The Best 50 Products of 2002
Nifty Fifty
Heavy Duty Trucking's Nifty Fifty awards showcase our editors' picks of the best new product introductions of 2002.
The 50 winners were selected from hundreds of new-product articles appearing in the magazine and at www.truckinginfo.com during 2002.
Products were judged on their usefulness to the truck operator in terms of innovation, serviceability and performance.
For more information on any of the winning products, go to www.heavydutytrucking.com and click "free info."
ACCURIDE STEEL LIGHTWEIGHT WHEEL
The lightweight HSLA wheel from Accuride weighs in at just 65 pounds, nearly 20 pounds less than a standard steel wheel. Made from high strength, low-alloy steel, the lightweight wheels would save a total of 306 pounds used all round a tractor trailer. The 10 hand-hole design is similar to the industry-standard aluminum wheel, so the lightweight steel wheel can be used as the inner on a dual pair with no appearance change and at significant cost savings. It is available for hub-mount applications and is powder coated white, gray or black, with custom colors available.
ALCOA DURA BRIGHT WHEEL FINISH
The Alcoa Dura-Bright wheel finish is a surface treatment option that guarantees that truck wheels keep their as-new polish with the minimum of maintenance. Alcoa says Dura-Bright prevents the aluminum from dulling while requiring only washing off accumulated dirt to restore the shine. There is no polishing or periodic buffing required and the wheels retain their shine even after years of use. The Dura-Bright patented finish penetrates the aluminum of the wheel and is available as an option across all of Alcoa's polished aluminum wheel offering.
AUX GENERATORS IDLE HAWK
Aux Generators Idle Hawk is an auxiliary power unit weighing 315 pounds and designed to roll out on its frame mount for easy servicing. It features a one-cylinder Kubota diesel rated 9.5 hp, and the system offers both cooling and heating as well as power for hotel loads, battery charging and block heating. The unit cools using an R134A compressor with self-contained motor. The heating is thermostatically controlled and delivers 1,800 watts. Sleeper controls include a master panel with manual and fully automatic modes. When set to auto, it will cycle to maintain battery charge while controlling sleeper temperature.
BENDIX NIGHT VISION SYSTEM
Bendix Xvision is a visual-based, collision-avoidance system specifically for commercial vehicles. The infrared night-vision system helps drivers see up to five times farther in the dark, says Bendix, helping them to react sooner and drive smarter. An infrared camera mounted on the vehicle's exterior captures thermal images of the road 1,500 feet ahead and beyond and transmits these images to an in-cab display unit. The display unit is roughly the size of a rear-view mirror, and is mounted either just above the driver's line of sight, flipping down much like a visor, or on the dash, flipping up from the console.
CARRIER X SERIES TRAILER REFRIGERATION UNITS
Carrier Transicold now offers its X Series trailer refrigeration for fresh, frozen or deep-frozen products for over-the-road or local fleets. Built on Carrier's Ultra and Extra reefer platform, the Carrier XT trailer systems generate extra airflow to move more air throughout the box, along with extra air-throw to move more air at higher velocity. XT systems surround every inch of cargo with protection. Carrier claims its XT trailer systems run at 23% lower rpms to increase engine and compressor life. This also extends the life of idlers and belts, reduces fuel consumption and extends maintenance cycles.
CASTROL ENDURON S
Castrol Enduron S is the top product in a new Castrol line that also includes Castrol Tection Extra and Castrol Tection S. Enduron S is claimed to exceed the category CI-4 requirements for cooled EGR engines. Its superior features include synthetic-blend base stock, exceptional dispersive quality to manage soot and robust detergent properties claimed to neutralize acid. It also features additional shear stability to minimize oil consumption and increase oil film strength with low ash technology to allow use in older engines.
Castrol Tection Extra — which is a hydrocracked Group II based oil — and Castrol Tection S are also formulated to meet API CI-4.
CATCH4 MODUS
Truckload Business System
MODUS is a relatively low-cost truckload carrier business system, from dispatch through payment. Colorado technology startup Catch4 has taken aim at the small to mid-size fleet market, providing onboard hardware, dispatch software, satellite tracking, location mapping on the Internet, logistics reporting and online payments through the Automated Clearing House Network. For a fleet of up to 50 trucks, a MODUS software license costs $3,000 for one year; hardware costs $599 per truck and comes in mirror-mount and roof-mount versions. Customers can choose between ground-based cellular communications or satellite coverage over the ORBCOMM low-earth-orbit satellite network.
CHEVRONTEXACO DELO EXTENDED LIFE COOLANT
Delo Extended Life Coolant is especially needed in EGR engines, says ChevronTexaco.
Delo ELC uses a patented carboxylate technology and contains no silicate, phosphate, borate or nitrate. The long-life inhibitors do not deplete, as many other types of coolant do. Delo ELC exceeds the requirements for the American Society of Testing and Materials, TMC and all major diesel engine manufacturers. It provides long service-life protection, superior corrosion protection, long water-pump seal life, and excellent heat transfer for reduced vehicle maintenance and less downtime. The new product comes in both concentrate and pre-diluted 50/50 for immediate use
CUMMINS ISX EGR
Cummins ISX was the first engine range to gain certification that it qualifies with the EPA '04 regulations, pulled forward to October '02. The engine features cooled exhaust gas recirculation (C-EGR) to reduce oxides of nitrogen while maintaining particulates emission levels. A key technology is the elegantly simple Holset variable-geometry turbocharger that has only one moving part to vary the flow cross-section. According to Cummins, the engine has little fuel penalty and improved driveability. The certified ISX is the result of the deployment of more resources by the company that any other launch.
DANA INTEGRATED STEER ARM AXLE
Dana's Integral Arm steer axle replaces the E-1460I drop standard track steer axle. The new design features kingpin joint improvements that add durability for medium- and heavy-duty applications. The kingpin joint uses two drawkeys with spring washer retention in a more rigid beam design. This results in a maximum contact joint design, providing longer life and greater durability. A sealed thrust bearing keeps lubricants in and contaminants out. Optional features include fine or extra-fine thread wheel bearing adjustment hardware, an ABS sensor wire or hydraulic hose attachment point on top of the knuckle, and stop bolt assembly for greater turn angle adjustment range.
DELPHI LONG LIFE BATTERY
Delphi Corp. has introduced the Freedom Extra battery using an absorbent glass mat technology that creates a leak and spill-proof design. The battery has no free electrolyte — or subsequent electrolyte agitating to shorten plate life. Because of its glass-mat design, the battery will last at least twice as long as the conventional flooded lead-acid battery, Delphi says. It is heat-sealed and completely maintenance-free with a one-way pressure valve and a leak-free cover. Because of its zero maintenance, leak-free design, it can be mounted essentially anywhere within the vehicle, giving truck designers more flexibility with electrical systems.
DETROIT DIESEL/MERCEDES-BENZ MBE 4000
The Mercedes-Benz MBE 4000 is an engine range that complements the Detroit Diesel Series 60 in Freightliner, Sterling and Western Star models. The in-line six cylinder offers ratings from 350-450 horsepower and up to 1,550 lb.-ft. of torque. The MBE 4000, weighing just 2,040 lbs., gives Detroit Diesel a heavy-duty engine that can be targeted to regional distribution, vocational and bulk-haul applications. The Brazilian-built MBE 4000 is available to the Class 8 truck market through Detroit Diesel Corp. and is supported by Detroit dealers and distributors.
DODGE SPRINTER VAN
The Sprinter vans — originally introduced as Freightliners — will be badged Dodge and sold through both Dodge and Freightliner dealers. The model is available as a panel van or mini-bus and is now also available as a cab/chassis for Class 2 and 3. The Sprinter is available in wheelbases of 118 inches, 140 inches, and 158 inches — and as cargo van and passenger van in two roof heights. Despite its compact dimensions, the Sprinter offers between 247 and 473 cubic feet of payload capacity space, depending on the wheelbase and roof height. The flat floor in the cargo area and the tapered rear wheel housing allow for optimum use.
DONALDSON STEPPED EXHAUST CLAMP
The Stepped SealClamp exhaust clamp from Donaldson features an 360-degree step. Preformed in stainless steel (aluminized option also available) the clamp is designed for overlapping tube connections including muffler inlets, outlets, slotted joints and flex tubing. The unique stepped reaction block conforms to tubes in overlapping connections to eliminate flex pinch and minimize leaks. The exhaust clamp's unique shape features an inside sealing surface that matches the stepped shape of an overlapped joint, providing a critical seal for minimizing exhaust leaks. Installation is simplified to allow for one-wrench installing. No disconnecting or welding and no extra sealing pads, seals or gaskets are required.
EAST GENESIS DUMP BODY
The Genesis dump body is a revolutionary design based on robotically welded aluminum extrusions that last longer, look better and bring more at resale. The most striking feature is the polished sidewalls of smooth aluminum, free of the usual external posts. This offers better aerodynamics for improved fuel consumption. Because the extrusions are hollow, they present an inner and outer skin, so dings to the inside don't affect the outer surface. Computer analysis, laboratory testing and extensive field use show the new sidewall has superior strength to conventional sheet and post construction with better resistance to bowing.
EMP CONTINUOUS OIL CHANGER
Engineered Machined Products is making available its continuous oil changer that has previously been sold exclusively through diesel engine manufacturers. Called Oil Mate, it can significantly extend oil change intervals to a claimed 525,000 miles while extending filter life to 100,000 miles. This obviously decreases maintenance downtime and is claimed actually to lengthen the engine life. The oil management system removes a small amount of used engine oil and blends it with diesel fuel to be burned during combustion. The used oil is then replaced with an equal amount of fresh oil from a make-up tank, extending oil and filter use.
EXXONMOBIL DELVAC 1300 SUPER
ExxonMobil'sDelvac 1300 Super is the first of a range of lubricants to be based on Mobil's patented Trimer technology. According to Mobil engineers, Trimer is a revolutionary technology that will give superior oxidation control and excellent soot handling, making it a premium engine oil that has been designed and formulated to meet the EGR-engine classification CI-4. The oil is compatible with all late model diesel and spark-ignition engines as well, so it is a good choice for mixed fleets with diesel and gasoline engine brands.
FIRESTONE FS560 PLUS HIGH SCRUB TIRE
The FS560 Plus is specifically designed for high scrub use, for on-highway refuse hauling, construction and pickup and delivery applications. It features an all-position design, making it ideal for steer axle use, but suitable in any wheel position. The FS560 Plus radial has a 19/32-in. tread depth for long original tread life, together with a solid shoulder design to help fight turning and maneuvering scrub. Four full steel belts, an all-steel casing ply, and a special, two-layer tread guarantee good retreading. Multiple cross-rib sipes and wide, deep "flow-through" grooves evacuate water efficiently from the footprint for precise traction, even on rain-slick city streets.
FORD/INTERNATIONAL F650/750 BLUE DIAMONDS
The F650 and F750 SuperDuty medium/heavy duty vehicles are the first products of the Blue Diamond joint venture between Ford Commercial Truck and International Truck and Engine. Ford will price them lower than most competitors, partly because of economies of scale represented by the joint venture and use of the cabs from the high-volume SuperDuty pickup series. F650 trucks are rated at 18,000 to 29,000 pounds gross, while tractors are rated to 70,000 pounds gross combination weight. F750 trucks cover GVWRs of 30,000 to 33,000 pounds, and tractors have GCWRs of up to 80,000 pounds. Cabs are two-door Regular, four-door SuperCab or four-door CrewCab on an International 4000 series frame.
FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2
A completely new Business Class will ultimately replace today's medium-duty Freightliner Class 5-8 ranges. The new model started out as 106-inch BBC model in Class 6 and 7, followed by a short 100-inch BBC and a longer and more heavy duty 112-inch model. During the phase-in over the next year, the existing Business Class will be retained to serve customers for configurations still in the pipeline. The new truck has a rounded look due to the aluminum cab and composite hood. Also distinguishing the new truck is a deep, wide and deeply curved windshield that offers the in-close visibility of a medium-duty cabover and a hood as low as a pickup's.
GMC/CHEVROLET TOP KICK/KODIAK
The new medium GMC Top Kick and Chevrolet Kodiak are the lynchpin for GM's commercial and fleet products, which contribute no less than 26% of GM's sales. The Top Kick/Kodiak range of Class 4 through medium Class 8 entered production with the lighter 4500/5500 vehicles early in the year, followed later by the 6500, 7500 and 8500 models. Unlike other medium conventionals, the Top Kick and Kodiaks use sheet metal derived from the full-size Savana van rather than the pickup. This gives a wider, taller cab with good visibility and a short BBC.
GROTE SUPERNOVA SIDE/TURN LED
With its latest SuperNova side turnlamp, Grote says it is now possible to equip a trailer with LED lighting in every lamp position. Further, Grote says that its side turn LED is the only one on the market that fully complies with the vision requirements of the SAE J2039 standard. The two models of LED Side Turn lamps fit existing mounting holes for both trucks and trailers and are fully interchangeable with Grote's incandescent side turn lamps. The new lamps plug directly into the Grote Ultra-Blue-Seal harnesses. As with all LED lighting, the new Grote lamps draw minimal current and are maintenance-free.
HALDEX DRYest DRYER
The DRYest is the newest Haldex air dryer and includes an integrated turbo protection valve to prevent horsepower loss and improve fuel consumption. An optional integrated governor increases the dryer's performance and eliminates the external governor and related piping. It removes up to 99% of contaminants from the compressed air system with the DRYest targeted at vehicles with operating cycles that result in large air consumption. The DRYest uses a cartridge and five-stage cleaning process called the extended service technology (est). It minimizes the risk of water and other contaminants getting in to the brake system.
HENDRICKSON HAULMAAX TANDEM SUSPENSION
Kenworth and Peterbilt initially have exclusively offered the lightweight Hendrickson HaulMaax/HMX suspension for vocational truck and tractor applications, though it is to become available on other makes. The suspension is available in 40,000- and 46,000-pound capacities on new truck orders. This heavy duty suspension is especially of interest to customers involved in construction, refuse and logging. The weight savings with the suspension can result in more than 500 pounds of additional payload in comparison to competitive steel spring suspensions, according to Hendrickson. In addition, HaulMaax is said to improve traction and reduce maintenance costs.
HOLLAND NO LUBE 5th WHEEL
The Holland NoLube fifth wheel keeps grease from the whole fifth wheel area, using an ultra-high molecular weight, low friction surface and no-lube components. In the new design, the yoke, yoke shaft, cam plate, lock pins, anchor-bolt washers, cam-plate washers and cam roller are all coated with a dry-film compound and require no conventional lubricants. The UHMW material is bonded to a metal substrate that is bolted to the fifth wheel for long-term durability and low turning friction. Holland claims no lube is ever required for significant environmental gains.
INTERNATION DT365/FORD 6-LITER POWER STROKE
The new 6-liter Ford Power Stroke makes 325 hp and 560 lbs.-ft. of peak torque. International calls it the DT365 and uses the latest 6-liter, V8 diesel — which it calls the VT365 — in its medium-duty 4200 model, but its commercial-style ratings are lower than Ford's. Both are the same base engine, due to replace the 7.3-liter 444 E, but with more hp and torque. Other pluses are quieter operation and improved economy despite it smaller swept volume. Engine uses latest generation of the hydraulically pressurized common-rail fuel system with split-fire injection for low emissions.
KENWORTH EXTENDED DAYCAB
A six-inch extension to the current Kenworth daycab allows for a mounting of the driver's seat two inches to the rear for added driver room, and offers a seat recline up to 21 degrees for additional comfort. In addition, the extended daycab provides and additional 2-1/2 cubic feet of storage on the rear wall. There's an additional three inches of headroom and Kenworth's optional cab-corner windows can be specified for added visibility. Back-of-cab and side-mount exhausts are optional. The super-sized cab is available on T600, T800 and W900 models.
LUBER-FINER XL FILTER
The Imperial XL oil filter from Luber-Finer features what the company calls the unique LH 60 synthetic Micro-glass filter media. The company claims the uniformity of the media permits smooth oil flow while removing engine-damaging, abrasive particles in the 5-15 micron range. Other features include a heavy duty shell that provides pulse-fatigue strength; urethane-filled heavy duty metal end caps; a spiral center tube for added strength against pressure surges; and a heavy duty threaded base plate. A Nitrile gasket for extended seal life; and a steel coil spring to ensure no unfiltered oil flows through the LH 60 media are also featured.
MACK ASET ENGINES
Mack is employing two distinct strategies: one for Mack engines ticketed for highway engines; the other for on-/off-highway equipment. For the highway, the company will use cooled exhaust gas recirculation (C-EGR). Shying away from a one-size-fits-all approach to engine technology to meet the new regulations, the Mack ASET solution for highway customers will allow for the best level of performance and emissions and fuel economy benefits in a steady-state operating environment. For off-highway, where fuel consumption degradation is not such an issue, Mack is using I-EGR for internal EGR where careful gas-flow replaces variable-geometry turbocharging.
MERITOR ELECTRONIC LEVELING MODULES
Electronic leveling modules from Meritor Wabco adjust ride height for tractor and trailer air suspensions more precisely than mechanical height valves. ELM for tractors can be adjusted by means of a dash-mounted switch or an optional remote control. This would occur most often before the tractor backs under or pulls away from a trailer. This keeps angles between U-joints and other driveline parts correct and minimizes vibration. ELM for trailers will raise or lower the trailer's rear to match the height of a dock. When the trailer moves away from the dock, ELM automatically returns the suspension to the proper height.
MICHELIN'S ETIRE TIRE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Michelin's eTire system lowers the cost of tracking tires — from any manufacturer. The system includes the InTire Sensor, sidewall-mounted SensorDock, hand-held or drive-by reader and BIB Track software to capture tire pressure, wheel position and maintenance information. The system reads operating temperature inside a tire and corrects readings as if the tire were cold. BIB Track software interfaces with BIB Tread, Michelin's retread management software to trace tires through repairs and re-treading cycles. All information and reporting is via the web for real-time tire management reports and flagging of potential tire problems.
PANA-PACIFIC/DELPHI SKYFI SATELLITE RADIO
Pana-Pacific has introduced the SkyFi XM Satellite Radio by Delphi. This plug-and-play satellite radio works in the truck, car, home and office. The receiver/controller unit has a large display that shows five channels at a time while scrolling through the XM channels. SkyFi also comes with a remote control for convenience. The Vehicle Adapter Kit allows the receiver to adapt to any existing vehicle stereo system. There's a SkyFi Home Adapter Kit and the SkyFi Audio System, which is a boombox that contains a pair of high quality speakers with integrated antenna.
PEGASUS TRANSTECH TRANSFLO EXPRESS
With Transflo Express, a driver can take shipping documents to the fuel desk of any participating truckstop. A clerk scans the documents, the digital images are sent to headquarters (or a third-party service) and the originals returned to the driver. Pegasus claims its service replaces drop boxes and courier services, speeds billing and thus, cash flow. Transflo Express scanning is currently available at many Pilot Travel Centers. Pegasus has signed big carriers, such as Heartland Express and LandStar, and Pegasus expects to expand the service to other truckstop chains.
PENNZOIL EXTENDED DRAIN AXLE LUBE
Pennzoil Long-Life Extended Warranty SAE 75W-90 and 80W-140 Gear Oils have received approval for 500,000-mile extended drain intervals for Meritor (formerly Rockwell) heavy-duty, over-the-road truck axles equipped with pump and filter systems. With the approval, truck operators may now use the Pennzoil lubricants for both service-fill and factory-fill at the same change interval specified for approved synthetic fluids, and still qualify for the Meritor 750,000-mile extended warranty coverage. The approval follows a specification that outlines the features and performance requirements of field-tested, extended-drain axle fluids made from Group II base oils. Pennzoil claims it is the first gear lubricant supplier to be approved under this new specification.
PETERBILT 357 SLOPE HOOD
Peterbilt 357 Slope Hood
Vocational customers will benefit from a redesigned hood that improves visibility and styling on Peterbilt's Model 357 in set-back front axle truck and tractor configurations. The slope improves over-the-hood visibility by up to 5 feet, and incorporates all the Peterbilt styling features, such as pod-mounted headlights, bicycle-style fenders and polished-aluminum crown and stainless steel grille. Set-back front axle (SBFA) configurations are gaining in popularity because they help customers maximize payloads by more evenly distributing weight over the front axle of the vehicle. This allows customers to reduce the vehicle's wheelbase, tightening the turning radius and improving maneuverability.
PHILLIPS ELECTROLINK FUELSAVER
ElectroLink is an inverter/charger system that reduces fuel consumption by decreasing a truck's idling time. The unit delivers 110-V household power at a peak of 3,300 watts and a continuous 1,100 watts from vehicle batteries. When plugged into 110-V shore power, the unit charges the vehicle batteries to a full charge within four hours while providing a pass-through of the 110-V power to the receptacles located in the cab/sleeper. The kit has a remote LED indicator panel to show battery charge and to protect against overloads, shorts and overheating of batteries.
PROLAM TRAILER FLOOR
A unique laminating process makes the Prolam hardwood trailer floor among the toughest in the industry. A zig-zag joint between the laminate sticks has the ability to distribute vertical loads at the ends of each piece. Then, by hand-laying up the floor so the joints are evenly distributed, the end result is a floor that is up to 40% more durable and from 5 to 18% stronger in wet shear tests. The floor is better able to distribute stress from forklift loadings while offering a highly efficient barrier to water ingress.
SCOTTSEAL PLUS XL SEAL SYSTEM
The seal system is a high-performance wheel seal that is claimed to end installation problems and offer up to a three-year, 300,000-mile warranty. Launched by Chicago Rawhide as the Scottseal Plus XL, it is differentiated from the earlier Scotseal Plus by a change of seal material that Chicago Rawhide says offers better resistance to high temperatures. The design has four internal lips sealing road contaminants and water out and bearing lubricants in, and is said to give maximum life to the wheel end.
The new seal includes the features of the Plus seal in its ease of assembly by hand, without the need for special or even hand tools.
SHELL SYNTHETIC ROTELLA T
Shell has introduced its first fully synthetic heavy-duty engine oil, Rotella T Synthetic. The lube combines outstanding cold-temperature starting and advanced soot-handling capacity, according to the company. It helps prolong engine life, even in extreme conditions. By using Shell synthetic base there is little to no viscosity breakdown and Rotella T Synthetic also claims to help maximize fuel economy; provide outstanding wear protection; withstand extreme heat; offer low volatility; and feature excellent oxidation stability. Rotella T Synthetic 5W-40 is available in drums, 5-gallon pails, gallon jugs and quart bottles.
SIRIUS DIGITAL SATELLITE GOES NATIONAL
Sirius Digital Satellite radio completed its national rollout of the CD-quality, commercial-free radio service early in the year. Target audiences include truck drivers, because they spend so much time driving and because — unlike FM -- the radio service covers the country coast-to-coast from a suite of three satellites orbiting the earth. Sirius has 100 channels of everything from talk to rock and comedy to country, with the majority of programming entirely commercial-free. Because the service is expected to be very popular with drivers, fleets will likely used digital radio as a recruitment and retention tool.
SNAP-ON DIAGNOSTICS' eTECHNICIAN
The eTechnician system gathers data from the truck's own systems, tracking wear on components and the overall condition of the unit. Wireless capability enables remote diagnosis and control of a truck's electronic systems. Users view data on a web site. NEXIQ takes the data gathering capability one step further than most. NEXIQ can share relevant data with manufacturers, whose support can help lower eTechnician costs to the fleets. Properly spec'd, eTechnician is capable of operational functions, such as GPS location, state mileage tracking and wireless dispatch. It can communicate with most popular wireless media, from cellular to satellite.
STEMCO DATATRAC HUB ODOMETER
Stemco has introduced a new digital mileage counter and trip recorder, the DataTrac electronic hubodometer. The DataTrac odometer is claimed to be an accurate, easy to use mileage counter that is completely electronic with no moving parts. Weighing only 5.6 ounces and powered by a lithium battery, it has a four-year, 500,000-mile warranty. It provides both trip and lifetime readings and is calibrated to 2,500 tire models. The new product offers an easy to read LCD display that allows it to be used with clearance in a wide variety of transportation applications.
THERMOKING SB-100
Thermo King's New SB-100 Trailer Refrigeration Unit features superior airflow and capacity up to 18,000 Btu/hour at -20 degrees F box temperature and 100 degrees F ambient. The SB-l00 comes standard equipped with single-switch TG-VI controller, 12,000-hour service interval coolant and silicone coolant hoses. For grocery companies and food distributors facing early-morning delivery times in residential neighborhoods, the SB-100 offers quiet operation, utilizing a low-noise 2.2 engine, noise-capturing acoustic grilles and a bottom panel. An optional Whisper package is also available for additional noise reduction. Performance enhancement options include a modulation feature that ensures a continuous supply of moist, cool air.
TRANSCORE KEYPOINT FOR CARRIERS
Transcore ships its Keypoint for Carriers as a self-contained system including both hardware and software that is literally plug-and-play. It all comes in a Sun Microsystems Cobalt Qube 3, a small blue computer that measures 7.5 inches by 7.63 inches by 7.75 inches. Nothing needs to be installed on a user's computer or network. Plug the Qube 3 into a computer's network card or into an office network hub, open the included web browser software and it's ready to go. Keypoint customers pay only for use of the software, not for a license or for installation, and they don't worry about maintenance, patches or upgrades.
TRUCK-LITE SINGLE DIODE LAMPS
Truck-Lite has introduced the Super 66, an LED based stop/turn/tail lamp assembly that uses only a single diode. Advanced optics provide an even light pattern more like a conventional incandescent lamp, a feature that Truck-Lite says will make the Super 66 less likely to be stolen. The single-diode lamp has all the advantages of LEDs, including intense light, low current draw, a faster light-up time and superior resistance to shock and vibration. The new light is available for grommet mounts or reinforced flange. Standard trim rings for the Model 60 lamps will fit the Super 66.
VOLVO LINK COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Volvo is the first North American truck manufacturer to develop and market a fully integrated vehicle communications system. Launched under the Volvo Link name, it offers fleets and owner-operators an affordable two-way satellite communications system between terminals and drivers, at cellular prices. Volvo Link is driver friendly and requires no keyboard to send messages from the vehicle to the terminal. The Driver Message Center (already incorporated into the dash of every 2000 model year and newer Volvo truck) provides the display for incoming and outgoing text without altering the aesthetics of the driver cockpit.
WEBB 700 FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
The Webb 700 Series fuel management system is designed to extend filter life and reduce fuel system maintenance. Designed for heavy duty diesel engines, the 700 is capable of monitoring and controlling all necessary fuel system maintenance functions: filtration, water separation, and fuel heating within a compact, lightweight unit with a transparent housing. The housing's clear top dome and bottom bowl display the level of filter restriction and water accumulation for timely maintenance. The 700 uses the StrataPore fuel filter, which employs a multi-layer media design for maximum contaminant removal and today's ESI programs.
WEBB ALUMINUM DRIVE-AXLE HUB
Webb Wheel Products has introduced aluminum hubs for R-series drive axles to its line of Platinum Series products. The new Platinum hubs have either 3/4-in. or 5/8-in. drive studs and each weighs 21 lbs. Webb has previously introduced aluminum hubs for TN and P series trailer axles. Webb says its aluminum hubs, combined with its new Platinum Drums, save up to 16 lbs. per axle over comparable lightweight assemblies. The hubs are compatible with other Webb Platinum wheel-end components.
WESTERN STAR LO-MAX 4900EX
The LowMax version of the Western Star 4900 EX heavy-duty truck features a lowered cab and sleeper height and is loaded with styling features for maximum driver appeal. LowMax is available as a highway tractor in a 132-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) dimension with a set-forward front axle. The extended hood, dual stacks and close-to-the-road design can be complemented by chrome and stainless steel accessories available through Western Star dealers. Inside, operators can select premium interior trim packages from a number of available options.
ZF SACHS CDC/PDC SHOCK ABSORBERS
The diverse ZF product offering includes active and semi-active shock absorbers from the Sachs subsidiary that enhance heavy truck combinations' ride, handling and stability. Introduced as the continuous damper control (CDC) and pneumatic damper control (PDC) technology, these units not only optimize vehicle suspension for ride and handling safety, they also contribute to a significant lessening of highway damage. The CDC dampers are actively controlled by an on-board ECU to optimize tractor and truck suspensions, the PDC units sense air pressure in the trailer suspension and compensate for load.
