Metaldyne Awarded Contract to Supply Engine Balance Shaft Modules

    PLYMOUTH, Mich., Aug. 21 Metaldyne announced today that it
has been awarded a contract to supply a new self-contained balance shaft
module to Nissan North America, Inc.

    The contract calls for Metaldyne to supply balance shaft modules for the
2.5L I4 engine that will power 2002 Nissan Altima and Sentra vehicles.

    To reduce second order shaking forces that are inherent in 4-cylinder
engines, Metaldyne engineers improved upon traditional balance shaft
technology with a new engine-balancing module.  The new module, which consists
of two balance shafts within an aluminum housing, incorporates Metaldyne's
patented Rapid Purge System, which allows for better oil aeration control and
minimized energy consumption.

    "This innovative NVH solution reduces engine noise and vibration,
improving the consumer's overall driving experience," said David Sloan,
program manager, Metaldyne Machining & Assembly, driveline and chassis group.
"This project also illustrates Metaldyne's mission to deliver value-added
engine components, assemblies and modules to our customers in the
transportation industry."

    The new balance shaft module will be produced at Metaldyne's Fremont, Ind.
facility.