American trucks and tractors: Freightliner Classic and Classic XL

Oh, is this based on the game in general?

There is more third-party text in this article than on the game.

The classic series of Freightliner tractors combines strict design and modern technology. For many years, the Freightliner Classic XL has been one of the winners at The Truck Show. The original and strict design of the cars in this series still evokes the admiration of not only professional drivers, but also ordinary visitors to the exhibition. The Classic XL is a unique vehicle, the longest of its classic brethren, measuring 132 inches (3,330 mm) from bumper to rear wall on a standard cab.

The cabin is made of aluminum alloy, which provides greater load capacity and fuel economy. The basic concepts of such tractors were developed by the company during difficult times for the American automotive industry, when oil prices rose sharply, as a result of which many market participants lost ground, unable to meet new customer requirements.

The interior decoration of the cabin also earned the most flattering reviews from many drivers. It's easy to explain. Freightliner Classic is available in two versions - day-cab (day cab, without sleeping bag) and sleeper box (sleeping compartment with a height of 48 to 84 inches *). Thus, everyone can choose the version of the tractor that suits them, taking into account the desired amount of available space. "Truckers 3" introduces a "slipper" option, since trucking takes place all over the state and can take several days. Of course, in the game you will have to spend the night in motels, because this is what truck drivers in the USA do now, but still the trucks must meet the requirements of transport companies.

Among other things, the sleeping compartment has an air conditioning system and even a TV stand. The interior walls are lined with vinyl panels. The Freightliner Classic XL has a very spacious and ergonomic driver's seat. Especially for convenience, the right side of the dashboard is slightly curved towards the driver, which creates the feeling of a more compact workplace, where everything is at hand. The factory version of the panel is made to look like wood and resembles expensive furniture.

Despite its large dimensions and slightly angular shape, the Classic XL creates a feeling of luxury and comfort, which is sometimes so lacking in the trucks of competitors who have forgotten how important the car is for its owner.

In the game, Classic can easily be called one of the best cars - its low cost (available for purchase at the very beginning of the game) is combined with the good characteristics of this car and classic American design - angular shapes, plenty of chrome.

Time-tested style and unrivaled versatility

The Freightliner Classic and Classic XL feature traditional American styling and impressive performance. In the Freightliner Classic series of tractors

Much attention is paid to driver comfort. This tractor is the embodiment of freedom on the road, the satisfaction of hard work. Although Freightliner Classic trucks look traditional, they are designed with advanced technology. The result is increased payload and improved fuel economy.

The distance from the front of the bumper to the front of the sleeper compartment (US term: BBC - front of bumper to back of cab) on the Freightliner Classic is 120 inches (305 cm), and on the Freightliner Classic XL is 132 inches (335 cm).

A wonderful combination of past and present, Freightliners of the classic series are modern business machines with a time-tested, timeless appearance.

Productivity that generates income

Freightliner Classic and Classic XL are designed with proven components to help you save your money. These machines are completely focused on the bottom line. The angled hood allows quick and easy access to the engine for routine maintenance, and clear reservoirs allow you to instantly check fluid levels.

Business partner for a long journey

The Freightliner Classic and Classic XL tractors feature an aluminum cab and other lightweight components to provide greater payload capacity and improved fuel economy. Reliable and trustworthy, Classic and Classic XL are smart business solutions that will deliver a strong return on your investment, now and in the future.

Freightliner Classic Specifications

According to reviews, the Fredliner Classic, when unloaded, easily starts from fifth gear, and with a loaded semi-trailer, the American tractor picks up speed from second gear without strain. Fred's manual transmission has 10 speeds.

With a six-cylinder Detroit Diesel turbodiesel with a volume of 12.7 liters and a power of 330 hp, the truck is capable of reaching a speed of 116 km per hour on the highway. It is worth saying that in top gear the engine has 1,500 revolutions and without the limiter the car could continue to gain speed. Fred's main pair with a Detroit Diesel engine has a ratio of 3.36:1. The more powerful Caterpillar engine has a volume of 14.6 liters and a power of 460 horsepower. Both engines are also known from the more recent Argosy model. Each of the two fuel tanks holds 530 liters. The tractor unit is equipped with disc brakes on all wheels and an ABS system. Fred's front suspension is leaf spring, the rear is equipped with leaf spring suspension with pneumatic elements.

Freightliner Classic Price

You can buy a Freightliner Classic for $35,000. This is the price of Fred with a stated mileage of 500,000 km, but it should be taken into account that American women with actual mileage of less than one million kilometers rarely come to Russia.

The Fredliner Classic is a very charismatic car. It was not for nothing that it was featured in a Coca-Cola advertisement; such a car would become the adornment of any transport company and the pride of its driver.

Features and advantages of American Freightliner Classic / Classic XL tractors

The cabin of the American Freightliner Classic or Classic XL tractor is as comfortable as it is functional. The ergonomic front panel has a curve on the right; the advantage of this solution is that all controls and instruments are within the driver’s reach. The dashboard indicators are easy to read and all switches are easy to identify. The front panel comes standard with inserts with an intricate wood grain pattern. You can also choose an option made from noble tropical red wood.

Everything about the Freightliner Classic was designed to allow you to operate the vehicle at peak performance. The advanced climate control system (climate control) ensures comfort even in extreme weather conditions. Free space around the driver allows you to sit comfortably in the seat, as well as easily move between the cabin and the sleeping compartment.

Freightliner Classic and Classic XL Cab Options

Freightliner 's "Classic" Series trucks are available in both a short cab without a sleeper (day cab) and five sleeper cab options: low, medium, or high roof, in combination with a variety of sleeper options ranging from 48 to 84 inches (121 - 213 cm). This way you can choose the cabin that best suits your needs.

DAY CAB

— “day” cabin without a sleeping bag:

48″ FLAT ROOF

— a cabin with a low roof and a sleeping compartment of 48 inches (122 cm):

58″ FLAT ROOF

- low-roof cabin with 58-inch (147 cm) sleeping compartment:

70″ MID-ROOF

- mid-roof cabin with 70-inch (178 cm) sleeping compartment:

70″ RAISED ROOF

- cabin with a high roof and a sleeping compartment of 70 inches (178 cm):

84″ RAISED ROOF

- cabin with a high roof and a sleeping compartment of 84 inches (213 cm):

Cabins with sleeping bag

Freightliner Sleeper Box cabs are designed for maximum comfort. From the low 48-inch berth to the spacious, high 84-inch cabin, the classic Freightliner cabin offers more comfort and luxury than ever before. Comfortable, with plenty of storage, shelves and cabinets to store clothes, electronics and more, the Freightliner Classic and Classic XL make life on the road feel more like home.

Under the hood

the Freightliner truck hides advanced technologies designed for increased payload, fuel economy and improved handling.

AirLiner rear suspension

Developed by Freightliner using advanced technology, the exclusive AirLiner rear air-spring suspension is lightweight and not only helps increase your payload, but also reduces road vibration - giving you a smooth, comfortable ride. Rubber bushings do not require maintenance, which guarantees a long service life and reduces operating costs. Thanks to these suspension features, the operation of the car becomes even more convenient.

Other features of the Frieghtliner Classic

The compartment below the lower bunk is convenient for storing essentials and frees up additional space in the cabin.
The elegant Chaparral interior finish looks attractive and is easy to maintain. You can choose between the attractive Driftwood Burl wood grain and the beautiful Rosewood for the front panel.
The powerful climate control system (climate control) maintains a constant temperature in the cabin even in extreme weather conditions.
Freightliner Classic and Classic XL have an ergonomic front panel with a 120-degree curve that gives the rider complete control. The panel contains a full set of standard, easy-to-read indicators, and has plenty of space for installing additional instruments.

FLD-120

The history of the Freightliner FLD-120 model begins in 1995; this model was initially considered the recognized standard of an American tractor with great aerodynamics, structural and technical parameters, and a well-thought-out service system. According to drivers, this particular model is the most successful embodiment of the American dream on wheels, available for purchase not only by large transport companies, but also by ordinary buyers. Thanks to design additions and timely introduction of changes into mass production, the Freightliner FLD-120 has statistically been the best-selling Class 8 tractor in North America since 1995.

This model has distinctive features, a spacious comfortable cabin, the FLD-120 series is certainly headed by the leader - the “Condo” version with a high cabin and a 70-inch sleeping compartment “Raised Roof Sleeper Cab”. The driver's station, seating area and interior design have been developed, refined and improved thanks to the wishes and comments of drivers, who often spend 40 to 60 hours a week behind the wheel. A distinctive feature of the cabin is its height, spaciousness, functionality and an absolutely flat floor.

Large selection of cabin and sleeping compartment options. In American automotive jargon, the meaning of the word “Sleeper” does not just mean a rest area, but combines two terms: a) Sleeper Space – the work area is spatially combined with a rest area and conditionally separated only by vinyl curtains; b)Sleeper Box - an option when the driver and passenger seats are separated by a rigid partition. The communication between the zones is an arch or a small door. There is an opinion among American drivers that this particular cabin configuration is the most comfortable and the most “American”.

The fact is that in the middle of the 20th century, the general style of truck construction was set by Marmon, where the actual division of the cabin was considered mandatory. In fact, the partition between the zones adds additional rigidity to the overall structure and has additional soundproofing properties. Both of these cab options are very typical of American trucks. However, with the advent of the Freightliner FLD-112-120 series, the balance changed in favor of “Sleeper Space”. The Freightliner concern has shown a clear example of how designers and constructors work closely with American consumers, who, unlike the European ones, are very demanding in terms of comfort.

Today there are 13 basic cabin configurations with various interior and interior trim options. According to Freightliner specialists and employees of regional dealer centers, it fully corresponds to the discerning taste of the buyer. The car has a sophisticated style according to the Freightliner concern, regardless of what exactly is valued - be it the excellent aerodynamic performance of the FLD 120 Conventional or the traditionally angular shape of the shining chrome Classic XL, the buyer is purchasing a tool for work with virtually no drawbacks. A car that you can only be proud of. Driving pleasure.

Soft driver and passenger seats on air shock absorbers, an air cabin, “Air Ride” rear suspension with a system of air cylinders made of the latest polymers, coupled with a strong frame, reduce fatigue during the flight. The suspension is combined and combines a spring system with air cylinders. Everything is always at hand. A wide, spacious cabin, convenient placement of instrument indicators on the dashboard are not all that is needed during operation.

The concept of the driver's workplace is such that you can always keep the necessary items and documents at arm's length. Everything from document shelves to cup holders is carefully thought out, organized and functional. For 50 years, Freightliner has been building custom trucks based on the principle: “Yes, we can, just ask.” A wide range of additional options is offered. 2000 Freightliner FLD-120 64″ (163 cm) “Raised Roof Sleeper Box” option. This means that there is a rigid partition between the cabin and the sleeping compartment.

This version is not Conventional, but Custom Made, i.e. The series was launched by special order. Donaldson exhaust pipes are mounted on the sides behind the doors. The length of the sleeping compartment is 64″ (162 cm). Another option: Custom Made Freightliner FLD-120SD with a “Mid Roof” cab. Sleeping compartment 70″ (178 cm). Note the open 375 liter tanks and Donaldson exhaust pipes on the sides. Visually similar to the Classic XL, but has a shorter hood, more rounded shapes and hidden air filters. For comparison. FLD 120 Classic XL 2000. “Raised Roof Sleeper Cab.” Cabin Condo 70″ (178 cm).

Distinctive features: elongated rectangular bumper, a tribute to tradition. A wide 24″ “Texas” bumper, the presence of “Vortex” filters and steps into the cabin that serve as tool boxes, the rectangular shape of the headlight unit and its location. Nowadays, a car requires more than just good engineering, good assembly or impressive test performance. You need confidence in the technology, predictability of its behavior during operation, structural strength and durability of components and assemblies.

No American truck has been subjected to such severe tests in laboratory and bench conditions as the Freightliner FLD-120. The merger with the Mercedes-Benz concern additionally brought Freightliner the accumulated experience of centuries and modern scientific research methods. Every component of the design, from the frame to the shape of the headlights, was subjected to countless tests. Especially for the FLD-120 model, Freightliner designers, together with Mercedes-Benz specialists, designed a wind tunnel that corresponds to the actual parameters of the FLD.

As a result of tests using the “SpecPro” program of the joint laboratory, it was possible not only to calculate the aerodynamic functions of each antenna, mirror or headlight unit, but also to determine the optimal shape and layout of the cabin. A successful appearance, a traditional hood, an abundance of chrome and mirrors cannot leave a professional indifferent. Understanding comes after an hour-long test drive, when you have the opportunity to truly appreciate the convenience, comfort and ease of control. Europeans note the unusually good visibility from the cabin, soft and non-irritating high beams, the location and good readability of instruments, and most importantly, the “rolled-under bumper” effect, i.e. the road runs under the wheels.

Particular attention was paid to improving cabin sound insulation. The cabin must be quiet! Even a slight increase in the permissible noise level in the cabin while driving is regarded by Quality Assurance (quality specialists) as a malfunction. Since 2001, an adjustable sensor has been installed on FLD-112-120 Conventional models, informing about increased noise levels in the cabin and sleeping compartment. It is interesting to note that the “SpecPro” program dispelled the illusion of developers that smoothness and softness of movement can be achieved by installing air shock absorbers everywhere.

Calculations additionally showed that the most optimal option is a combination of spring front suspension and absorbers. The “SpecPro” software is an example of joint work between Freightliner and Mercedes-Benz and is capable of predicting the behavior of various structural components with a high degree of probability even before the vehicle itself is built. Much attention was paid to the use of aluminum and steel in combination with new materials in order to reduce weight and at the same time increase overall “structural durability” - strength. In the Freightliner assembly shops, there is a rule that every worker on the shop floor is personally responsible for the quality of the work they perform.

Freightliner FLD-120SD 2001 model. “Raised Roof Sleeper Cab”, Detroit Diesel 500 hp engine. “Condo” sleeping compartment 70″ (178cm) long. Although the cabin interior, Premier upholstery and built-in equipment are fully Conventional, this model is Custom Made and most likely assembled to a special order. Distinctive features are the following details: 1. Open fuel tanks. 2. The bumper is completely made of stainless steel. As we know, in the Conventional version the bumper consists of three sections. 3. From a distance it resembles the FLD-112 Conventional.

A typical 1999 Freightliner FLD-120 Conventional. Detroit Diesel engine 430 hp, 70″ Condo cab. The interior height of the cabin is 79″ (200cm). This version was produced from 1995 to 2001. Wheelbase 220″. The cab is classified as a “Raised Roof Sleeper Cab” with a 70″ (178cm) long sleeper compartment. The roof is seamless, made entirely of polymer. All in one: the excellent aerodynamic properties of the FLD-120 combined with a thoughtful interior, the presence of a standard air conditioner and two interior heaters provide comfortable conditions for the driver and passenger. Two wide sofas with foam mattresses.

The main distinctive feature: a platform step along the entire length of the frame. Provides convenient access to the cab, hood and back-of-cab. Inside the cabin there is a completely flat floor with double sound insulation. The location of the front axle is called “Set Back Front Axle”, i.e. the axle is moved rearward, providing additional maneuverability and more even distribution of the frame's structural load on the suspension. The windshield consists of two parts. If damaged, one of the halves can be easily replaced without significant financial costs. The hood has a special slope and this provides a good view from the cabin.

The entire hood structure is made of particularly strong polymer. It is believed that mechanical wear in this case is minimal, and all wires and electrical connections are reliably protected from rain and moisture. If necessary, the hood tilts forward along the machine and provides access to all engine components. The front bumper consists of three parts. Section “plates” – for license plates. Two sections with fog lights. This is economically beneficial, because at any time it is enough to replace just one damaged element. Spherical rear view mirrors 6" on the driver's side and 8" on the right side.

On the right side, on the wing, there is an additional spherical mirror on a stand. The sun visor with yellow marker lamps is a complex aerodynamic design that ensures air flow is disrupted. Heated rear-view halogen headlights, rectangular in shape, 18x46 cm, are easily installed and adjusted on the fenders. Yellow turn signals are located at the edges of the headlight unit and indicate turns well.

Electrical wiring is simple, straightforward and does not require thorough knowledge of wiring diagrams. Each wire and cable is marked, has its own number and color. The connection points of the wires are pressed and welded, and double insulation reliably protects the wires from moisture and condensation. The cabin is made of aluminum plates and reinforced with steel ribs. The doors are made of aluminum, the locks are made flush with the surface of the doors. Despite the fact that concern for high aerodynamic performance is priority No. 1 for Freightliner, the designers did not dare to “hide” the steel boarding rails. The exhaust pipes in the FLD-120 Conventional version are located behind the cab.

There are versions when pipes with a protective mesh casing are installed on the sides of the cabin, immediately behind the doors. In this case, only Donaldson pipes are used. On some models you can see vertical black stripes behind the fairing. The plates are designed to reduce the effect of turbulent turbulence from crosswinds when driving on the highway at speeds of 50 mph or more. The design of the cabin of this car was developed based on the refinements of American truck drivers. For many years, the common American driver has been an integral part of the Freightliner design team.

One of the company's strategic priorities is maintaining contacts with customers. Engineers carefully study the feedback and wishes of drivers and technicians working with the FLD series. The concern operates (Freightliner feedback) feedback, i.e. receiving and processing information received from drivers. Thanks to comments and wishes, the designers were able to use new composite materials, reduce weight and strengthen the cabin structure, and improve the interior design.

It is customary for Freightliner dealerships to report that the FLD-120 is a product of joint development between the manufacturer and the customer. For example: the shape of the seats, the location of the air conditioning system, and the VIGIL failure alarm system display have undergone significant changes as a result of the exchange of opinions. The clutch pedal adjustment mechanism and ABS have been improved. Changes have been made to the concept of the location of indicators on the dashboard (dash), the location of sockets, and the location of antennas. There is an entire department that performs the task.

©. Photos taken from publicly available sources.

Author: Evgeny Smolnikov
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History of the Kenworth brand

History of the Freightliner brand

Additional photos of the Freightliner Classic and Classic XL

Photos copyright Freightliner Trucks.

American trucks – Freightliner
American trucks

Mod Freightliner FLD version 2.3.2 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.40.x, 1.41.x)

Version 2.2 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.35.x, 1.36.x):
Autonomous Sold by Renault Own interior Own sounds (several options, depending on the engine brand) Wheels Supports advanced coupling Supports DLC Cabin Accessories and SISL Mega Pack Lots of tuning and accessories Warning: You need SISL Mega Pack Template to create skins Authors: Original odd_felow Update Harven, Skins Lucasi, Pauly. Correction of the driver's plate, replacement of sounds and addition of additional steering wheels: losevo58 Replacement and registration of new cables Kish88 and Dobrowisher. Editing the saddle Dobrowisher.

Changes:

Registered and replaced with a normal rack with cables, now the cables are in their own channel along with the rack. The height of the saddle was corrected, now the trailers sit straight. The rear pipes were removed because the cross from the rear pipes intersected with the hose stand. (Not critical, but also not logical when you see this - removed) Removed from orders (Because due to some standard trailers, there was crash on version 1.36)

Uploaded by: Kish88 May 4, 2022 at 6:23 pm Published: May 6, 2022 at 2:14 am

Version 2.1 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.35.x, 1.36.x):

Autonomous Sold by Renault Its own interior Its own sounds (several options, depending on the engine brand) Wheels Supports advanced traction Supports DLC Cabin Accessories and SISL Mega Pack Lots of tuning and accessories Warning: You need SISL Mega Pack Credits: Original odd_felow Harven update, Lucasi skins, Pauly. Correcting the driver's plate, replacing sounds and adding additional steering wheels: losevo58 Cables Serega22ru

Changes:

Updated for 1.35

Uploaded by: modsets July 12, 2022 at 4:32 pm Published: July 13, 2019 at 12:54 pm

Version 12.06.18 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.31.x, 1.32.x):

Autonomous Sold by Renault Its own interior Its own sounds (several options, depending on the engine brand) Wheels Supports advanced traction Supports DLC Cabin Accessories and SISL Mega Pack Lots of tuning and accessories Warning: You need SISL Mega Pack Credits: Original odd_felow Harven update, Lucasi skins, Pauly. Correction of the driver's plate, replacement of sounds and addition of additional steering wheels: losevo58

Changes:

Adaptation for 1.31 Added cable support

Uploaded by: modsets June 12, 2022 at 2:27 pm Published: June 12, 2018 at 4:40 pm

Version 2.0 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.28.x, - 1.31.x):

Changes:

— All errors have been completely corrected, — The log has been cleared of warnings and errors, — Steering wheel adjustments and trailer brake animation have been added (Harven); — Minor editing and new icons (Lucasi); — Added skins (Pauly, Lucasi).

Uploaded by: modsets March 13, 2022 at 11:28 am Published: March 13, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Version 1.5.5 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.28.x):

Changes:

All models have been updated to a new format Optimization (more FPS) Camera fixed Side stripes have become an accessory

Uploaded by: modsets September 3, 2022 at 7:22 pm Published: September 3, 2022 at 8:08 pm

Version 1.5 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (v1.28.x):

Autonomous Sold by Renault and ATS by Kenworth Its own interior Its own sounds (several options, depending on the engine brand) Wheels Supports advanced traction Supports DLC Cabin Accessories and SISL Mega Pack Lots of tuning and accessories Warning: You need the SISL Mega Pack

Uploaded by: modsets September 2, 2022 at 9:06 am Published: September 2, 2022 at 1:16 pm