclusion, I would like to say that there is a lot of debate, America or Europe, for myself I definitely made a choice, this is America. They say that if you take care of the engine, it will last 2000000-3000000 million km. The warranty in the USA is 800,000 km. Now we have 1,100,000 km on it, and there are no signs of illness. The main thing is to look after him and look after him as you would a beloved girl, and he will serve you faithfully for many, many years.