ontinues, “we’re getting about a .5 MPG improvement in fuel mileage over our pre-2010 engines, which cuts our operating costs significantly. In the end, we configured a truck that would best meet our
needs. The Mack SCR engine is delivering for us. We haven’t had any issue purchasing DEF at Pilot truck stops and we have not had any problems.”
Builders also did two other things to help improve fuel mileage, Bassett notes. First, its trucks are now equipped with Webasto bunk heaters so drivers can reduce idle time. Also, the fleet has installed Alcoa aluminum wheels that weigh 45 lbs., reducing weight and improving fuel economy.
Satisfying drivers
Driver satisfaction was also important to Builders. To address that need, the carrier equipped each of its new Mack Pinnacles with Qualcomm’s MCP 200 in-cab computing platform and Pre Pass Plus transponders, enabling drivers to safely bypass hundreds of weigh stations and pay bridge and toll fees electronically.
“We also added some new systems to prepare ourselves for CSA,” Bassett says. “The Qualcomm MCP 200 unit, for example, features in-cab video training and has an on-board logging system that provides critical information, such as heavy braking, over speed and roll stability notification. The unit also provides MPG, idle, over rev, time in cruise and top gear data, which we use to coach our drivers on safety and fuel mileage.”
The Qualcomm systems on Builders trucks also are integrated with the company’s McLeod Loadmaster software. LoadMaster takes automated arrival and departure data or information from driver input to create updates for routes in progress. Hours-of-Service updates for each driver allow dispatchers to choose assignments and manage schedules more efficiently. Dispatchers also have quick access to ETA and out-of-route data based on the actual positions of tractors.
Maintenance needs
Builders also pays close attention to the maintenance needs of its fleet. Gary Newman, director of maintenance, is responsible for daily activities in the fleet’s Memphis shop.
“Our strategy is to perform preventive maintenance in-house and leave more complicated repairs to our Mack dealer,” Newman explains. “We also purchased extended warranties from Mack so most major components are covered for the 48 months we plan to keep our tractors in service.”
Newman also notes that Builders’ newest tractors are supported by the Mack MVASIST web-based service management platform and Mack OneCall Complete Care round-the-clock roadside assistance program. “We use MVASIST to communicate our maintenance needs to Mack dealers, regardless of where our trucks are located,” he says.
“All communication between Mack shops and our shop occurs through the platform,” Newman continues, “which also provides an effective and comprehensive electronic paper trail. MVASIST lets us work together in real time with our service breakdown assistance providers to expedite repairs and maximize uptime.”
Impressive growth
That leads to improved customer service, Dwight Basset adds, and has helped Builders Transportation Co. continue to grow at an impressive rate. “Our objective is to provide safe, outstanding service to our customers at the lowest possible cost,” he states. “With the vehicle, operations and maintenance technologies we have today, we are more easily able to accomplish that goal.”
Builders Transportation Tractor Specifications
Model: Mack CXU613
Wheelbase: 244 in.
Engine: Mack MP8, 415 HP
Clutch: Meritor/Sachs Twin Xtend
Transmission: Eaton Fuller, 10-speed
Driveshafts: Meritor 18N
Front Axle: Mack FXL, 12,000-lb.
Power Steering: TRW TAS65
Rear Axle: Meritor RT40145A
Rear Suspension: Maxlite air ride
Wheel Seals: Stemco
Brakes: Meritor
ABS: Bendix, with Road Stability Control
Automatic Slack Adjusters: Meritor
Parking Brakes: Haldex
Wheels: Alcoa aluminum
Tires: Goodyear 295/75R22.5
5th Wheel: Fontaine
Air Compressor: Meritor WABCO
Air Dryer: Meritor WABCO
Air Cleaner: Donaldson
Fan Clutch: Borg Warner Cool Logic
Starter: Delco 39MT-MXT
Alternator: Delco 35SI
Seats: Bostrom
BuildersTransportation Trailer Specifications
Model: Great Dane Combo
Length: 48-ft.
Landing Gear: Jost A-400
Axles: Hendrickson Tapered Spindle
Suspension: Hendrickson AANT 23K
Oil Seals: Stemco
Brakes: Hendrickson Extended Service
ABS: Meritor WABCO Easy Stop Automatic Slack Adjusters
Tires: 295/75R22.5 Bridgestone R196
Lighting & Electrical: Grote Long Life System; LED lamps
