Segment:
Heavy-duty commercial truck, successor to the well-regarded DAF 95 series, positioned for long-haul and heavy-duty applications.
Competitors Circa 1997:
Scania 4 Series, Volvo FH, Mercedes-Benz Actros, MAN F2000.
Aerodynamics:
The XF series was designed with a focus on improved aerodynamics for fuel efficiency and reduced noise.
Cab Comfort:
Emphasis on driver comfort with improved cab ergonomics, suspension, and noise reduction, important for long-haul operations.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour in shop labor costs.
Authenticity:
Official full factory service repair manual, not a third-party publication, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Engine:
Comprehensive service and repair, including engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, emission control system, engine control system (ECU diagnostics and parameters)
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual and potentially automated manual transmissions (e.g., AS Tronic), including clutch, gearbox, shift mechanisms, lubrication, and diagnostics
Brakes:
Complete coverage of the braking system, including hydraulic and pneumatic components, ABS, parking brake, brake actuators, discs, drums, pads, and fluid specifications
Electrical System:
Detailed coverage including wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting, alternator, starter motor, battery, lighting, dashboard instrumentation, and auxiliary electrical systems
Suspension:
Service and repair for front and rear suspension components, including springs (leaf or air), shock absorbers, linkages, and alignment specifications
Steering:
Repair and maintenance of the steering system, including power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, and alignment
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of radiators, thermostats, water pumps, coolant hoses, fan operation, and coolant specifications
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel pumps, and fuel injection systems, including common rail or pump-injector technologies used in DAF engines of this era
Emission System:
Coverage of emission control components and systems, including EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) if applicable, and related sensors and controls
HVAC:
Service and repair for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including controls, refrigerant circuits, and components
Chassis Body:
Information on frame, body panels, cab mounting, doors, hinges, latches, and external trim
Restraint System:
Coverage of seat belts, and potentially airbag systems if equipped on specific models/trims
Interior:
Details on interior trim, seats, dashboard layout, controls, and instrumentation
Drivetrain:
Coverage of differential, drive axles, prop shafts, and associated components for rear-wheel drive configurations
Axles:
Service and repair for front and rear axles, including wheel hubs, bearings, and seals
Maintenance:
General maintenance procedures, periodic lubrication, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Advanced troubleshooting guide for diagnosing and correcting problems across all systems, including symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all components and systems, covering removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing electronic control systems, engine performance issues, and electrical faults
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials
Depth:
Complete factory-level technical information, comparable to what professional technicians and mechanics use. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex rebuilds and diagnostics.
Engine Families:
Typically equipped with DAF's robust 'new generation' engines, including the popular PR and PACCAR MX engine variants (though specific variants evolved).
Displacement Range:
Common displacements for this era of XF trucks would range from approximately 9.2 liters to 12.6 liters, depending on the specific engine code.
Horsepower Range:
Power outputs typically ranged from around 310 hp to over 460 hp, depending on the specific engine and tuning.
Torque Range:
Torque figures would similarly vary, with higher horsepower variants offering substantial torque for heavy hauling, potentially exceeding 2000 Nm.
Injection Type:
Advanced fuel injection systems for the era, likely including electronically controlled unit injectors (UI) or early common rail systems, offering precise fuel delivery for efficiency and emissions.
Oil Change:
Engine oil and filter change intervals would typically be based on mileage or operating hours, commonly ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 km, depending on operating conditions and oil type.
Air Filter:
Air filter replacement intervals would be dictated by operating environment, but typically checked at regular service intervals and replaced as needed or on a scheduled basis (e.g., every 50,000-100,000 km).
Fuel Filter:
Fuel filter replacement intervals would be critical for optimal engine performance and longevity, usually scheduled around every 30,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil:
Multi-grade engine oil meeting specific DAF specifications (e.g., ACEA E3/E4 or similar). Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 15W-40 are common. Specific capacity detailed in manual.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically with a mix of 50% coolant and 50% deionized water for optimal freeze and corrosion protection. Specific DAF coolant specification would be listed.
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil for manual transmissions (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5) and specific ATF or synthetic fluids for automated transmissions. Capacities vary by gearbox model.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid for hydraulic brake circuits, or specific pneumatic fluids for air brake systems. Manual will detail exact types.
Common Wear Items:
Typical wear items for trucks of this age include clutch components, brake pads/discs, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, and certain electrical relays/sensors.
Engine Reliability:
DAF engines of this era are generally considered robust, but common issues can include injector seal leaks, EGR valve issues (if equipped), and turbocharger wear over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older trucks can sometimes suffer from intermittent electrical faults due to aging wiring, connectors, and grounding points.
