6/30/14

2015 Ram ProMaster City Van with Bob Hegbloom and Mike Cairns


The 2015 Ram ProMaster City van brings another addition to the Ram Commercial portfolio. Bob Hegbloom, Director - Ram Truck Brand and Mike Cairns, Director - Ram Truck Engineering talk about the suspension, powertrain and functionality offered on the Ram ProMaster City, as well as best-in-class cargo and payload.

6/29/14

A Brief History of Ram Vans with Brandt Rosenbusch


Did you know that Chrysler Group has a nearly 100 year history of producing vans? The company's van production began under the Dodge logo. Chrysler Group historian Brandt Rosenbusch picks up the story there with pictures of many of the early cargo and passenger vans.

6/28/14

Lock N Latch Drawer Unit For Van Interiors From Adrian Steel


Adrian Steel's exclusive Lock N Latch Drawer Units feature key locking drawers and are so versatile they are included in many Adrian Steel van interior trade packages. Find out more! www.AdrianSteel.com

6/27/14

Isuzu Truck Power - Serving Up Street Eats


Adding to Australia's wide-ranging food scene and bringing a whole new meaning to the idea of 'dining outdoors', is a multitude of colourful food trucks cooking up gourmet fare from all corners of the globe. 

We catch up with Smokin' Barrys and The Curry Truck to see how their Isuzu's help serve up tasty street eats.

6/26/14

Only CNG FedEx Truck powered by Westport


The only FedEx truck powered by compressed natural gas, runs on a Westport WiNG™ Power System. Full story athttp://www.cbs19.tv/story/25802268/co...

6/25/14

6/24/14

1984 Isuzu KS22: The First Isuzu Truck in the US


This is the very first Isuzu truck that came off the boat in 1984! Fully restored to commemorate Isuzu trucks 30th Anniversary in the United States! Come take a drive us....  www.isuzucv.com

6/23/14

2015 Silverado 1500 Will Tow up to 12,000 Pounds, Based on SAE J2807

  • Updated trailer ratings showcase Silverado’s strength and capability
  • Available 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 leads segment in horsepower and torque
  • All 2015 Silverado 1500 trailer ratings based on SAE J2807
DETROIT – Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will maintain a 12,000-pound maximum available trailer weight rating as it transitions to new ratings for 2015 based on SAE J2807 Recommended Practices.

“We engineered the new Silverado 1500 to be our most capable light-duty pickup ever,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer. “For 2015, we will build on that strong foundation to implement SAE J2807 while maintaining robust towing capability across the lineup.

“For 2015, Silverado 1500 will continue to offer trailer weight ratings up to 12,000 pounds,” said Luke. “And, we will offer a number of configurations with trailer weight ratings of 9,000 pounds or more, enabling light-duty pickup customers to choose exactly the right truck for their towing requirements.”

For 2014, Silverado, the North American Truck of the Year, led the light-duty pickup segment with a maximum available trailer weight rating of 12,000 pounds.

The stronger choice for tough towing situations

The 2015 Silverado 1500 will be available with a number of features engineered for serious towing:
  • The available 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 is the most powerful engine offered in any light-duty pickup, with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Like other EcoTec3 engines, it combines proven performance with advanced fuel-saving technologies, seamlessly switching to four cylinders to improve efficiency in light-load driving.
  • The available NHT max trailering package includes a 9.76-inch rear axle, heavy-duty rear springs, revised shock tuning for increased control, enhanced cooling, and an integrated trailer brake controller. Also included is an automatic locking rear differential, trailer hitch, and bumper-mounted 4- and 7-pin connectors.
  • Combined, the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 and max trailering package will give the 2015 Silverado 1500 2WD double-cab a 12,000 pound trailer weight rating.  The comparable 4x4 version will have a trailer weight rating of 11,900 pounds.
  • Silverado’s standard 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6 and available 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 also will offer significant towing capability for 2015, with maximum available trailer weight ratings of 11,200 pounds for the 5.3L V-8 and 7,600 pounds for the V-6. (SAE J2807; see attached Trailering Tables for details.)
Foundation for all 2015 Silverado 1500s is a fully boxed high-strength steel frame. Extensive use of high-strength steels in the frame and body structure also contributes to a quieter interior and more solid feel, and helps Silverado earn a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score for safety in the newest government crash tests. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program.

Like all new Silverados, the 2015 Silverado 1500 will have the best pickup coverage in America, including a 5-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, and is part of the family of the most-dependable, longest-lasting pickups on the road.

2015 Silverado 1500s will be available starting later this summer, with full availability in Q4 of this year.

The 2014 Silverado has won more awards than any other pickup. Silverado was recently named Best Value Truck Line in America by Vincentric, in recognition that the Silverado family has the lowest cost to own of any full-size pickups.

Choosing the right truck for the towing

With the transition to SAE J2807, trailer weight ratings will be adjusted for many Silverado 1500s. Following are examples of old and new ratings for popular configurations:

Configuration
2014
(Pre SAE  J2807)
2015
(SAE J2807)
Regular cab 2WD 4.3L V-6 6.5’ box 3.43 axle
6,400 lbs.
6,100 lbs.
Double cab 2WD 5.3L V-8 6.5’ box 3.08 axle
6,900 lbs.
6,500 lbs.
Crew cab 2WD 5.3L V-8 5.7’ box 3.42 axle
9,800 lbs.
9,400 lbs.
Regular cab 4x4 4.3L V-6 6.5’ box 3.42 axle
7,600 lbs.
7,600 lbs.
Double cab 4x4 5.3L V-8 6.5’ box 3.42 axle
9,600 lbs.
9,200 lbs.
Crew cab 4x4 5.3L V-8 5.7’ box 3.73 axle
11,200 lbs.
10,800 lbs.
As always, customers need to determine the appropriate vehicle and trailering capacity for their particular situation, including the curb weight of their specific vehicle, the number of passengers they will actually carry, the actual tongue weight for their combination, the amount of cargo in their vehicle, and the weight of the load they plan to tow.

Customers should follow the trailering guidelines in their owner’s manual, ask their Chevrolet dealer for trailering advice, or contact Chevrolet Customer Assistance for more information.

Also, the Chevrolet Trailering Guide can be found in the Manuals & Videos section under the Ownership tab of the Chevrolet.com website.

Background: SAE J2807 Recommended Practice

Performance standards for trailering vehicles: To help ensure that vehicles can confidently tow the rated maximum trailer weight under a variety of real-world driving conditions, SAE J2807 establishes specific test protocols. These include:
  • Cooling capability on a long highway upgrade modeled on the Davis Dam grade on Arizona SR 68;
  • Launch and acceleration performance on a level road and a 12 percent upgrade;
  • Combined handling performance – understeer and trailer sway;
  • Combined braking performance – stopping distance and parking brake-hold on grade; and
  • Structural performance for the vehicle and hitch or hitch receiver.
New calculations for trailer weight ratings: In addition to the performance standards, SAE J2807 also uses a specific set of assumptions to calculate maximum trailer weight ratings:
  • For light-duty full-size pickups (GVWR < 8,500 lbs.), SAE J2807 assumes that the tow vehicle includes any options with higher than 33 percent penetration;
  • It assumes there is both a driver and passenger in the vehicle, each weighing 150 pounds;
  • It assumes that tow vehicles also include up to 70 pounds of aftermarket hitch equipment (where applicable); and
  • For conventional trailer towing, SAE J2807 assumes that 10 percent of the trailer weight is on the tongue.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.9 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
# # #


Trailering – 2015 Silverado 1500 Regular Cab (SAE J2807)

2WD:

Regular Cab, 6’ 6” box
6,100 lbs. / 2,767 kg. – 4.3L (3.23 axle)
7,000 lbs. / 3,175 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,000 lbs. / 4,082 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
Regular Cab, 8’ box
5,900 lbs. / 2,676 kg. – 4.3L (3.23 axle)
6,800 lbs. / 3,084 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,800 lbs. / 4,445 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
4WD:

Regular Cab, 6’ 6” box
7,600 lbs. / 3,447 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,700 lbs. / 3,039 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
8,700 lbs. / 3,946 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
Regular Cab, 8’ box
7,400 lbs. / 3,357 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,500 lbs. / 2,948 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,500 lbs. / 4,309 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)


Trailering – 2015 Silverado 1500 Double Cab (SAE J2807)

2WD:

Double Cab, 6’ 6” box
5,600 lbs. / 2,540 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,500 lbs. / 2,948 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,500 lbs. / 4,309 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,500 lbs. / 4,309 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Double Cab, 6’ 6” box w/ Max Trailering Package
11,200 lbs. / 5,080 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
12,000 lbs. / 5,443 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)
4WD:

Double Cab, 6’ 6” box
7,200 lbs. / 3,266 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,200 lbs. / 2,994 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,200 lbs. / 4,173 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,200 lbs. / 4,173 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Double Cab, 6’ 6” box w/ Max Trailering Package
11,000 lbs. / 4,990 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
11,900 lbs. / 5,398 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)

Trailering – 2015 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab (SAE J2807)

2WD:

Crew Cab, 5’ 8” box
5,600 lbs. / 2,540 kg. – 4.3L (3.23 axle)
6,400 lbs. / 2,903 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,400 lbs. / 4,264 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,400 lbs. / 4,264 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Crew Cab, 5’ 8” box w/ Max Trailering Package
11,100 lbs. / 5,035 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
12,000 lbs. / 5,443 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)
Crew Cab, 6’ 6” box
5,500 lbs. / 2,495 kg. – 4.3L (3.23 axle)
6,400 lbs. / 2,903 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,400 lbs. / 4,264 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,300 lbs. / 4,218 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Crew Cab, 6’ 6” box w/ Max Trailering Package
11,000 lbs. / 4,990 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
11,900 lbs. / 5,398 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)
4WD:

Crew Cab, 5’ 8” box
7,100 lbs. / 3,221 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,200 lbs. / 2,812 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,200 lbs. / 4,173 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,200 lbs. / 4,173 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Crew Cab, 5’ 8” box w/ Max Trailering Package
10,900 lbs. / 4,944 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
11,800 lbs. / 5,352 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)
Crew Cab, 6’ 6” box
7,000 lbs. / 3,175 kg. – 4.3L (3.42 axle)
6,100 lbs. / 2,767 kg. – 5.3L (3.08 axle)
9,100 lbs. / 4,128 kg. – 5.3L (3.42 axle)
9,100 lbs. / 4,128 kg. – 6.2L (3.23 axle)
Crew Cab, 6’ 6” box w/ Max Trailering Package
10,800 lbs. / 5,352 kg. – 5.3L (3.73 axle)
11,700 lbs. / 5,307 kg. – 6.2L (3.42 axle)

6/22/14

ISUZU TRADEPACK THE ULTIMATE WORKHORSE FOR TRIMAD

The link between signage and architectural cladding may seem a distant one to many, but the similarities were clear to Scott Taylor and Steve Baldwin, owners of specialist Adelaide-based cladding business, Trimad.



Scott established the business in 2006 to supply and install architectural signage for retail and trade customers and, after adding Steve as a business partner to the outfit, soon realised that the cladding principals and products used in the signage work could also be applied to more general architectural cladding.

The addition of Steve helped fulfill the company’s vision with the pair now being able to oversee and complete larger and more complex cladding projects.

Today Trimad has evolved to mainly offer cladding services, with some signage and installation also completed. The team consists of seven employees and two Isuzu NPR 200 Tradepacks that are used to travel and carry tools and materials to worksites.

“Our work is made up of approximately 80 per cent cladding and 20 per cent signage, working on both commercial and residential jobs,” Mr Taylor said.

“We are able to work on jobs in the local area as well as travel to jobs further away. We have completed jobs in rural towns and places such as Mount Gambier,” Mr Taylor said.

The two Isuzu NPR 200 Tradepacks have been customised to perfectly suit the business’ needs and according to Mr Taylor, prior to purchasing the Isuzus, Trimad’s fleet consisted of utility vehicles but something larger was required to carry more tools and materials.

“We knew exactly how we wanted the truck set up and that’s why we opted for the Isuzu Tradepack,” he said.

“We purchased our first Tradepack in 2009. We had seen other Tradepacks on the road and they had caught our eye.

“Isuzu’s competitors weren’t offering a good or modern enough product, which is why we went to Isuzu. We liked the wide cab and big mirrors and doors that Isuzu offered, and thought the Tradepack had a great set up. We also liked that the Tradepack came with bars. We use the bars to carry 6.5 metre lengths of material.

”We have a lot of gear to carry in our vehicle and we didn’t want to use a trailer.”

After purchasing the Isuzu NPR 200 Tradepack, Trimad engaged a metal fabricator to build customised boxes to fit underneath the truck to store tools.

“At the end of 2012 we required a second vehicle and decided to get another Tradepack. The two trucks are kitted out identically with the same equipment which makes it easier for us to remember where everything is and ensure that both trucks have the right tools for the job,” Mr Taylor said.

“We use the Tradepacks to carry large signs, scaffold, tools, digging gear, a battery charger, a generator for welding and grinding, and a water tank which can hold up to 100 litres of water. We have also added a storage compartment under the tray.

“The Tradepacks serve a variety of purposes for us and are good workhorses.”

According to Mr Taylor, the Isuzu NPR 200 Tradepacks are comfortable and easy to drive.

“The trucks are roomy. Three people can sit in the cab without a problem. They are comfortable on the long trips too,” he said.

“The Tradepacks are perfect. We use them every day. They can fit into a decent sized car park and have tight turning circles. They offer us plenty of power.

“To make the cabs even more comfortable to cruise around in, we have added some weather shields and window tinting.”

So that the business can stand out from competitors, Trimad ensures it provides a quality service every time and never compromises on quality.

“We would rather do the job right than do it quickly and get it wrong. We have invested in tools, equipment and occupational health and safety. We are based in St. Mary’s, just south of the city, and both trucks are stored in our workshop. A lot of our business comes from recommendations and word of mouth,” Mr Taylor said.

“Our Isuzu trucks also help us to get noticed. We often display our work on the side of the trucks and people often say they have seen our trucks on the road.”


See more about Isuzu Truck Australia at www.isuzu.com.au

6/21/14

CV Show 2014 Interview - Fuso


Sam Whittaker is Director, Customer Services, at Mercedes-Benz Trucks in the UK and VansA2Z editor, Neil McIntee spoke to him about the relationship with Fuso and the new revised Canter range.

See more at www.VansA2Z.com

6/20/14

Isuzu Trucks - 2014 ITTES Visitor Vox Pop




Here is a short video featuring the Isuzu Truck stand and visitor impressions from the 2014 International Truck, Trailer and Equipment Show (ITTES, held in Melbourne April 3-6, 2014)

6/19/14

2015 Ford Super Duty Leaves the Competition Behind




Normally I just post some of these with no comments, but this video is interesting in how it compares these three trucks. Lower axle ratio and the same power will win. Ford has the lowest ratio and not by much compared with the RAM, but a dramatic difference comparing to the GM. Splitting hairs. . .

Question: Does 9 seconds matter?

6/18/14

Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon Top Segment in Power

New midsize trucks raise competitive bar



  • Standard engine rated at 200 horsepower, 191 lb-ft of torque
  • 3.6L six-cylinder rated at 305 horsepower, 269 lb-ft of torque
  • Max trailering capacity rated up to 7,000 pounds












  • DETROIT – The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon will have the most horsepower in the midsized truck segment when they go on sale this fall.






    The Colorado and Canyon’s available engines provide customers choices to fit their varied lifestyles. The 2.5L I-4 has been rated at 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.6L V-6 is rated at 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.






    The Colorado and Canyon will also provide class-leading maximum trailering capabilities, with the capacity to tow up to 7,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s more than enough to take a truck full of friends, gear in the bed, and a trailer full of toys to your favorite weekend adventure.






    Each engine features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Both engines are based on proven engine designs found throughout the General Motors’ family, but are optimized for the demands of truck use with the latest technology for improving performance and efficiency. This includes torque at lower RPMs for better towing power and a more confident feeling while pulling a trailer.






    Both engines are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission; a six-speed manual is available on select extended cab 2WD models. The six-speed automatic is tuned specifically for the truck engines, offering features like auto grade braking and tow/haul mode.






    “Every decision we made considered the wants and needs of midsize truck customers. The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are engineered to deliver class leading horsepower,” said Anita Burke, vehicle chief engineer for Midsize Trucks. “Not everyone needs the size or the capability of a full-sized pickup. Now customers have a viable option in a smaller package.”


    Class-leading horsepower also comes with efficiency, courtesy of dual-overhead camshafts with variable valve timing, direct injection, and jet-spray piston cooling, while aluminum blocks and forged-steel crankshafts ensure a long-life cycle.






    The Colorado and Canyon will be assembled at GM’s Wentzville, Mo., assembly plant with start of production in fall 2014.










    About ChevroletFounded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.9 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.






    About GMCGMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra 1500 pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market.  Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

    6/17/14

    Road Test: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country



    Check out the road test of the new Chevrolet Silverado High Country premium pickup truck.

    See more at www.motorweek.org

    6/16/14

    CV Show 2014 Interview - Iveco





    No all-new generation Daily on the stand at the 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show, but Iveco UK's Product Director, Martin Flach, was more than happy to talk about it to VansA2Z Editor, Neil McIntee. It's due to hit UK showrooms in July.


    See more at www.VansZ2Z.com

    6/15/14

    CV Show 2014 Interview - Mercedes-Benz


    While he was at the 2014 CV Show, VansA2Z Editor, Neil McIntee caught up with Steve Bridge, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans in the UK.

    See more at www.VansA2Z.com

    6/14/14

    ISUZU TAKES FORKS '4' U WORKSHOP ON THE ROAD

    IAL - Isuzu Takes Forks '4' U Workshop On The Road

    Forklift sale, hire and service company Forks ‘4’ U has found an innovative way to cut down on service times: take the workshop right to the customer’s door.

    A leading material handling company with branches in Townsville, Mackay, Cairns and Rockhampton, Forks ‘4’ U purchased a NQR 450 in 2013 and put in the hard yards to develop a fully equipped service vehicle to enable on-the-spot servicing to customers.

    The company is now in its 15th year of operation and attributes the continued growth to hard work and a commitment to exceptional customer service. Forks ‘4’ U Director Darren Gardiner says the company’s new NQR 450 shows the industry and its customers they plan to be in operation for the long-haul.

    “We’re very proud of the new truck; it really is our flagship in terms of service vehicles. We have a lot of people who are interested in just having a look at it to see how we’ve built it. It’s been good for the company as it shows we’re serious about we do and we’ve already secured additional business just from people seeing how well we’ve set it up,” Darren said.

    The NQR’s custom body was completed in Sydney and took four months, but Darren says the time spent getting the truck right was well worth the wait.

    “It truly is a mobile workshop. We previously ran with vans, which we still do for inner city jobs, but sometimes we need to have our technician heading out west from Mackay for up to a week at time, and this new truck really gives us the ability to carry enough parts and oils to do that. In the past we’d only be able to operate for about two days’ work away,” he said.

    The truck’s design was the brainchild of Forks ‘4’ U Service Manager, Tom Edgecombe, who is still pinching himself that his “mobile workshop” is out on the road and vastly improving on the field service team’s operational efficiencies and service delivery.

    “This body really is one-of-a-kind. Basically I was given free rein to develop the truck I wanted as Darren knew we had to build it. So I sat down, and put all my field service dreams on paper, and it all went from there,” he said

    “The new truck has two 200 litre clean oil tanks for engine oil and hydraulic oil and both have digital flow meters and pneumatic pumps. It is also fitted with a 300 litre waste oil tank connected to a pneumatic 1-inch Greco diaphragm pump. This has really cut down on our major servicing times, because we can now pump out the hydraulic tank and pump it all back in, it’s a lot quicker and a lot cleaner.

    “In the past we’d have to do a lot of to-ing and fro-ing to the workshop, to drop off the empty oil containers and used parts like hydraulic filters etc. Then we’d have to restock and head back to the customer again, it cost us a lot of downtime and I’d say we’ve now cut our service times down by a third with the new truck,” Tom said.

    The NQR is also fully stocked and equipped with a hydraulic hose crimper, a range of fittings and hoses, and a hose saw which enables the mobile technicians to replace hoses on the spot, saving their customers’ time and money in calling external hose doctors to complete the job.

    “The truck has also been great for handling the tough road conditions out west of Mackay as there’s a lot of heavy trucks and mining vehicles getting transported along those roads. The truck handles it all fine, it’s a beautiful truck to drive, it’s like driving a car and performs really well in those conditions,” Tom said.

    “It’s also got cruise control and you can do things like run your mobile phone through the stereo – all of those features make the day a lot more enjoyable. Some of the sites we service can be a seven-hour drive away, so now it’s not just what’s on the truck which is making work easier and a lot more efficient but the truck itself is making life more comfortable for the road technicians.

    “With the NQR we managed to get everything we wanted on there. I’ve been doing field service for 12 years now so it was good to have an opportunity to build my dream service truck, and I couldn’t be happier with it,” he said.

    Forks ‘4’ U have been so impressed with the performance and comfort of the Isuzu NQR, they have already placed an order for a smaller NPR 275 Premium which will operate from their Townsville branch, allowing for greater flexibility with the region’s servicing requirements.

    6/13/14

    Special Landscaping Truck - Guest Post by Steve Taylor


    I spotted this work truck in my neighborhood and wished to share it.

    We like to take pictures of work trucks set up with application-specific equipment.

    In this case, we spotted some landscapers busy planting flowers and working out of a box style truck body. From our experience, they usually work out off a pickup or a pickup with a trailer. As we approached, it became clear why the owners chose a box truck. That’s because they need to carry and store hundreds of plants. They keep the plants stored, out of direct sunlight and weather until they are ready to be planted

    This Ford F550 is mounted with an enclosed box with a step-well style sidestep. It has an overhead rear door and a swing style side-opening door. 

      
    Seldom do you find a truck with better space utilization.  Notice that the interior is finished off with plywood walls mounted with the black “etrack” strips. The etrack provides a connection for the four plywood shelves. This gives the 5 spaces for plant storage. Compare that to storing plants on the floor of a trailer or the back of flatbed, rack style body. The rear step bumper allows for step-up to access the rearmost plants on all levels.


    The side door step-well style entrance allows entrances to a "cubby hole" where anyone has access to the front-most plants stored on 5 levels. 


    This box truck configuration gives the potential of about 5 times the amount of storage for plants with easy access to the front as well as the rear.

    6/11/14

    How to Couple a 5th Wheel Hitch - CURTmfg.com


    This informative video demonstrates the process of coupling and uncoupling a 5th wheel hitch. Whether you're towing cross country or hitting the family campground, 5th wheel trailers offer superior comfort, towing, and construction. Combine these amenities with a CURT 5th wheel hitch and you have the most well designed, problem free rig on the road!

    For more towing information and to find the perfect hitch for your vehicle, check out http://www.curtmfg.com

    6/10/14

    Renault Trucks T at the port of Felixtowe


    Multi-modal transport -- such as delivering freight by sea and then by land -- is expanding considerably: each year, over 500 million containers pass through the world's ports. That's 16 every second! The new Renault Trucks long-haul range has already forged a place in this logistics new deal. A focus on Macintyre Transport Ltd. at Felixstowe, the UK's leading commercial port.

    Renault Trucks on YouTube:
    http://www.youtube.com/user/RenaultTr...

    Renault Trucks on Facebook: 
    http://www.facebook.com/renaulttrucks...

    Renault Trucks on Twitter:
    http://twitter.com/renaulttrucksco

    Renault Trucks on Google+:
    https://plus.google.com/1156594922427...

    http://www.renault-trucks.com/

    6/09/14

    All-New Ford Transit: Better Gas Mileage Than E-Series; Best-in-Class Gas Engine Torque, Cargo Capacity

    Hero Image

    • All-new 2015 Ford Transit low- and medium-roof regular-wheelbase wagons with available 3.5-liter EcoBoost® have a 46 percent better EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating* than Ford E-Series with premium gas engine
    • Proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost offers gas engine torque rating of 400 lb.-ft. – best in class among full-size vans – ideal for those whose work requires extra cargo-hauling capability
    • Transit van offers best-in-class gas engine maximum cargo capacity of 487.3 cubic feet when properly equipped

    The all-new 2015 Ford Transit, America’s newest Built Ford Tough van, delivers as much as 46 percent better gas mileage than Ford E-Series and offers Ford van customers more choices and capability than ever.

    Transit goes on sale for the first time at U.S. and Canadian dealerships this summer, eventually replacing America’s best-selling van for 35 years, E-Series, first sold in 1961 as Ford Econoline.
    Transit has a proven legacy with more than 7 million units sold worldwide since being introduced in Europe in 1965. Ford has been the best-selling commercial vehicle brand in the United Kingdom for nearly 50 years and Transit is the recipient of two International Van of the Year awards.

    All-New 2015 Ford Transit

    “We are excited to serve our fleet and commercial customers in North America with the all-new Transit,” said Kumar Galhotra, Ford vice president, Engineering. “Transit is Built Ford Tough and represents One Ford at its best, building on lessons learned from our decades of leadership in the commercial vehicle markets in the United States and Europe.”

    Three engine choices offer performance and efficiency

    Transit comes standard with a 3.7-liter V6 engine, and customers also can choose from an available 3.5-liter EcoBoost® or 3.2-liter Power Stroke® diesel.

    When equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, all-new 2015 Transit low- and medium-roof regular wheelbase wagons get a 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway EPA-estimated rating.* That reflects an improvement of as much as 46 percent compared with the 10 mpg city/13 mpg highway EPA-estimated rating for the Ford E-Series 6.8-liter V10 premium gas engine. The improved gas mileage translates to fuel savings as high as $1,700 annually, based on EPA data.

    Transit low- and medium-roof regular wheelbase wagons with the standard 3.7-liter V6 get a 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway EPA-estimated rating* – up to 19 percent better than the 13 mpg city/16 mpg EPA-estimated rating for the E-Series 4.6-liter V8 standard gas engine. Fuel savings for customers could be as much as $650 a year, according to EPA estimates.

    City Highway Combined
    All-new 2015 Transit Wagon 3.5L 14 mpg 19 mpg 16 mpg
    All-new 2015 Transit Wagon 3.7L 14 mpg 19 mpg 16 mpg
    EPA-estimated ratings for low- and medium-roof regular-wheelbase models. Actual mileage will vary. 3.2-liter Power Stroke diesel available on Transit is not EPA-rated.

    The proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost available for Ford Transit offers a gas engine torque rating of 400 lb.-ft. – best in class among full-size vans – making Transit an excellent choice for those whose work requires extra cargo-hauling capability. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine’s low-end torque and 310 horsepower result from its suite of technologies including direct injection and twin turbocharging.

    The available 3.2-liter Power Stroke five-cylinder diesel engine provides 90 percent of its peak torque from 1,500 to 2,750 rpm. Quick-start glow plugs offer fast startups at temperatures as low as 10 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. A variable geometry turbocharger helps deliver quick power.

    Horsepower (hp) at RPM Torque (lbs.-ft.) at RPM
    3.7L V6 with Ti-VCT 275 @ 6,000 260 @ 4,000
    3.5L V6 EcoBoost 310 @ 5,500 400 @ 2,500
    3.2L Power Stroke Five-Cylinder 185 @ 3,000 350 @ 1,500–2,500

    Transit van delivers as much as 4,650 pounds of maximum payload capacity – more than competing vans from General Motors and Chrysler. Maximum payload increases at least 600 pounds across all sizes of Transit vans versus comparable E-Series vans. Transit delivers a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds.

    Towing and hauling are made easy by the standard six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission. It features selectable tow/haul mode to compensate for grade and load, while also reducing gear hunting when towing or hauling heavy cargo.

    A compressed natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas prep package is available on Transit when equipped with the 3.7-liter V6 engine.

    Built Ford Tough

    Built Ford Tough is part of the Transit DNA, and the all-new unibody structure makes extensive use of boron steel for weight savings, improved torsional stiffness and long-term durability. Transit was tested for more than 7 million customer-equivalent miles at Ford proving grounds and in the hands of real-world fleet customers in North America.

    The 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 3.7-liter V6 engines have been proven in more than 700,000 Ford F-150 trucks since 2011.

    The globally proven 3.2-liter Power Stroke diesel engine underwent more than 4,000 hours of rigorous dynamometer testing specifically for Transit. Testing included running at maximum engine power for 750 hours (the equivalent of 14 nonstop round trips from New York to Los Angeles) simulating 10 years’ service across 150,000 miles, and in environments with temperatures of 40 degrees below zero and altitudes of more than 14,500 feet.

    To simulate the heavy use fleet and commercial customers put their vans through, Ford testers opened and slammed Transit doors 250,000 times – nearly three times more than for a car.

    Capability to get the job done

    The all-new Transit van offers a best-in-class gas engine maximum cargo capacity of 487.3 cubic feet when properly equipped – 75 percent more than the largest E-Series van. The extended-length wagon model offers best-in-class cargo storage (100.5 cubic feet) behind the last row of seats in a 15-passenger version – ideal for shuttle service.

    All-New 2015 Ford Transit

    Transit high-roof van models offer best-in-class cargo height to make loading easier, and high-roof wagon models deliver best-in-class passenger compartment height, enabling passengers as tall as 6 feet 4 inches to stand upright.

    Transit also has a best-in-class rear door opening height and the available 270-degree swing-out rear cargo doors offer quick and easy access.

    Offering the most choices

    Transit is available in a best-in-class range of vehicle configurations and offers more choices than ever from a Ford commercial van.

    Customers can choose from van, wagon, chassis cab and cutaway body styles; three body lengths and two wheelbases for van and wagon, along with three roof heights; and XL and XLT trim levels.
    A center aisle for most configurations combines with easy access through wide-opening side doors and ample legroom to allow fast and hassle-free pickups and drop-offs.

    Transit van is ideal for custom storage and shelving systems such as cargo dividers, multi-racks, bulkheads and sliding platforms. Upfitting is made easy with 11 available upfit ship-throughs, eight of which are located within 20 miles of Kansas City Assembly Plant where Transit is built. Transit vehicles can be custom-configured at www.TransitUpfits.com.

    Smart features

    Transit customers can add even more smart technology, including available Crew Chief telematics to help track service and mileage costs and MyKey® to help encourage safer driving. An available lane-keeping alert system detects lane markings with a forward-facing camera and vibrates the steering wheel to help alert drivers to steer back toward the center of the lane.

    An internal ladder-rack system, available as an upfit, helps keep ladders protected from poor weather and away from prying eyes.

    * EPA-estimated rating of 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined for all-new 2015 Transit low- and medium-roof regular wheelbase wagon. Actual mileage will vary.

    6/08/14

    New Products: Stellar® 3315 and 4421 Telescopic Cranes Available

    Garner, Iowa – Stellar Industries, Inc. has introduced the Models 3315 and 4421 telescopic cranes.  These cranes offer maximum lifting capacities in 3200 and 4000 pounds respectively.  New to both of these cranes is the internal cylinder extension system.  This new system is designed to the same standards as the Stellar heavy-duty crane line and now has the same look and feel as these larger cranes as well.



    Every electric, on/off, or proportional 3315 and 4421 crane comes standard with the Stellar® CDT™ (Crane Dynamics Technology™) system.  The Stellar CDT system is a proprietary collection of revolutionary, industry first features that control, power, and monitor these new cranes.  The Stellar CDT equipped cranes will engage and communicate with the crane operator by using multiple sensory indicators when approaching maximum capacity. Three main features of this crane include the use of colored LED lights and pulsating vibrations transmitted thru the handheld remote handle.  Some Stellar CDT systems will also allow the operator to go into a Boost Mode and operate at 118% of its normal operating capacity for a short period of time when at maximum capacity.  The third revolutionary feature of the new Stellar cranes is the ability to function in safety mode when a safety feature is damaged or malfunctions.    

    The 3315 and 4421 cranes offer optional boom configurations of two hydraulic boom extensions.  The standard configuration is one hydraulic and one manual extension.   Both cranes offer market leading boom articulation of -8˚ to +80˚.  This allows the operator both easy reach to stow the snatch block as well as offering maximum ability to load items into the load bed.  An additional new feature to these cranes is the quick release snatch block stow hook.  This can be found on the underside of the boom and allows the operator to easily un-stow and stow the snatch block.  When the boom is raised to 60 degrees, the unique design allows the snatch block to gently release ensuring a safe and orderly deployment. 

    “Continuous product improvement and market leading innovations that make our end users more productive is one of our core goals at Stellar,” says Tim Davison, Product Manager at Stellar Industries.  “Both of these new cranes offer our usual market-leading features including the Stellar CDT Technology.” He continues, “All of these features on these new cranes will fit in nicely with the rest of our full crane line and allow us to continue to offer our customers the most advanced and innovative telescopic cranes on the market today.”


    Stellar Industries, Inc. was founded in 1990 in Garner, Iowa.   It is an employee owned and operated manufacturer of hydraulic truck mounted equipment.  Products include hooklift hoists, cable hoists, container carriers, telescopic cranes, mechanics bodies, articulating cranes, work truck accessories and the X-Tra-Lift pick-up loading device.  Stellar also offers complete mechanic service truck and tire service truck packages.  Stellar is a progressive company that focuses on its people, as they are the key to making the products and the company successful.

    6/07/14

    Westport Expands its 2015 Vehicle Line-Up with the New Transit Connect

    Westport is expanding its 2015 vehicle lineup with two natural gas fueling options for companies who like to drive the Ford Transit Connect

    As Ford’s largest qualified vehicle modifier, Westport is offering the 2015 Ford Transit Connect as a dedicated or bi-fuel compressed natural gas (CNG) Westport WiNG™ Power System vehicle.

    Dedicated and bi-fuel options will give fleets more fuel flexibility when choosing to fill up with CNG. Westport's Transit Connect will be compliant with Clean Port Act emissions standards, ensuring that fleets and small businesses who service airports can take advantage of natural gas. 

    Often used to transport passengers and cargo, the 2015 Ford Transit Connect model offers a 2.5L gaseous prep engine with improved fuel economy over gasoline.

    Westport is accepting orders now through Ford dealerships.

    Visit Westport’s website for more information about our bi-fuel and dedicated CNG Ford vehicles, including our FREE CNG fuel card offer for qualifying Westport vehicles, until supplies last: http://www.westport.com/wing.

    For media inquiries contact: media@westport.com
    For sales inquiries contact: fordsales@westport.com

    See more about Westport products and services at www.westport.com

    6/06/14

    CV Show 2014 Interview - Fiat Professional


    No sign of the new Ducato, but Fiat Professional's UK director Sebastiano Fedrigo still had plenty to talk about to VansA2Z editor Neil McIntee...  See more at http://www.fiat.com/com/shopping-tools/fiat-professional

    6/05/14

    Auto Truck Group


    Learn more about Auto Truck Group. Auto Truck Group companies specialize in design, manufacture and installation of truck equipment for a wide variety of customers.

    Auto Truck Group president, Jim Dondlinger, takes you on a tour of Auto Truck Bartlett including the conference room, design studio, paint booth, quality assurance area, and parts and services area. Discover how Auto Truck Group turns trucks into tools. www.autotruck.com

    6/04/14

    NEW DAILY - The new QUAD-LEAF front suspension


    The new QUAD-LEAF front suspension is standard on both vans and chassis cabs (up to 3.5 tonnes). It adopts a double wishbone scheme with transversal leaf spring, with new components and a completely new geometry that improves roll behaviour and increases roll stiffness. But the new suspension also achieves excellent results in terms of noise, vibration and loading performance.

    Maximum load on axle has been improved to 1,900 kg and a 40 kg payload increase has been achieved on chassis cabs, due to system integration. The new QUAD-LEAF substantially improves manoeuverability and handling at all loads. 

    We have managed to maintain all advantages of the rear-wheel drive while minimising its inherent oversteer and producing a better anti-roll and anti-dive action. Also steering geometry has been revised, camber has been optimized in all situations, and toe in angle has been modified in order to make steering more progressive. DAILY handling is now much more intuitive and predictable in line with that of a passenger car. Also emergency manoeuvers are now safer in all load conditions. Handling improvement is measured by the increase in lateral acceleration: +25% corresponding to 0.74 g: an impressive performance for a commercial vehicle.

    See more at www.Iveco.com

    6/03/14

    Rumpke Runs on Natural Gas With Support of Clean Fuels Ohio


    See how waste disposal and recycling company Rumpke in Cincinnati, Ohio, is cutting costs and emissions by making the switch to natural gas with the support of the Clean Fuels Ohio coalition.

    6/01/14

    Harbor Contractor II Boosts Capacity and Effectiveness


    Jordan Lewis, Commercial Truck Manager at Dow Lewis GMC in Yuba City CA shows off a great solution for many contractors who want storage, but also want the benefits of a flatbed truck. This body, mounted on a 2014 GMC 1-ton Dually chassis is a Harbor Contractor II Body. The twist with the Contractor II Body is the tall and deep compartment at the front of the body. The open lid typical upper box is retained, but the real value of this body is the combination of the two types of boxes.

    You can see how much more storage capacity there is in the Contractor II arrangement. The shelves are moveable or removable and the compartment is deep enough to carry a wide variety of items, including tall items.

    This unit also has a removable forklift loadable rack, fold-down contractor style gates in the rear, and a class IV receiver, and 7-pin trailer connector. It also has a great full-length step for easy rear access.

    See more at http://DowLewisTrucks.com and Harbor Truck Bodies at www.htbi.net