Spicer Conversions to New Bowl Tag Axle Configurations - Manual

Bulletin: ABIB-10001
Date: November 1, 2010
Bulletin Type: Service
Topic: Conversions to New Bowl Tag Axle Configurations
Affected Models: Dana 40Kand 46K Bowl Tag Tandem Axles
Two new Spicer
®
tag axle models are now available from Dana. These axles allow for improved
fuel mileage performance by decreasing installed drive axle weight, reduced maintenance, and
improved drivetrain efficiency at a lower installed cost than conventional tandem drive axles or
single drive axles used with heavy tag axles fabricated from modified trailer axles. The use of a
Dana tag axle 6x2 configuration maintains the traditional tandem Gross Axle Weight Ratings
(GAWR) while reducing installed weight by 400 lbs. These patented* tag axles also have the
unique ability to be converted to a full tandem drive axle configuration for future vehicle use and
improved resale value.
*US Patents US7232398B2 & US7410440B2
Production models consist of current rear axle housing sealed with a bolted cover plate, and
spindle plugs. The unique value added feature of these tag axles is that they use a specifically
designed bolted cover plate and proprietary pressed-in spindle plugs. For future vehicle
purposes, these components can be easily removed and replaced with a functional Spicer rear
drive head unit and axle shafts without having to replace the entire rear tag axle should a future
vehicle owner wish to convert the vehicle to a traditional 6x4 tandem configuration.
Spicer Model Replaces Description
S21-060B RS404/ RS405 Rear tandem tag axle for Standard 40,000lb. tandem
S23-070B R40-170/ R46-170 Rear tandem tag axle for Spicer D46-170 heavy tandem
In the following pages you can find east to follow details regarding configurations that are
popular in fleets today that can be easily converted to this set up.