Point/Counterpoint: Fleet managers on the effectiveness of today’s batteries
We’ve been over the dangers of parasitic loads and the methods that can help prevent them. But what do fleet managers think? Are they finding problems with today’s batteries being able to handle the new technology in trucks? We interviewed two fleet managers, and got two drastically different answers. Batteries aren’t an issue… “We run
Equipment options that can help avoid parasitic loads
Each of FE’s interviewed battery manufacturers on the topic of parasitic loads were quick to mention the products they offer that will help trucks avoid parasitic load issues. Exide recommends their Road Force AGM 200, which they say has two times better cycling and 40% greater charge acceptance when compared to conventional flooded batteries, for
When it comes to parasitic loads, don’t forget about lighting
Batteries may be the item most affected by hotel and parasitic loads, but they’re far from the only aspect of the truck affected. Spec’ing the proper lights is also crucial to the truck’s electrical stability. Most lighting manufacturers recommend LED lighting as the best option, as it draws significantly less power from the truck; while
Keep the truck running: Fighting parasitic loads
Recruiting and retaining experienced, high-quality drivers is a challenge. The job demands long hours on the road away from family. To keep up with driver demand and support recruitment efforts, many of today’s trucks are decked out with all the latest in technology: GPS; TVs; refrigerators; entertainment systems; you name it. While this is certainly
Bostrom Seating introduces new Wide Ride seat
Bostrom Seating has introduced a new Wide Ride Core seat for class 7 and 8 trucks. Bostrom is a division of Commercial Vehicle Group Inc. According to the company, the benefits of the new Wide Ride Core seat include: A 23-inch wide seat cushion, cushion extension and front and rear cushion tilt; A new optional
Shell’s PC-11 website updates engine oil spec info
PC-11 will be licensed Dec. 1, 2016, and as that date draws closer, Shell Rotella will continue to update WhatIsPC-11.com with information about the upcoming diesel engine oils specification. New information includes details about how the specification is being developed including testing, the two oils that will be used for current and older engines and for
Mobile Awareness develops cloud-based tire tracking system
Mobile Awareness LLC has produced an advanced commercial tire monitoring and tracking system with capabilities for asset management in the trucking industry: the Mobile TRAQ system. The cloud-based tire tracking system collects and processes tire pressure and tire temperature information along with the GPS location. Data from vehicles across the fleet is uploaded to the cloud and is
Optronics releases new stop, tail, turn LED lights
Optronics International, manufacturer and supplier of heavy-duty LED vehicle lighting, has announced the introduction of its new HD 500 Series LED stop, tail, turn lamps. The HD 500 Series LED lamps have lenses with a raised linear focal point in the center for a visually unique look. Both the four-inch round and six-inch oval lamps are engineered
Ranger introduces new 3D wheel alignment system
Ranger Products recently introduced its new Target 3DPro 3D Imaging Wheel Alignment System for domestic and import cars and trucks. Lightweight impact-resistant wheel targets and high-resolution tower-mounted cameras provide live alignment readings and diagnostic data with pinpoint accuracy. ProSpec alignment software gives operators the option of selecting the most effective measuring routines before starting wheel alignment
Minimizer releases tandem work bench
Minimizer has released a new product—the tandem work bench. The bench is part of the company’s new maintenance line, along with the single tire work bench. “For years, we’ve had repair shops ask us to make something like the Tandem Work Bench,” Minimizer Chief Executive Officer Craig Kruckeberg said. “They were always having problems with tools
Warm weather battery tips
Note: This article was contributed by Andrew Carlson, Mitchell 1 technical editor. As summer transitions to fall, high temperatures persist in many parts of the country that can present some extra challenges for truck maintenance. In particular, your truck’s charging system needs some special attention in hot weather to ensure peak performance. It’s important to make
Tips for truck finish upkeep, maintenance
Making sure your truck finish maintenance is at the top of its game will help stave off harmful corrosion. Here are the top tips from our panel of experts: 1. Establish a consistent cleaning schedule, especially during the winter months to clean the body and chassis of salts and chemicals accumulated over time. 2. Road salt and
