The new 2011 Super Duty chassis cabs are beginning to show up in truck equipment distributor shops, and they are bringing their DEF tanks with them.
Like other diesel-powered trucks, the new Super Duty chassis cabs are equipped with tanks to contain the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) that selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems require to meet the EPA's diesel emission regulations that went into effect in January.
The standard location for the tank is outside the right frame rail, place that can interfere with truck body and equipment installation.
Those who previewed the chassis following last fall's NTEA Truck Product Conference expressed concern that the location would affect service body installations and even platform bodies with under-mounted toolboxes.
Bob Raybuck, NTEA's technical services director, said that to Ford's credit, the chassis manufacturer has responded quickly to industry concerns. In the near future, Ford plans to offer a factory option that would have the tank mounted on the inboard side of the left frame rail.
Until then, upfitters have two options: relocate the tank or notch out enough space in the service body compartment to accommodate the DEF tank. With the first option not very appealing, Ford has developed a kit for relocating the tank to the inboard side of the left frame rail. The kit, which includes mounting brackets and wiring harness, can be purchased from Ford dealers or from Ford Component Sales. Further details are available from Ford Special Vehicle Engineering Bulletin Q-186.