New Mack Anthem

[T-Mack1]

4 hours ago, mowerman said:

oh by the way,,,the only thing i didnt care for was the bubbled windshield and the new grille,,looking at it with an open mind,,,i wanted to see the inside but the doors were locked

Many of us think the "Mack" on the new grille is off center (too Low)  but that's because of cooling system placement.    Yes,  the windshield takes some getting use to.  I will say, when driving,  it's almost like you're in a COE because the slope is such you basically see the road and not much hood.  I'm wondering what they will look like after the Aftermarket make all the chrome options.

 

[T-Mack1]

7 hours ago, The Heinz said:

Can you tell me what you think of the new improved mDrive and clutch? The information we were given stated the control housing on the transmission had been upgraded and the passthrough harness weak link eliminated, so we're all wondering if it actually would be better. 

The Heinz,

     You have to remember. I worked at the factory and I only ever got to drive brand new trucks.  Only days or even hours after coming off the line (though job but someone has to do it).   So new clutch, new trans & new harnesses.  I never heard of any issues that occurred in the 1-2 years of operation "window" the engineers fed info to us on, to pay attention to.

[The Heinz]

13 hours ago, T-Mack1 said:

J Neiweem,  We were told that an updated CHU (now a PI) was under consideration.    I have no other info.  

Next,  we were told that they will be offering more Cummins choices.  This is sort of related to the MP7 having issues meeting the 2025 emissions.  Although,  I think it may be the high HP versions of the MP7 (395 & 415 hp).    With the Cummins, comes the option of the Eaton "Endurant" Automated Manual Trans.   I've driven them but they hesitate between shifts more noticeably than the Mack m-Drive.  

Those Endurant transmissions are interesting at the least... At the moment, the only parts lookup I have access to is a PDF I found online, they aren't in InfoRanger or anything. They don't seem to be very reliable either, we see a lot of issues with the MTM that ends up in it being replaced. 

[mowerman]

i heard the m drive was having issues,,,,but i was driving petes and kenworth at fedex ,,and they were both also having issues with the automatics and  alotta AC issues,,,with both models,,bob

[The Heinz]

For some fun reading, this was an email sent around from HQ about some of the differences that matter most to our operation:

-          The new engine designation is MP13 … they finally got the ID# to match the liters like the Volvo.  There is not an 11 liter anymore.  Cylinder head remains the same, some internal changes on the bottom end, oil pan is new. 

 

-          The M-drive version is now G.  Many improvements over the D and F.  The top cover components are now serviceable (the weak point of the ribbon cable was eliminated) and an oil level sensor was added in addition to the site glass.   The clutch is new and not backwards compatible.  New improved actuator etc.

 

-          The wiring harnesses are vin specific.  They are trying to cut weight on everything so if a truck is not spec’d with fog lights for example, they will eliminate those connectors from the harness.  Where I see this becoming an issue is on the used truck side.  If a fleet specs no fog lights , trades the truck in, it is then re-sold and new owner wants to add fogs, he can’t. It is not possible because there was no provision for it in the harness.  A separate conversation needs to be had with sales and leasing on this, I can see trucks being spec’d with cost savings in mind that will have a negative impact on the next owner.  This truck has 40 separate control modules, if it was not built with one, it can’t be added.

 

-          The active steering system is going to be new for customers.  The wheel alignment process is going to be different with this steering.  If a customer gets the truck aligned the steering system needs to be recalibrated.

 

-          New Keys:  3 key options for this truck, the basic key is now double sided like the Volvo, you can add a fob to this (lock doors etc.), the 3^rd option is a key less push button start deal.

 

-          Essential Tools:  There are 3 pages of essential tools for this thing.  Attached for reference.

 

-          Diag Tools:  New Voccom version is coming out in September.  If your service dept. is in need I would hold off until the new version comes out if you can.  It will be Voccom II+ . 

 

-          Batteries:  This is a big one….   The Pioneer comes with 3 possible configurations controlled by separate ECU/modules; the batteries are AGM from the factory.  You do not have to replace with AGM, a lead acid battery is fine.  Obviously, you can’t mix and match.  The kicker on this is, the truck needs to be programmed when you swap from AGM to lead acid or vice versa.  The truck needs to know what battery is in it to regulate charging etc.  Just something to keep in mind when selling batteries. 

 

-          The other huge deal related to batteries is the charging procedure.  This truck has a starting capacitor.  I understand how it work but am not qualified to explain it (check it out in the navigator classes).  If someone slaps jumper cables on this thing like they traditionally would they will fry the capacitor and potentially other very expensive components.   Attached is CBR-2404 which covers the proper procedure for charging the capacitor (you are not really “jump” starting a truck anymore).  We really need to have this procedure posted near the batteries on the truck somehow. 

[mowerman]

well thanks for all that,,,,futuristic vehicles...these days is the reason i have all our everyday drivers worked on with a reputable trusted shop here ,,,,,,i have plenty of other motorized projects around here,,that i do myself,,bob

[james j neiweem]

More Cummins engine options for the MP-7 may mean the X-12. Popular engine in dumps and roll offs. Can only hope for X-15 down the road for pinnacle along with heavy front axle. I am guessing the new regional haul Anthem will only be axle back. Will see June 25th. While many feel Mack is just a hood on a Volvo there are a few legacy items such as, camel backs, rear axles, Granites, MB's and LE's. It doesn't look like Volvo is going to kick Mack out the door any time soon.