Specialised Dump Truck Bodies to Meet Specific US Army Requirements
Mack Defense is partnering with Crysteel Manufacturing to provide specialised dump bodies for the US Army’s M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) programme, offering key safety and functional features to meet specific user requirements, the company announced on 6 August.
“We needed partners that could engineer and build components tough enough to pair with the Mack Defense M917A3 and meet the US Army’s demanding applications […] Crysteel Manufacturing fits the bill, thanks to their decades of leadership in their industry, and we’re proud to have them as a partner on this project,” explained Mack Defense President, David Hartzell.
Developed in close collaboration with Mack Defense, the Crysteel dump body for the M917A3 provides maximum durability, safety and functionality in the field. Crysteel engineers developed an integrated touchscreen control module, which gives the operator key safety and functionality information at their fingertips. From this integrated hub, the driver is able to control the hoist, tailgate, tarp, thermostatic body heater system, material control system, the inclinometer and the on-board weigh scale. “Our team has worked with Mack Defense to bring the highest level of innovation in durability, safety and functionality in order to develop a dump truck that supports and exceeds the US Army’s requirements,” added Crysteel General Manager, Brett Hart.
The M917A3 HDT is based on the commercial Mack GRANITE model and has been optimised to meet the current needs of the US Army. Heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height and other rugged features have all been added to ensure the vehicle is capable of meeting the demanding payload and mobility requirements set by the programme.
