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AUGUST2023WWW.MWSMAG.COMMEDIUM DUTY THE 2024 FORD F-650 AND F-750SNOWPLOW TRUCKS RELY ON BATTERIESINCREASE VEHICLE RELIABILITYSNOWPLOW BLADES EXPLAINEDFROM STEEL TO CARBIDEWINTER EQUIPMENT AND PREPAREDNESS ISSUETHE

CONNECT WITH US BOTT SMARTVANVAN RACKING SYSTEM The drill-free and crash-tested bott Smartvan van racking system brings efficiency and mobility from the workshop to the worksite with lightweight, adaptable shelving and accessories. www.bottsmartvan.comINSIDE THIS ISSUEAUGUST 2023 VOL-8 NO-8AUGUST2023WWW.MWSMAG.COMMEDIUM DUTY THE 2024 FORD F-650 AND F-750SNOWPLOW TRUCKS RELY ON BATTERIESINCREASE VEHICLE RELIABILITYSNOWPLOW BLADES EXPLAINEDFROM STEEL TO CARBIDEWINTER EQUIPMENT AND PREPAREDNESS ISSUETHECOVER STORIES50LGIHT-DUTYACCOUNTABILITY & CLIENTS TELEMATICS & SERVICEAPI’S STANDARDS ENSURING THE RIGHT OILHEAVY-DUTY32FORD F-650/750 MAKING THE DRIVE EASIER16MEDIUM-DUTYSHOWCASEOPERATIONSSNOWPLOW BLADES EXPLAINED .................... 20From steel to carbideMAINTENANCESNOWPLOW TRUCKS RELY ON BATTERIES ....... 36Increase snowplow vehicle reliabilityIN EVERY ISSUEINDUSTRY NEWS .................................... 6 INDUSTRY INSIGHT ............................. 12WORK TRUCK PRODUCTS ............... 54MY LAST EDITOR’S NOTE .................. 56@mwsmag www.facebook.com/modernworktruckwww.linkedin.com/company/ modern-work-truck-solutions.WINTER EQUIPMENT AND PREPAREDNESS ISSUETHE

OPERATIONS GET MAXIMUM RECOVERY FROM NOT-AT-FAULT COLLISIONS ........................................24 Money owed to a fleet that most don’t know existsMAINTENANCE SELECTING A DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID STORAGE SOLUTION TO IMPROVE JOBSITE EFFICIENCY ........................................28 Surging forward with a solutionMAINTENANCE HOW A WEBASTO AIR TOP EVO 40 BEAT THE ODDS ................40 The little heater that could (a case study)TECHNOLOGY FLEET MANAGEMENT AND AI ................................................46 . The advantages and disadvantages of using AI resources in fleet operations, including ChatGPTWelcome to August! Fall and winter are right around the corner, and that means it’s time for our annual Winter Equipment and Preparedness issue, filled with solutions that will help you prepare for and get through the winter. This issue also marks my last as the editor of Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine. Read my final note in Outside the Cab.Check out pieces on keeping your snowplow and snow removal equipment reliable on pages 18 and 32. Read a case study about keeping cabs warm with a little heater that could on page 36. For those that don’t have to worry with frigid climates, we’ve also got pieces on ensuring to use the right oil using API 1525A (page 28), why customer service in a telematics company is so important (page 46), AI technology in fleet management (page 42), and more. This issue is surely a wealth of information, so go ahead, get to reading! And thank you all so much for making my five years at Modern WorkTruck Solutions memorable! Jade Brasher EditorEDITOR’S NOTEwww.mwsmag.com 3100 Lorna Rd., Ste 101Birmingham, AL 35216DONNA CAMPBELL Editor in Chiefdonna@mwsmag.com JADE BRASHER Editorjade@mwsmag.comRANDY MOON Associate Publisher randym@mwsmag.comVAL CARRIER Media Consultantval@mwsmag.comGARY BARKER Media Consultantgary@mwsmag.comTIM O’HARA Media Consultanttim.ohara@mwsmag.comLISA AVERY Art Director lisa@mwsmag.comSETH SAUNDERS Digital Media SpecialistINGRID BERKY Office ManagerNo part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage-and-retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff of Modern WorkTruck Solutions, or who are not specifically employed by Highlands Publications are purely their own. All Industry News material has either been submitted by the subject company or pulled directly from its corporate website, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to jade@mwsmag.com.SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES OR CHANGES CALL:205.380.2048CHRIS GARMONCFO DONNA CAMPBELLVP, Editorialwww.highlandspublications.com TIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentCers! Ja2440 46

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 20236INDUSTRY NEWSVMAC EARNS GREAT PLACE TO WORK CERTIFICATION FOR FIFTH STRAIGHT YEARVMAC has secured its status as a Great Place To Work for 2023-2024, earning this certification for the fifth consecutive year. To become certified, coworkers must answer an anonymous Trust Index Employee Survey that focuses on five categories: credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. To become Great Place To Work Certified, organizations follow a two-step process. In addition to the anonymous Trust Index Employee Survey administered by Great Place To Work, organizations must also complete a questionnaire about their work culture, describing in detail how the organization creates a ‘great place to work’ environment. For more, visit www.vmacair.com. OPTRONICS INTRODUCES MCL SERIES MARKER/CLEARANCE LIGHTSOptronics International, manufacturer of vehicle harnesses, electronic control systems, and LED lighting for the global transportation industry, announced the release of its new innovative MCL2300, MCL20, and MCL16T Marker/Clearance Lights. The novel lights will enable trailer OEMs to create a signature, branded look for their vehicles and will provide broad customization options for owner/operators. In a marked departure from the conventional, Optronics introduced geometrically-shaped marker/clearance lights, giving customers the choice between round, oval, and rectangular shaped lights. These lights offer an increased light size while fitting into a standard 3/4-inch hole, courtesy of the included grommet. The PC-rated lamps can be used as combination side marker and front or rear clearance lights when mounted on an angle. The geometric optics spread light for an extraordinary bright appearance, delivering a reliable, high-quality lighting solution that enhances the look of any vehicle. For more, visit www.optronicsinc.com.STELLANTIS EXPANDS AND ENHANCES PARTS BUSINESS IN NORTH AMERICATo further enhance and expand its replacement parts and service business in North America, Stellantis announced the bproauto® aftermarket parts brand as its new line of high-quality, competitively priced, replacement parts. Following decades of success in Europe and other international markets, the newly introduced bproauto parts portfolio is available for most makes and models to help combat the rapidly changing aftermarket and the long-term shift to electrification as vehicles and their components are becoming increasingly complex and digital. These original-equipment-backed parts come with up to a two-year/unlimited-mile warranty. In addition, batteries have up to two-year, free replacement coverage, and brake pads carry a

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 20238INDUSTRY NEWSlimited lifetime warranty. The following parts are available now from bproauto: air filters, batteries, brake pads, brake rotors, hub bearings, oil and oil filters, tire-pressure monitoring systems. For more, visit www.bproautoparts.com and www.stellantis.com.MULLEN BEGINS CLASS 3 VEHICLE PRODUCTIONMullen Automotive, electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, announced the start of vehicle production at its Tunica, Mississippi, assembly plant for the Mullen THREE, Class 3 EV truck with first customer deliveries on track to begin in August and September. Mullen will gradually ramp up production rate over the course of September through December. Once fully ramped, Class 3 production capacity at the Tunica facility is currently planned for 3,000 Class 3 vehicles per year. For more, visit www.mullencommercial.com.HOT SHOT’S SECRET INTRODUCES ADRENALINE ASSEMBLY LUBRICANTIn response to requests from top engine builders, Hot Shot’s Secret announced the launch of Adrenaline Assembly Lubricant. This corrosion-resistant assembly lubricant has extreme dry-start protection and a strong tacky adherence to parts. Adrenaline Assembly Lubricant is engineered to provide optimal performance during crucial assembly and start-up processes and is now the official assembly lubricant for Gator Fasteners. Formulated to blend 100% with any commercially available break-in oil, Adrenaline Assembly Lubricant provides a noticeable long-lasting coating that clings to metal surfaces through the initial startup process. It adds much-needed lubricity to all engine parts including camshafts, bearings, valvetrain components, and engine fasteners such as head bolts and studs, connecting rod bolts, and other fasteners. Developed with over 2,000 ppm of zinc, Adrenaline Assembly Lube was tested against the leading competitor and proven to provide 27% better wear protection and stronger adherence. For more, visit www.hotshotsecret.com.ISUZU’S SCRANTON PARTS DISTRIBUTION CENTER NAMED ONE OF NORTH AMERICA’S TOP PERFORMING WAREHOUSESIsuzu Commercial Truck of America announced its parts distribution center in Scranton, Pennsylvania, was recently named one of North America’s top performing warehouses in Carlisle & Co.’s 2023 North American Parts Benchmark (NAPB). The award was presented on April 26, 2023, at the NAPB 2023 Conference in Universal City, California. The Scranton warehouse—part of Isuzu’s Center of Excellence comprising a state-of-the-art, 100,000-sq-ft parts distribution center and a world-class 30,000-sq-ft training and technical assistance facility—finished in a tie for second place (with CNH Industrial in Reno, Nevada) among

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202310INDUSTRY NEWSall entrants in the heavy-equipment division, beating such illustrious competition as John Deere, Volvo, Daimler Truck, Kubota, and more. First place went to a Navistar facility in Edmonton, Alberta. For more, visit www.isuzucv.com. MARION BODY WORKS TO HOST EVENT CELEBRATING THE SHIPMENT OF ITS 15,000TH CABMarion Body Works, national manufacturer of commercial truck bodies, fire and emergency apparatus, custom cabs, custom engineered vehicles, and defense bodies, celebrated the shipment of its 15,000th cab. Marion crafted the unit for longtime customer, Spartan Motors. The event took place August 16 in Marion, Wisconsin. All Marion employees involved in the product line as well as team members from Spartan Motors were in attendance. For more, visit www.marionbody.com.MAVERIK BRINGS THE ULTIMATE IN CONVENIENCE TO ALL COMDATA COMMERCIAL TRUCK DRIVERSAll Comdata, a FLEETCOR and leading global business payments company, commercial haulers can fuel up at all Maverik - Adventure’s First Stop diesel locations. Drivers with fleet and fuel cards will enjoy the c-store’s wide range of amenities and fuel solutions for commercial fleets across 12 western states and expanding. For more, visit www.comdatafuelsolutions.com and www.maverik.com.VOLVO TRUCKS TO SHOWCASE ELECTROMOBILITY INNOVATIONS, SUSTAINABILITY, AND TRANSPORTATION EFFICIENCY WITH VNR ELECTRICVolvo Trucks North America will offer test drives of its Class 8 VNR Electric as part of the “Acceleration to Zero” emissions initiative at the Green Transportation Summit & Expo (GTSE) August 22-24 in Tacoma, Washington. As a sponsor of the 12th annual event, Volvo Trucks will also have sustainable solutions experts participating in panel discussions to share its electrification outlook for advanced clean transportation programs. Attendees will have an opportunity on Tuesday, August 22, from 1 to 4 pm to participate in the ride and drive event at the LeMay-America's Car Museum and get behind the wheel of a Volvo VNR Electric. The battery-electric model, which is available today with up to 275 miles of range and in multiple vehicle configurations, was designed for fleet operators supporting local and regional distribution, pickup and delivery, and food-related products distribution. The Volvo VNR Electric truck will also be on display in the exhibit hall, offering attendees a closer look at the vehicle specifications. For more, visit www.volvotrucks.us.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202312INDUSTRY INSIGHTAQWITH THE SUPPLY CHAIN WOES AND LOW DEALER INVENTORIES THE INDUSTRY HAS COME ACQUAINTED WITH SINCE THE PANDEMIC, VEHICLE ACQUISITION HAS BECOME A CHALLENGE. AND IN THE WORK TRUCK INDUSTRY WHERE NOT JUST ANY OLD PICKUP TRUCK WILL DO, FINDING THE RIGHT VEHICLE IS EVEN HARDER. THAT’S WHERE COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER CAN HELP. TO SHARE HIS INSIGHTS IS COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER’S CHARLES BOWLES.CHARLES BOWLESNeed a New Winter-Ready Truck Now? You Have Options.MWS: MOST OF OUR READERS ARE WELL ACQUAINTED WITH COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER BY NOW, BUT DO YOU MIND GIVING AN OVERVIEW FOR OUR NEW READERS? BOWLES: Commercial Truck Trader is the industry-leading marketplace for sellers of light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks and trailers with more than 1 million monthly visitors. The service also provides a range of innovative tools to help manufacturers and dealers generate customer connections, drive sales, and maximize profits. Commercial Truck Trader is a division of Trader Interactive and belongs to the well-known “Trader” family of linked brands.MWS: THIS ISSUE’S FOCUS IS ON WINTER EQUIPMENT AND FLEET OPERATIONS IN COLD WEATHER. DOES COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER OFFER SOLUTIONS FOR A FLEET COMPANY LOOKING TO PURCHASE A TRUCK AS WELL AS SNOW REMOVAL OR WINTER WEATHER-RELATED EQUIPMENT?BOWLES: Yes! Not only does Commercial Truck Trader offer any vehicle needs your company requires while navigating the harsh winter conditions, but among our family of sites is the marketplace Equipment Trader. A quick keyword search on these sites will provide you with all of the equipment and attachments your company needs to make the most of snowy conditions. On Equipment Trader’s blog you can also find helpful articles with tips and tricks such as “7 Tips for Staying Warm at the Worksite” and “11 Tips for Maintaining Equipment in Colder Weather.”MWS: WE ALL KNOW ABOUT THE SUPPLY CHAIN AND PRODUCTION WOES THAT PLAGUE THE AUTOMOTIVE AND TRUCKING INDUSTRY. WHAT ADVICE OR SOLUTIONS WOULD YOU OFFER FLEETS WHEN THEY EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN BREAKDOWN AND ARE IN IMMEDIATE NEED OF A NEW TRUCK THAT CAN ACCOMMODATE SNOW REMOVAL EQUIPMENT?BOWLES: In times of supply chain disruptions, having a diverse option of suppliers can be beneficial. With sites like Commercial Truck Trader, you are able to easily compare what’s available to you on the market and expedite the search process immensely. LET COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER HELP

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 13It’s also important to plan and prepare. Although it may not always be possible to predict breakdowns, having contingency plans in place for such emergencies can be helpful. Create a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken when a vehicle breaks down unexpectedly.If you are not prepared to make a purchase, consider exploring rental or leasing options to temporarily replace the broken-down truck while you explore options to buy. Many truck rental companies offer snow removal equipment-friendly vehicles that can serve as a stop-gap solution until a permanent replacement is available. This gives you a great opportunity to test out a new truck prior to making the step of purchasing. MWS: CAN YOU SHARE ANY REAL-LIFE SCENARIOS WHEN A FLEET WAS IN A PINCH, NEEDED TRUCKS AND EQUIPMENT IMMEDIATELY, AND COMMERCIAL TRUCK TRADER HELPED?BOWLES: There are times when a fleet finds itself in immediate need of a replacement unit. Commercial Truck Trader (CTT) dealers have a powerful tool in their hands, called the Wholesale Industrial Network (WIN) that enables dealers to buy and sell wholesale units amongst themselves. WIN is a private, password-protected, non-consumer-facing platform that is available as part of a dealer’s subscription to CTT and is accessed through the dealer’s TraderTraxx backend tool on CTT. Dealers are able to display inventory that they are willing to wholesale to other dealers. There are currently 2,000 trucks and 700 trailers listed on WIN. It’s a powerful tool that enables dealers to quickly search nationwide for units to help a fleet get back on track quickly.MWS: SPEAKING OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN, CAN YOU OFFER ANY INSIGHT ON WHEN WE’LL SEE THE ISSUES BEGIN TO LEVEL OUT?BOWLES: We’re starting to see some data points that are pointing to an easing of the supply chain throughout all classes of trucks. On-lot dealer inventories are growing, and the average availability of units is increasing. For example, we are seeing a 31% rise in the average daily listings per dealer in July 2023 versus the same period last year. We’re ingesting reports that point toward growth in Days’ Supply, as well. As inventory increases, dealers are beginning to reinstate strong marketing and merchandising programs to capture buyers, particularly as residual values are normalizing. MWS: CAN YOU SHARE INSIGHT OR OTHER PREDICTIONS ABOUT WHERE THE COMMERCIAL AND WORK TRUCK INDUSTRY IS HEADED IN THE NEAR FUTURE?BOWLES: There’s a movement toward pre-ordering of new units, which is good from a production and delivery perspective, but it also has the unintended consequence of impeding share growth, as fewer units are available on dealer lots. Smart dealers are still making sure that they have a good supply of inventory on their lots so that they can take advantage of sales from buyers who cannot wait months for a new unit. This is where marketing through third-party marketplaces like Commercial Truck Trader drive share growth for both dealers and manufacturers. The number of used units returning to the market will continue to place downward pressure on prices, requiring dealers to be smart about taking back off-lease and trade-in inventory. This requires a faster turn in order to make sure that they don’t quickly become upside down with a unit.FOR MORE INFORMATIONCharles Bowles is the director of commercial truck OEM and strategic initiatives for Trader Interactive working with top executives at some of the world’s largest companies to build strategies to market their products. He was instrumental in the launch and growth of Commercial Truck Trader’s position in the industry. He has presented at numerous commercial truck national events, is a subject matter expert for the industry, and has presented on digital best practices to countless companies and organizations. Find out more, visit www.commercialtrucktrader.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202316MEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEMEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE

The 2024 Ford F-650 and F-750MAKING THE DRIVE EASIERAUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 17

Often, for those that employ a work truck in their fleet, especially those in the light- and medium-duty segment, driving isn’t the main job. Many times, the work truck is simply the vehicle that takes the technician, the equipment, and the materials from point A to point B. For many of those business owners and employees, the real work begins after the truck is parked at the worksite. Since driving isn’t the main aspect of the job, shouldn’t that portion of work be made as simple, easy, and satisfying as possible?Thankfully, vehicle OEMs are starting to understand, and commercial vehicles are coming off the line with more comfortable interiors, more safety features, and even more power improve the ride from home base to the worksite. Ford is one of those OEMs that’s stepped it up with the 2024 Ford F-650 and F-750.FORD TOUGHSimpler and more satisfying doesn’t equate to sacrificing. Built to be a dependable asset, both the F-650 and F-750 (in a conventional chassis cab configuration) run on a 7.3-L V8 gasoline engine. This pumps out 335 hp with 468 lb-ft of torque. The trucks feature a GVWR from 26,000 to 37,000 lbs. The 7.3-L Ford engine features the largest displacement in its class. An overhead valve architecture produces power even in low rpms, moving heavy loads similarly to diesel engines. It also features large main bearings, a variable-displacement oil pump, forged steel crankshaft for durability in commercial applications, and piston cooling jets to help manage temperatures.For diesel lovers, Ford offers its 6.7-L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine. This engine features inverse-flow configuration, which means it has inboard-mounted exhaust manifolds and turbocharger. It features a stronger block than previous generations, along with stronger connector rods and bearings and cylinder heads. As a result, the Power Stroke pumps out 330 hp and 750 lb-ft of torque. This engine also monitors the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and initiates a regeneration when necessary. Further, it features an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor that alerts the operator when an oil change is needed based on vehicle usage. It’s paired with Ford’s new TorqShift HD 10-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, Ford offers options for those that prefer alternative fuel choices. These include options such as compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane autogas prep packages. BUILT VERSATILE The Ford medium-duty F-650 and F-750 can accommodate multiple job applications as they are available in multiple configurations. These include the Regular Cab, SuperCab, or Crew Cab. They’re also available in Low-height Pro Loader or straight frame model. The F-650 Pro Loader features a chassis height of 33.6 inches with standard 19.5-inch wheels. The straight-frame model features a chassis height of 39.4 inches and 22.5-inch wheels.Built on a work-ready frame, the trucks feature diesel exhaust fluid reservoirs, fuel tanks, and battery boxes under the cab, which makes upfitting much easier. Once the upfits are installed, power them from the Live-Drive Power Take-Off, available with the TorqShift HD 10-speed transmission. FORD COMFORTWith current driver shortages, the need to retain drivers has become much more important. One way to help is to give them a truck they enjoy driving. Ford touts MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202318MEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 19its medium-duty trucks as having supportive seating with leg room that suits drivers of all sizes. The interior offers controls that are within easy reach and gauges that are easy to read. Bringing a consumer-vehicle feel into a commercial vehicle, the tilt and telescopic steering wheel of Ford medium-duty trucks also features controls, such as audio, lights, and hands-free calling. Speaking of hands-free calling, Ford medium-duty trucks come standard with Bluetooth wireless technology.Further, the Ford F-650 and F-750 trucks feature an ergonomically designed instrument cluster and center stack. The layout includes a three-button message center, traction control switch, hazard control switch, and climate control—and even additional storage. It also features factory-installed upfitter switches that are available on gas models and standard on diesel models. A factory-installed upfitter interface module (UIM) is also available. This UIM allows users to control devices quickly and simply by using a laptop or notebook—this eases some of the complexities users face with vehicle electrical systems.SAFETY TECHNOLOGYKnowing the vehicle in operation is safe makes it even more comfortable. Ford’s driver-assist technologies are available with the trucks, based on the Ford Co-Pilot360 Technologies. Technology features include hill start assist, which is standard on hydraulic brake models. Additionally, the Driver-Assist Technology Package features Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping Alert, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, and Adaptive Cruise Control.Further, a front stabilizer bar is available with the Ford F-650 and F-750. This provides stability when handling tight turns. Air brakes with traction control are standard on diesel tractor models and optional with diesel straight-frame models.EASE INTO ITOwners and operators whose main job is something other than driving can appreciate Ford’s attention to interior details that amplify comfort as well as Ford’s attention to details that increase power output. All in all, the 2024 Ford F-650 and F-750 offer a truck that’s a breeze to operate while remaining a dependable vocational asset.FOR MORE INFORMATIONFind out more about the Ford medium-duty F-650 and F-750, visit www.ford.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202320OPERATIONSSelecting a type of snowplow blade is a big decision to make—especially when there’s a couple of different kinds of blades to choose from. Whether removing snow and ice from driveways or clearing miles of highway lanes, it’s the snowplow blade that really gets the job done and affects performance. The right blades can clear away every snowflake while protecting the road surface and reducing the need for repairs when spring arrives.Let’s explore several types of snowplow blades and the features, benefits, and challenges associated with each.STEELUp against hard snowpack or ice? Steel is a cost-friendly blade option. Its accessibility and low up-front cost make it the first choice of many municipalities. About 60 to 75% of the snowplows currently in circulation use steel blades. Steel performs well cutting through packed snow and ice on the road surface therefore decreasing the need for salt or chemical usage to clear roads. Steel blades provide the best scrape due to their tendency to cut aggressively. However, if a steel blade is installed without guards or shoes for protection, expect to see premature wear and numerous blade changes throughout the season.Another downside is that using a steel blade improperly can cause major damage to the road surface, which, come spring, will require repairs.Choosing a low budget steel blade for winter snow removal can save money upfront, while care must be taken to avoid costly road repairs in the spring. However, all blades will develop wear and tear differently throughout time.RUBBERRubber snowplow blades have numerous advantages. Their flexibility Types of Snowplow Blades ExplainedFROM STEEL TO CARBIDE By Curtis Winrod

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 21makes them the perfect candidate for a blade that safely removes snow from decorative pavement. Rubber blades can actually contour to the surface of the roadway, allowing for greater accuracy and a higher rate of snow removal in wetter conditions. Further, rubber cutting edges act as a “squeegee” to move slushy snow. Their non-aggressive edge can be used on brick or decorative pavement without damaging expensive surfaces.Rubber cutting edges are also great for clearing sensitive surfaces as they flex to accommodate the variations in the surface. Therefore, rubber blades are most effective in slushy, light, or fluffy snow. Oftentimes, rubber blades will not scrape away hard-packed snow and ice and will leave a layer behind, so it’s crucial that a rubber cutting edge is working alongside a comprehensive deicing strategy.Within the selection of rubber blades available, there exists a hierarchy when it comes to the hardness of the blade. The standardized way of measuring the hardness of materials like rubber or plastic is called a durometer. It’s important to ensure that your rubber blades have a durometer level of at least 60 and a PSI (pounds per square inch) of at least 2,000. Car tires typically have a durometer of 70. If rubber blades don’t meet those requirements, premature wear, breakage, and roll-under is inevitable.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202322OPERATIONSCARBIDECarbide blades have the cutting power of steel with a vastly increased life expectancy compared to other blades. Carbide insert blades are fantastic for medium-high speed plowing on road surfaces with few obstructions. These conditions are ideal because medium-high speed reduces impact on the blade, preventing the brittle carbide insert from cracking and washing out. The longest lasting blade that an operator can use on the job is carbide, and used properly, it will end up saving more money in the long run. On average, a blade made with carbide can often last more than three seasons, while a steel blade may typically last a few snow events to perhaps a year.Testing has shown that even one carbide blade has the durability of about 20 to 30 steel blades. Carbide blades can endure much heavier use than conventional snowplow blades and generally last much longer if the snowplow is maintained properly.Carbide blades are designed to have a longer life including wear resistance to handle tough and icy winter conditions. Fleets that constantly replace steel snowplow blades throughout the winter season, might want to consider purchasing carbide.THE RIGHT QUESTIONSWhen choosing snowplow blades, it is important to consider what each blade is capable of, what kinds of road surfaces they will be used on (surface condition, potholes, manhole covers, bridge expansion joints, asphalt, concrete, etc.), and whether plowing high speed/long distance (highway) or low speed (municipal/rural). Ask the right questions and find out what product would best suit the fleet’s needs. Investing in a high-quality plow blade ensures you don’t have to worry about damaging the roads and that it will have a long life span.Learning more about each blade will help fleets match the best cutting-edge for the situation that will eliminate the need for in-season blade changes, while also reducing damage to the roadways. Eliminating in-season blade changes also reduces the risk of worker injury, unnecessary downtime, and increasing productivity. Because freshly plowed roads promote safety and reduce accidents caused by slippery conditions.FOR MORE INFORMATIONCurtis Winrod is the territory manager for Winter Equipment. With over six years of sales experience for Winter, Winrod provides day-to-day leadership to its customers. Winter Equipment has over 30 years of experience in providing solutions to the industry. Find out more, visit www.winterequipment.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202324OPERATIONSI’m amazed how many fleet operators that we talk to don’t realize they have thousands or even millions owed to them. It is understandable that the insurance carriers don’t want fleets to know they are owed this money—why would they? For those that employ a fleet and have collisions where vehicles get hit by other drivers, read this article.Specifically, in nearly all states, when someone hits a vehicle the insurance of the at-fault vehicle is not only responsible for the physical damage, but also the decrease in value of the vehicle (Diminution of Value) along with the downtime (Loss of Use) while it is out of service. This applies even if the fleet has spare units available. Driver liability, statute of limitations, and minimum policy limits vary by state, and the state where the collision happens will determine applicable laws and regulations. This money owed can be pursued retroactively up to six years depending on the state. I will cover how a fleet can get this money owed at the end of the article, but hang with me for the details. Essentially, the law supports that the party that was hit is entitled to the use of their “chattel” and compensation pursuant to the same. In other words, Loss of Use (LOU). With that said, what a fleet is entitled to and what shows up in the mailbox can be two drastically different things. Insurance companies are in business to make a profit. So, they are motivated to pay the least amount possible to settle the claims. I get it. KEY TERMSCompanies are entitled to LOU, even if they have a spare unit to fill in for a damaged vehicle. However, getting the carrier to ink the check is another matter. There are costs of having a spare unit, which is why the law supports LOU as a recoverable item. Acquisition cost, maintenance, inspections, licensing, certification, Get Maximum Recovery from Not-at-fault Collisions MONEY OWED TO A FLEET THAT MOST DON’T KNOW EXISTS By Brian Ludlow

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 25insurance, and storage are all costs incurred by having a spare unit. Supporting documentation and knowledge of the laws are key to getting a fair settlement. The second key recovery component is Diminution of Value (DV), or Loss of Market Value, the vehicle suffers even after it is repaired. Age of the vehicle, miles, condition, and other factors determine this amount. Without a strong recovery plan or a damage recovery firm, we see significant diminution of value left on the table. The key here is strong data that supports the valuation. We recommend to only engage firms that use multiple sources and have experience recovering DV. Further, the term “Total Loss” is an insurance term lacking legal definition. Carriers have often used title branding laws to determine if a vehicle is a Total Loss. While each state has different criteria for branding titles, vehicles can and have been paid as total losses with damage percentages well below the title branding statutes. Carriers often tout statements such as “Federal Guidelines” or “State Statutes” when attempting to settle claims. Legal entitlements are based upon the Restatement of Torts and defined by case law in each state. Typically, property and casualty insurance adjusters don’t understand these laws and are motived to pay out the minimum possible. Engaging a firm that specializes in commercial fleet claims can provide an arm’s length transaction necessary to be proactive in setting the claim up properly, which usually results in a higher recovery. BE PROACTIVEWhen a fleet has a collision that isn’t the fault of the fleet driver, below are some helpful tips to getting strong recovery for losses caused by the collision. 1TAKE PICTURES. Educate fleet drivers to collect key collision information at the scene and relay it quickly. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but pictures of the collision can be worth thousands of dollars. Pictures can help support or defend liability if contested, among other items. Take clear color pictures, both close and far away including all the vehicles involved in the collision. Take pictures of the third-party driver’s license, license plate, and insurance information if possible. 2COLLECT STATEMENTS.Gather as many witnesses as possible and collect statements from both drivers. Keep in mind that this is not the time to discuss liability as there may be other unknown factors that exist. 3RECORD VIDEO.On-board videos are great, but if they are not available, take a video of the damage and intersection.4 GET AN ESTIMATE.Get an accurate and thorough estimate. Be aware that many adjusters are typically not trained to accurately determine the damage to specialty vehicles or the equipment they may contain. OPTIONS FOR RECOVERYSo how can a fleet win the recovery game? Unfortunately, fleets are in a game where the opponent is highly motivated to pay the least possible, has their own set of rules on how much the insured should get, and often, they require dozens of calls and voicemails over the course of months to get a claim settled. There are essentially three routes to recover from not-at-fault collisions. 1 HANDLE THE CLAIMS YOURSELF.Unless you have extensive knowledge of the law and insurance industry as well as ample time to talk to the voicemails of insurance carriers, this option may not be ideal. 2 LET YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY HANDLE THE CLAIM.If your firm is self-insured, this is not an option. If you are insured, the insurance company will pay for physical damage, but that is all. This is because most policies have no coverage for LOU and DV. Adding this coverage is usually cost prohibitive. 3 HIRE A DAMAGE RECOVERY FIRM TO HANDLE “NOT-AT-FAULT” CLAIMS.Firms like ours that only handle not-at-fault collisions are the best bet and align with a fleet’s interests. Select a firm with a long track record, experience with specialty vehicles, adequate technology, strong legal knowledge, and specializes in Loss of Use and DV recovery. Make sure their fees are performance based and they only win if you do. This is typically the best option for self-insureds to get recovery. Few fleets have the number of trained personnel in each of these areas to adopt all these best practices. If the fleet’s resources are already stretched to capacity, consider outsourcing this to a firm that specializes in not-at-fault collision recovery. This is found money.ABOUT THE AUTHORBrian J. Ludlow is executive vice president for Alternative Claims Management, a damage recovery firm that pursues recovery at no cost for fleets and municipalities nationwide. Ludlow was the former president of Pinnacle Insurance. Reach him at bludlow@altclaim.com or call 231.330.0515.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202328MAINTENANCESelecting a Diesel Exhaust Fluid Storage Solution to Improve Jobsite EfficiencySURGING FORWARD WITH A SOLUTION By Jeff Lowe CONTRACTORS SHOULD LOOK FOR A DEF STORAGE SOLUTION THAT CAN FILL A FULL RANGE OF EQUIPMENT WITH JUST A FEW SMALL ADJUSTMENTS TO THE CONTROL PANEL.

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 29Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is surging through the construction industry as more operations convert their fleets to equipment powered by Tier 4 Final engines. While DEF offers plenty of benefits, such as safer emissions, optimized combustion, and better fuel efficiency, several challenges come with storing DEF to maintain its full shelf life. DEF is susceptible to impurities, so any contamination can create a big problem. The fluid is also sensitive to extreme temperatures, so contractors need to be sure it's kept within the optimal temperature range, generally considered to be between 12 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. All of these factors mean finding the perfect DEF storage solution can be a tall task. BULK STORAGE BENEFITSContractors frequently purchase DEF in cardboard boxes filled with 2 1/2-gallon jugs. The boxes must be stored inside a temperature-controlled environment, and manually hauling the jugs to pour DEF into the appropriate equipment is a time-consuming task. The relatively small quantity in the jugs means equipment requires frequent monitoring and refilling. This manual process also increases the risk of contaminants that are picked up on the boxes during storage or on the cap of the jug. On-site DEF storage tanks were developed to address these challenges. Much like with diesel, fuel and fluid distributors can deliver quality DEF to the jobsite where contractors can store it in bulk until it’s ready to use. This offers the benefit of a continual DEF supply without an operator needing to consistently purchase and haul small boxes or jugs of the fluid. Bulk storage tanks hold larger amounts than cardboard boxes and offer a faster method for transferring the fluid to equipment tanks. Some also reduce the risk of contamination by providing a specially designed dispensing system with a sealed connection for filling the tank. To combat temperature issues, DEF storage and pumping solutions may offer optional systems to ensure the fluid consistently stays at ideal operating temperatures. While these larger storage tanks are helpful, some still pose challenges, and not all are universal solutions. Here are some factors to consider when searching for a DEF storage solution optimized for the jobsite.EQUIPMENTMany DEF storage tanks are specially designed to accommodate a specific piece of jobsite equipment. These tanks offer a custom-engineered solution for that machine, but may not work with other equipment on the jobsite. As more equipment requires DEF, machine-specific tanks are not efficient or practical. Consider choosing a DEF storage tank that can fill a full range of equipment with just a few small adjustments to the control panel. Another factor to consider is whether the equipment is stationary or moves throughout the jobsite. For mobile equipment, look for a manufacturer that offers a manual transfer pump with a nozzle compatible with all equipment on the jobsite, from excavators and wheel loaders to haul trucks. To extend the runtime of stationary equipment like generators, pumps, or heaters, look for a system that monitors the level of DEF and automatically refills the equipment as needed. This eliminates the need for a crew member to constantly monitor To extend the runtime of stationary equipment, contractors should look for a DEF storage tank with a pump that monitors the level of DEF and automatically refills the equipment as needed.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202330MAINTENANCEand refill the machine. It also allows them to match an auxiliary fuel supply to extend run time by up to a week. Some tanks can even be fitted with both transfer systems to provide a universal DEF solution for all equipment on the jobsite.CAPACITY DEF storage tanks often have a capacity that ranges from 100 gallons to 150 gallons, allowing contractors to choose a tank size that maintains the proportional relationship of approximately 10% of DEF per gallon of diesel. Estimating the exact need requires careful consideration not just of the fleet today, but of expected changes in the fleet over the next three to five years. Some manufacturers can help contractors assess the size of the fleet, the additional plans for equipment acquisition, and the overall use of this equipment to evaluate and determine the tank size that best matches the jobsite needs. CONSTRUCTIONContractors should then consider their fuel storage solution and determine whether their jobsite would benefit from a separate DEF tank or a two-in-one solution. Standalone DEF storage tanks can be situated next to an on-site fuel storage tank, allowing operators to fill both DEF and diesel at the same time. Look for standalone tanks that offer double-walled containment and a design that allows for DEF storage over an extended period, no matter the climate. Some come with a poly inner and steel outer tank, reducing the overall weight and making it easier to store DEF on-site in both hot and cold conditions. Alternatively, some manufacturers offer a DEF storage tank that mounts on top of a transportable on-site fuel tank for a convenient, two-in-one refueling solution. Contractors who opt for this design should look for models that can be daisy-chained on top of the fuel tank to add capacity as needed to maintain the proportion of 10% of DEF per gallon of diesel. These tanks should Some stand-alone DEF storage tanks have corner brackets and forklift pockets for quick and easy maneuvering throughout the jobsite. Some of these models can even be stacked to reduce their physical footprint. When choosing a DEF tank that mounts on top of a fuel tank, contractors should consider the overall height. A total height that doesn’t exceed six feet allows operators to easily check the gauges and perform preventive maintenance without needing a ladder and the additional safety requirements that come with it.

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 31also include a reusable nylon RPV valve for closed liquid transfer. This means the valve automatically closes once disconnected, keeping the fluid in the hose as well as sealing the tank against contamination. Additionally, consider the height of these DEF storage tanks. For example, mounted models should have a total height that doesn’t exceed six feet. This allows operators to easily check the gauges and perform preventive maintenance without needing a ladder and the additional safety requirements that come with it. When choosing a top-mounted tank, contractors should also be sure it addresses factors like heating options and UV protection to ensure the system can maintain DEF shelf life in a variety of weather conditions. TRANSPORTABILITYFinally, contractors should consider whether the DEF storage solution will need to move throughout the jobsite. Top-mounted designs move along with the fuel tanks they are mounted to, and some standalone DEF storage tanks are easy to transport as well. Those that have built-in, weatherproof containment eliminate setup time by not requiring secondary pans or basins. Contractors should also look for tanks with corner brackets and forklift pockets for quick and easy maneuvering throughout the jobsite. Some of these models are even stackable to reduce their physical footprint. With Tier 4 Final engines in place to meet goals for a more sustainable world, DEF will continue to be an industry staple. In turn, the need for accuracy and efficiency with DEF storage also increases as contractors work to maintain the balance of meeting sustainability requirements and completing projects on time. With the right on-site solution, contractors can address DEF needs efficiently across the entire jobsite. ABOUT THE AUTHORJeff Lowe is the vice president of product marketing at Western Global. Western Global is a designer and manufacturer of fuel storage tanks and equipment. Western Global offers a wide range of solutions for the safe transportation and storage of fuel. The company has served the rental industry throughout five decades. Western Global engineers industry-specific solutions to ensure success in a variety of business endeavors. Find out more, visit www.western-global.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202332MAINTENANCEUse API’s Motor Oil Standards to Protect Fleet VehiclesAPI PROTECTS BULK OIL AND HELPS PREVENT COUNTERFEIT AND OBSOLETE OILS POURED INTO TRUCK ENGINES By Jeffrey Harmeningheavy-duty feature

U sing high quality parts to repair a truck is essential to keeping it running safely and to prevent future breakdowns Working with a trusted supplier as well as having the ability to examine the packaging and the part or product helps provide assurance that what was ordered is what s received When receiving or purchasing engine oil in bulk it s also important to work with a trusted supplier However confirming the brand and viscosity grade received is the brand and viscosity grade that was ordered is difficult Fortunately the American Petroleum Institute API has a critically important program in place to protect the purchaser and end consumers API which develops motor oil standards and certifies gas and diesel oils works to make certain that the proper high quality oils are going into engines Therefore API developed the API 1525A Bulk Engine Oil Chain of Custody and Quality Documentation to protect the quality of the oil throughout the supply chain for all parties involved with delivering finished bulk engine oil to those pouring it into engines This process ultimately protects vehicle repair shops vehicle dealers businesses that maintain their own vehicles and equipment and consumers from blending oil to pouring it into an engine All parties involved with supplying finished bulk engine oil to shops have a role in protecting the quality of the oil throughout the supply chain Responsibility for quality starts with the oil manufacturer or marketer and ends with the installer The blender the transporter distributor and the installer that originally ordered the product have a role in ensuring the quality of the engine oil received matches the quality ordered API 1525A describes the requirements incumbent upon each of these roles to ensure engine oil quality is maintained The bottom line is that an operator or technician can be assured that the bulk oil poured is the quality and viscosity grade expected when it meets API 1525A requirements AFTERMARKET AUDIT API has been testing packaged and bulk engine oils under its Aftermarket Audit Program AMAP for many years as a means of monitoring and enforcement of oils in the marketplace testing thousands of samples in that time This enables API to accomplish its main objective of monitoring APIlicensed oils in the marketplace but also provides the opportunity to scan the marketplace for oils that may falsely claim to be licensed by API and or display the API Engine Oil Quality Marks the Donut Starburst and Shield without a license to do so AUGUST 2023 WWW MWSMAG COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 33

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202334MAINTENANCECOUNTERFEIT OILSWhen API encounters oils falsely claiming API licensing, they are collected and tested to determine conformance with the performance level claimed. If a licensed oil does not match the physical and chemical data on file, API will work with the licensee to evaluate all nonconformances and take appropriate corrective action. For serious cases, such as when products fail to meet the specifications claimed, API requires immediate discontinuation of the use of the API Marks and will exhaust all available options to ensure that the marketer removes their “counterfeit” products from the marketplace. API maintains a list of unauthorized engine oils on its website and provides details and images to alert consumers to oils falsely claiming to be licensed by API. OBSOLETE OILIt's also important to be aware of obsolete engine oil that doesn’t meet the most current engine oil standards: ILSAC GF-6A and ILSAC GF-6B for gasoline engines and API CK-4 and API FA-4 for diesel engines. These are oils that claim to meet an older engine oil performance category that has been technically determined to be obsolete. Categories can become obsolete when the test methods are no longer available to verify performance. If the production of an engine or the hardware required for a specific performance test is discontinued, the test itself becomes unavailable, and performance categories specifying that test can be determined to be technically obsolete. API summarizes both active and obsolete ILSAC and API performance categories nicely in its Motor Oil Guide, available at api.org.Obsolete oil products can still be found in the marketplace, and shops and drivers on the road should be careful not to use them as engine damage could occur. API strongly recommends following engine or vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations when choosing their oils. If a fleet uses older vehicles or equipment that may have specified an oil with a performance now designated as obsolete, current ILSAC GF-6A and API CK-4 performance categories are designed to be backward compatible with previous categories; however, always check directly with the OEM for specific recommendations.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jeffrey Harmening is a senior project manager, EOLCS/DEF, at the American Petroleum Institute. For additional information, contact the API Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System at eolcs@api.org. Find out more, visit www.api.org.An operator or technician can be assured that the bulk oil poured is the quality and viscosity grade expected when it meets API 1525A requirements.”“BUSINESS NEED A JUMP START?BUSINESS NEED A JUMP START?MWS CAN HELP CrANk it uPHELP iS JuSt A CALL AWAy 205.795.0223 | ruSSELL@MWSMAG.COM

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202336MAINTENANCECost increases and shortages of labor are burdening snow removal services in big cities and small towns alike, all while climate change has increased snowfall levels around the country. For example, according to an article that appeared on MinnPost.com, Minneapolis has experienced the most early-season snowfall in this past winter since the 2010-2011 season. The article also reported that the high volume of snowfall this year has reinforced a demand for sidewalks and streets to be plowed for pedestrian and driver safety. This often requires the use of a dependable fleet of snowplow trucks.As snow removal fleet demands increase, it’s imperative that commercial emergency vehicles are properly cared for and managed to help ensure optimal performance when called to the job. This includes maintaining one of the most important internal components: the battery.FLEET MAINTENANCE Fleet owners and operators must care for and maintain vehicles that are often subjected to harsh winter conditions. Among the concerns for fleet maintenance is the vehicle’s battery. Lead acid batteries, which are often used, typically lose some of their functional capacity when exposed to low temperatures. At 0 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, the power drops by about 30%. As the oil thickens in the cold, the battery must work harder to start the engine. Additionally, when vehicles run in low temperatures, they can reveal previously hidden battery damage from the high temperatures during the summer.Batteries are Crucial to the Dependability of Snowplow TrucksWAYS TO INCREASE SNOWPLOW VEHICLE RELIABILITY By Vicki Hall

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 37Proper care and maintenance are necessary to help ensure that the fleet’s vehicles operate reliably, but this care and maintenance entail increasingly scarce labor and rising material costs. Replacement and installation of a battery that fails while the truck is in the garage will incur time and costs, but if the battery fails during operation, the truck can break down and stop the job altogether. Consistent monitoring of the truck’s operation can minimize the risk of battery failure, so any sign of compromised performance should be immediately investigated. The battery’s condition will influence how well the engine and onboard accessories operate. Some signs that a vehicle’s battery needs attention include dimming headlights and slow starting. In preparation for winter, the battery should be inspected, cleaned, tested, and, if necessary, fully charged or replaced. The following guidelines can help keep the battery in good condition and proper working order.INSPECTIONSafety precautions include proper personal protective equipment for the eyes and hands and insulated tools to prevent short circuits. • Check the electrolyte level if the battery is a conventional flooded lead acid battery and replenish the cells with distilled water, if needed. • Examine the case, terminals, cables, and clamps for signs of damage, excessive wear, and corrosion. Corrosion can appear as a thin, white powder or a blue-green growth. Make sure all connections are secure. Replace fraying or cracked cables to prevent a short circuit. Replace corroded clamps, as well. If the case is cracked, leaking, or if the terminals are damaged, replace the entire battery.CLEANINGIt is important to keep the battery’s case and terminals free of accumulated dirt, corrosion, and acid film to prevent current losses. • Disconnect the battery before cleaning.• Clean dirt away from cables and connectors. Use diluted ammonia or a paste of one part baking soda to three parts water to remove acid film.• Remove deposits from terminals with a battery terminal brush or emery cloth.• Wipe grime from the case and clamps with water.• Rinse and dry.• Reconnect the battery.• Coat terminals with dielectric grease, anti-corrosion spray, or petroleum jelly to minimize further deposits.TESTING A digital voltmeter measures the Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) to determine the battery’s State of Charge (SOC). Wait at least six hours after the battery has been charged to perform this test. This interval is necessary for an accurate reading, which can be taken only after the chemical reactions in the battery reach an equilibrium and the surface charge is gone. The manufacturer’s specifications will indicate the proper charge current required to fully charge the battery. CHARGING Proper charging may help to make sure that the battery performs for its entire intended service life. • A full charge will minimize sulfation, which is the accumulation of lead sulfate crystals on the plates when the battery is persistently undercharged. Sulfation reduces available plate surface area and interferes with the battery’s ability to hold a charge. • A full charge will also prevent the battery from freezing in low temperatures. • If the battery discharges to below 50% SOC, the engine may not start. • Each battery chemistry has its own charging requirements, so consult the battery manufacturer’s specifications for the proper charger type and current. The current must be high enough to fully charge the battery, but not so high that the battery overheats. IMPROVE RELIABILITYA necessary battery replacement can be an unexpected cost, but it also can be an opportunity to improve reliability. In addition to starting the engine, batteries used in snowplow trucks

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202338MAINTENANCEneed to provide power to operate onboard accessories, known as hotel loads. Power drain from hotel loads can shorten the life of a conventional battery. Dual-purpose batteries, on the other hand, are designed for deep cycling that can power an increasing number of hotel loads, including Global Positioning Systems (GPS), communications, and climate control. Many drivers are using batteries, like ODYSSEY® batteries from EnerSys®, with enough deep cycling capacity to power hotel loads, including the heater, even with a turned-off engine.BATTERY TECHNOLOGYLead acid batteries use plates made of an alloy of lead and antimony or calcium as electrodes and a solution of sulfuric acid and water as the electrolyte. The most common type is the flooded lead acid battery. Other types of lead acid batteries include Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, which offer more advantages, such as greater cranking current capacity. Unlike flooded lead acid batteries, AGM batteries are sealed and do not require adding distilled water to the cells. This makes them virtually maintenance-free, which provides savings in labor and downtime. The plates are packed tightly in the case with absorbent fiberglass separators that hold the electrolyte. This construction not only helps keep the plates securely in place, but also maintains consistent contact between the plates and the electrolyte. This design makes AGM batteries resistant to mechanical vibration and high-impact shock, which are leading causes of premature battery failure. In addition, AGM batteries do not leak or spill electrolyte, even if the battery case is cracked or broken. Advancement in AGM technology led to the development of Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries, such as ODYSSEY batteries. TPPL batteries are AGM batteries that feature plates made of pure lead, instead of alloys, which eliminate the risk of galvanic corrosion that occurs when two different metals are in contact and submerged in sulfuric acid. Pure lead also reduces the risk of sulfation. Another advantage of pure lead plates is that they can be made thinner, so more fit into the same footprint of a comparably sized, conventional lead acid battery. The additional plates provide greater surface area for the electrochemical reactions with the electrolyte to produce double to triple the cranking power of conventional lead acid batteries as well as superior deep cycling capacity. PREMIUM BATTERIESIf the battery needs replacement, a premium TPPL battery will provide greater power and longevity than conventional lead acid batteries. ODYSSEY TPPL batteries also perform in temperatures as low as -40 degrees F and can fully recharge in as little as four hours. Even though they require a greater initial cost investment than conventional batteries, TPPL batteries save time by reducing maintenance and requiring less frequent replacement. Their rugged construction enables them to provide up to 10 years of service life. The shelf life of TPPL batteries is as much as two years when stored on open circuit (i.e., nothing connected to the terminals).Municipalities must respond to increasing demands for snow and ice removal while containing costs and facing labor shortages. Additionally, climate change increases the severity of weather, which further complicates the management of snow and ice removal. TPPL batteries offer premium power, reliability, and cold weather resistance to reduce the risk of unplanned downtime. Today’s batteries also must have enough deep cycling capacity to support the growing number of hotel loads, even when the engine is turned off to comply with idling restrictions. Dual-purpose TPPL batteries, like ODYSSEY batteries, can be invaluable assets in the effective deployment of snow emergency vehicles. To protect this investment, fleets must be equipped with batteries that are routinely and thoroughly inspected and cared for, regardless of type.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Vicki Hall is the director of transportation technical solutions at EnerSys. EnerSys manufactures and distributes energy systems solutions and motive power batteries, specialty batteries, battery chargers, power equipment, battery accessories, and outdoor equipment enclosure solutions to customers worldwide. Find out more, visit www.enersys.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202340MAINTENANCEHow a Webasto Air Top Evo 40 Beat the OddsTHE LITTLE HEATER THAT COULD (A CASE STUDY)When he was installing the Webasto Air Top Evo 40 Air Heater in the service bay of the new 2014 Peterbilt 337, the maintenance technician had no idea that it wouldn’t be removed again until 2022. Fuel-operated air heaters just don’t generally last for that long, particularly in the climates around Sainte-Julie, near Montreal, Canada. The tech also knew that the warranty on the Air Top Evo was a very standard two years or 2,000 hours.The heater would spend the next eight years heating the mobile workspace of the 337 Pete. Owned by Excellence Peterbilt, a family-owned truck dealership with six locations in Canada, the vehicle is just one of eight big mobile service units that are heated with Webasto Air Top Evos, allowing them to work year-round to help the company keep its customers on the road. When the unit started showing signs that it needed attention, Simon Hamelin, the Excellence Peterbilt service technician who originally installed it, decided to run a diagnostic report. He accessed the Air Top Evo 40’s electronic brains via his laptop computer through USB and serial port connections. In addition WITH SIX LOCATIONS IN CANADA, EXCELLENCE PETERBILT WARMS THE MAINTENANCE BAYS OF EACH OF ITS EIGHT BIG MOBILE SERVICE UNITS WITH WEBASTO AIR TOP EVO AIR HEATERS.

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 41to being able to read fault codes and review proper diagnosis and repair procedures, it allowed Hamelin to access real-time and historical data on the unit.BEYOND EXPECTATIONS Disappointingly, the diagnostics showed Hamelin that the unit reached the end of its service life. However, two lines in the report really stood out. The unit delivered 19,554.38 working hours and 38,207.12 operating hours.The working hours metric measures the amount of time the heater burns fuel, while operating hours denotes the amount of time the timer clock records that the unit receives power. “So as soon as the switch is turned on, and the signal goes to the Air Top Evo and gives it power, it'll start activating that hour meter for the operating time,” Hamelin says. “The Air Top Evo might have power being delivered to it and so it’s considered ‘operating,’ but unless it's engaged in burning fuel, it's not ‘working,’ and until then, working hours aren’t logged.”The diagnostic report showed that this one Air Top Evo 40 had not only operated faithfully for eight years, six years beyond its warranty period, but at 19,554.38 working hours, it performed almost 10 times longer than reasonable expectations would dictate. Over the course of the almost 20,000 working hours on just one Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater, Excellence Peterbilt saved approximately $133,000 in fuel by not idling the vehicle’s engine to heat its service compartment.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202342MAINTENANCE“To put it simply, I was astonished,” Hamelin says. “And so I started showing folks around the dealership, and they were astonished as well.”One of the people Hamelin showed the report to was his boss, Dany Grant, service coordinator for Excellence Peterbilt.“When he popped up the numbers, we just looked at each other, and I think I said something like ‘Come on, are you kidding?’” Grant muses. “And I had to laugh, because it’s not like Simon didn’t use the heck out of that unit; he starts his Webasto heater, and as long as it's cold, it's not shutting off. Sure he turned it off in the summer, but he turned it right back on as soon as the cold weather hit.”DETAILS MATTERAccording to Francois Deslauriers, When he was installing the Webasto Air Top Evo 40 Air Heater in the service bay of the new 2014 Peterbilt 337, the maintenance technician had no idea that it would spend the next eight years heating the mobile workspace. Over-specifying a heater can lead to inefficient performance and an increased buildup of carbon, while choosing a heater that's too small for the space can result in a higher percentage of working hours, straining the unit and potentially reducing its lifespan, so Webasto suggests correctly specifying the size of any air heater.

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 43Webasto’s regional sales manager for Eastern Canada, having the right size heater for the application is essential for optimal performance. He stresses that over-specifying a heater can lead to inefficient performance and an increased buildup of carbon.Alternatively, choosing a heater that's too small for the space would result in a higher percentage of working hours, straining the unit and potentially reducing its lifespan. Hence, correctly specifying a Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater is crucial for efficient functioning.Deslauriers speculated that because of the way it was specified, it was burning at medium or high most of the time, not at low. He suggested that at medium and high, the burners were not accumulating carbon on them. That way, the heaters ran clean, and this was the secret of Webasto success in this particular case.Further adding to the success of Webasto's products at Excellence Peterbilt is the quality of installation and maintenance. Deslauriers praised the technicians at Excellence Peterbilt for their thorough training For Excellence Peterbilt, one Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater went way beyond expectations. The diagnostic report showed that a Webasto Air Top Evo 40 had been operating for eight years, six years beyond its warranty period, and that at 19,554.38 working hours, it had performed almost 10 times longer than expected.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202344MAINTENANCEon installation and upkeep of the Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heaters, as well as their communication to customers on best practices for fuel-operated heaters.He also emphasized the importance of regular maintenance, even during the summer when heaters are not actively used. Ensuring the unit is run occasionally prevents potential misuse and misunderstandings regarding the product, increasing performance and longevity.“There is a reason why Webasto gives an industry-standard two-years, 2,000-hour warranty,” Deslauriers notes. “But this one Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater went way beyond our expectations, and I believe it's because when Webasto units are spec’d correctly, they're installed correctly, people are trained on how to use them correctly, and then when all users perform preventive maintenance correctly, you can expect to maximize product performance.”EARNING THE BUSINESS“We estimate that over the course of the almost 20,000 working hours on our amazing little Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater, Excellence Peterbilt saved approximately $133,000 in fuel by not idling the vehicle’s engine for heat in the tuck’s service compartment,” Grant says. “And that value doesn’t even take into consideration the savings from reduced maintenance, fewer replacements of our diesel particulate filters, or the environmental impact of burning so much less fossil fuel.”When asked about the comparison of Webasto heaters to other brands, Grant had a straightforward response. Given the remarkable performance of Webasto's heaters and the consistent support provided by the team, he didn't see a need to consider any alternatives. The Webasto Air Top Evo 40 air heater had proven to be the perfect fit for their needs, and they intended to stick with it.In the end, the success of this one Webasto heater’s ability to beat the odds can be attributed to a few key factors and a little bit of luck. It’s also a testament to a well-engineered product, supported by an attentive sales force, ultimately used by an intelligent value-oriented customer.“Buying a product is always easy,” Grant explains. “But it’s after the sale when you have questions or just can't seem to put your finger on a problem—that’s when the true test begins. It’s kind of analogous to that running timer on the Air Top Evo 40, and at this point in our relationship with Webasto, the stats still look exceptional.”FOR MORE INFORMATIONFind out more about the Webasto Air Top Evo 40, visit www.webasto-comfort.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202346TECHNOLOGYToday’s highly sophisticated and evolving Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven tools and resources, including ones that leverage natural language processing like ChatGPT and Google’s new AI product Bard, are creating many new opportunities for organizations. However, the actual impact AI will have on transportation fleets in the areas of improved equipment asset management strategies and operations such as maintenance and repair (M&R), remains to be seen.Like many other leading-edge technology resources today, these advanced AI tools possess incredible promise. Still, executives need to understand the pros and cons of how far they can rely on such tools in their day-to-day operations. AI TOOLSThese tools are increasingly being talked about because the transportation and supply chain industries have been buzzing about new-age resources like Open AI ChatGPT since it was initially released in November 2022. The Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) is still in its infancy stages, but the technology has caught the attention of executives because of its ability to generate rapid responses and detailed answers. What’s more, because the tools are driven by AI, they leverage human-like language during interaction. ChatGPT promises to dramatically increase organizational visibility, build a baseline for strategies and plans, streamline internal and external communication, and effectively optimize end-to-end operations.Three critical areas in running a corporate transportation fleet could see significant impacts with the continued growth of AI and ChatGPT—asset management, equipment finance, and M&R planning and operations. As an example, when you ask ChatGPT why asset management is important for equipment finance it offers the following excerpts:“Asset management helps to maximize the value of equipment over its lifespan by ensuring that it is properly maintained and used efficiently. This can lead to reduced downtime, increased productivity, and extended equipment life, ultimately increasing the equipment's overall value. Asset management enables finance companies to effectively plan for equipment replacement or Fleet Management and AITHE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING AI RESOURCES IN FLEET OPERATIONS, INCLUDING CHATGPT By Hadley Benton

AUGUST 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 47upgrades, ensuring that they can provide clients with the most up-to-date and efficient equipment possible. This can also help finance companies to manage cash flow and budget more effectively.”While this provides a mostly compelling overview of the role of asset management, there are inconsistencies that are inaccurate. For example, traditional finance companies and banks play no role in the planning of equipment replacement or upgrades.NOT PERFECTIf you ask ChatGPT to build an asset management plan for a Class 8 heavy-duty truck fleet, it will generate a high-level overview covering topics such as equipment inventory, preventive maintenance, telematics and IoT solutions, driver training and safety programs, replacement and upgrade planning, budget and cash flow management, and reporting. These are all baseline topics that need to be considered for asset management. But it’s important to keep in mind that ChatGPT will not answer financial/mathematical questions; it will defer to pros and cons of a business transaction like buying or leasing. It also tends to give wrong answers because it pings millions of web references to what you ask and then tries to compile the most frequently mentioned text. Without the proper knowledge and expertise, you could make wrong decisions that could negatively impact your operation.Therefore, it is crucial to understand that any inaccuracies produced by an AI tool may have consequences in the areas of financial loss outcomes, legal, or even defamation toward an organization. This also includes defining the true source of who actually produces any material developed entirely or in part by an AI tool such as ChatGPT. While there currently are no laws that determine the responsibility of any inaccuracies, it is widely speculated that regulation could soon be forthcoming as a set of guidelines. FLEET DISSERVICEChatGPT won’t serve as a solution to help build a custom strategy that serves your fleet specifically. In fact, aside from the general considerations, ChatGPT is not built to analyze actual miles of vehicle operating and use data to build an effective asset management plan. And while it’s hard to fathom organizations with transportation fleets will actually rely on ChatGPT to create their entire strategy, some may confuse it with fleet analytic tools in the market. Depending too much on a standardized approach during the planning phase without incorporating actual vehicle operating data along the way can be problematic. This added level of customization is essential because by scrutinizing actual truck operating data, fleets can build a proper and customized fleet modernization plan for their asset management, which is critical in arriving at a strategy Organized by Eaton Hall Exhibitions ATTENTION WORK FLEETSOF 100+ VEHICLESRegistration includes hotel accommodations, meals, all events & sessions and comes with travel reimbursement. “If you’re directly involved in your eet’s decision-making and have any needs for products or solutions that will help your eet run more safely and eciently, then we invite you to apply to attend this year’s Work Fleet Forum”CONNECT with the best ideas, the newest solutions and the brightest minds all in one location.LEARN about new products and solutions with private demos and small presentations. You can even customize your event based on who you’d like to meet with.NETWORK with other top eet managers in a relaxed and productive setting at the beautiful e Palms Resort. You’ll add to what - and who - you know in the eet industry. e Work Fleet Forum is for those who run hard-working eets. It’s designed to be more productive, more valuable, more fun and just for eet leaders like you. NOV 6-92023Register Today!(800) 746-9646 www.workfleetforum.comanthony@eatonhall.comLimited Vendor Opportunities Still Availablee Palms Resort in Las Vegas, NV

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202348TECHNOLOGYthat produces optimum flexibility and agility within their financial and operational business model. While ChatGPT on its own can’t produce a plan with this level of detail, asset management companies have fleet analysis and are providing AI-driven analytics that help organizations closely monitor key fleet metrics that include: • Lease versus purchase analysis• Sales Tax analysis• Unbundled vs. Full-Service Lease Analysis• Comparative Cost Analysis to determine the optimal time to upgrade equipment, etc.• Per unit P&L• Predictive Life Cycle Modeling OPERATIONAL ASSISTANCEAside from asset management and procurement, AI tools are impacting operations for organizations in various industries.Several recent studies illustrate the significant benefits that AI tools have over traditional spreadsheet analytics. A recent study by McKinsey & Company estimated that AI-powered technologies can reduce errors between 20% and 50% for organizations focused on supply chain management.Furthermore, the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) offers a report that shows how AI may help organizations achieve $1.5 trillion in additional value from increased productivity and reduced downtime in the global industrial sector by 2030. For M&R operations within the manufacturing sector, a separate McKinsey report found that AI-enhanced predictive maintenance of industrial equipment will generate a 10% reduction in annual maintenance costs, up to a 20% downtime reduction and 25% reduction in inspection costs.Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analytic tools built by companies that provide life cycle cost management with billions of miles of data and understand the full scope of TCO are continuously monitoring economic factors, used truck values, depreciation, emissions, performance data, and equipment costs to determine the optimum asset management strategy. With regard to M&R, they also identify potential problems and redeploy corrective actions to prevent truck breakdowns and mechanical failures. This insight from asset management partners is enabling corporate transportation fleets to move from a traditional, reactive approach in maintenance to a predictive or even preventive approach. Again, tools like ChatGPT can provide high-level input and guidance, but may not offer specific insight to a particular fleet. This is important because customized TCO analytic tools that leverage predictive modeling allow organizations with transportation fleets to create future business insights with a significant degree of accuracy. With the help of sophisticated data analytic tools and modeling, these firms can use past and current operating data to reliably forecast budget trends in milliseconds, days, or years into the future. As more AI-powered tools are introduced to transportation fleets, it’s important for these organizations to collaborate closely with their asset management partners to ensure these tools are used effectively to improve operations and their bottom lines. Understanding the fleets’ specific challenges, asset management partners can also help identify which AI-powered tools are best suited to address those challenges and how to properly integrate them into their fleet operations.ABOUT THE AUTHORHadley Benton is executive vice president of business development at Fleet Advantage, a leading innovator in truck fleet business analytics, equipment financing, and life cycle cost management. Find out more, visit www.fleetadvantage.com.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202350TECHNOLOGYFrom spiders to bed bugs to ticks, fleas, and lice, North America’s pest management industry has its hands full in meeting the needs of today’s homeowners and commercial businesses. The industry is growing at better than a 5% annual rate thanks to a variety of factors, including increasingly severe weather events, a decade of near-record homebuilding activity, urbanization, and the proliferation of pests that can impact public health.While there has been much consolidation in the industry, a vast majority of consumers in the US and Canada are still served by multi-generation family-owned pest management firms. And the reasons are simple: health and safety threats from pests are personal, and well-established local/regional players have built strong, enduring personal relationships with their clients—relationships based on service, trust, and accountability.Accountability Defines Pest Control Firm’s Client (and Technology Provider) RelationshipsCOMPANY DISCOVERS NOT ALL TELEMATICS PROVIDERS TAKE CUSTOMER SERVICE FOR GRANTED By Gary Young ASCEND is an all-in-one routing & dispatch solution plus telematics that offers safety and risk reduction, maintenance, compliance, and inspection tools. The solution’s mobile app gives McMahon and other users full functionality at virtually any time and location.light-duty feature

I think customers place greater trust in successful locally owned businesses says Charlie McMahon owner and president of McMahon Exterminating an Evansville Indiana based company that has expanded its footprint as far as 50 miles to the north in Vincennes Indiana and 125 miles to the east in Louisville Kentucky Founded by McMahon s father in 1971 the business has grown from six technicians in 2010 to 30 today A TRANSPARENT EXPERIENCE Consumers don t want to encounter pests at home or at work They expect pest management professionals to prevent such encounters regardless of whether their services are provided when the property owner is on the premises or not The transparent nature of scheduled service calls raises the trust issue can the customer be certain the services paid for were in fact performed This question has led McMahon and a growing number of other pest management firms to leverage GPS fleet technology and other solutions to confirm the locations of technician vehicles throughout the day Although Charlie McMahon says he has rarely had a customer ask for proof of a service call it is nonetheless important to document every stop to establish and maintain customer confidence and trust In addition to ensuring accountability GPS and other fleet management technologies help service businesses meet the needs of a growing universe of customers faster more efficiently and with greater safety Routing dispatch maintenance tracking driver behavior monitoring and other business critical functions are now widely available and surprisingly affordable for even comparatively small enterprises But just as accountability is a defining characteristic of strong customer relationships in the pest management market it must also extend to the suppliers these businesses rely on ACCOUNTABILITY GAP Trust is the cornerstone of McMahon Exterminating s value proposition Fittingly it also guides Charlie McMahon s employee relationships I m very upfront with my team about my faith and I m very upfront about my trusting of them and their ability to trust me he says But trust was an issue for McMahon when dealing with a previous fleet telematics provider They had zero customer service he explains I had a truck stuck in tow mode in the provider s solution for six months I had made multiple phone calls and sent multiple emails trying to get somebody to reach out to me AUGUST 2023 WWW MWSMAG COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 51

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202352TECHNOLOGYThese frustrations led him to explore other options, one of which was ASCEND, an emerging US-based brand launched by successful, longtime provider of “white label” technology solutions. Based on its success selling to other providers, ASCEND has invested in its own brand and support organization for fleet and equipment operators across North America and reached out to McMahon along with other mixed-fleet operators who have likely encountered the aggravating customer service shortcomings of other providers.Charlie McMahon’s experiences with ASCEND have erased his memories of his past technology supplier, and he happily recommends the company’s technology and customer-focused people to anyone who asks. “ASCEND team members actually reach out to me to make sure everything is going okay and ask if I would like additional training,” he explains. “And when I call them, I’m talking to a real person who quickly provides the answer I’m looking for.”The good news for other business operators is that changing to a better technology provider needn’t be a hassle. McMahon’s entire fleet of service vehicles was converted to ASCEND in just a matter of days, and the company’s US-based customer service specialists helped Charlie McMahon quickly master the solution’s broad capabilities.GROWING BEYONDThe benefits of fleet management technology continue to grow for small, mid-size, and enterprise businesses, virtually regardless of the types of vehicles and equipment they operate. It’s more than simply a matter of knowing where and how an asset is being used at any given moment—with ASCEND, fleet operators can increase customer service levels, vehicle uptime, and employee productivity and loyalty while reducing fuel and maintenance expenses, eliminating safety risks, and cutting insurance costs. But the key, as Charlie McMahon and others are quick to mention, is finding a provider that is as committed to your success as you are. For McMahon and a growing number of other users, that “right” provider is ready and eager to answer your call.ABOUT THE AUTHORGary Young is a business writer with more than 30 years of experience covering the fleet management, vehicle maintenance and operation, industrial, financial, and technology sectors. He is based in Columbus, Ohio. Find out more, visit www.ascendfleet.com. McMahon Exterminating has fully embraced the power and convenience of mobile technology, leading to a seamless customer experience and increased employee productivity and job satisfaction. The ASCEND solution’s intuitive dashboard enables Charlie McMahon to quickly and easily monitor the location and status of any fleet vehicle.

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202354WORK TRUCK PRODUCTSINDUSTRIAL TRUCK BEDS BY HILLTIPINTERCHANGEABLE WINTER MAINTENANCE BEDIndustrial Truck Beds by Hilltip introduced an Interchangeable Winter Maintenance Bed designed for use with interchangeable-style truck bodies. The bed offers performance advantages for winter maintenance professionals. The Winter Maintenance Bed has a rear cutout to better fit and protect a salt spreader chute. This design allows operators to mount the spreader farther forward on the truck, improving weight distribution and offering a shorter overall length. De-icing sprayers also fit on the Winter Maintenance Bed for added versatility. The Winter Maintenance Bed comes with integrated, 360-degree rope rings to secure equipment. It does not have a bulkhead, providing maximum visibility.www.hilltipna.comSTEMCOAUTO-TORQ AXLE FASTENER STEMCO launched an Auto-Torq™ axle fastener. Auto-Torq is designed to streamline wheel end installation by eliminating the need for complex processes and specialty tools. With no need for washers, clips, snap rings, screws, or keepers, Auto-Torq makes installation simple and efficient. Plus, by applying the optimum clamp load on the bearings every time, bearing wear is minimized, resulting in the longest bearing service life. Auto-Torq offers an all-in-one solution, compatible with any industry hub manufacturer. By reducing potential causes of installation failure, operators can have peace of mind knowing components are securely in place. When combined with STEMCO's seals, bearings, and hubcaps, customers can benefit from extended warranties on wheel ends. www.stemco.com SOUTHCOR4-30 ROTARY LATCH Southco, Inc. introduced new options to its heavy-duty R4 Rotary Latch line. Southco’s R4-30 Rotary Latch additions dampen noise from vibration and simplify cable mounting for applications requiring remote latching. Southco’s R4-30 Rotary Latch with Integrated Bumper—available with any of the R4-30 configurations—holds the latch striker between the cam and bumper, eliminating the potential for unwanted noise and vibration for applications in motion. The R4-30 with Cable Mounting Bracket is available for bottom lever solutions and enables cables to be easily configured and incorporated into the rotary system without needing to buy and install a separate cable bracket.www.southco.com SWIVEL STORAGE SOLUTIONS2-IN-1 SWIVEL STORAGE WORKBENCH A 2-in-1 Swivel Storage Workbench from Swivel Storage Solutions features drawers that open like doors. These solutions range from the stationary Swivel Pro80 lineup of one, four, and six drawers to the patented Lazy Swivel that rotates a full 360-degrees—perfect for a workshop or garage. The Swivel lineup of work vehicle solutions are 24-, 30-, or 36-inches wide and 18-, 24-, and 34-inches high, allowing them to easily store and organize tools. Those looking for a jobsite box or weather-tight tool storage for a pickup truck or underbody box can consider the Pro18 or the Pro25.www.toolboxdistributors.com

MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM AUGUST 202356Dea eaers,Fo t pas fi an  hl ears, I ha atene tra shows, tae par i truc manufactue eents, drie counes es i pickup, an ese m blites behin t w o bi igs. I ha write an truc evews, edie vieos, an coduce hours o esearc t lie accura coen. I ha inervee o o t os knoedeb industr eecuties, chate wit e owers an operators, bul invlub latioship, an eare  uc bou this gea industr tha lierl ep ou countr ovin.“Gaef” wol b a unerstaeen, bu i’ t o wor tha escrbes t wa I  bou  ti as t edito o MWS. Than yo, eae, fo akin  wor eaningf. I was yo I though bou we I inervee industr experts wh e oeties t ol oes wh col anse you pesin qestios. I was yo I though bou we i was ti t eve trucks. “Wol te thin this is cofortb? Wol te li this echnlog?” e qestios I ase mysl afe ittin i t drie’ ea. I was t qestios yo en  bou difeen trucks o difeen echnloges tha chene  t ear o. I’ becaus o yo tha I a t edito I a toda. S, than yo.A uc as I’ eare bou t industr i this positio, te is st  uc o t ear. I a excie bou  e joure, an I hop this wo’ b t las yo ea o . This jb kic-tare  cae as  truckin an e journlis, an I’ pou t a tha I ha  star e. I wis yo  t er bes.MY FINAL EDITOR’S NOTEIt was 2018. That February, South Korea hosted the Winter Olympics. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot. France defeated Croatia in the World Cup. The world said goodbye to Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul,” and former president George HW Bush. And, I stepped into the role of editing Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine. It was my first job out of college, and although I began in an assistant role, it was the start of my career in trucking journalism. Read my final note below.thethinkCabOutsidetheCabthinkOOOOetsideeeeideOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOuuuuuuutsideueutsidedeeiutsideeitututtssssiiiiddddddddeeeeeeeeeeeedddeeeeeeeiiiiiuuuttssiiddeeeeeddeeiiCabCabCabCabThinkTheCers, JaM o t jb a  Geer Motors truckin een.