NIFTYFIFTY
Heavy Duty Trucking's Nifty Fifty awards showcase our editors' picks of the best new product introductions over the last year.
The 50 winners were selected from hundreds of new product articles appearing in the magazine, in our interactive New Product News and at
www.truckinginfo.com during 2008.
Products were judged on their usefulness to the truck operator in terms of innovation, serviceability and performance.
Advantage PressurePro Tire Monitoring
The Intelligent Drop-and-Hook System has been designed to work specifically
with multi-trailer fleets, allowing automatic tire pressure sensing in
drop-and-hook operations.
The Intelligent Monitor is mounted in cab and displays current pressures and
alerts to a driver. Capable of reading 16 tires each on a tractor and up to
three trailers, the monitor can communicate with other devices in the
tractor via RS232, J1708 or J1939 networks, allowing transmission of
pressures and alerts to an office/remote management system
When the tractor and trailer are tethered, the monitor in the tractor picks
up the IDs, pressures and positions of sensors on the trailer from the
Intelligent Repeater. When a trailer is unhooked and there is no
communication for 20 seconds, the Intelligent Monitor "forgets" that trailer
and begins to look for new readings.
Air-Weigh LoadMaxx Scale
Air-Weigh has unveiled a new in-cab electronic scale, LoadMaxx, which
incorporates state-of-the-art hardware and software technology packaged in a
new ComLink hardware device.
The LoadMaxx scale offers an interface to J1939/CAN bus, two programmable
weight alarm outputs, an interface to an inclinometer, and enhanced
self-test diagnostics.
The J1939/CAN bus interface allows dash displays and on-board computers to
easily obtain weight information for wireless transmission to fleet
headquarters or for viewing by the driver in the cab. Two alarm outputs can
be used to warn the driver when an axle group weight or GVW exceeds legal
limits.
ATDynamics TrailerTail
The aerodynamic TrailerTail is a rear-drag reduction device proven to
increase fuel efficiency of long-haul tractor-trailers by more than 5
percent.
The device features concave, rigid panels extending up to 4 feet off the
rear of a trailer, which collapse effortlessly to ensure easy access to
freight and docking facilities. A patented hinge system allows drivers to
operate doors and access loading bays normally. The TrailerTail collapses
from 4 feet to 3 inches in length in less than 8 seconds.
ATDynamics developed the collapsible TrailerTail extension to meet
durability and usability requirements while cutting emissions and fuel
costs. The TrailerTail also improves vehicle safety by providing additional
stability and reduced spray at the rear of the trailer.
Third-party SAE J1321 testing conducted by Robert Transportation at
Energotest 2007 in Montreal, Canada, showed that the TrailerTail boosts fuel
efficiency by 5.1 percent at 62 mph. At 68 mph the TrailerTail yields
potential efficiency gains of greater than 6 percent.
Bridgestone L315 High-Traction Tire
Bridgestone Firestone introduced the Bridgestone L315, an
aggressive-traction on/off-highway single-wide radial tire engineered for
long mileage, traction and flotation. It is designed for axles carrying
extra-heavy loads, such as front-discharge cement mixers with front-wheel or
all-wheel drive. This new single-wide tire is also good in job situations
where superior traction is required, such as on dump trucks, specialty
oil-field equipment and other on/off-highway construction vehicles.
The L315's lug tread and open shoulder design provide hundreds of biting
edges to dig into soft surfaces, promoting superior drive traction in mud
and on gravel.
The wide-base design distributes footprint pressure for flotation while also
allowing higher payload - the L315 has an "L" load rating, which allows it
to carry 12,300 pounds at 120 psi.
The L315 has a 30/32-inch tread depth for long original tread life and tough
tread compounds that resist cuts, chips, tearing and irregular wear. The
L315 wide base tire is available in the 445/65R22.5 size in "L" load range.
Carrier Transicold IntelliSet Controls
Carrier Transicold's improved IntelliSet trailer refrigeration control
option has new preset profiles that make it easier to program for better
temperature management and fuel economy.
Eight profiles - four for perishables and four for frozen cargo - provide
templates for the most common applications. The new profiles have configured
settings for more than 50 refrigeration parameters, eliminating steps in the
set-up and operation of Carrier's highly sophisticated Advance
microprocessor control.
Cummins Filtration ES Compleat Coolant
Cummins Filtration's new Fleetguard ES Compleat Glycerin is a heavy-duty
engine antifreeze/coolant using non-toxic glycerin instead of traditional
ethylene glycol or propylene glycol.
Glycerin is derived from renewable sources and is the primary byproduct of
the biodiesel manufacturing process. Cummins Filtration conducted extensive
testing and field trials to approve glycerin as the base for this new
coolant. All tests confirmed that ES Compleat Glycerin prediluted coolant
provides the anti-freeze, anti-boil, heat transfer and corrosion protection
required of today's fully formulated, heavy-duty antifreeze/coolant.
Dana Steer Heavy Axle
The Spicer D-2000W 5.24-inch drop wide track axle is for heavy-use specialty
vehicles requiring a high degree of maneuverability. The axle was developed
for applications that require a solid beam forged design in 20,000-pound and
22,800-pound capacities. It has turn angles up to 50 degrees to assist with
tighter, sharper turns often required with fire trucks, rescue vehicles and
motor homes.
Through Dana's LMS kingpin design, the steer axles also promote grease
retention while preventing contamination in both pressurized and vacuum
situations.
Detroit Diesel HDEP DD15, DD13
After nearly five years and $1.5 billion in development, Detroit Diesel
unveiled the first two models of its HDEP line: the DD15 engine at 14.8
liters and the DD13, a 12.8-liter engine. Both feature exhaust gas
recirculation and a diesel particulate filter for reduced emissions and are
designed to take on 2010 standards with the addition of a simple downstream
selective catalytic reduction (SCR).
The engines both use a new Amplified Common Rail System, and the bigger
engine also gets innovative turbo compounding technology. They are the first
in a series of new heavy-duty engines from Detroit Diesel, which eventually
will cover four displacements.
Dometic Under Bunk Refrigerator
Freightliner brands will be the first to offer the Dometic under- bunk
refrigerators, initially as an option for the Cascadia. The Dometic
under-bunk refrigerator includes a convenient slide-out drawer for easy
access and can serve as a refrigerator or freezer (based on thermostat
setting). The under-bunk design also saves shelf space for additional
storage options.
Designed with rugged steel exteriors with durable protective coating and
high-impact polystyrene, the refrigerator is easy to clean and maintain. The
dependable DC-powered Danfoss 12/24 volt compressor provides consistent and
reliable performance.
Additional features of the Dometic refrigerator include a large condenser
system that protects against failures from compressor overheating, and
automatic low-voltage and high-pressure cutouts for extra protection.
East Introduces Integrated Stairway
East Manufacturing introduced the first built-in stairway for platform
trailers, providing an easier, safer exit and entrance to the flatbed deck.
The deck lid locks in the upright position via double rods that slide into
two receivers. One handrail is located under the lid, and the other is built
next to the pooch-punched aluminum steps.
In the down position, the deck lid latches securely to prevent bouncing
during transit. The deck lid is load bearing, so the trailer loses zero deck
area because of the stairs. The integrated stairway is all aluminum, so no
extra weight is added to the trailer.
Eaton Hybrid Drive
Eaton's medium-duty hybrid power systems are now commercially available and
will be ready for customer deliveries on chassis from International,
Kenworth, Peterbilt and Freightliner. This follows more than four years of
development and 2 million miles of successful field-testing. Eaton hybrid
power systems are generating fuel economy improvements of up to 60 percent
and significant reductions in harmful emissions.
Eaton employs a parallel-type diesel-electric hybrid architecture with
Fuller UltraShift automated transmission. It incorporates an electric
motor/generator between the output of an automated clutch and input of the
transmission. The system recovers energy normally lost during braking and
stores the energy in batteries. When electric torque is blended with engine
torque, the stored energy is used to improve fuel economy and vehicle
performance for a given speed or used to operate the vehicle with electric
power only.
Ford European- Designed Transit Van
The Transit Connect is a small car-based panel van with sliding side doors.
With its standard 2-liter, four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission,
it delivers fuel economy estimated at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway..
The Transit Connect cargo capacity is 143 cubic feet. It can accommodate
loads up to 6.5 feet in length and 4.7 feet in width, allowing for large,
flat-sided loads and providing a totally flat load floor.
Straight and square side walls on the outside provide a clean surface and
positioning for commercial branding logos and messages. Inside, storage
systems can make Transit Connect ideal for specific businesses.
It will be available in select North American markets in mid-2009.
Freightliner Adds Cascadia Model
Freightliner Trucks introduced an additional model to the Cascadia line. The
latest Cascadia is a 72-inch XT model, the second sleeper variation of the
on-highway truck to be introduced.
The Cascadia 72-inch XT, designed for flatbed and tanker operations,
features a standup sleeper that boasts 78 inches from the base of the bunk
to the ceiling, allowing drivers to comfortably stand to full height. The
Cascadia 72-inch XT has an optional upper bunk or storage cabinets against
the back wall of the cab to maximize storage and space.
Fulton Innovation E-Coupled Power
Anew company, Fulton Innovation, has developed a technology that uses
inductive coupling to get power from a primary winding to a second, but it
is accompanied by electronics that recognize what that secondary is: its
voltage, the power required, even the way the power is conditioned to best
be used by the secondary..
The technology could be used to recognize and charge power tools in a
utility-truck setup, or recognize a flashlight, cell phone, Blackberry or
iPod for a recharge in the cab.
Goodyear DuraSeal For Line-haul
Goodyear has adapted its self-sealing commercial tire technology on a
broader scale for use on long-haul trucks.
The new Unisteel G316 LHT line-haul trailer tire featuring DuraSeal
Technology allows semi-trucks to continue operating after a tire is
punctured by road debris in the repairable tread area, greatly reducing
vehicle downtime and service calls.
Already proven in mixed-service applications, such as logging, construction
and mining, the technology uses a gel-like, solvent-free compound built into
the inner liner of the tire. It consistently and instantly seals punctures
with gel flowing into void areas and around objects up to 1/4 inch in
diameter.
Grote Brilliant LED Work Lamp
Grote Industries' LED Trilliant work lamp easily rivals HIDs and eclipses
halogen competitors. It provides bright LED WhiteLight for more than 35,000
hours of operation, compared to only 2,000 hours for HID and 500 with
halogen lights.
Providing optimum color temperature for viewing comfort, the Trilliant work
lamp correctly disperses light depending on the lens selected: a flood,
spot, or trapezoid lens configuration are available.
Solid-state construction and specially formulated potting provide shock,
vibration and moisture resistance. Together with replaceable hard-coated
polycarbonate lenses, the Trilliant work lamp is a tough and smart lighting
solution for demanding environments.
Haldex ILAS E Air Suspension Valve
Haldex Commercial Vehicle Systems added the ILAS E Air Suspension Valve to
control the position of lift axles through an electrical connection. A 12V
power supply is needed to keep the lift axles in the raised position.
When power is removed, the lift axles automatically lower. When coupled with
the Haldex TRS System, the lift axles can be controlled to raise and lower
automatically as the air suspension reacts to changing loads in the trailer.
The ILAS E/TRS System can be adjusted to react at various pressure
conditions.
The system simplifies the lift axle system with four push-to-connect
fittings and a standard DIN electrical connection.
The lift axle will raise or drop automatically with the unloading or loading
of the vehicle, providing operational savings, as the lift axle and wheels
are not subjected to wear when the vehicle is empty.
Hendrickson Softek Steer Axle Assembly
Hendrickson is in production with its lightweight Softek front steer
suspension and axle system, which combines Hendrickson's monoleaf steel
spring and the rigid, box-shaped Steertek axle for optimal ride and
stability with substantial weight savings.
The company says Softek is one of the lightest front suspension and axle
combination available to help fleets and owner-operators counter the
increased weight of new engine technology. At a capacity of 12,000 pounds,
fleets can trim up to 92 pounds compared to traditional two-leaf
suspensions. Softek also comes in a 12,350-pound-capacity system.
IntelliStick Intelligent Dipstick
IntelliStick offers condition-based preventive maintenance by providing an
onboard, real-time oil quality sensor monitoring the true condition of lube
oil. It can also detect coolant or fuel intrusion. This provides the ability
to determine when it is time to change oil or add an oil additive.
IntelliStick's simple and compact single electrode conductivity test applies
a low voltage across two sensor arrays. The system measures the
electrochemical changes caused by additive package depletion and impurities
that form in the oil over time.
Intermec CK3 Rugged Handheld Computer
Intermec introduces the CK3 mobile computer, which delivers adaptable data
and image capture capabilities, along with secure wireless communications,
in a durable handheld package. The CK3 was designed for mobile operations
and incorporates many capabilities in one device, including::
1D and 2D barcode scanning, both up-close and far-away, in any orientation
and under varied lighting conditions.
Wireless LAN Radio with Cisco Compatible Extensions (CCX) certification
VoIP communications supported
Speech recognition capable
Bluetooth radio communications
Handheld or "gun" deployment formats
RFID reader option
Support for a line of compatible Intermec mobile printers
Isuzu 2009 N-Series Low Cab Forward
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America launched the 2009 N-Series with new
features to increase driver productivity, enhance fuel economy and reduce
emissions. The front suspensions, spring rates, steering and cab mount
bushings have been tuned for more comfort and a better ride. In the area of
pollution control, all Isuzu diesel trucks are now 50-state "Clean Idle
Certified."
All N-Series diesel models incorporate a data recording module that can
provide a Vehicle Health Report showing the condition of the engine,
transmission, emissions and brakes, plus fuel economy and driver operating
habits.
Kenworth Hybrid Tractor
Kenworth introduced the T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid tractor for
local haul applications, including beverage, general freight and grocery
distribution.
Kenworth's goal for the T370 hybrid tractor is to improve fuel economy by up
to 25 percent in local haul applications. The tractor will be available in
various wheelbases, starting as short as 153 inches.
It is powered by the Paccar PX-6 engine and features an integral
transmission-mounted motor/generator, a frame-mounted 340-volt battery pack,
and a dedicated power management system. Advanced powertrain controls
monitor driving conditions and automatically select the ideal power mode,
smoothly switching among electric-only, combined diesel and electric, and
diesel-only power modes.
Mack 'Big Dog' Titan With 16-liter Power
Big power, extra-strong chassis components, bold styling and a lush interior
are featured on Mack's Titan, a severe-service model designed for heavy
transport and construction applications. Titan is powered by Mack's new
16-liter MP10 diesel with a maximum rating of 605 horsepower and 2,060
pounds-feet..
The new Mack flagship, Titan is based on the Granite vocational series and
replaces the CL long conventional, which Mack dropped at the end of 2006.
High-capacity components will allow Titan to have gross combination weight
ratings as high as 300,000 pounds. They include front axles rated from
12,000 to 20,000 pounds and rear tandems from 46,000 to 65,000 pounds.
Meritor OnGuard Stability System
Meritor Wabco OnGuard is a forward-looking, radar-based adaptive cruise
control system with active braking for commercial vehicles. Automatic
foundation brake intervention distinguishes OnGuard from existing passive
collision warning systems, which can only alert the driver to a potentially
dangerous situation. With OnGuard on the vehicle, if the pre-determined
"safe" distance is compromised, it provides visual and audible warning to
the driver, vehicle deceleration through engine control, retarder control
and most importantly, noticeable foundation braking. Foundation brake
deceleration can be as great as one-third of a full brake application but
within safe limits for the driver to take control.
Michelin Regenerating Tread XDA5
Michelin's XDA5 drive tire features a tread that regenerates itself as it
wears. This regenerating tread design keeps the tire in service longer
before retreading, a 30 percent improvement in tread life over other drive
tires. Michelin is marking the XDA5 tire's entrance into the marketplace
with a guarantee that the tire will outlast the drive tire it replaces by at
least 30 percent.
Michelin uses patented design and manufacturing techniques to mold the tread
of the XDA5 in three dimensions. As the tire wears, the tread reveals new
grooves and tread blocks, effectively giving the tire a second life -
self-regenerating to improve wet, worn traction.
Microdea In-Cab Scanner
PeopleNet and Microdea teamed up to introduce In-Cab Scanning, letting
drivers scan and transmit documents such as bills of lading and signed
delivery receipts from virtually anywhere.
Microdea supplies a rugged, small-footprint scanning device mounted in the
truck cab. Scanned document images are transmitted using the open interface
of PeopleNet’s g3 Services and are captured by Microdea, which makes
documents immediately available to third parties such as a carrier, its
customers or a carrier’s third-party document management provider.
Drivers can receive and print hard copies of documents such as highway
permits, bills of lading and violation notices. Drivers using PeopleNet’s
eDriver Logs automated log application will also be able to print out logs
on the spot for enforcement officers.
Motor Wheel CentriSet Wheel-end System
Motor Wheel Commercial Vehicle Systems, a supplier of commercial highway
axle-end components, has launched its new CentriSet Trailer Hub System, a
pre-adjusted, low maintenance, low-weight, and low-cost wheel-end system.
Currently available for N and P spindle trailer applications, this long-life
hub system carries a five-year/500,000-mile warranty.
The CentriSet System begins with a lightweight ductile iron hub to provide
higher strength and increased resistance to damage compared to aluminum
hubs.
Navistar DuraStar Hybrid Tractor
Navistar expanded its line of diesel electric hybrid trucks with the
addition of the International DuraStar Hybrid tractor, targeted toward
general freight haulers and food/beverage distributors. It is a diesel
electric parallel hybrid Class 7 tractor that offers fuel savings of 20
percent to 25 percent in standard in-city pickup and delivery applications.
The DuraStar Hybrid also reduces the amount of emissions released into the
air, emitting up to 33 percent less hydrocarbon emissions and 35 percent
less nitrogen oxide emissions versus standard diesel trucks.
International DuraStar Hybrid trucks employ a parallel-type, diesel-electric
hybrid architecture supplied by Eaton.
Peterbilt Front Air Leaf Suspension
Peterbilt’s proprietary Front Air Leaf Suspension features an innovative
design and high-performance components that delivers many improvements in
ride and overall service maintenance. Available on Peterbilt Models 384,
386, 388 and 389, the Front Air Leaf Suspension has a lower spring rate for
better isolation of road inputs and a 20 percent improvement in ride, while
at the same time maintaining the roll stiffness and handling performance of
a taperleaf suspension. The front air leaf design also uses four air springs
to support up to 75 percent of the spring load. The front spring design has
a wide, flat, lower leaf for good lateral stiffness and control and a stout
upper leaf for improved roll stability and handling.
Peterson Image Conscious Marker Light
Truck and trailer owners looking for a unique idea in accessory lighting can
find it in Peterson’s latest Piranha LED line. The 179 Series model employs
unique optics that create a stunning 3D tunnel effect when lighted.
Both amber and red versions of the 3D LED are available. Designed for
accessory use only, the new light offers striking ways to illuminate and
beautify big rig and custom trailer features such as stainless steel air
cleaners, headache racks, bumpers, door panels and running boards. With an
operating range of 8-16 volts, the light mounts on 4-inch centers and allows
either lead to connect to the hot wire. Existing bullet terminals can be
plugged into female connectors or removed for hard-wire connection.
Phillips i-Box for Electronics
The i-Box, short for “Information Box,” is a trailer nosebox developed by
Phillips at the request of a major U.S. trucking fleet for more room for
additional wiring required by added trailer electronics such as trailer
tracking and weigh systems that were not part of trailers 10 years ago.
Phillips took this idea and designed a nosebox with a third more working
room inside to alleviate wire pinching and pull-out, which has become a
problem in standard noseboxes.
While Phillips was expanding the size of the nosebox, designers took the
opportunity to make other time-saving and money-saving improvements, such as
a hinged lid with weather-proof gasket, circuit breakers that can be changed
in seconds, and the QCS2 socket allowing for easy replacement.
Prolam SFI-Certified Trailer Floors
Prolam announced that a portion of the laminated floors it produces use
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Certified hardwood. The announcement
comes after two of its major hardwood suppliers earned SFI certification.
Approximately 3,000 floors can be produced per year with 100 percent SFI
Certification and Prolam says it is the only flooring company that has this
option.
SFI Certification is available to any land management company, forest
product manufacturer, paper printer, or any other company that manages
and/or uses forest products.
Qualcomm Fuel Manager
Qualcomm announced the availability of Fuel Manager, a module in its
Performance Monitoring service. As part of the OmniVision Transportation
suite of services, Fuel Manager helps fleets reduce fuel consumption by
tracking and managing vehicle and driver behaviors that cause unnecessary
fuel usage such as speeding, idling and over-revving their engines.
Fuel Manager provides a set of querying and data presentation tools that
turn data into actionable information to help companies manage and reduce
fuel expenditures. The module provides insight into individual driver
behaviors that directly affect fuel consumption, positively or negatively.
Racor Low-Restriction Air Cleaner
Racor’s composite very low restriction (VLR) heavy-duty air cleaner series
offers four stage filtration, which is more efficient and less restrictive
than a traditional tangential inlet canister alone, according to the
company. The VLR incorporates a dynamic precleaner and additional static
precleaning action into a dual-element filter canister. They are available
with straight or 90 degree outlet, a primary element only, or with primary
and safety element. They can be mounted horizontally or vertically and
rotated in any direction, as long as the dust evacuator valve is pointed
downward.
As well as high efficiency and dust holding capacity, the air cleaners offer
durable high-strength polymer composite construction, light weight, rust and
corrosion resistance, UV resistance, industry-standard radial seal filter
elements, and intake flow rates from 50 to 700 cfm.
Reyco Granning Class 8 IFS
Reyco Granning introduced an independent front suspension that allows Class
8 vehicles to attain automobile-type handling, with minimal cost and weight
penalty. The company claims the ride is so smooth it may eliminate the need
for a cab suspension. The Class 8 IFS, designed for over-the-road trucks and
trailers, is said to be easy to install, easier to service, and promises to
fit into existing assembly lines with little or no disruption.
Reyco Granning’s Class 8 IFS is designed to work with either a conventional
steering box or rack and pinion steering. Other features include anti-dive
geometry, which keeps the nose of the vehicle stable during stops. A
steering linkage design virtually eliminates bump steer. Separate load
inputs distribute the load across the frame.
SKF Rebuild Kit for PreSet Hubs
SKF now provides a unique all-in-one rebuild kit that contains everything
needed to service ConMet’s PreSet hub assemblies. The kit includes two
specific and tightly toleranced half stand tapered bearing sets, an SKF
Scotseal PIusXL wheel seal, an SKF TF Hubcap (when applicable) and a
precision machined PreSet bearing spacer.
Using the kit instead of off-the-shelf components has several benefits. All
of the kit’s parts are manufactured to SKF and ConMet specifications,
offering the same kind of reliability and performance from the rebuilt wheel
end as the original. Installation is simpler, with one procedure regardless
of axle type, and no need for complicated torquing and use of a dial
indicator.
SkyBitz Reefer Control Solution
SkyBitz Reefer Control enables fleet managers to monitor, manage and control
all of their reefer assets from any desktop. By integrating the SkyBitz GLS
210 Mobile Terminal with StarTrak’s ReeferTrak module, SkyBitz Reefer
Control adds a high level of visibility to any reefer business with the
benefits of coverage provided by satellite technology at an aggressive price
point, according to the company.
The reefer control offers the combined benefits of a satellite
communications and tracking solution with a proven, two-way control system
available for all types of transport refrigeration configurations from
StarTrak.
Key to the SkyBitz Reefer Control Solution is the ability to offer two-way
communication and control with up-to-the-minute microprocessor information.
Stemco Tire Pressure for Single Wide Tires
Stemco introduced an AirBAT tire pressure monitoring sensor designed for
single-wide tire applications. The pressure monitoring sensors are mounted
on the wheel end and continually monitor tire pressure with visual alerts to
detect under-inflated tires.
Single-wide tire applications require a closer management of tire air
pressure because there is only one tire. The AirBAT provides a visual
indicator on the wheel-end that indicates low tire pressure, enabling the
driver or technician to be alerted and immediately add air to the tire.
The new sensor also works in concert with all of the existing BAT RF family
of products, the HandBAT handheld reader, the DAS Driver Alert System, the
gate reader, the satellite interface module as well as the company’s WebBAT
Internet-based fleet management software.
Tenstreet Xtend
Tenstreet launched Tenstreet Xtend, a driver retention service providing the
foundation to establish effective communications channels between employees
and management to quickly identify and correct issues/concerns that need
immediate attention. Proprietary software and services enable employees and
drivers to feel more connected to their employers which, in turn, helps
reduce driver turnover, builds driver loyalty, and gives fleets the
opportunity to run their operations more profitably and efficiently with the
best possible group of drivers.
Thermo King SLX Trailer Refrigeration Unit
Thermo King showcased its new SLX trailer refrigeration unit recently
launched in Europe, which offers improved performance, reduced environmental
impact and a lower cost of ownership.
The SLX design team significantly upsized the refrigeration components that
relate to performance, which means that engine operating speeds have been
reduced with no loss in performance. Slower engine speeds give a quieter
engine, which uses less fuel and prolongs the life of moving parts to
increase reliability.
Reducing fuel consumption was a key concern of the design team, who
carefully assessed where savings could be made without compromising
performance. Their work has delivered a remarkable 20 percent reduction over
the SL range, which itself is recognized as the benchmark in fuel economy,
according to the company.
Tractor-Trailer.net Air Brake Diagrams
Mitchell 1 has added color air brake diagrams to Tractor-Trailer.net, its
comprehensive Web-based truck repair manual system.
The pneumatic diagrams will include the same widely used features as the
Tractor-Trailer.net electrical wiring diagrams. In addition, the line colors
were designed to conform to TMC’s Recommended Practice 423.
Crisp and readable at any zoom level, each diagram mirrors the colors of the
pneumatic brake lines on the truck. Using Mitchell 1’s CircuitSelect
feature, a technician can highlight the brake line he’s working on so he can
focus his attention where it’s needed to quickly and accurately diagnose the
problem and make the required repair.
Truck-Lite LED Headlights
Truck-Lite has introduced 7-inch LED headlamps to the heavy duty commercial
vehicle market. They are the first LED headlamps in commercial production,
and have currently entered service on a wide variety of military vehicles.
Each headlamp uses 10 Luxeon LEDs as its light source. The LED light output
is brighter than traditional glass beam headlights, resulting in greater
light projection. Truck-Lite LED headlamps are expected to last as much as
50 times longer than typical headlamps. Luxeon color temperature is around
5,000 degree K, closer to sunlight than incandescent or halogen lamps.
Unicoil Non-Kinking Hose Coil
Unicoil allows professional automotive repairers to bend ordinary, straight
hoses into any shape for a custom fit for any vehicle. The stainless steel
product, manufactured by Australia-based Unicoil International, is simply
slid down a length of hose to wherever a bend is needed, and using only hand
pressure, the hose can be shaped exactly as required – up to 90 degrees –
without kinking.
The Unicoil product is available under the Gates brand in a range of sizes
from 1/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter and can work with most standard hoses,
including water, air, emissions and oil hoses.
Utility 4000D-X Composite Dry Van
The newly designed standard side wall of the 4000D-X Composite offers the
durability of a common plate trailer, plus added performance characteristics
such as enhanced payload carrying capability, load securement versatility
and long life expectancy.
The bonded construction of the composite side wall combines Utility’s
patented sheet and post design with the foam technology benefits in the
3000R reefer. The same aluminum exterior side skin panels used with the
3000R reefer now gives the 4000D-X Composite additional weight savings
without compromising the side wall strength or the 101-inch minimum
wearband-to-wearband space inside width of the trailer.
The polyurethane foam core structurally bonds the interior lining panels to
the outside skin panels, providing side wall durability, strength and lower
tare weight. The primary advantage in Utility’s polyurethane foam core over
the polyethylene core found in common plate trailers is that polyurethane
has a much lower density. This translates to a lower weight, more productive
trailer.
VIS Wheel Polishing Cabinet
Vehicle Inspection Systems has rolled out an automated aluminum
rim-polishing machine that can help image-conscious truck fleets boost truck
resale values, reduce costs, and impress customers.
VIS-Polish is a fully automated system that requires no manual labor and
fully encloses the polishing process. The system can polish six 19-inch to
24-inch rims in three hours, about the time it takes to change the tires on
a truck. It can also clean bead-seating surfaces.
Volvo Fuelwatch Program
Volvo Trucks North America introduced its Fuelwatch initiative to help fleet
managers and truck operators achieve maximum fuel economy.
The Fuelwatch initiative has four major elements:
• Correct specifications. Before the truck is even built, its components and
design are precisely matched to its intended application.
• Maintaining for fuel savings. Fuelwatch helps Volvo customers keep up with
scheduled preventive maintenance, which is critical.
• Monitoring performance. Volvo Link and Sentry allow fleet managers to
monitor critical functions of the truck so they can identify and make
adjustments to enhance fuel economy.
• Driver development. Performance Guide is a ride-along “coach” that tells
the driver how to operate the engine for maximum fuel economy.
Western Star Daycab Conversion Kit
Western Star Truck Sales announced a new daycab conversion kit that allows
Western Star truck owners to convert their Stratosphere sleepers into
daycabs. The kit is designed to convert any Stratosphere sleeper.
Included in each daycab conversion kit is a new overhead console, roof cap
with reinforcements, headliner, back wall and trim panel, cantrails and new
glass for the rear window. The fit and finish of the materials included in
the kit, as well as all trim components, are engineered to provide the same
high-quality look, feel and performance as an original, factory-built
Western Star daycab.
Yokohama Eco- Friendly Truck Tires
Yokohama introduced two new commercial truck tires – the 103ZR and 501ZA –
both part of Yokohama Tire’s eco-friendly, ultra-high-tech Z.environment
line, which features truck tires that last longer and are more fuel
efficient, according to the tire builder.
The casing innovations predict changes in tire shape that occur in early
stages of wear. The result is increased durability due to stabilized
performance over the wear of the tire.
Other special features of the 103ZR include rock-ejector platforms that keep
stones and debris out of the grooves to enhance durability; superior fuel
economy due to stronger and more pliable rubber that reduces heat generation
and provides low rolling resistance; and a wide tread, partnered with a
23/32-inch tread depth that promotes long, even wear. The 103ZR will be
offered in seven sizes.
ZF PowerLine Transmission
A new automatic transmission for light commercial vehicles up to 15 tons,
ZF-PowerLine is a 6-speed powershift transmission that covers the torque
range between 440 and 740 pounds-feet and is suitable for use with diesel
and gasoline engines. The new PowerLine is targeted at light commercial
vehicles and small buses as well as pickups.
Compared with similar powershift transmissions for small commercial
vehicles, the ZF-PowerLine is claimed to be considerably more economical.
This is achieved by an innovative torque converter which allows for early
closing of the converter lock-up clutch.
Webb Vortex
The high-performing, lightweight Webb Vortex brake drum is now available for
aftermarket replacement needs in addition to OE spec.
The 16½ x 7 drum, weighing 100 pounds, produced from standard gray iron
metallurgy, is an alternative drum to the more expensive steel shelled or
other lightweight drums used in rear and trailer applications.
The patent-pending Webb Vortex design profile, with reinforcing center band
and ribs, results in a conventional gray iron brake drum that weighs less
without compromising reliability, and offers braking capabilities expected
in heavier drums. The advanced technology contour adds 15 percent to the
surface area and conducts heat away from the brake surface for heat
dissipation and maximum lining life.
