Dana to supply new cylinder-head cover module for DaimlerChrysler engine

Dana Corporation announced today that it has begun supplying the cylinder-head, cam-cover module for DaimlerChrysler's 4.7L V-8 engine for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, Dodge Dakota, and Dodge Ram vehicles. The new thermoset plastic cylinder-head cover module was developed in just 12 months and replaces a magnesium component. Due to innovative manufacturing processes, Dana was able to reduce the overall cost of the module, while incrementally improving noise, vibration, and harshness, or NVH."Innovation within modules and systems provides a wonderful opportunity to reduce complexity, improve functionality, and create added value for our customers," said Dana Chairman and CEO Joe Magliochetti. "The cylinder-head cover module for DaimlerChrysler demonstrates our commitment to satisfying customers' needs with new and unique solutions."The vinyl ester glass-reinforced thermoset plastic modules, which are unique to the left- and right-side cylinders, include the cover, gasket, and fasteners. These components are produced at Dana's Composite Sealing Center in Paris, Tenn.With this new sealing system, Dana developed a custom compound material for gaskets and grommets. Dana also provided prototyping for the gasket and isolator molds to ensure the design met all of the customer's specifications.The system relies on a self-retaining, "press-in-place" gasket to improve function and quality consistency. This innovation eliminates the time- consuming and costly steps of precisely aligning and attaching the gasket to the valve cover with adhesive.