Paccar Announces TX-18 Automated Transmission

New 18-speed automated transmissions will be available in select Peterbilt and Kenworth models for on- and off-highway applications.

April 1, 2022

Matt Wolfe

The TX-18 and TX-18 Pro feature several enhancements, including expanded high-capacity PTO functionality. (Paccar)

Kenworth and Peterbilt have announced the availability of the new Paccar TX-18 and TX-18 Pro automated transmissions for Class 8 trucks and select off-highway applications. The TX-18 transmission will be available in Peterbilt Models 567, 389 and 579 and Kenworth T680, T880 and W990 models. The transmissions are designed for exclusive compatibility with the Paccar MX-11 and MX-13 engines.

These 18-speed units supplement the existing Paccar TX-12 transmission line and offer additional capability for heavy on-highway use. The TX-18 Pro adds capabilities over the standard TX-18 for extreme duty and off-highway applications such as heavy haul, dump truck and cranes. “The gains in productivity, efficiency, uptime and the ease of use for drivers make these transmissions a must-have,” said Jacob Montero, Peterbilt general sales manager. “The integration of the new TX-18 and TX-18 Pro with Paccar’s line of MX engines further enhances Peterbilt’s ability to provide our customers the lowest cost of ownership, best-performing trucks in the industry.”

The TX-18 carries a maximum power rating of 510 hp (380 kW) and a torque capacity of 1,850 lb-ft (2,510 Nm). Both transmissions have a gross combination vehicle weight (GCVW) of 140,000 lb (63,500 kg) and offer expanded high-capacity PTO functionality, including an 8-bolt bottom mount and 4-bolt rear mount for a combined 160 hp (120 kW) capacity at 1,400 rpm. The TX-18 has three reverse gears, while the TX-18 Pro has six for applications with numerically low axle ratios. Both gearboxes feature a high-pressure diecast aluminum casing, one-piece serviceable input shaft, helical gearing, precision lubrication system, extreme duty clutch and an integrated clutch housing.

The transmissions are also equipped with an internal oil temperature sensor. The sensor shows transmission temperatures on the in-cab 15-inch digital display and notifies the driver of excessive temperatures. The TX-18 can be configured with an optional transmission cooler for high-demand applications. The TX-18 and TX-18 Pro feature Kenworth’s column-mounted, right-hand shifter as standard equipment. The shifter placement offers gear selection and engine brake controls at the driver’s fingertips for enhanced ergonomics, comfort and overall performance.

“Drivers will appreciate the versatility of the Paccar TX-18 and Paccar TX-18 Pro that deliver excellent low-speed maneuverability,” said Jim Walenczak, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “Both seasoned and new drivers will benefit from tailored configurations that help them get the job done, and new performance calibrations that expertly control transmission shift points.”

On-highway maintenance intervals of the TX-18 and TX-18 Pro are 500,000 miles (800,000 km) or five years, and vocational intervals are 250,000 miles (400,000 km) or three years for the TX-18 and TX-18 Pro. The transmissions utilize a maintenance-free clutch.