Isuzu offers all-new N-Series
Nov 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By Rick Weber
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc introduced its all-new N-Series at the National Truck Equipment Association annual New Model Truck Product Conference in Dearborn, Michigan. It delivers more cab room, enhanced safety features, and more power, along with meeting the new, more stringent 2007 US and California diesel-emissions standards.
The wheelbase stretches to 200" on NQR and 212" on NRR models - increases of 24" and 36", respectively, from the previously longest available wheelbase of 176". The longer wheelbase is available on NQR 22' models and NRR 22' and 24' models.
Isuzu has launched a special body program through Supreme Corporation to provide special pricing for 22' and 24' dry-freight vans.
For 2008, the overhead cam 5.2L 4HK1-TC diesel engine delivers more power and reduced emissions. Horsepower increases to 205 at 2400 rpm (up from 190) and torque increases to 441 lb-ft at 1850 (up from 387). It covers GVW ranges from 12,000 lb to 19,500 lb. With its B10 durability rating of 310,000 miles, 90% of the engines should reach this mileage before a major component failure, provided good maintenance practices have been followed, according to Dan Cutler, executive director of product development LCF.
The 5.2L diesel engine is equipped with a standard fuel/water separator that is heated with returned fuel and features a dash-mounted warning lamp. This separator warns the driver when water is present in the fuel filter and needs to be drained, which helps prevent vehicle down time and supports a more efficient operation. The 5.2L diesel can be mated to the new Aisin A465 heavy-duty six-speed automatic with double overdrive, or with a six-speed manual transmission with all forward gears synchronized.
The 5.2L diesel engine meets the emissions requirements that went into effect on January 1 — all diesel engine manufacturers must reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions by 90% compared to the previous diesel engine standards, which were established in 2004.
To reduce nitrogen oxide levels, the 5.2L diesel engine uses an advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and a variable geometry turbocharger.
To reduce particulate matter, a ceramic honeycomb channel diesel particulate filter (DPF) was created to capture sulfate particles and soot. Exhaust gases are directed through the channels and a porous material that traps the particulates. To clear the particulates and prevent clogging, a regeneration process occurs to burn off the trapped particulates and clean the filter using high exhaust gas temperatures.
