Truck Parts Suppliers and Component Services
A few facts, a lot of fiction: part 2

I know, I promised you nothing but facts this month, but you have to hear this one. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources issues a periodic update. The latest one contained some green grilling tips. Suggestions included using propane to start charcoal instead of charcoal lighter. I don’t suppose they realize it is just as

ConocoPhillips introduces 76 Lubricants Triton 5005EXD

ConocoPhillips’ next generation, premium low ash natural gas engine oil, 76 Lubricants Triton 5005EXD, is designed to help natural gas industry operators increase productivity by enabling their engines to operate smoothly at maximum efficiency, protecting the hardware, and minimizing down time, while also improving the bottom line by reducing operational expenses.

A few facts, a lot of fiction

This column is the direct result of one of our reader’s comments about journalists overstating the performance of alternate fuels such as biodiesel. I understand his frustration about the misinformation that’s out there. It’s very difficult to make any decision about alternate fuels if you can’t trust the information you’re given. Perhaps I should share

Tires: assets or expense?

The life-cycle cost approach to tire management isn’t new. Manufacturers have been preaching this for years as a way to quantify the benefits of purchasing premium tires—with premium casings—as justification for the higher initial expense of top quality tires. Mostly, this scenario is built around retreading as a way to postpone the purchase of expensive

ConocoPhillps lubricants enhance natural gas engine oil

ConocoPhillips introduced its new line of premium low ash natural gas engine oil, El Mar LA4EXD, and the addition of a mainline low ash product, El Mar Low Ash, to its line of Conoco natural gas engine oil offerings. The new oils are designed to help natural gas industry operators increase productivity by enabling their engines to operate smoothly at maximum efficiency, protecting the hardware and minimizing down time, the company said.

Flying J and Comdata reach agreement for card acceptance

Flying J will now accept Comdata methods of payment at more than 250 of its locations across the U.S. and Canada. The arrangement will provide a new payment method that will enable more motor carriers and professional drivers to have access to Flying J’s fuel network and highway hospitality services, the company said.

Lock in ULSD fuel prices now

I’ve said it before—I can only foresee the demand for ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel increasing in the near term (two to three years). Several factors are acting simultaneously around the world to increase demand for diesel fuel significantly. Low CO2 regulations are gathering momentum worldwide. Europe is ahead of us, but the concept

TPMS: one size may not fit all

It appears that tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are poised to enter the age of modern reliable electronics. This should be a very good thing for the trucking industry. I believe that TPMS will become standard equipment on new over-the-road trucks, tractors and trailers in a few short years. The driving force will be operating

Technology & drain intervals

Advances in filter and lubricant technology continue to allow fleet managers to safely extend oil drain intervals

Use resources to manage tires

With much of my career focused on technical consulting, sales training and interacting with tire and trucking industry professionals, I feel qualified to offer one overall observation for improvement: Become aware and take advantage of readily available resources to enhance decision making and the performance of your employees. There are very few problems that someone

Biodiesel is gaining momentum

The current biodiesel situation is less bleak because the Senate recently passed a bill renewing the $1/gal. tax credit for blending biodiesel into ULSD. The House passed a similar bill (H.R. 4213) in December of 2009. These bills need to be reconciled quickly to alleviate biodiesel producer difficulties. Approximately 95% of biodiesel producers shut down

Engine lubricants: compliance & quality

The 2010 EPA standards will bring significant changes
to heavy-duty diesel engines—but what will the impact
be on lubrication specification and maintenance?