The Best 50 Products of 2004
NIFTY FIFTY
Heavy Duty Trucking's Nifty Fifty awards showcase our editors' picks of the best new product introductions this year.
The 50 winners were selected from hundreds of new-product articles appearing in the magazine and at www.truckinginfo.com during 2004.
Products were judged on their usefulness to the truck operator in terms of innovation, serviceability and performance.
A.L. LIGHTech Features New Sidemarker Lights
A.L. LIGHTech of Anaheim, Calif., has several new affordable sidemarker lights, including the Beehive and Slimline. Each light contains LEDs and utilizes the best computer chips available. All lights meet the FMVSS108 and SAE requirements and are PC rated.
These lights are made tough for the truck industry. They are sealed for water resistance and have a polycarbonate lens and housing. They operate at 12.8 V DC and consume less than 0.04 amps.
Allison Powershift Transmissions
Allison has renamed and realigned its automatic truck transmission ranges into the newly renamed Highway Series (HS) and Rugged Duty Series (RDS) transmissions. In many urban and vocational situations with a lot of stop-start driving, Allisons have been shown to outperform higher-powered equipment with manual or even automated shift.
The torque-converter transmissions allow the engine to operate for more of the time at or close to its rated speed, thereby making much better use of the available horsepower. Additionally, the torque multiplication in the converter increases the available torque to accelerate the vehicle, masking the relatively few ratios in the transmission.
Alpine CD Receiver Has XM Tuner
Alpine Electronics and XM Satellite Radio have announced the industry's first in-dash CD receiver with an integrated XM tuner.
With its all-in-one design, the new CDA-9820XM receiver eliminates the need for a separate XM tuner box for easier installation.
Alpine's new CDA-9820XM features Quick Search technology, an intuitive user interface for quickly finding the desired channel or music category. Alpine's Media Xpander sound correction technology further enhances the music sound quality of digital audio sources.
Ride-Star Trailer Air Suspension
ArvinMeritor's Commercial Vehicle Systems business has updated the RideStar RHP trailer air suspension system. The RideStar RXP trailer air suspension combines all of the features of the current RideStar RHP trailer air suspension with extra durability and convenience, while satisfying the needs of weight-sensitive customers, such as refrigerated trailer users.
The RHP will evolve into the RXP in phases and will only be designated the RXP with the completion of the final phase - the optimized slider. Most changes are targeted for introduction by the end of this year, with OEM availability at that time.
HazLight Markers for Roadside Safety
Astucia's Hazlight road stud is a road marker in a sturdy and compact lightweight case, which also serves as a charging rack. The charging method is a power cable that plugs into a 12/24 volt power supply.
HazLight Emergency studs are automatically activated when removed from the case and placed on the ground. Once deployed, the studs flash, enabling a safe area to be rapidly established. The intensely bright LEDs can be seen up to 1,000 yards away in darkness.
The kit comes with five studs, each equipped with three ultra-bright LEDs available in blue, amber and red.
Bendix Debuts Stability Control
Offering more than just rollover protection, the Bendix Electronic Stability Program will be available on heavy truck chassis offered by North American truckmakers.
The Bendix systems offer nearly all the benefits of the ECBS stability programs but without the need to abandon the conventional ABS air brakes found on North American heavy-duty vehicles today. By adding an Automatic Traction Control feature and a few additional sensors and valves, the Bendix ABS/ATC is the basis for a stability system that will intervene in run-off-the-road and rollover accidents. The Bendix technology is based on the ABS sensors and controllers, but with the addition of lateral accelerometers and the addition of mass and stability calculation algorithms to the controller. Individual wheel braking prevents rollovers.
Bridgestone Steer, Drive, Trailer tires
Bridgestone/Firestone North American debuts three new Bridgestone tires — one for each axle position They are the R287 steer radial, the M726 EL drive radial and the R195F free-rolling trailer radial. Each is engineered to offer long haul and long regional haul fleets longer original tire life and lower cost per mile. The M726 EL drive represents an enhancement of the Bridgestone M726. The R287 is new, and its combination of proven irregular wear-fighting innovations is familiar to dealers and fleets. The R195F trailer tire uses sidewall protector ribs to fight scrub damage and enhance retreadability. The R195F's patented Equalizer Rib and Defense Groove features promote even wear and long tread life.
Big Cats Rule
Caterpillar now offers a high performance heavy duty truck engine that it's calling the "King of the Hill." At 625 horsepower, it is a new top rating for the C15, backed up by a 600 horsepower as well. These ratings complement the Cat lineup of C7, C9, C11 and C13 - all equipped with the ACERT technology. In addition, several new ratings have been introduced for the C11 and C13 at the same time.
With 2,050 lbs.-ft. of torque at 1,200 rpm and constant torque to 1,700 rpm, the King of the Hill C15 provides performance for owner-operators and heavy haulers working in the most extreme heavy-duty applications.
ConMet Machine-Finished Drums
ConMet has announced the TruTurn brake drum with fully-machined finish both inside and out. This creates improved dimensional consistency and a uniform wall thickness, which translates into improved performance, says ConMet. By machining inner and outer surfaces, the drum is turned to balance and produces optimized strength because the drum wall thickness is uniform around the circumference.Strength is gained because there's no need for weld-on weights or balance cuts which can weaken a standard drum. The result is a drum with less potential for cracking, lower per stop temperatures, a more uniform distribution of temperature and braking forces and a longer life. TruTurn's uniform wall thickness also contributes to more consistent thermal expansion.
Cummins Comfort HVAC Auxiliary
Cummins' ComfortGuard is an auxiliary power unit based on its Onan engine division power. Cummins says the competitively priced gen-set provides fuel savings and reduced emissions while heating or cooling the truck cab. It is fully integrated with the vehicle's heating/ventilation/ air-conditioning (HVAC) system, so that the vehicle's main engine does not have to be idled. An Onan two-cylinder diesel engine and generator that's been a mainstay of the RV and Marine markets for years provide this capability.
According to Cummins, the reduction in idle time will provide the end user with up to an 8.5% fuel economy improvement, based on 2,000 hours of operation in a 12-month period.
Deck Mate Offers Easy Trailer Access
Deck Mate is a lightweight, folding portable ladder for trailer access, offering a safe way to get on or off. On flatbed trailers the Deck Mate hooks on the rubrail along the side of the trailer and will not slide or tip. For vans and reefers without rubrails, a small bolt-on bracket is easily installed to mount the Deck Mate. Weighing less than 20 pounds, the deck ladder is 53-inches long, 18-inches wide, and has a 400-pound capacity with slip-resistant steps.
Tire Pressure Monitor
PressurePro from Doran Manufacturing is a monitoring system that uses tiny transmitters on the valve stems to indicate pressure in each of a truck's tires.
The signal is transmitted to a display unit that mounts to the dash and shows wheel position and a digital read-out of the tire pressure when it drifts away from the set pressure.
Since it has the potential to eliminate tire loss through underinflation - the cause of 90% of tire failures according to the Technology and Maintenance Council of the ATA - the system has a fast payback of as little as 7 1/2 months in fleets with annual mileages of 100,000 miles per unit.
Low cab forward Ford LCF
The "Blue Diamond" low cab forward to be badged Ford LCF is designed to offer best-in-class maneuverability and a V-6 diesel engine with more power than the leading competitor. The truck also claims the segment's strongest standard frame in a U.S. industry standard 34-inch width and a wide range of configurations for easy vocational conversion compatibility. The new trucks go into production early next year as 2006 models. Class 4 and 5 configurations, with GVWRs of 16,000, 17,999 and 19,500 pounds, may be ordered now.
Freightliner Reconfigured Daycab
Freightliner's refurbishing plant removes the sleeper portion of a used tractor and closes up the cab with purpose-built panels. The process also includes an extensive mechanical and cosmetic renewal process that makes it a better bet than the typical used tractor.
The result is a Freightliner Refurbished Century Daycab, which looks, smells and drives almost like new. As with all used Freightliners going through the plant, a converted daycab gets new brakes and new or recapped tires, and a reman'd alternator and starter motor. Its exterior trim is polished, paint is buffed or sprayed, and chrome exhaust stacks can be added, even to aero-styled tractors. Engines are adjusted or repaired to perform to factory specs or electronically uprated to whatever the driveline will take in torque.
Gabriel Intros Two Cargo Locks
Gabriel Technologies introduced two new locks offering advanced cargo and trailer protection. The TAB-10 (truck air brake lock) and the TGH-10 (trailer glad-hand lock) prevent cargo tampering and theft. The TGH-10 is cast aluminum and protects a trailer's brake system hoses from being connected to the tractor. It also has an extra flange for additional protection of the two-plate mounting bolts associated with the air hose connection. Both the TAB-10 and TGH-10 have more than 260 million key combinations possible and the ability to master key 20,000 different locks.
Grote Line of Electronic LED Flashers
Grote Industries has introduced a new line of automotive LED electronic flashers for owners of various light-duty trucks including Ford and GM using van, flat or utility bodies. These flashers are the direct replacement for the OEM flasher and do not require a separate ground wire because they plug into the factory wiring. By allowing owners to use LED stop, tail and turn lamps without affecting the turn signal flash rate, many problems are solved for the user. The flashers are also ideal for use with Grote's LED box lamp retrofit modules.
PunctureGuard For Great Danes
Great Dane Trailers displayed its state-of-the-art interior trailer lining, PunctureGuard Plus, on its new Super LT refrigerated trailer and its SSL van trailer at the Mid-America Trucking Show.
The company introduced its PunctureGuard scuffband in early 2003. Since then, more than 175,000 square feet - equal to four acres - of PunctureGuard have been produced. Now the same enhanced performance is available throughout the interior of Great Dane van and reefer trailers.
Brake Shoe corrosion Coating
The corrosive effects of deicing chemicals used to treat roads for ice, snow and dust had led to rust jacking, a build up of rust on the shoe table.To combat this, Haldex is introducing a new protective coating for all remanufactured shoes. The Haldex protective coated shoe provides corrosion resistance by employing a new coating that is high in solid content and corrosion inhibitors. The coating is applied through a process that insures that each shoe is properly coated, cured and ready for lining attachment. When used in conjunction with Haldex Friction with Cross-Link Technology, the new Haldex brake shoe coating is guaranteed to protect against lining edge cracking.
Hendrickson Combines Air Ride, Walking Beam in AR2
Hendrickson International's new AR2 converts RT / RTE walking-beam truck suspensions to air ride, delivering a smoother ride and improved durability while reducing weight.
Proven for more than five years in global vocational markets, AR2 brings fleets and owner-operators the benefits of air ride to maximize payloads and enhance comfort without losing the advantages of the RT / RTE walking-beam suspension. Converting to an AR2 air-ride, walking-beam system provides the capability to better absorb road shock and vibration and offers high articulation for on- and off-road applications, delivering a superb combination of empty-ride and loaded stability.
CB-400 Trailer Air Suspension Features 'Swing-Align'
The Holland Group has added a new 40,000-pound rated air suspension/slider system for van and reefer trailers with a novel "Swing-Align" feature that allows alignment of trailer axles in about 30 minutes using only one wrench. The new suspension incorporates a new cast trailing arm beam, which is stronger and lighter than the fabricated arm it replaces. A new multi-function bushing design is said to give longer bushing life while optimizing ride quality. The "Swing-Align" feature has a simple threaded screw on each axle that moves the axle forward or back to align it.
Ingersoll-Rand Wrench Eases Tire Changing
Providing trucking fleet owners, managers and repair professionals with a better and easier way to change tires, Ingersoll-Rand has an impact wrench that significantly reduces the time it takes to remove lug nuts. Featuring an innovative titanium design for enhanced durability, the IR 2190Ti weighs less than 14 pounds. In addition to its lightweight design, the tool features a unique chainsaw handle with a six-inch extended anvil that makes it easy to operate - even for extended periods of time.
International Debuts Low Cab Forward
The long-rumored and much-anticipated low cabover CF Series from International is a Class 4 and 5 low cab forward that will be available in early 2005 with a 16,000-pound rating for the CF 500 Class 4 and a 19,500-pound rating for the CF 600 Class 5 trucks. All will feature the V6 version of International's newly introduced diesel V8. In its V6 configuration, the engine displaces 4.5 liters (275 cu in) and will be rated 200 hp at 3,000 rpm with 440 lbs.-ft. of torque at 1,850 rpm. Designated the International 275 - reflecting its cubic inch displacement - this engine will feature dual turbochargers for fast throttle response and will be complemented by a 4-speed automatic manufactured by Ford.
Telematics By International Delivers Robust Data
The new International telematics solution delivers all operating information to customers via wireless connectivity. International telematics combines remote vehicle monitoring, performance diagnostics and security elements into a single tool that is designed and validated to OEM specifications. The new technology builds on the foundation established with the company's Diamond Logic electrical system. Like an electronic umbilical cord, International telematics moves wireless data from each vehicle into the office or workstation of fleet and maintenance managers. An in-vehicle device transmits telemetry and location information via cellular wireless.
Kenworth Outside air temperature gauge
Kenworth has made a new outside air temperature gauge standard on all of its heavy duty truck models. Kenworth Class 8 truck drivers will soon be able to check the temperature outside by glancing at a gauge on its aerodynamic mirrors. The outside air temperature reading appears in Celsius or Fahrenheit in the upper left-hand portion of the driver side mirror. An added feature is a low-temperature indicator that appears as a snowflake graphic in the mirror to warn the driver of near freezing temperatures. A photo sensor automatically adjusts the display based on outside brightness. An optional dash-mounted gauge displaying outside air temperature is also available.
Link Introduces Truck Cab Organizer
Link, manufacturers of Cabmate cab suspensions, Cats Eye tire pressure monitors, and a full line of liftable suspensions, introduced a new product to make truckers' lives easier. The Link Cab Organizer is designed specifically for chemicals and supplies that all truckers use. The tough polypropylene organizer prevents spills, yet keeps supplies accessible.
Luber-finer Bypass Filter Adds New Cartridge System
The familiar Luber-finer bypass filter now has a cartridge system that not only filters engine lube oil, but adds an additional anti-acid medium to maintain the lubrication's total base number. The Zgard LFP9750 uses state-of-the-art filtration technology to aid in reducing soot levels in the oil. This enables the extending of drain intervals in EGR engines. Additionally, because current fuels contain significant levels of sulfur, there is the potential for high acidity in the oil, which quickly depletes the oil's TBN. By constructing the filter cartridge from a louvered zinc alloy sheet, co-pleated with an ultra high efficiency filter media, the zinc is sacrificed to the acid in the lube oil, preserving the additive package in the oil.
Mack Debuts New Advantage Highway Chassis
Mack Trucks' new chassis, called Advantage, will be used in all Mack Vision and CH models. A variety of Advantage frame rail options give customers the ability to more precisely match rail size to their specific applications. Customers can choose from four rail options - 6mm, 7mm, 8mm and 9.5mm - all with increased resistance bending moment. Advantage also provides up to 50-degree outside wheel cuts, dramatically improving turning diameter. The standard front taper leaf suspension has new taper leaf springs spaced slightly apart to reduce friction. And the spring rate has been reduced to provide a softer ride. An optional Hendrickson AIRTEK air-ride front axle-suspension combination not only provides a smooth ride, but additional weight savings. New rear engine mounts simplify transmission removal. Combination of the new engine mounts and new taper leaf front suspension allows the engine to sit lower in the frame, reducing overall center of gravity and improving handling.
Michelin Offers a pair of New Waste Industry Tires
The XZU S and the X One XZU S are the very first tires designed specifically for use on waste vehicles that collect refuse and transport it to landfills or transfer stations. The XZU S tire is now available in 315/80R22.5 load range L size. It offers improvement in tread wear ranging from 10% to 40%. It also features an increased maximum speed capability of 65 mph. Dual compounding significantly lowers operating temperatures in the tread area with no compromise on performance or durability. The X One XZU S tire will be available in early 2005. It offers an increased load capability of 11,700 pounds per tire and reduced fuel consumption because of its lower rolling resistance.
New Fuso FE Lineup
Designated the FE120, 145 and 180 for Class 3, 4 and 5 respectively, the new FE range also includes a crew-cab variant in Class 4 and a 4x4 model FG on the same chassis. The regular FE models are state-of-the-art low cab forward trucks designed to be easy on the driver, with exceptional visibility, tight turning circles and a comfortable and fully equipped cab. The trucks all feature diesel power with a four-cylinder 4.9L dual OHC unit featuring dual balance shafts providing smooth 147 hp with the 5-speed transmission and 175 hp with the 6-speed Aisin automatic at the lower weights. For the Class 5 chassis only the 175 hp rating is available — but with a 6-speed manual as well as the 6-speed Aisin. Disc brakes are featured on all with vacuum servo assist. Frames are standard 33.1-inch widths.
Nextel Offers Walkie-Talkie From More Than 7,000 Miles
Nextel Communications Inc. Direct Connect walkie-talkie service provides under-a-second digital walkie-talkie connections between the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina and Peru. At the same time, Nextel said it plans to launch International Direct Connect service in Mexico. Nextel's Direct Connect, two-way, walkie-talkie service alongside Nextel's digital cellular calling, has long been popular among local and regional fleet operations.
Nissan Titan Half-ton Pickup
The Titan 1/2-ton full-size pickup - Nissan's first - comes as a King Cab or Crew Cab (no regular cab) with a modern 5.6-liter 305-hp/379-lbs.-ft. V-8 and a five-speed automatic (no manual is offered). Cabs are roomy and well-trimmed, and ride is jounce-free, even with 4WD. A factory sprayed-in bed liner is optional, as is a "Utili-track" system with five open-section channels to mount tool boxes and tie down cargo. And there's a 12-volt plug toward the rear to power a lights and other accessories. Frames include box-section rails shaped throughout their length to achieve desired strength at given points. Frames and suspensions could be beefed up to achieve 3/4-ton ratings.
Pacbrake Seal Ring Piston Kit Makes Brakes Like New
When engine braking performance declines significantly, Pacbrake recommends the Sealing Ring Piston Kit specifically designed to enhance braking performance and make engine brakes feel like new again. Over the years of engine operation, component wear is normal. This is also true with the engine brake. In some cases slave piston bores may wear, and once this wear occurs, the clearance between the piston and the bore increases, allowing oil to bypass. Bypassing oil results in reduced retarding performance, which is usually evident by lower turbo boost when using the engine brake. In the past, engine brake housings needed to be replaced. No longer. Pacbrake has developed replacement slave pistons with seal rings, which prevents oil bypassing between the slave piston and the bore. Installing the replacement slave pistons will restore engine brake performance and maintain acceptable internal housing pressures.
Peterbilt 387 Features New Keyless Entry
A new remote keyless entry system for Peterbilt's Model 387 tractor puts added convenience and security at customers' fingertips. The new optional system locks and unlocks both driver and passenger doors, and the truck's marker lights illuminate to confirm when either operation is complete. The system has a range of up to 30 feet and uses random signal technology to safeguard the signal.
Phillips Intros Power Grip Air Hoses
Phillips Industries offers the Power Grip option on all popular sizes. The extra-long brass-handle 12- and 15-foot coiled air assemblies give added leverage, making connecting and disconnecting easy and quick, especially in cold weather. Additionally, the Power Grip coiled air hoses have been designed with a standard end at the tractor and an angle-slanted end at the trailer to address the different connecting locations. The 3 1/2-inch coil diameter offers greater flexibility and matches electrical cables; and the extra long spring functions as a nylon-tubing protector, extending the life of the assembly.
Prophesy Updates FleetTrax
Prophesy Transportation Solutions FleetTrax Premier handles all fleet maintenance procedures including preventative maintenance scheduling, maintenance history, fuel and tire usage, equipment tracking, parts inventory, work order generation, automatic costing of parts and labor and more.
Features:
• Enhanced tire rotation tracking offers a graphic representation of the tires on each truck.
• Enhanced bar code scanning eliminates the need to re-key information.
• Users can easily schedule daily and/or annual driver equipment checks on a new quick entry screen.
Also features enhanced data entry and information displays, navigation tools and sorting options.
Qualcomm Links With Snap-on For Remote Diagnostics
Qualcomm Inc. and Snap-On Inc. integrate Snap-on's eTechnician application, a Web-based remote vehicle monitoring and diagnostics solution, with Qualcomm's OmniTRACS fleet management solution. Snap-on's eTechnician enables communication of vehicle diagnostic data to a central base and the ability of management to query vehicle data at any time. The application also has a command-and-control feature enabling vehicle control and the re-programming of vehicle parameters while the vehicle is traveling.
Snap-on's eTechnician is marketed under the Nexiq trade name.
Bosch's New Long-haul Alternator
Robert Bosch Corp. has introduced the new Ultra Premium Long Haul Alternator for commercial vehicles, designed to provide greater electrical power and efficiency on the road or at idle. The Long Haul alternator (AL9960LH), which replaces more than 220 different original equipment alternators, operates at more than 70% efficiency while conventional OE replacement alternators operate at 55% efficiency. This high-efficiency design transforms energy into power rather than performance-robbing heat, saving fuel every mile, the company says.
Rotary debuts New Pit Lifts
Rotary has introduced three new lifts that combine the convenience of working at a more ergonomic height with the access provided by workshop pits. The three units can be mounted on rails along the top of the pit, free rolling on the pit floor or rail mounted in the pit. The advantage of the lifts is that they make the pit a more versatile work stall. Where the pit is normally used for lube changes and under-vehicle maintenance, using the lifts allows for wheel and suspension work and the service of heavy components such as transmission removals, clutch replacements and so on. Controls include a fast-raising speed for positioning the lift and a controlled slow speed for lifting. There is also a manual lift for super-fine positioning and precision adjustment.
Viesa Cooling System from Safer Corp.
The Viesa Master evaporative cooler can take the edge off high temperatures, using water vapor to bring down the temperature of air blown into the cab. The Viesa system, which mounts to the roof of a cab or sleeper, uses no engine power and burns no fuel. It uses varying amounts of tap water and its eight-speed fan draws from less than 1 ampere to as many as 8 amps from the truck's batteries. The plastic water tank holds up to 7.5 gallons, which will last from eight hours - enough for an overnight stay in extreme heat of a dry desert - to three days in more moderate conditions. It takes about three hours to mount the 75-pound unit.
Shell New Coolant Conversion Kits
The makers of Shell Rotella ELC Extended Life Coolant have introduced a first-of-its-kind coolant conversion kit that provides everything needed to convert a heavy duty diesel engine's cooling system from conventional to extended life coolant. Once the conversion has been made, protection is provided for up to 600,000 miles or 12,000 hours of service.
A typical conversion, using the new Shell Extended Life Coolant Conversion Kit normally takes less than an hour to perform, does not require draining and refilling of coolant, and the cooling system will never again need to have Supplemental Coolant Additives (SCA) added.
CR's New High-Volume Air Dryer
The Dual Turbo-2000 is a high-volume air dryer engineered for applications such as transit bus and refuse collection where there is a frequent use or brakes demanding high air flow. Contained in a single unit, the Dual Turbo-2000 doesn't require a purge tank - easing installation, especially in low-floor bus designs. It shares service parts with other Brakemaster dryers and an internal oil separator protects desiccant from compressor blow-by.
Sloan's New Gladhand for Fed-Ex
Sloan Transportation Products patent-pending gladhand for FedEx includes an integral shut-off valve that prevents contaminants from entering the air delivery system. Polyurethane gaskets ensure a positive seal and the 45-degree angle makes coupling and uncoupling faster and easier. Sloan engineered this gladhand as a single unit with fewer components, which decreases wear and increases durability. Drivers will no longer need to use a dummy coupler to seal the gladhand.
Smart-Sense Battery/Alternator Voltage Controller
SmartSense is a sensing device that determines the temperature of batteries and tells the alternator how much voltage to send to them. The usual alternator's output climbs with turning speed, but its rate of charge is otherwise constant. It doesn't know the batteries' condition so it doesn't vary its output. Smart Sense continually senses what charging voltage is needed and signals the alternator to deliver it. The tubular device is installed on the battery pack and wired to the alternator's "remote sense" circuit. Smart Sense promises longer battery life and more reliable starts in cold weather with fewer non-starts. In hot temperatures, the device tells the alternator to produce voltage at its normal output. It can also be set to lower output in extreme heat to prevent battery gassing.
Tand-L Tool Fits All Tandem Handles
The Tand-L is a handle-assist tool designed to lock tandem handles easily in any position. A driver simply pulls the tandem handle out or up as far as possible, wedges the Tand-L in place, locking the tandem handle in that position. If the tandem locking pins are bound, the driver should rattle the trailer to loosen the pins and repeat the process. The driver then slides the tandem to the desired position and releases pressure off the Tand-L to remove easily. The chrome/nickel-plated tool will not slip once installed and eliminates frustrating "pop-back" while sliding the tandem. The Tand-L can be attached to the tandem or kingpin handle area. The pocket-sized Tand-L fits all types of tandem handles and various kingpin handles.
Terion Fleetview 3R for Reefers
Terion Inc.'s FleetView 3R trailer management system for refrigerated trailers combines the latest digital wireless and GPS technologies with Terion's web-based application designed specifically for operation on a refrigerated trailer. Performing in the harshest environments, the system installs inside the refrigerated cabinet in most cases, allowing installation when the trailer is loaded, and it supports full over-the-air system upgrades and enhancements, eliminating the time and expense of taking trailers off the road to manually update the unit.
Thermo King Pocket Wintrac
Thermo King's Pocket Wintrac software for Pocket PC is an extension of the Wintrac download, data management and report utility for truck, trailer, container and rail microprocessor controllers. It replaces bulky laptop PCs. Data can be downloaded from multiple dataloggers and controllers for transfer to Wintrac or FleetWatch management software. Supported devices include the SmartReefer2 controller, AccuTrac in-cab datalogger, TranScan datalogger recorders and the Data Acquisition System. The flexibility of Pocket Wintrac allows drivers to verify cargo temperatures at the point of delivery, download the last trip, and either display the temperature information as a graph or transfer the data to the customer's PC for instant verification. Thermo King reefers and dataloggers can be updated even if the unit is in a remote location.
Truck-Lite Mini-Markers
Truck-Lite's new Mini-Marker Light is the smallest LED lamp to meet clearance, side marker and identification applications. The new LED offers trailer engineers and manufacturers greater flexibility in trailer and rear-door structure design. It also allows truck operators to continue to enjoy the benefits of significantly reduced damage to their lighting system while having a more efficient trailer door design. The new design is in response to estimates that as much as 40% of fleet clearance marker lighting costs are a result of physical damage.
Utility's 4000D-X Dry Vans
Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co.'s new 4000D-X series models use traditional sheet and post construction for greater durability and ease of repair. Sandwich sidewall design uses recessed "squeezed" rivets to attach the interior lining panels to the side posts, providing a snag-resistant, cargo friendly interior. Lining panels are 80,000 psi galvanized steel and pre-painted white with a protective, acrylic coating. The 4000D-X 101 version provides a full 101 inches of inside width from lining to lining and 101 inches from wearband to wearband with 4,085 cubic feet of productivity. The 4000D-X 100 version has deeper side posts with increased stiffness for bulge loads. Galvanized, high-strength interior lining panels provide a snag-resistant surface and a full 100 inches of inside width from wearband to wearband.
Volvo Offers Bendix ABS-6
Beginning in early 2005, Volvo will offer Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP (Electronic Stability Program) as a customer-specified option. ESP is able to selectively apply the brakes on individual wheel-ends, depending on driving conditions, vehicle speed and other inputs from onboard sensors. This assists the driver to reduce speed, keep the vehicle in proper alignment, and reduces the tendency for the truck and trailer to slide or jackknife. This stability function is known as yaw control. In addition to jackknifes, yaw control is a safety advantage in situations involving oversteer or understeer, and sudden transitions from dry to slippery surfaces. The Roll Stability Program (RSP) - an element of ESP - monitors inputs from sensors and applies all available brakes on a vehicle to rapidly reduce rollover potential while turning, a consideration for fleets operating high center-of-gravity trucks.
LowMax Offers 123-inch BBC Option
Western Star Trucks' new LowMax option for the 4900 FA model expands the popular LowMax package to include a 123-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) configuration. This option fits the bill for premium owner-operators looking for a shorter hood, stylish design and big bore engine power.The 123-inch BBC 4900FA LowMax offers 22.5-inch low-profile tires, reduced rear suspension height, redesigned lower cab mounting, low-profile oil pan and special exhaust routing packages. The hood length was shortened by approximately nine inches. Engine options include Caterpillar and the Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine. In addition, the Front AirLiner suspension is available, which features a lower axle drop and suspension height. With a cab height almost a foot lower than standard, the LowMax features a road hugging design that provides advantages in handling and stability. Ideally suited for premium car haulers who run sleeper units
