Case Study: KRD Trucking achieves better fuel efficiency and off-road performance with Eaton UltraShift PLUS transmissions

Refuse Hauler Dumps Praise on Eaton’s UltraShift PLUS Transmissions

KRD Trucking, Inc., a waste hauling fleet based in Lynwood, Illinois, needed a way to spec refuse trucks for both on-highway fuel economy and severe off-road performance. The challenge was balancing the 98% of driving on paved roads with the 2% of demanding landfill terrain, while also accounting for lower-emission engines and drivers with varying manual-shifting skills. Eaton provided UltraShift PLUS Vocational Construction Series transmissions to address these needs.

With Eaton’s UltraShift PLUS transmissions, KRD Trucking was able to lower gear ratios for better fuel efficiency without sacrificing gradeability, startability, or maneuverability in landfills. The automated transmissions also improved driver satisfaction and safety, and one truck was able to navigate a rain-soaked landfill when every other truck had to be pushed or towed. KRD reported improved fuel-friendly gearing, and the success was strong enough that Shane Schmidt planned to make Eaton UltraShift PLUS the standard specification for new truck orders.

KRD Trucking

Shane Schmidt

Corporate Fleet Maintenance Manager