4/30/18

Understanding Total Base Number in today’s HD engine oils

 

Historically, Total Base Number (TBN) has been a key indicator of remaining useful oil life in heavy duty engine oils. While acid neutralization is still an important function of engine oil, changes in engine design and the move to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuels have decreased the amount of acids produced in the engine and also resulted in generally weaker acids being produced.

The test methods

ASTM D2896 is the test method most commonly used to measure TBN on new oils. Use of a very strong acid identifies both “hard” and “soft” TBN, giving the total alkalinity reserve of the sample. The value obtained from this test is the number reported on most technical data sheets.

ASTM D4739 is the test favored by oil analysis labs on used oil samples. Using a weaker acid, it only identifies alkalinity from metallic elements like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. These metals are often doing double-duty in the oil (calcium provides detergency and acid neutralization; zinc in the popular antiwear additive ZDDP also contributes to anti-oxidation). This test does not identify newer ashless (i.e. non-metallic) additives, and reported values will be lower versus ASTM D2896.

The spread in values between the two test methods is now three times bigger than it was during CI-4+ and double that of CJ-4.

Engine OEMs have noticed

A quick and easy rule of thumb for most oil analysis laboratories and many fleet maintenance managers is to drain the oil when the TBN reaches 1/3 of its starting value or 3.0 mg KOH/g, whichever comes first. Detroit recently released its 2018 Service Bulletin (DDC-SVC-BRO-0001) in which it has removed TBN limits entirely from the used-oil analysis parameters. Discussions with other key engine builders has revealed that they have noticed that used-oil TBN values are often very low – sometimes below 1.0 mg KOH/g – yet without any additional indications of adverse oil condition. We expect other engine builders in time to follow Detroit’s lead and either update or eliminate their TBN guidelines.

What to monitor if not TBN?

When looking at used oil analysis reports, the full range of available data should always be considered. A better practice is for Oxidation/Nitration values above 25 units to get your attention, with a condemning limit between 35–40. This measure also should be paired with the viscosity trend to determine when oxidation is about to accelerate.

Relevant or relic?
Because additive chemistry has shifted, standard used-oil TBN testing protocol simply doesn’t provide the same level of insight that it once did. In the last 20 years much has changed – diesel fuel has dropped from 500 parts per million sulfur to a max of 15 ppm, fewer and weaker acids are found in used oil, engine designs have evolved, and oil chemistry has improved dramatically. While TBN was once an easy and effective way to predict remaining oil life, it no longer bears that relevance.

This article was sponsored by Phillips 66 Lubricants. For more information, please visit our website at www.phillips66lubricants.com

4/29/18

Ford F-150, F-350 Super Duty, Transit, Taurus Win Vincentric Best Fleet Value Awards for Low Cost of Ownership

 

DEARBORN, Mich., April 24, 2018 – Ford Motor Company has won five 2018 Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America awards. The awards recognize the vehicles Vincentric’s analysis of 28 different lifecycle cost scenarios determines will provide fleet and vocational customers with the lowest total cost of ownership.
Ford vehicles won in sedan, pickup and van categories:
  • Ford Taurus SE – an eight-time large sedan winner
  • Ford F-150 XL – six-time full-size half-ton pickup truck winner
  • Ford F-350 Super Duty XL – three-time full-size one-ton pickup truck winner
  • Ford Transit 150 XL low-roof passenger wagon – four-time full-size half-ton passenger van winner
  • Ford Transit 150 medium-roof cargo van – two-time full-size half-ton cargo van winner
Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America awards are based on fleet lifecycle costs in eight key areas – depreciation, fuel, insurance, financing, repairs, fees and taxes, opportunity costs and maintenance. Winning vehicles have the lowest lifecycle costs across 28 ownership and mileage scenarios – ranging from 24 months of ownership or 10,000 miles annually to 60 months or 40,000 miles a year.
Learn more, including specific trim levels of the award-winning vehicles, at www.vincentric.com.



About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 202,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Amazon Packages Can Now Be Delivered to More Than 7 Million Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac Vehicles


Amazon Key In-Car Delivery offers customers a convenient, time-saving way to receive packages inside their vehicle
 
DETROIT – (NYSE: GM) Starting today, more than seven million owners of eligible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles in the United States can enjoy the convenience of having Amazon packages delivered inside their vehicle using Amazon Key. In-Car Delivery comes at no extra cost for Amazon Prime members with an active OnStar account and is available in 37 U.S. cities and surrounding areas, with more cities to follow.

“Partnering with Amazon to leverage our embedded in-vehicle connectivity gives Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners the option to conveniently receive deliveries inside their vehicle parked at home, work or near other locations in their Amazon address book,” said Alan Batey, President, General Motors North America. “This is another example of how we provide customers with technologies that add value and enhance the ownership experience.”

With Amazon Key In-Car Delivery, packages can be delivered to a vehicle when it’s parked in a publicly accessible area, such as on the street in front of an apartment building, at a workplace surface parking lot or in a home driveway. Delivery is available on tens of millions of items sold on Amazon.com and works with Same Day, Two-Day and Standard Shipping.

“At Amazon, we are always working to make our customers’ lives easier and starting today, we’re excited to bring in-car delivery to Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners,” said Peter Larsen, Vice President of Delivery Technology, Amazon. “Prime members now have another way to ensure their packages are safe and secure—all for no additional cost.”




Setting up Amazon Key In-Car Delivery is easy. Customers must download the Amazon Key App and opt in to seamlessly link their Amazon and OnStar accounts. Once the first step is complete and the delivery location has been registered, customers can shop on Amazon.com and select the “In-Car” delivery option at checkout. Additional eligible delivery addresses can be added to the Amazon address book at any time.

Customers receive a notification via the Amazon Key App when the delivery is on its way and after the delivery is completed and the vehicle is relocked. Deliveries are made to a stationary car parked in a publicly accessible area.

Amazon Key In-Car Delivery requires a 2015 model year or newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicle. Visit onstar.com for coverage map, details and system limitations. To check eligibility and sign up for Amazon Key In-Car Delivery, visit www.amazon.com/keyincar.

GMC 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 pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

4/28/18

The Great TITAN Meat Up BBQ challenge

The Great TITAN Meat Up BBQ challenge


Beginning at the crack of dawn Saturday morning, celebrity chefs Cory Bahr and David Rose will serve as the official judges of the Great TITAN Meat Up, where the competitors – featuring teams of media members from Truck Trend, Internet Brands, AutoGuide, PickupTrucks.com and healthyfatchick.com, as well as a team from the Nissan Canton, Miss. Assembly Plant – will be challenged to out-cook a Nissan executive team.

4/27/18

HOW LUBE TRUCKS INCREASE EFFICIENCY

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LUBE TRUCKS have become some of the most important tools that a construction, demolition, or mining company can invest in. These support vehicles are capable of keeping even the largest fleets of work trucks and other machines stocked with the lubricants, antifreeze, grease, and other fluids that they need for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Here are a few of the main benefits that lube trucks have to offer:

Learn more at: http://www.taylorpumpandlift.com/products/lube-trucks/



Highway Products | Custom Fabrication [Roll Up Tool-Boxes]



Roll-Up Boxes are an ideal choice for those who need storage with a lid that can move completely out of the way of your workspace. Fire-fighters, emergency workers, on-site contractors and many other professionals across various industries find the extra storage invaluable in their every day work environment. 

Roll-Up Boxes are a type of custom truck toolbox made by Highway Products Inc.

4/26/18

Get Ready For Future Trucks That Trouble-shoot Themselves

In the future, equipment is expected to troubleshoot itself 
without human intervention.

iStock_Bombaert818

Thanks to advances in technology, as well as an increasing emphasis on operations efficiency and wise resource use, the role of equipment fleet managers across all industries has changed quite a bit in recent years.

Expect even more changes in the future, says Jim Schug, a principal and engagement manager for FMI Corporation.

Schug, who is also a certified equipment manager and the program lead for the Certification Institute, cites “adapting to technology, innovation, and the new workforce” as three big changes that have occurred in fleet management over the last few years. All fleet management professionals — no matter their industry or the type of equipment managed — need to prepare themselves for more changes on the horizon, he says.

“All vehicles are adapting across the industry,” says Schug, who participated in a panel discussion at ConExpo-Con/Agg in Las Vegas this March on the future of equipment management.

Jim Schug
“We likely are not far from vehicles that troubleshoot themselves, remote sensors that predict what to repair based on the data they collect, and an overall expectation of zero unplanned downtime.” Jim Schug, principal and engagement manager, FMI Corporation

“We likely are not far from vehicles that troubleshoot themselves, remote sensors that predict what to repair based on the data they collect, and an overall expectation of zero unplanned downtime,” says Schug, whose company is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C. and has offices in Denver, Tampa, Phoenix and Houston. “In the future, trucks will be connected and serve as a tracking center; and they will likely evolve out of needing field repairs and emergency calls.”

Need to adapt to changes
Given this move toward automation and advanced technology, fleet equipment — including service trucks —will become much more sophisticated and provide “near perfect information” on how they operate, he predicts. Therefore, he says, companies will only remain competitive in the future if they can do the following: have the best, most “fit” equipment to perform the job; eliminate equipment downtime; and demonstrate the ability to sustain ongoing operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And much of this will rest on the shoulders of fleet management leadership and their ability to adapt to industry changes, Schug argues.

“This future is a big shift from where we are today and puts more pressure on the equipment manager to lead what happens in the field, so the intensity and importance of the role increases,” says Schug, who has a bachelor of science degree in quantitative economics from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and a master of science in engineering management from the University of Missouri. “If equipment managers are not already sitting at the leadership table today they should be … and I certainly believe they will be in five years.”

Whether playing catch-up or preparing for more changes, fleet managers should take proactive steps to better position themselves (and their companies) for what lies ahead, he says.

“Learn how to collect data and enter it into an efficient system that helps inform when making difficult decisions,” says Schug, who acknowledges many people already use maintenance management systems in their decision-making.

However, he advises fleet managers to think beyond simply collecting and entering data. On that note, he emphasizes how the gathering, harvesting and analyzing of data by fleet managers can help their CEOs make good decisions.

Recognize data’s value
“You need to recognize how valuable that data is to your lifecycle costs and current operations. Equipment data will drive operations in the future,” says Schug, whose company provides management consulting and investment banking services to various industries including construction and engineering.

Given the importance of data in fleet management, Schug says it is critical for fleet managers to “stay engaged” and “plugged-in” when it comes to industry associations and vendors. By doing so, fleet managers can keep abreast of new technologies, products and/or practices, all of which can benefit their overall fleet management efforts.

“You do not want your firm to fall behind the innovation curve. At the same time, we are seeing strategy evolve from a ‘gut feel’ to a more data-driven approach,” Schug says.

According to Schug, though, a data-driven strategy in fleet management is more of a “shared understanding” developed and refined through the experiences of employees serving customers in the field.

“CEOs seldom innovate effectively,” Schug says. “The field and front-line management is the source of all great innovations; and they will be what leads our industry forward. Great firms recognize this and harness it in the development and execution of their strategy.”

Mark Yontz is a freelance writer from Urbandale, Iowa.

Source: http://www.servicetruckmagazine.com/get-ready-for-future-trucks-that-trouble-shoot-themselves/


4/25/18

Knapheide EC Series Service Body Walk Around




Watch Mike Soich, Regional Sales Manager, point out the industry-leading features found on Knapheide EC Series Service Bodies. See more about Knapheide products at www.knapheide.com

NISSAN TITAN XD Cummins. A real 3/4 Ton truck? Let's see!



A review of  2018 NISSAN TITAN XD Cummins.

4/24/18

New Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel Has Best-in-Class EPA-Estimated 30 MPG Highway Fuel Economy Rating

  • Efficient: 2018 F-150 3.0-liter Power Stroke® diesel has a best-in-class EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg highway
  • Powerful: First-ever F-150 Power Stroke diesel engine offers best-in-class 250 diesel horsepower and 440 lb.-ft. of torque
  • Capable: Diesel-equipped F-150 brings best-in-class diesel towing and payload capacity
DEARBORN, Mich., April 19, 2018 – The 2018 Ford F-150’s first 3.0-liter Power Stroke® diesel engine officially boasts EPA-estimated ratings of 30 mpg highway, 22 mpg city and 25 mpg combined. These are the highest EPA-estimated ratings available in a full-size pickup truck.
These benchmark figures are the result of more than a decade of work developing a lightweight high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body, a 10-speed SelectShift® transmission, and robust engine construction of aluminum and compacted graphite iron to deliver durability, reduced weight and stump-pulling torque.

“Even a few years ago, customers wouldn’t have imagined an EPA-estimated rating of 30 mpg highway would be possible in a full-size pickup, but our team of crazy-smart engineers rose to the challenge,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford executive vice president, product development and purchasing.
In addition to its leading fuel economy ratings, the all-new F-150 Power Stroke boasts best-in-class* diesel power – 250 horsepower and a stout 440 lb.-ft. of torque – greater torque than a 2019 Ram 1500 Hemi V8. It provides best-in-class diesel towing of 11,400 pounds for pulling boats, horses or RVs. The new engine also provides best-in-class diesel payload – 2,020 pounds for XL and XLT fleet applications, and 1,940 pounds for retail applications – to easily haul equipment, supplies or a slide-in camper.

F-150 Power Stroke diesel shares its proven commercial-grade technology with F-Series Super Duty’s 6.7-liter Power Stroke – America’s most powerful, capable heavy-duty pickup truck ever.
The 2018 Ford F-150 with all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine will begin shipping to dealers in May.

*Class is full-size pickups under 8,500 pounds. GVWR based on Ford segmentation.



About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 202,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

4/23/18

Buying a new Heavy Duty Pickup truck! The search begins!



The search for a new Heavy Duty Pickup truck!

Transfer Flow's 37 gallon Auxiliary Tank for Retractable Bed Covers



If you have a roll top bed cover in your truck, but still want more fuel capacity, then Transfer Flow has the right in-bed auxiliary tank for you! Our 37 gallon fuel tank fits snugly against most Pace-Edwards, and Truck Covers USA retractable covers, but can also fit under other brands and models. To make sure that your bed cover will fit with our tank, be sure to call our sales team at (800) 442-0056 To learn more about Transfer Flow's line of products go to https://www.transferflow.com/fuel-tanks

4/22/18

Cutting-edge technology at WTS18



Drone delivery vehicle, virtual reality, hybrids, alt-powered vehicles, it's all here at The Work Truck Show. http://www.worktruckshow.com

4/21/18

Nissan Smokin’ TITAN begins its road-tripping adventure to The Great TITAN Meat Up


NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan's Smokin' TITAN is fired up and ready to roll. The ultimate tailgating and barbecuing pickup truck1, unveiled last month at the  2018 Work Truck Show, has officially departed for a four-city tour en route to The Great TITAN Meat Up, where – for the first time ever – Smokin' TITAN will be fully utilized and put to the test during a cooking competition among media members and Nissan executives in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., April 27-28.

"Beginning as a TITAN XD King Cab straight from the Nissan Canton, Miss. Assembly Plant – where every TITAN and TITAN XD is assembled – Smokin' TITAN is a dream project vehicle for tailgating and barbecuing enthusiasts like myself, and I can't think of a better way to showcase it than at – and along the way to – The Great TITAN Meat Up," said Billy Hayes, division vice president, Nissan Regional Operations, and a brainchild behind the vehicle. "I am very excited to get out there and show the world what this truck can do!"

Smokin' TITAN BBQ Trail Road Trip
Following its departure from Idaho City today, Smokin' TITAN will visit the following cities and locations along the way to the Great TITAN Meat Up:
Updates will be posted along the route and at each location via the @NissanUSATrucks Instagram and Facebook page, and fans can utilize the hashtags #SmokinTITAN and #TITANMeatUp to join in the conversation.


Great TITAN Meat Up
On April 28 in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., the heat will be turned up a notch at the Great TITAN Meat Up. With celebrity chefs Cory Bahr and David Rose serving as official judges, each of the competing teams will be challenged to out-cook a Nissan executive team led by Hayes, an outdoor cooking enthusiast. Hayes will be joined on his team by Brian Maragno, director, EV Marketing & Sales; Tiago Castro, director, Light Commercial Vehicles Sales & Marketing; and Kevin Yeoh, senior manager, Truck and Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan Canada.
Competing against Hayes and his team will be five different media organizations, as well as a team from Nissan Canton Assembly, where the Smokin' TITAN and all TITAN and TITAN XD vehicles are assembled. Last weekend in Canton, Randall Jenkins and Jerome Staten, the “Nissan Smokers,” won a cook-off to earn the honor of representing Canton at the Great TITAN Meat Up.

Read the full story here: http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/releases/nissan-smokin-titan-begins-its-road-tripping-adventure-to-the-great-titan-meat-up

Roadside S2 E2 Road to SEMA 2




Fresh off the heels of three successful builds for SEMA...Jeremy & Frank are back again to finish up Frank's out of this world (literally) Tahoe and completely customize and modernize a C-10 set to debut at the SEMA show. Special thanks to American Racing, All-American Billet, Select Glass Inc, Grinder TV, Tre5 Customs, Ikandy Paintworks & Elevated Design.

24' Material Handling Flatbed With A Moffett Truck Mounted Forklift - Enoven Truck Body


Sam with Enoven Truck Body shows a 24' Flatbed fresh off the line with an 8000lb capacity Moffett forklift. See more at http://www.enovenind.com

4/20/18

Harbor PHVAC Van Interior


Plumbing Heating and Ventilation service technicians need to carry bottles of Nitro, CO2 or Brazing torch gases to pressure test systems, purge a system, blow out coils, or solder or repair lines. The Electrical/Telecom package is designed to satisfy your need with a 3-tank holder mounted off the rear shelf  panel, four (4) drawer packs, and a lockable storage compartment for valuable components. How about adding a drop-down rack for your different size ladders that help you get to that system? Keep your tanks at 40 cu.ft. or less if you have to carry them up the ladder!

Learn more at: http://htbi.net/


4/19/18

Nissan NV Cargo named ‘2018 Edmunds Best Retained Value Award’ winner


NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The 2018 Nissan NV Cargo commercial van is the "2018 Edmunds Best Retained Value Award" winner in the van category. The Edmunds Best Retained Value Awards represent the website's ongoing effort to highlight vehicle value for shoppers beyond the initial purchase price. The awards recognize the brands and models with the highest projected residual value after five years.

"Cost of ownership and operation is a critical factor in the commercial van segment, and the Nissan NV Cargo – with its rugged body-on-frame construction across the entire lineup – is designed as a true workhorse for commercial use2," said Tiago Castro, director, Light Commercial Vehicles Sales & Marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. "The Edmunds award for highest projected 5-year residual value is a great third party confirmation of the NV Cargo's high quality and durability."

The NV Cargo, along with the 4-row/12-passenger NV Passenger and NV200 compact van, is sold through select Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide. All NV models come with America's Best Commercial Van Warranty1 – featuring bumper-to-bumper coverage of 5 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first. See dealer for limited warranty details.

"Buying a new car is a huge financial decision, and our 2018 Edmunds Best Retained Value Awards are designed to help shoppers discover the vehicles that can help them get the most out of their investment," said Avi Steinlauf, Edmunds' CEO. "This year's winners underscore a commitment to quality and reliability, and are good bets to hold their value over the course of ownership."

About the 2018 Nissan NV Cargo
The 2018 Nissan NV Cargo van provides exceptional utility thanks to a long, wide cargo floor, square-top wheelwell housings and nearly vertical sidewalls – room enough to fit two 40x48-inch pallets, 10-foot piping or 4x8-foot drywall sheets. Along with maximizing cargo space, the sidewalls accommodate aftermarket storage systems without excessive modification. The Nissan NV Cargo provides rugged body-on-frame construction across the entire lineup, including an available High Roof with Body-on-Frame construction – the only van in the segment3 to offer this, providing most users the ability to walk, stand and work in the cargo area.

For the 2018 model year, all NV Cargo grades come equipped with standard RearView Monitor, 5.0-inch color display audio (5.8-inch standard on SL grade), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant and USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices. In addition, the previous Power Package option content – power windows with driver's side one-touch down, power door locks with central locking, and Remote Keyless Entry – is now standard on S grade.

The 2018 Nissan NV Cargo is offered in three well-equipped models – the V6-equipped NV1500; the NV2500 HD, which is offered with V6 and V8 engines; and the NV3500 HD with a standard V8 engine. All three models are available with the Standard Roof, while the High Roof body is offered in the NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD models only.

The Nissan NV Cargo is assembled by Nissan North America in Canton, Mississippi. It is available through a select network of authorized Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide. For more information, please go to nissancommercialvehicles.com.

 


About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and has been recognized annually by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year since 2010. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and INFINITI vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com and www.infinitiusa.com, or visit the U.S. media sites nissannews.com and infinitinews.com.

About Nissan Motor Co. 
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 247,500 employees globally, Nissan sold 5.32 million vehicles and generated revenue of 11.38 trillion yen (USD 103.6 billion) in fiscal year 2014. Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of more than 60 models under the Nissan, INFINITI and Datsun brands. Nissan leads the world in zero-emission mobility, dominated by sales of the LEAF, the first mass-market, pure-electric vehicle. It is the best-selling EV in history with almost 50% share of the zero-emission vehicle segment. For more information on our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.

Source:  http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/releases/nissan-nv-cargo-named-2018-edmunds-best-retained-value-award-winner


Tank Choice Affects Alt-Fuel Efficiency

The advantages of propane autogas tanks, include the ability to get them in a number of shapes, including toroidial, which doesn't compromise cargo space. Photo: Worthington Industries

While today’s lower cost of traditional fuels may have shrunk the market for alt-fuel vehicles, they can still make economic sense for light-duty fleets.

One of the often-overlooked aspects to choosing the most efficient alt-fuel system is the choice of fuel tank, according to Chris Hanners, product manager for alternative fuels for Worthington Industries.

Worthington supplies both propane autogas and compressed natural gas (CNG) tanks for light-duty vehicles.


CNG tanks come in two types: Type III, which has an aluminum inner liner, and Type IV, which has a bladder made of plastic. The tanks are then wrapped in carbon fiber. Worthington supplies Type III tanks, which Hanners said has several advantages.

“It has superior fast fill capabilities, 25% more storage capacity because you can fill it 100%, and, thus, better range,” he said. “It also has no filling restrictions.”

One of the added benefits of choosing a Type III tank — no matter the manufacturer — is that the added capacity may mean that a fleet may need fewer tanks to get the same range. This also decreases vehicle weight, increasing fuel efficiency. The cylindrical design of CNG tanks means that light-duty sedan and truck fleets that choose to use CNG may have to accept a loss of cargo capacity. In sedans, the tanks are often mounted in the trunk space, and in light-duty trucks in the bed. Truck fleets can counteract this loss of space by spec'ing a longer bed length, but this could add costs to the vehicle.

If a fleet decides on propane autogas, it will have the option of choosing from a number of shapes, including toroidal, which can fit in the spare tire void in a sedan trunk or under the bed of a light-duty pickup.

“Because the tank can fit in the spare tire space, you still have 100% of your trunk cargo space,” Hanners observed. “On the commercial side, you’ll have 100% of a light-duty truck bed or van cargo space.”

All propane autogas tanks are made of steel, thus add weight to the vehicle. Hanners said that Worthington has solved this issue by using lighter-weight steel, which cuts the weight of the tanks by about 30%.

Source:  http://www.greenfleetmagazine.com/channel/natural-gas/article/story/2016/04/tank-choice-affects-alt-fuel-efficiency.aspx

4/18/18

Transfer Flow In-Bed Fuel Tanks

Double or Triple your pickup's fuel capacity 
with an in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system



Increase your pickup’s fuel capacity and driving range with an in-bed auxiliary fuel tank systems from Transfer Flow! Transfer Flow in-bed auxiliary tanks are available in 37, 50, 75, 98 and 100 gallons, and are available in sturdy aluminized steel and bright diamond plate. Transfer Flow fuel tanks are fully baffled to minimize fuel sloshing and come complete with all necessary installation components and detailed instructions (some pickups require a fillneck kit or tee). Using the patented technology of our TRAX 3™ or our MaxFlo-TFI™ operating system, the transfer process is entirely automatic and 100% worry free! Exclusive design features allow some tanks to be used in conjunction with other popular cargo accessories such as retractable truck bed covers and tonneau covers. Let us "fuel your adventures" with a safe, legal and durable in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system from Transfer Flow!

See all the models at: http://www.transferflow.com/fuel-tanks/in-bed

4/17/18

WALTCO WDV Railgate



The sleek heavy duty railgate for maximum strength and top reliability

The Evolution of the Harbor Landscaper Pro Body




Our original Harbor Master Landscaper Body has evolved. Our customers are always looking for better ways and we are adapting our bodies to meet those needs. We now have three Harbor Landscaper Bodies in our lineup. First, we have the original Master Landscaper that comes with MDO Plywood Gates with dual side exterior laminate, Rear latch swing away rear steel frame gates that lock to side for dumping. 

To that great body, we have added the Harbor Pro Landscaper which adds a back of cab 24" storage box that is about cab high. The curbside of the box has three shelves and a pull-out deep steel drawer on Teflon® bushings. This compartment goes almost all the way to the other side so it will carry long tools, gardening equipment, etc. and keep it safe and out of sight. 





The other side has a 22" deep compartment for smaller items and/or parts. It is available with one or more underbed boxes to match for additional space. Since this 24" box is in place, a typical 84" CA truck that would take a 12' Landscaper, now would have a 10' Landscape Dump and the 24" storage box. Many customers still prefer the 12' and this just requires the cab chassis to have a 108" CA. The Pro Landscaper has the same MDO Plywood sides and rear gate as the Master Landscaper.

4/16/18

Snow sweeping from Roof --Scania G440 with a Palfinger crane



A Scania G440 with a Palfinger PK34002.SH crane and jibb Clearing / sweeping snow from a roof with a hydraulic rotary broom

4/15/18

The Work Truck Show 2018 - Knapheide Mfg



Held March 5-9 in Indianapolis, The Work Truck Show 2018 is our largest show of the year. Check out the new and updated products, including our all-new aluminum lineup of bodies, we presented at the show.

Alternative Fuel Signage Update



Alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) powered by electricity, natural gas, hydrogen and propane are growing in popularity. Availability and awareness of fueling stations is an important consideration in supporting the growth of the AFV marketplace. This webinar focused on corridor, general service and specific service signage and associated issues for AFV fueling stations.

4/14/18

Kargo Master Van Equipment



Kargo Master offers wide varieties of van equipment, van shelving, and other van storage systems. Visit KargoMaster.com for more information!

4/13/18

2017 Nissan Titan HALF TON (1500) V8 Pick Up Truck TECH REVIEW



MotoMan takes another look at the new Nissan Titan – this time the Half Ton version (1500). In this TECH REVIEW, he goes through the key differences between the 2016 Nissan Titan XD Pick Up Truck and the smaller, more volume Nissan Titan model - the 1500 equivalent 2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pick Up truck. Some of the differences are readliy apparent – like the frame – but others are harder to spot . . .

Reading Truck | RVSL Steelhawk | Product Walk-Through



At the 2018 NTEA Work Truck Show, Reading Truck unveiled its newest enclosed van body, the RVSL STEELHAWK. Built to meet the overwhelming demand for a steel enclosed body that fits the Ford Transit Cutaway, the RVSL Steelhawk introduces the newest generation of reengineered Ready Van SL (RVSL) bodies. Watch this comprehensive walk-through of the newest addition to the Reading product line.

4/11/18

American Eagle Drawer Systems



American Eagle Accessories Group manufactures heavy duty truck mounted drawer systems (Toolboxes) for your service truck. 500-pound capacity drawer slides make these drawers unsurpassed in the market. They even carry a limited LIFETIME warranty!

Visit http://www.truckutilities.com/American-Eagle-Drawers.html

The Impact Tour: Truckfitters Houston



Ranch Hand Impact Tour

4/10/18

Colorado ZR2 Wins Multiple 2018 TFLtruck Awards

2018 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

DETROIT — The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 was named both 2018 Gold Hitch Truck of the Year as well as 2018 Gold Hitch Best Off-Road Truck by TFLtruck.  “TFLtruck is one of the opinion leaders in the truck world and a top publication dedicated to pickups,” said Sandor Piszar, director of Marketing, Chevrolet Truck. “We’re honored that they recognize how strong of a contender ZR2 is, not only among midsize pickups but off-road vehicles of all kinds.”

TFLtruck’s team praised ZR2’s combination of “qualities of a capable off-road vehicle” along with its “ease of use and comfort as a daily driver” in selecting it as the co-winner of the 2018 Gold Hitch Truck of the Year. The team also commended the truck’s standard Multimatic DSSV dampers and their ability to “handle rough terrain” while also offering a “confident and comfortable ride on the street and highway.”

As part of the voting criteria for the 2018 Gold Hitch Best Off-Road Truck, the competitors were tested on the Cliffhanger 2.0 off-road trail in the Colorado Rockies. The trail features a 20 percent incline with “many large, loose rocks, a Truth-or-Dare split, and a large rock obstacle near the top” called Razor’s Bend.

TFLtruck praises ZR2’s “ground clearance, approach angle, front and rear lockers, Goodyear Duratrac tires and the truck’s midsize dimensions” as qualities that helped carry the truck “to the top of the mountain” as the 2018 Gold Hitch Best Off-Road Truck.

The ZR2 is effectively a segment of one, combining the nimbleness and maneuverability of a midsize pickup with a host of new off-road features and technology.

Compared to a standard Colorado, the ZR2 features a 3-and-a-half-inch wider track and a suspension with a 2-inch lift from the factory. Functional rocker protection has been added for better performance over rocks and obstacles, and the front and rear bumpers were modified for better off-road clearance.

Class-exclusive features include front and rear electronic locking differentials, an available diesel engine and the first off-road application of Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSVTM) damper technology.

As a result, the Colorado ZR2 delivers exceptional performance in a variety of scenarios, from technical rock crawling to tight two-track trails to high-speed desert running to daily driving.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.


4/09/18

Refinement Ventures Off-Road with All-New Sierra AT4


2019 GMC Sierra AT4


NEW YORK — GMC redefines the off-road space by introducing the all-new 2019 Sierra AT4. For the first time ever, the Sierra AT4 delivers a unique formula of authentic off-road capability and innovative technology paired with premium refinement and a bold appearance expected from GMC.

“The 2019 Sierra AT4 is designed for the customer who wants an elevated presence on the road and the capability to venture off life’s beaten path,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global GMC. “It’s also the beginning for the AT4 brand, which will be seen on every vehicle in our lineup in the next two years.”

Standard content on the 2019 Sierra AT4 includes:
•    2-inch factory-installed suspension lift
•    Standard 4WD with a two-speed transfer case, locking rear differential and skid plates
•    Off-road-tuned Rancho monotube shock absorbers
•    18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires or available mud terrain-rated Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tire, or available 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
•    Exclusive wheel design with machined-face, dark-tinted appearance
•    Hill Descent Control
•    Traction Select System
•    GMC exclusive, industry-first MultiPro Tailgate
•    Black chrome finish on the fog lamp bezels, fender surround and grille insert
•    Body-color grille surround, door handles and bumper
•    Exclusive athletic interior trim elements
•    Red vertical recovery hooks
•    Standard 5.3L V-8 engine

Available content on the 2019 Sierra AT4 includes:
•    Segment-first Multi-Color Head-Up Display
•    Segment-first Rear Camera Mirror
•    GMC exclusive, industry-first Carbon Fiber Pickup Box
•    A full suite of advanced safety features* including Surround Vision, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking
•    6.2L V-8 or Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission

*Read the vehicle's owner's manual for important feature limitations and information.



Dark, Distinguished Appearance
Building on the commanding presence of the next generation 2019 Sierra, the new Sierra AT4 enhances its confident, broad-shouldered stance with sophisticated, functional design elements that support its off-road capability.

“The 2019 Sierra is the boldest expression ever for GMC’s full-size pickup, and the new AT4 reinforces its essence of capability with distinctive, athletic cues,” said Matt Noone, director of design, GMC Exteriors. “From every angle, it conveys GMC’s premium yet functional design language.” 

The Sierra AT4 has a unique look driven by dark exterior finishes and modern detailing. The front and rear bumpers and the grille surround are finished in body color, while the bold grille design with its rugged, knurled texture is finished in black chrome set off by the Sierra’s bold, C-shaped LED lighting signature.

Additional accent details such as the LED fog lamp bezels and fender trim continue the use of black chrome, while a premium high-gloss black finish is applied to the window trim, mirror caps and skid plate. Touches of red complete the package and make the AT4 stand out with subtle detailing in the Sierra’s all-new AT4 signature emblems and bold, unique vertical tow hooks. The exterior details create a distinct and modern personality for the AT4 that projects GMC confidence and capability.

The interior also carries AT4-specific darkened trim, including dark-tinted and textured aluminum finishes on the steering wheel, center stack and sill plates, as well as a unique Jet Black/Kalahari color accents in the seats and live stitching. Leather-appointed seating with embroidered AT4 badging on the headrests and all-weather floormats are standard and support our customers’ active lifestyles and AT4’s mission of delivering capability with uncompromising durability and comfort.

Authentic Off-road Capability
Sierra AT4 comes standard with a factory installed 2-inch suspension lift that provides additional ground clearance and four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case that includes low-range four-wheel-drive gearing for extremely tough conditions.

Sierra AT4 also includes standard off-road tuned Rancho monotube shock absorbers, a locking rear differential and Hill Descent Control, a driver assistance feature that leverages the anti-lock braking system to enable smooth, controlled descents on steep grades without the driver having to touch the brake pedal under certain conditions. The locking rear differential directs engine power equally to both rear wheels for the greatest traction on slippery or uneven terrain.




The Sierra AT4 boasts innovative technologies that optimize capability and elevate driver confidence.

    Traction Select System allows the driver to choose from preset drive modes that have been tailored for different terrain or weather conditions. Selecting one of these modes adjusts Sierra’s transmission shift points, throttle mapping and StabiliTrak to optimize performance for the situation at hand.
    Segment-first Multi-Color Head-Up Display projects key, customizable vehicle data, including an off-road inclinometer, on the windshield in a 3x7-inch display. The off-road inclinometer shows the fore-and-aft tilt, front tire angle and left-and-right tilt.
    Surround Vision is available on Sierra AT4 and provides the driver with a bird’s-eye view through an overhead image on the infotainment screen. It can prove useful when slowly maneuvering in tight quarters, be it within a parking garage or out on a challenging trail.
    All-new ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App offers a connected, comprehensive suite of trailering technology that brings more confidence to the towing experience than ever before in a Sierra.

Groundbreaking Cargo Box Capability and Materials
Debuting first on the 2019 Sierra Denali and SLT, the all-new Sierra AT4 also comes standard with the industry-first MultiPro Tailgate — the segment’s most innovative tailgate ever. The MultiPro Tailgate features six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode and easier access to items in the box.

Later in the model year, the 2019 Sierra AT4 will offer an available GMC exclusive and industry-first carbon fiber box — the CarbonPro — developed to increase the truck's durability, efficiency and functionality. It replaces the standard steel inner panels and floor with a lightweight, purpose-designed carbon fiber composite that offers best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance, making it the most durable pickup box in the segment.

The CarbonPro box combined with our MultiPro Tailgate makes the task of loading and unloading objects such as motorcycles or quads much easier than ever before. The CarbonPro box was designed specifically with three molded in wheel indents in the front bulkhead of the box to locate and secure the front tires. Thanks to added tie-down hooks located in the corners and center bulkhead, and new centralized LED lighting, the task of loading and securing motorcycles and bikes has never been easier. A 110V outlet in the rear routes power to the tools and supplies needed for a day at the track or on the trails.

When it comes to the space and storage vital to truck customers, the 2019 Sierra AT4 delivers innovative solutions. The cargo boxes offer best-in-class cargo volume of 63 cubic feet (1,784 liters) on the short box and continues to be made of roll-formed, high-strength steel, yet a revised alloy offers 50 percent more strength than the current model.
Available GearOn accessory rails within the box allow for bike racks, kayak carriers and other accessories to be installed or adjusted quickly and easily. The rails’ integrated position makes cargo more accessible and frees up space in the rest of the box.

The rear seat backs open to reveal two 10-liter rectangular storage spaces large enough for tablets, tie-down cords or other personal accessories, as well as a large 24-liter storage tray under the second-row seat that can secure all your gear while you’re on the go.

Sierra AT4 Performance
Sierra AT4 features new versions of the proven 6.2L and 5.3L V-8 engines along with all-new Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel engine. The available 6.2L and 3.0L engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The 5.3L and 6.2L engines feature stop/start technology and new Dynamic Fuel Management that enables the engine to operate on one to eight cylinders, depending on demand, to optimize power and efficiency.

The GMC Sierra AT4 goes on sale this fall.

About GMC
With a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 and now selling in a dozen countries across the world, GMC offers purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest standard. From the all-new compact SUV Terrain to the Sierra HD, our trucks and crossovers deliver GMC’s signature combination of intuitive technologies and premium execution, with the popular Denali sub-brand representing the pinnacle of GMC design, performance and amenities. Details on all GMC models are available at www.gmc.com, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at www.facebook.com/gmc.

Best 2018 RAM DUALLY package for heavy towing! You'll see why! Part 1



BIG Truck - BIG RV - SPECIAL THANKS TO Lithia RAM of Corpus Christi TX

4/08/18

TRACTOR TRAILER SEMI SCALE SYSTEM ALL AIR SUSPENSION




The Vulcan all-digital air scale system for tractor / trailer combinations provides an accurate way to obtain axle and/or payload weights. Corrosion resistant, stainless steel air sensors provide a rugged and reliable solution well suited to meet the requirements of on-board trucking applications. Air sensors are altitude and temperature compensated to enhance performance and accuracy. Vulcan VSL electronics allow unlimited mixing of tractors and trailers without any adjustments.

Learn more at: http://www.vulcanscales.com/index.php/general-trucking/tractor-trailer-semi/


4/07/18

Nissan e-NV200 WORKSPACe: First all-electric mobile office


Nissan has collaborated with Studio Hardie to create the first all-electric vehicle e-NV200 WORKSPACe - a clever one-off vehicle offering a cost-effective desk space solution as flexible working and hot-desking trends grow worldwide. The electric van WORKSPACe features a hidden coffee machine, wifi, wireless charging, a touch screen PC, mini fridge, smartphone lighting system and much more. For more information: www.facebook.com/nissan

Spec'ing for Vehicle Weight Reduction & Maximizing Payload Efficiencies


There’s little argument among fleet managers and upfitters — spec’ing a truck or van is a complicated process involving numerous decisions and considerations that take time and careful planning.

Of the dozens of decisions that need to be made, vehicle weight is among the crucial considerations that isn't always fully evaluated before a vehicle order is made. A truck or van spec may give special attention on lightweight body materials to save weight, but less lightweighting attention to upfit components, e.g., bins, racks, or a crane, that will also impact weight. The vehicle body and upfit components must be part of the lightweighting equation to achieve overall efficiency.

Read Full Article: http://www.worktruckonline.com/channel/safety-accident-management/whitepapers/detail/spec-ing-for-vehicle-weight-reduction-maximizing-payload-efficiencies.aspx

4/06/18

The new Chevrolet Media Silverados are a big surprise for commercial truck customers.



The new Chevrolet Media Silverados are a big surprise for commercial truck customers. 

After mocking the introduction of the first Silverado brand of class 4 and 5 of medium-duty chassis cabins a couple of months ago, Chevy showed up at The Work Truck Show in Indianapolis on Wednesday with a Class 6 version in tow. That puts the automaker with Ford in each segment of trucks in Class 7. The new Silverado 4500, 5500 and 6500 were developed in partnership with Navistar and mark the return of Chevrolet to the medium-service segment with an internally designed model after an absence of 10 years. It has been filling the void in recent years with Isuzu retro-style low pickups.

The Silverados are powered by a version of the existing 6.6-liter Duramax V8 from Chevy that has been designed to produce 350 hp and 700 pounds of torque in this application. That's 50 horsepower more than the F-series trucks and the same amount of torque, but the Silverado 6500 has a maximum of 22,500 pounds of gross vehicular weight GVWR while the F-650 is available in a version with a GVWR higher than 29,000 pounds.

Chevy is trumpeting other design features it hopes will help its trucks stay separate, including a factory-painted flat frame with wiring inserted inside to simplify accessories, an available rear air suspension system and a sloping composite hood of light front. Interior amenities include the Chevy Apple CarPlay and the infotainment system equipped with Android Auto and an integrated 4G Wi-Fi hotspot.

 SOURCE: SCIENCE AND MORE

4/05/18

Introducing Transfer Flow's TRAX 3™ Fuel Monitoring System!



The next generation of Transfer Flow's TRAX auxiliary fuel tank operating system is here! TRAX 3™ is a computer controlled, self-diagnosing fuel monitoring system that transfers fuel from your Transfer Flow auxiliary fuel tank to your main fuel tank. For your peace of mind, the TRAX 3™ computer module constantly monitors fuel levels in both tanks. Now, you’ll always know the percentage of fuel in your Transfer Flow auxiliary fuel tank and main fuel tank!

FMVSS 111 Explained with 2018 Updates | NTEA 2018



FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) 111 is a law coming into full effect on May 1st 2018 which requires a minimum view behind a vehicle which has a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or lower. Watch to learn all the details involved and how backup cameras can help your vehicle be compliant with this new regulation.

4/04/18

Comparing A Royal Low Profile and Standard Height Service Body



Terry Minion of Commercial Truck Success compares a Royal Low Profile service body with a standard height service body and showing the benefits of each.

4/03/18

Pulltarps Systems Demonstration



Pullltarps Manual System, Cable System and Arm System are showcased in our mobile demonstration truck.

Navistar Unveils NEW International MV Work Truck



Navistar completed an overhaul of its International truck brand line Wednesday with the unveiling of its International MV, a medium-duty work truck at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis.

4/02/18

Biggest Chevy Silverado ever debuts at work truck show



Chevy unveiled three Silverado chassis cab trucks that could form the basis for everything from utility bucket trucks to beer vans at the Work Truck show in Indianapolis.

4/01/18

Palfinger at The Work Truck Show 2018



Palfinger at The Work Truck Show 2018

Kargo Master Van Equipment


Kargo Master offers wide varieties of van equipment, van shelving, and other van storage systems. Visit KargoMaster.com for more information