So Volvo owns Mack...

Discussion in 'Mack Forum' started by Buffalo444, May 4, 2012.

  1. Buffalo444

    Buffalo444 Light Load Member

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    Apr 28, 2012
    Carlyle, IL
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    How much difference is there in the Mack Pinnacle and a comparable Volvo truck? Are Macks still their own thing, or have they taken a lot from Volvo?

    Thanks.
     
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  3. DrtyDiesel

    DrtyDiesel Road Train Member

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    Jacksonville, FL
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    From what I've gathered Mack still uses their own ECM tuning to keep the engine running like a Mack and deliver better low end torque than the Volvo. All the m drive is almost the same as the I shift, only difference being is Mack programs the transmission to shift differently.

    Only with Mack can you get the auto and have it run at 60-65mph @1050-1150rpm

    Ethan
     
    bullhaulerswife Thanks this.
  4. .5 Past Twelve

    .5 Past Twelve Light Load Member

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    I drive a 2008 Pinnacle. I was told the motor is a hybrid Mack/Volvo motor. In my opinion, Macks have way less electronic issues than Volvos. I had a new Volvo 670 with a 450 HP Cummins, as a loaner truck. Whenever, I keyed up on my CB, the traction control came on, the engine brake activated, and one time it caused a regen, immediately after a road speed regen had already taken place. I like the way the Mack rides, and it handles better than the Volvo.
     
  5. SuperLiner

    SuperLiner Light Load Member

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    Dec 26, 2010
    Good Ol' Arizona
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    I know... Don't rub it in :biggrin_25523:
     
    Jfaulk99 Thanks this.
  6. striker

    striker Road Train Member

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    Denver, Co
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    I'll take my '09 Pinnacle over a similar Volvo any day of the week, rides quieter, smoother, other than stupidity at the dealer, fewer problems.
     
  7. Kittyfoot

    Kittyfoot Crusty Ancient

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    Sep 21, 2009
    Sorrento, Louisiana
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    I'm currently running a new Pinnacle (45K miles) with the 444hp McVolvo engine and WCS shift "auto" 12 spd. Shifts at 1600rpm and that's where it runs at 64mph. Averages 6 to 6.5 loaded or empty. We actually have 50 of em, identical spec.

    Already been to Mack on "recall" for "trouble with the bull gear" (their phrase not mine). I suspect they just "reprogrammed" the shift pattern. Shifts slightly better than it did but still not right. Several of them have a severe brake prob... lock up brakes totally at speed with no warning. Apparently a prob with the electronic "hill holder". Hasn't happened to me... yet. No idea if this was addressed in the e-fix. They come get the truck and bring it back "fixed". No contact with driver atall. This may not be Mack's fault... Service Trans "management" in Houston is currently having a Brain Fart and trying to turn us into Swift Transport.:biggrin_2554:

    Anyhow, quality control is no longer a part of Mack I guess. I'll drive it but I sure wouldn't buy one.

    We also have a couple of "big cab" Volvits for our "teams". Total POS; very shoddy assembly.

    Oh, BTW.... have learned a new "name" for my truck..... "E-Dog".:biggrin_2559:
     
  8. larry2903

    larry2903 Heavy Load Member

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    I was told by my local Volvo/Mack service manager that the engines and transmissions are identical except for valve covers and paint color's.
     
  9. DrtyDiesel

    DrtyDiesel Road Train Member

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    Feb 14, 2010
    Jacksonville, FL
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    Macks engine and transmission has proprietary tuning. They are different but only by a small margin

    Ethan
     
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