From powertrain to driver performance, Kenworth keeps focused on efficiency
Since the launch of the T680 in 2012, the truck has been Kenworth’s on-highway flagship with the T680 Advantage sporting the latest in efficiency upgrades—from aerodynamics to engine and powertrain improvements. For 2015, Kenworth has continued to improve efficiency in its product offering and refine the engine and powertrain integration. It all starts with the
Tires that put the focus on application, engineering advances
The Mid-America Truck Show is the best place to view all the latest equipment, and this year’s latest and greatest included new and proven tire designs. Mixed service tires Double Coin and CMA introduced its new Double Coin RR706 mixed service, all-position truck tire. The ultra-premium RR706 all-position, mixed service truck tires are specifically designed
February trucking index ‘modestly positive’
FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index for February at 7.4 reflects a softening in capacity utilization due to the hours of service suspension and fluctuating diesel prices, the research firm stated. FTR expects the TCI to rise into the summer months and beyond, and expects it could hit double digit positive readings before 2016 as the industry
‘We don’t need a revolution’
“Sometimes customers ask me, ‘Should we wait [to buy trucks]? When is your best truck coming?’ I tell them: If you wait, you’ll wait forever because the best truck is the one you’re getting today from us,” Martin Daum, president and chief executive officer of Daimler Trucks of North America, said to a room of
Goodyear adds Fuel Max retread
Regional fleets that require a balance of fuel efficiency, traction and long miles to removal have a new PreCure retread option from The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. “The G682 RSD Fuel Max, which is designed for drive applications, enables regional fleets to face challenging surfaces,” said Norberto Flores, marketing manager, Goodyear Commercial Tire Systems.
The value of takeoff tire inspection
All good tire management programs include close monitoring of scrap tires—those tires that are no longer serviceable either as partially worn new tires or retreads—or casings that are no longer acceptable for retreading. There are many specific reasons that can render a truck tire as “scrap.” Nearly all of these are detailed, along with descriptions,
Volvo launches high gross weight application offering
Volvo Trucks’ newest model is designed for high gross weight applications and heavy-haul tasks like heavy equipment hauling, oil and gas delivery, and timber transport, according to the manufacturer. The Volvo VNX 630 model is now offered with a tridem rear axle group, offering maximum traction and an increased payload for customers, the company said.
Giti unveils line haul trailer tire for North America
The GT Radial GTL922 FS premium line haul trailer tire, designed for the North American market, is joining the comprehensive lineup of GT Radial commercial tires. This next generation, SmartWay-verified line haul trailer tire features a four straight groove design for enhanced driving stability and effective water flow, the tire maker said. Aggressive sipes and
Class 8 truck orders hit lowest level since September 2014
FTR has released preliminary data showing March 2015 North American Class 8 truck net orders at 24,780 units, the lowest level since September 2014, according to the company. March orders reflected the first negative year-over-year comparison since January 2013. Order levels were somewhat disappointing with FTR anticipating a continued fall in order activity following seasonal
Eaton expands Fuller Advantage Series transmissions lineup
Eaton has expanded its lineup of Fuller Advantage Series transmissions to deliver weight savings and fuel efficiency improvements available on nine new models in order to “better meet the specification preferences for trucking fleets throughout North America,” it said. The expanded lineup includes: Three manual transmissions with new direct drive gear ratios; Two automated models
March truck orders fall below 50,000 unit mark
March was the first month in the past six months in which Class 5-8 medium- and heavy-duty orders fell below the 50,000 unit mark, according to ACT Research. For the month, 44,700 Class 5-8 preliminary vehicle orders were booked, down 2% compared to March 2014. “As expected, Class 8 order activity moderated into March as
The unsung heroes of wheel end maintenance
What is more important to proper maintenance of tire/wheel and wheel end assemblies? A calibrated torque wrench, or an oil can and a wire brush? Sure, lots of factors affect component performance at the wheel end. Is the mounting surface clean and free of rust? Is the wheel free of corrosion brought on by harsh
