The Complete Process: Aluminum Truck Bodies from Knapheide

Our new aluminum truck bodies feature a no compromise design, underwent rigorous testing and are constructed using cutting-edge manufacturing. We took customer first, collaboration and continuous improvement to a whole new level.

Calling All TITANs: Next Ultimate TITAN build to be unveiled live Tuesday, March 5

INDIANAPOLIS – Tune in Tuesday, March 5th at 3:30 PM EST to the @NissanUSATrucks
for a live unveiling of the Ultimate Work TITAN¹ – the second in a series of three Ultimate TITAN builds created as part of the Calling All TITANs campaign.

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., Ltd.
Nissan is a global full-line vehicle manufacturer that sells more than 60 models under the Nissan, INFINITI and Datsun brands. In fiscal year 2017, the company sold 5.77 million vehicles globally, generating revenue of 11.9 trillion yen. On April 1, 2017, the company embarked on Nissan M.O.V.E. to 2022, a six-year plan targeting a 30% increase in annualized revenues to 16.5 trillion yen by the end of fiscal 2022, along with cumulative free cash flow of 2.5 trillion yen. As part of Nissan M.O.V.E. to 2022, the company plans to extend its leadership in electric vehicles, symbolized by the world's best-selling all-electric vehicle in history, the Nissan LEAF. Nissan's global headquarters in Yokohama, Japan, manages operations in six regions: Asia & Oceania; Africa, the Middle East & India; China; Europe; Latin America; and North America. Nissan has partnered with French manufacturer Renault since 1999 and acquired a 34% stake in Mitsubishi Motors in 2016. The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance sold 10.76 million vehicles combined in calendar year 2018.
For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissan-global.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

^{1. Custom vehicle not available for purchase.}

Green Truck Summit at the 2019 Work Truck Show

When and where

Tuesday, March 5
JW Marriott Indianapolis
8:30 a.m.–5 p. m.

Green Truck Summit & Fleet Technical Congress Conference & Trade Show Package registrants have the opportunity to attend March 5 general sessions for both events as well as Work Truck Show concurrent sessions on March 5–7.

Learn more at:  http://www.worktruckshow.com/greentrucksummit

Cummins celebrates 100 years

Cummins kicks off its centennial celebration with a simple message: “Challenge the Impossible.”

VMAC G30 SOLVES COMMON AIR COMPRESSOR CHALLENGES

To celebrate the recent launch of the VMAC G30 Gas Engine Driven Air Compressor, now powered by Honda, VMAC ran a G30 Giveaway Contest. (Watch the video on our Facebook page!) In this contest we asked entrants to answer three simple questions. One of these questions asked fleet managers and operators what their top challenges with their current truck-mounted air compressors are. Here are the results:

Common Air Compressor Challenges

With seven options to choose from, the top three results were size, air output and weight, accounting for almost 60% of the responses. The VMAC G30 was designed and engineered to address the concerns fleet managers and operators have with their current equipment.

SIZE

VMAC G30 Gas Drive Air CompressorAir compressor size was the number one challenge our survey identified. The VMAC G30 is 50% smaller* than other competitive air compressors, measuring just 34” (l) x 21.5” (w) x 24” (h), making it small enough to fit on the side pack of a single rear wheel service body. The compact size frees up to 15 cubic feet on the truck body, and leaves more room in the back of the truck for supplies, tools, and equipment. Another bonus is that visibility is improved, as the short height of the G30 means it won’t obstruct the view in the rear window.

AIR OUTPUT

Not only is the G30 compact, it is also powerful—50% more powerful* than other competitive air compressors. Producing 30 CFM 100% of the time, the G30 can operate at 100% duty cycle, which means you won’t have to wait for air to build, and you can work without interruption, thanks to continuous air supply. The G30 doesn’t need a large air receiver tank either, which aids in the size challenge.

WEIGHT

Weight challenges are minimized with the VMAC G30, which weighs 50% less* than other competitive air compressors. Weighing just 205 lbs (93 kg), the G30 is over 200 lbs lighter. Not only does every pound of GVW count when building a truck service body, especially because vehicle weight restrictions vary by state, but the Environmental Protection Agency reports that for every 100 lbs of weight reduction, a vehicle’s fuel economy can increase by up to 2%. This means that with 200lbs less weight, the VMAC G30 can save you up to 4% in truck fuel costs.

*Compared to competing 22 to 30 CFM reciprocating gas engine driven air compressors, with 30-gallon air receiver tank.

OPERATING IN COLD TEMPERATURES

Respondents in Canada and the Northeast and Midwestern states noted operating air compressors in cold temperatures to be particularly challenging. To ensure the air compressor can operate in extreme cold, a cold climate kit can be installed on the G30. The G30 with cold climate kit is proven to start-up at temperatures of -30°C (-22°F).**

**Due diligence and additional care may be required for prolonged operation in temperatures reaching below -15°C (5°F).

TRANSFERABILITY

The VMAC G30’s lightweight and compact design makes it easier to transfer than heavier air compressors weighing over 400 lbs. The lifting hook makes for easy installation on the service truck as well.

MAINTENANCE

The VMAC G30 is easy to maintain, with servicing recommended every 200 hours or every 6 months. The compressor is oil injected; oil forms a seal between the rotors so they don’t wear against each other. The G30 compressor doesn’t contain any gears, reed-valves, piston rings, or components that will fatigue or become fouled, which means with proper servicing and operation, the compressor should never require rebuilding. The G30 comes with a VMAC Lifetime Limited Warranty, and the reliable Honda GX390 engine comes with a 3-year warranty (limited).

OPERATING IN HOT TEMPERATURES

Operating air compressors in hot temperatures was a concern for some operators and fleet managers, predominately those located in areas like Texas, Virginia, Arizona, and California. The G30 is proven to operate at temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) and is protected by a compressor oil temperature switch that opens at 140°C (284°F) and shuts down and disables the engine until the oil temperature drops below 139°C (282°F).

MINIMIZE CHALLENGES WITH THE VMAC G30

Each of these seven challenges can be addressed with upgrading your air compressor to the VMAC G30 Gas Engine Driven Air Compressor. Not only is it 50% smaller, 50% lighter, and 50% more powerful, but it is also proven to operate in the most extreme climates. It’s also easy to transfer and maintain, allowing you to spend your time on the job, not struggling with your equipment.

Learn more about the VMAC G30, or find a dealer. You can also find a VMAC Sales Rep—they’ll be happy to answer your questions, and provide you with a demo of the air compressor, so you can see the G30 in action for yourself.

INVOLVE YOUR TECHS WITH SPEC'ING WORK TRUCKS

 

Many business owners or fleet and equipment managers cringe when the time comes to purchase new work trucks. When you don’t work out of the vehicle that is being purchased, it can be a challenge to understand the daily application and requirements. Incorrectly “spec’ing” the vehicle translates into lost ROI, safety issues and unhappy techs.

Many companies choose one extreme or the other when it comes to input from the techs that actually use the vehicle. Either the techs get little to no input on the new work trucks or the company leaves it up to the techs entirely. The best approach, for both the company and techs, is to establish a collaborative process. One that values the perspective of the technicians while taking into account the position and direction of the company. Read on to discover how.
On the side of technicians...

The work truck is the mobile office of the technician. It can also serve as the shop, break area and more. Regardless if they are HVAC techs, plumbers, or electricians, they all depend on their work truck on a daily basis. With the next work truck purchase approaching, be sure to gather this information from the techs to ensure it is set up to be efficient and safe.

•     Thoroughly understand what is stored on the vehicle. Are there a lot of hand tools that can be found quicker if a set of mechanics drawers are provided? Do they carry a lot of hardware or small parts that warrant parts bins. Does any larger equipment (think ladders) or materials (think pipes) eat up too much space in the bed? If the tech spends 15 minutes on every jobsite just trying to locate and retrieve what they need on the vehicle, it is time to increase organization which will lead to better efficiency.
•     Are there repetitive motions being performed that put the tech at risk of injury while on the job? For instance, are they stepping up and down on a tall bumper or lifting heavy components or equipment in and out of the bed? Items like cable steps mounted to the bumper or collapsable cargo area cranes can alleviate these dangerous repetitive motions. Without asking, you may never uncover these issues.
•     While creature comforts in the cab may seem like just convenience to you, for the tech they may make the difference between happy on the job and feeling appreciated or hating to go to work every day. These can be as small as power windows or as big as remote start.
•     Last, but certainly not least, are safety and security. Is the tech having rear visibility issues when reversing on a jobsite or attempting to hook up to a trailer? Are their tools and equipment commonly stolen when working in high-theft areas? Investing in rear vision cameras and enhanced security options can make a huge difference in the safety and security of the work truck.

On the side of business owners and fleet/equipment managers…

While work trucks can be a major expense, business owners and fleet managers also realize work trucks are a major contributor to revenue. However, with all businesses there are budgets to maintain. No one understands the position of the company better than a business owner or fleet manager. Be sure to take the following items into account prior to the next work truck purchases.

•     The jobs that are being done today may change dramatically a few years down the road, depending on the growth and direction of the company and the industry. Many companies will keep work trucks in service for a long period, some for 10 years or more. Keep this in mind as the work trucks may need to transition along with the business.
•     Cost will always be a major limiting factor with work truck purchases. While the techs may want the Cadillac, that can’t always be the outcome. Maximize the value by creating the best work truck possible with the money that has been allocated.
•     Maintenance costs can drain the ROI directly out of a work truck. Spec a work truck that has a solid reputation of reliability and performance. Sometimes, the best place to obtain this info is from other business owners or fleet managers.

Remember, take into account both sides of the coin in order to produce the best possible work truck.

Source:  https://www.knapheide.com/news/blog/2018/05/involve-your-techs-with-specing-work-trucks

EZ STAK - Your one stop shop

EZ STAK is an industry leader and manufacturer of modular interior storage systems for work trucks, service bodies, vans and trailers. We pride ourselves on delivering custom-fit and turnkey solutions, so whether you need a work-ready trailer, upfits to van interiors or just cabinets for your fleet, we’ve got you covered. And because we only use products made of high-grade aluminum or galvanized steel, they’re built to last — an average of 12 years, in fact.

Ford Motor Company: Chicago Assembly Plant Announcement | Innovation | Ford

Ford Motor Company announces an investment in the Chicago Assembly Plant and plans to spend $1 billion to create and retain jobs. This assembly plant will focus on building the all-new 2020 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator and Ford Police Interception Utility, showcasing our commitment to American manufacturing.

Cummins History: 1931 Coast-to-Coast with Clessie Cummins

Determined to top a coast-to-coast record held by GM's gas engine, Clessie Cummins set out with a diesel-powered cargo truck on a route from New York City to Los Angeles in August 1931.

Carry It On Top - Masterack Ladder Racks for Every Type of Commercial Van

Masterack has a ladder rack for every type of commercial van, plus accessories to customize a package to your particular need. Choose from the original Masterack Locking Rack, the ergonomic Slide-Down Rack, the effortless PowerRack, or the economical heavy-duty Utility Rack.

 

To find out more, you may call Harbor Truck Bodies at 800-433-9452.

Also find us at http://htbi.net/

Van Hoist System moving a Welder

Available from National Fleet Products: https://www.nationalfleetproducts.com/light-duty

Ranch Hand at 2018 SEMA "The Impact Experience"

Thanks to all those who came out and supported us at The SEMA Show this year! We hope you all enjoyed the experience. If you didn't get a chance to come out to SEMA, here's a quick glimpse of what took place!

Harbor 3-Piece Raised Cargo Bed Enclosure, Material Rack and Conduit Box

Store and Secure your tools, materials and equipment

in your Harbor Service Body

This Harbor body includes an optional 3-piece cargo bed enclosure installed on the service body to keep those items in there out of sight and out of mind. The top opens up two thirds of the bed area when opened and glides smoothly on teflon pads. The other unique thing on this is the way the rear is finished. Most commonly, the rear would be barn doors with no tailgate and this one retained the tail gate also has modified the  barn doors with a HD lock assembly to boot.

This unit has a HD material rack with a conduit box and master lock system to make life easy on the job site.

This rig has plenty of storage and security. See more from Harbor at www.htbi.net

Winter Weather Reminder from OSHA.

 

KANSAS CITY, MO – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reminds employers to stay vigilant when it comes to weather-related hazards that can put employees at risk when temperatures plummet in winter months.

Slippery roads and surfaces, frigid temperatures, and carbon monoxide fumes from engines, generators, and heaters are among the hazards that can lead to employee injuries and illnesses during the season. Working outdoors in excessively cold environments or without adequate protection – such as thermal clothing, gloves, and hats – can cause serious loss of surface and internal body temperature. Cold environments also increase risk factors associated with physical exertion, including dehydration, and existing health conditions.

OSHA offers winter weather resources to help protect employees from cold stress and hazards that are present when clearing heavy snow around workplaces and from rooftops, driving on icy roads, and coming across downed power lines.

Employers should perform preventative maintenance and inspect equipment before use, monitor carbon monoxide levels in workplaces, operate gas-powered equipment only in well-ventilated areas, and prevent blockages in ventilation and exhaust systems after snowfalls and when ice forms.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.

Fleet Technical Congress ar 2019 Work Truck Show

 

Fleet Technical Congress presents strategies and processes to help fleet managers take advantage of the technology revolution and find creative solutions to enhance fleet operations.
Key topics

• Disaster recovery planning
• Strategies to secure fuel supplies
• Using data to design work trucks
• Ensuring a reliable fleet power supply
• Last-mile delivery

 Learn more at: http://www.worktruckshow.com/fleettechnicalcongress