AutoSock Alternative Traction Device approaches nationwide approval
AutoSock, an Alternative Traction Device (ATD) for commercial vehicles, has now been approved for use in 45 U.S. states where chain requirements are in effect and others where formal approval is not required as long as the ATD does not cause damage to the road surface. AutoSock is currently in the process of obtaining approval
Idle Smart ensures cold weather starts
The provider of a patented idle reduction solution designed to save fuel for fleets and drivers, has announced Cold Weather Guard, a feature that helps prevent issues with starting a truck after long idle periods in cold temperatures. With Cold Weather Guard, Idle Smart customers have the ability to have the truck start at a
PlastiKote introduces Metal Flake Paint
For fleets that want to give vehicles a multidimensional metallic look, Valspar is offering its PlastiKote Metal Flake Paint. “This paint is ideal for those who want to use a metallic finish that will really stand out,” said Katie Whiting, product manager, aerosols for Valspar. “Easy to apply, quick to dry and clean to use,
NTN releases new differential kits
The addition of 30 new product families of Bower differential kits for Eaton, Mack, Meritor and Dana Class 8 axles has been announced by NTN. Each kit contains the axle-specific Bower components to perform a complete repair for the application. NTN’s new differential kit families include: • Mack: NDK117, NDK117A, NDK212F, NDK212R, NDK500, NDK501, NDK503, NDK506
Puradyn releases new website
Updated with new user-friendly navigation, a redesigned online presentation of product and service offerings is now available from Puradyn Filter Technologies Inc. Site improvements include Online Warranty Registration, a simplified Distributor & Manufacturer’s Rep Locator, a Search the Site function, and social media buttons for Facebook, Linked In, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+. Be sure to
Seven steps to properly prep fifth wheels for coupling
The following steps are recommended by SAF-Holland for preping your fifth wheel for coupling. However, the company recommend that you follow your specific fifth wheel manufacturer’s instructions. 1. Prior to coupling, you must inspect the fifth wheel and mounting. Perform and verify the following: Tighten loose fasteners; Replace missing fasteners; Repair/replace missing, cracked, or otherwise
Can’t we just be objective?
Can’t we just be objective? Okay, so I’m a scientist. That means I’m trained to deal in facts—not just “meadow muffins,” as a famous TV colonel used to say. The corn-based ethanol industry is in a dither. A leaked draft of the EPA’s suggested renewable fuel standard (RFS) volumes for 2014 showed a continuation of
Tire “remanufacturing” pays dividends
“We were ‘green’ before it was cool,” proclaimed Randy Hanson, technical training manager, training and development, Bridgestone Commercial Solutions at its training center located within Bridgestone Americas’ LaVergne, Tenn., manufacturing facility. A 13-year veteran with Bandag, Hanson served as a field service rep become assuming the important and influential training role. With the genuine passion
Rolling as part of a system
Recently, while discussing radial truck tire performance with several seasoned industry veterans, a valid and useful point was raised. Several decades ago, many truck tire problems used to be finally diagnosed as simply that “tire problems.” This is less the case in recent years. Tire performance is best understood and more expediently diagnosed when considered
Stay cool: Refrigerated trailers and bodies
The thermal efficiency of any refrigerated truck body or trailer is a direct result of materials used and construction techniques. At Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies, for example, a sandwich construction process for the company’s Blizzard, Guardian, Majestic and Cadet models includes using seamless exterior fiberglass panels and seamless interior liners called ArcticTherm, steel tubes and
Good preventative maintenance can cure CSA headaches
Ever since the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration launched its initiative called Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) there has been increased attention to the condition of over-the-road equipment. Everyone wants to avoid problems during a roadside inspection because every infraction will be reported to the FMCSA and made public via the Internet. According to some fleet
Ken-Tool introduces axle drain pan
The 30600 Professional Super Single Axle Drain Pan from Ken-Tool can be securely attached to wheels using two or three lug studs with finger tightened nuts. The pan, which is contoured to rest flat with the sides gripping the wheel’s drop-center, fits most 22.5- and 24.5-in., 10-hole hub or stud-piloted steel or alloy wide-base and dual wheels. Made