Warn Industries' Hub Lock Technology Improving Performance of Ford 2005
F-Series 4x4 Pickups
Patented wheel-end disconnect system reducing fuel consumption by up to 1 mpg
on F-250 and 350 4x4s

Clackamas, OR. (Oct 7, 2004) - Customers who purchase a 2005 Ford F-Series 4x4 pickup will receive a pleasant surprise with their new model - especially at the gas pump. Hub lock technology from Warn Industries, a longstanding Tier 1 supplier to Ford Motor Co. and other leading automotive OEMs, is increasing fuel efficiency on most 2005 Ford F-Series 4x4 trucks.

Ford F-250 and F-350 customers who order Warn Industries' Pulse Vacuum Hub Lock (PVH) system on their vehicles will realize a tremendous improvement in fuel economy. "Our research shows that Pulse Vacuum Hub Locks, in 4x2 mode, provides a healthy 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy at highway speeds over a center axle disconnect system," said John McCalla, general manager of Warn Industries' Powertrain division. "At today's fuel prices, those savings can be significant."

The patented Pulse Vacuum Hub Lock system, with its unique manual override capability, represents the latest in automatic hub lock technology from Warn Industries. Highly engineered, and tested, the system automatically engages/disengages the F-250 and F-350 hubs when the driver shifts the transfer case to and from 4WD mode. The electronic control signal triggers a control valve that sends vacuum to the wheel-ends, subsequently triggering a latching mechanism which lock in the hubs-an approach that ensures the best engagement time and time again.

In addition, McCalla also explained that the PVH design can extend the life of the overall system, noting "with center-disconnect systems the axle shafts continue to rotate in 2WD. This can lead to a shorter overall system life. The PVH design makes this a non-issue."

All 2005 F-450 and F-550 4x4 models come equipped with Warn Industries' manual hub locks (MLH), which the company has provided to automakers and consumers for more than 50 years.

The company assures the performance and reliability of the MLH and PVH systems through extensive bench and vehicle testing against a variety of measures, including static strength, high and low temperature and water sealing. The results of this testing and engineering innovation include continued improvements in disengagement performance, reduction in dial torque efforts, higher torque carrying capacity in a smaller package, and the opportunity for enhanced styling to match today's upgraded wheel trim.

"Warn Industries is focused on delivering proprietary powertrain technologies to our OEM customers that are highly desired by end consumers and create significant advantages for the vehicle line in the marketplace," said Warn Industries' Chief Operating Officer Thomas Giacomini.

About Warn Industries
Warn Industries is the world's most recognized brand in off-road products such as hub locks and vehicle recovery winches. The company is a Tier 1 supplier to Ford Motor Co. and provides powertrain products on leading domestic automobiles, sport utility vehicles and trucks. Further, Warn Industries continues to develop an international presence in Pacific Rim countries by working with Kia, Hyundai, Nissan, and Ssangyong. Warn Industries is a Dover company (NYSE: DOV).

For media inquiries, please contact:
Gary Rubin, PR Manager
503-786-4423
pressinquiry@warn.com

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