MAUMEE, OH...With the recent completion of key product improvements to its Spicer Life Series® (SPL®) Model 170 universal joint assembly, Dana Holding Corporation (NYSE: DAN) has now upgraded the performance and durability features of its entire lineup of SPL heavy-duty universal joints.

The new SPL-170 universal joint assembly features a new bearing package that includes larger needle bearings for increased capacity, a special Viton® synthetic seal for improved grease retention and serviceability, and a thermoplastic seal guard to exclude contaminants.  In addition, a new premium synthetic lubricant provides further improvement in bearing life through the initial three-year/350,000-mile lubrication interval. 

Dana introduced enhancements to its Spicer Life Series® (SPL®) Model 250 universal joint assemblies in August of 2010. Both the SPL-170 and SPL-250 are now available on all makes and models of heavy-duty trucks manufactured in North America.

 "All Spicer SPL driveshaft assemblies for heavy-duty applications now include these important product improvements," said Tom DeHaven, Dana senior manager of Driveshaft Products.  "As the world's leading driveshaft supplier, we strive to continuously deliver value and innovation to all of our end-user and original-equipment manufacturers (OEM) customers."

With a torque capacity rating of 12,550 lb.-ft. (17,000 Nm), the new Spicer SPL-170 assembly has been designed for main and tandem drive inter-axle driveshaft applications for a variety of Class 8 heavy-duty truck applications. The new SPL-170 universal joints offer customers more than a 20-percent improvement in dynamic bearing capacity – in the same compact package – to create a driveline with 70 percent more power density compared with it nearest competitor.  The SPL-250® universal joint assembly offers customers more than a 40-percent improvement in dynamic bearing capacity.

Warranty coverage is available for up to three years or 350,000 miles of service for linehaul applications.

The assembly is also offered with the Spicer® Quick Disconnect™ feature, making it easier to service the powertrain.

For more information on Dana driveshafts, universal joints and other Roadranger products and services, visit www.roadranger.com, where the latest product information is available, as well as service, parts and training assistance, 24 hours a day. Experts are available in the Roadranger Call Center by dialing +1-800-826-HELP (4357).