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HEAVY HEAVY HAULERS HAULERS ISSUEISSUETHEJUNE2022WWW.MWSMAG.COMSECURING HEAVY LOADSSECUREMENT CONSIDERATIONSHEAVY-DUTY SUSPENSIONSPEC’ING FOR THE JOBHEAVY DUTY THE AUTOCAR DC-64: LIVING UP TO ITS ‘BADASS’ NAME
CONNECT WITH US on Twitter (@mwsmag), Facebook (www.facebook.com/modernworktruck), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/modern-work-truck-solutions).INDUSTRY NEWS ................................6INDUSTRY INSIGHT ............................12WORK TRUCK PRODUCTS .................42IN EVERY ISSUEISUZU TRUCKCLASS 3 TO 7 LOW CAB FORWARD TRUCKSIsuzu Commercial Truck of America offers a full range of Class 3 to 7 Low Cab Forward Trucks and has been the number one selling LCF in the US since 1986.www.isuzucv.com INSIDE THIS ISSUEJUNE 2022 VOL-7 NO-6A TRUCKER’S FITNESS TOOL ............. 44 HEAVY HEAVY HAULERS HAULERS ISSUEISSUETHEJUNE2022WWW.MWSMAG.COMSECURING HEAVY LOADSSECUREMENT CONSIDERATIONSHEAVY-DUTY SUSPENSIONSPEC’ING FOR THE JOBHEAVY DUTY THE AUTOCAR DC-64: LIVING UP TO ITS ‘BADASS’ NAME30LIGHT-DUTYSOLVE OUTAGES NETWORK SOLUTIONSAUTOCAR DC-64 A VOCATIONAL MACHINE HEAVY-DUTY14INSURANCE OPTIONS FLEET COVERAGE22MEDIUM-DUTYCOVER STORIESOPERATIONSHEAVY-DUTY SUSPENSION .................24Spec’ing for the jobSAFETYSECURING HEAVY LOADS ................34Securement considerations HEAVY HEAVY HAULERS HAULERS ISSUEISSUETHE
UPFIX HEAVY HAULERS FOR THE LONG HAUL ..................................18 Trailers for your next equipment transportMAINTENANCE APPROPRIATE COUPLING EQUIPMENT IMPROVES HEAVY HAULING ..................................................38 How to choose the best equipmentMAINTENANCE HOW TO ENSURE PROPER TIRE MAINTENANCE FOR INCREASED FUEL ECONOMY ..........................................40 Employ a tire maintenance programFEATURED PRODUCT MONROE ZDUMPPRO ............................................................43 Monroe Truck Equipment's ZDumpPro bodyIt’s summer, and time to get those construction projects moving! The majority of our readership works in the construction segment, and this issue is dedicated to the big trucks and their trailers that haul construction equipment on a frequent basis. Check out a few equipment trailer options on page 18, read about coupling equipment for heavy hauling on page 38, find out about premium heavy-duty suspension options on page 24, and discover how to secure heavy loads on page 34. Additionally, our heavy-duty showcase this month is none other than the “badass” Autocar DC-64. Read about it on page 14. For those that don’t run heavy-duty trucks in their fleet, read our more general pieces about network management solutions to keep your telematics systems up and running on page 30 and fleet insurance options on page 22. Happy learning, and happy summertime!Jade Brasher EditorEDITOR’S NOTE18www.mwsmag.com P.O. Box 660197 Birmingham, Alabama 35266DONNA 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 312 Lorna Square Birmingham, AL 35216TIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentTalk soon! Jade38 40
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 20226INDUSTRY NEWSTHE MOBILE COMPRESSED AIR INDUSTRY REPORTVMAC released the 2022 edition of its State of The Mobile Compressed Air Industry Report. The report shares fascinating insights from mobile air users. VMAC surveyed 340 people between November 2021 and February 2022 for this year’s state of industry research. The survey asked questions of respondents representing numerous industries, including construction, transportation, oil and gas, municipal infrastructure, agriculture, and more. Find out more, visit www.vmacair.com. OPTRONICS’ TOUGH, LOW-COST, HIGH-WORK LIGHT IS DESIGNED FOR MANY APPLICATIONS, INCLUDING EVSOptronics International, manufacturer of vehicle harnesses, electronic control systems, and LED lighting for the global transportation industry, announced the introduction of its new UCL45 Series LED utility, scene, work light. The lamps have an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance and change the lumen-per-dollar equation in their lighting space. Their ratio of high lumens to low cost and low power suits them for applications from heavy equipment to EVs.Unlike products that glue strip lighting to a printed circuit board (PCB), Optronics robotically assembles its UCL45 Series lights. They use solid-state, surface-mounted diodes soldered directly to the lamp’s PCB. The automated pick-and-place process ensures precision construction and reliable LED performance. It also ensures proper heat management that extends the life of each diode and the lamp as a whole. Find out more, visit www.optronicsinc.com. EDITION JOINS RAM LINEUPRam announced the expansion of its lineup with the addition of the exclusive new 2022 Ram 1500 TRX Sandblast Edition. The Sandblast Edition enhances the TRX Level 2 Equipment Group and includes a Mojave Sand exterior color and graphics. It includes 18-inch bead lock capable wheels, panoramic sunroof, spray-in bedliner, cargo tie-downs, bed step, and an LED brake light. Inside, the TRX Sandblast Edition includes Light Frost accent stitching, an embroidered “TRX” seat back logo, and carbon fiber accents. Further, it features a leather and carbon fiber flat-bottom steering wheel, center console badge, Head-up Display, and more. Additionally, safety features include adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist, and pedestrian emergency
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 20228INDUSTRY NEWSbraking. The 2022 Ram 1500 TRX Sandblast Edition offers 6.2-L supercharged HEMI® V-8 engine. For more, visit www.ramtrucks.com. DOBBS PETERBILT OPENS MONROE LOCATIONDobbs Peterbilt, formerly known as Western Peterbilt or Peterbilt Truck Centers, merged and rebranded in August 2020. With the rebrand came a focus on the mission, vision, and values of the company—specifically focusing on customer service. Dobbs Peterbilt held an event for the public of Monroe, Louisiana, to celebrate the opening of its new location. The occasion took place June 9 at Dobbs Peterbilt – Monroe. Andrew Wedeberg, general manager of Dobbs Peterbilt – Monroe, states, “We look forward to serving the commercial parts and service needs in the Monroe, Louisiana market. We continue to strive to serve the #DobbsValue experience every day.” For more, visit www.dobbspeterbilt.com. MACK ACADEMY OPENS NEW FACILITY TO BETTER SERVE ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRAININGMack Trucks opened a new Mack Academy facility in Tinley Park, Illinois, to better support battery-electric vehicle (BEV) training; the academy will also provide dealers and customers with easier access to training in the central US. The Mack LR® Electric refuse model, Mack’s first fully electric Class 8 vehicle, is now available for order and is supported by dealers and training facilities in various locations across the US. The Mack Academy signed a seven-year lease for the 14,865-sq-ft Tinley Park facility located outside of Chicago. The Tinley Park location is newer, larger, and more modern compared with the previous site based in Joliet, Illinois. BEV coursework at Tinley Park will focus on BEV safety training, operation, repair, and sales. Other courses include diesel training such as engine overhaul, transmission design and function, and parts sales and warranty fundamentals. For more, visit www.macktrucks.com. UNDERSCORE COMMITMENT TO A ZERO-EMISSION FUTURE AT CARB AND CALSTART ZERO-EMISSION TRUCK SHOWCASEMorgan Truck Body featured two advanced-technology truck bodies at the first Zero-emission Truck Showcase and Ride and Drive. The event took place June 8 at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and CALSTART hosted and organized the event. The event allowed OEMs as well as fleet operators to discuss technology and explore EV challenges and solutions. It also provided a first-hand look at technologies that will pave the way to a zero-emission future.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202210INDUSTRY NEWSATTENTION WORK FLEETSOF 150+ VEHICLES1. Are you a eet manager or directly involved in eet decision-making?2. Do you have any needs for products or solutions that will help your eet run more eciently and safely?If you answered “YES” to both questions,e Work Fleet Forum invites you to beour guest at NO COST TO YOU! We cover100% of your airfare, hotel and meals.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 Sawgrass Marriott. 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. Organized by Eaton Hall Exhibitions OCT 24-262022Register Today!(800) 746-9646 www.workfleetforum.comanthony@eatonha ll.comLimited Vendor Opportunities Still Availablee Sawgrass Marriot • Jacksonville Beach, FLMorgan Truck Body featured its EV Dry Freight Concept Truck Body, featuring weight reduction, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced situational awareness. Also highlighted was Morgan’s new EV Refrigerated Concept Truck Body for electric chassis. It features state-of-the-art materials as well as technologies that maximize thermal efficiency and lighten the load without compromising structural integrity. For more, visit www.morgancorp.com. ELECTRIC BUCKET TRUCKTerex Utilities introduced the industry’s first all-electric bucket truck at the Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference (EUFMC). The company also announced the first nine customers to receive these new Terex Optima 55-ft aerial devices. The HyPowerTM SmartPTO by Viatec powers the new Terex Optima; it’s mounted on an International Class 6/7 medium-duty electric chassis. For more, visit www.terex.com. BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE ROLLS OUT OF KENWORTH RENTON PLANTThe T680E is designed for pickup and delivery, regional haul and drayage applications, and is available as a day cab as either a tractor or straight truck. The T680E has an 82,000-lb gross vehicle weight rating and estimated 150-mile operating range, depending on application. King County also purchased a PACCAR charger rated at 120 kW to support T680E recharging. PACCAR Parts distributes electric vehicle (EV) charging stations that maximize coverage over a full range of Kenworth electric vehicles with output power from 20 to 350 kW. Customers can rely on the expertise of PACCAR Parts and its infrastructure partners to tailor EV charger solutions to fit the needs of any size and fleet. For more, visit www.kenworth.com. GREENPATH LOGISTICS ANNOUNCES PLANS TO DOUBLE ALTERNATIVE NEW EMPLOYEESAs more companies focus on becoming net zero, Dallas-based GreenPath Logistics (GPL) announced plans to double the size of its alternative fuel fleet, which helps customers reduce carbon emissions by up to 85%. GPL also plans to hire up to 200 new employees this year to support business growth. Available positions include alternative fuel truck drivers, dispatchers, and technicians. The GPL fleet currently includes 200 medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks that operate on compressed natural gas and renewable natural gas, as well as hybrid electric vehicles. GPL is deploying 15 to 20 new vehicles in its fleet each month and will roll out fully electric powertrain commercial trucks in early 2023 through a partnership with Hyliion Holdings Corp. For more, visit www.greenpathlogistics.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202212INDUSTRY INSIGHTAQNATHAN UPHUSTrailer Insight from Trailer ExpertsMWS: THIS MONTH’S ISSUE IS ABOUT HEAVY HAULERS, BUT YOU CAN’T HAUL WITHOUT A TRAILER. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO PICK THE RIGHT TRAILER FOR THE JOB OR DOES TRAILER SELECTION REALLY MATTER?UPHUS: It’s extremely important to consider the equipment hauled when configuring a trailer. There are size and weight limits that need to be factored in. Exceeding federal or state legal weight or dimensional criteria will result in the need to permit the load. A permitted load would be considered anything overweight (80,000 lbs gross based on federal regulations), or over dimensional (exceeds 102-inches wide / 13-ft 6-inches tall / 65-ft to 75-ft overall length, depending on state). The weight and physical dimensions of the equipment itself along with the combination of the truck and trailer are all going to dictate what type of trailer is needed to be legal for that specific load case.MWS: DRIVER AND OPERATOR SAFETY IS SO IMPORTANT. HOW CAN OPERATORS ENSURE THE SAFEST EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT WITH THEIR TRAILERS?UPHUS: It’s important to ensure that the trailer being used is rated to carry the equipment it’s hauling. It’s ideal if the trailer is not loaded to its maximum-rated capacity. There are always unforeseen circumstances that can contribute to added stresses on the trailer’s structure and its components, i.e., poor road surface conditions, dynamic stresses, etc. Another very important contribution to safety is for the operator to perform a routine walk around inspection before towing. Verify that the equipment is properly secured to the trailer using the recommended type, size, and quantity of tie-downs, and ensure that the trailer and its components are within safe operating specifications. Felling has built many trailers with operator safety in mind, not necessarily limited to towing safety, such as multi-point step and grab handle options to assist in safe access to the deck, non-skid traction coated walking surfaces, and DOT approved fixed tie-down provisions in set locations for hauling specific equipment to name a few. MWS: WHAT MAKES THE FOLKS AT FELLING TRAILERS “TRAILER NEW TO HAULING? READ TIPS FROM FELLING TRAILERS AND LEARN ABOUT FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A TRAILER.
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 13HELP PROSPECTIVE CUSTOMERS LOOKING FOR A NEW HEAVY HAUL TRAILER?UPHUS: We at Felling Trailers consider ourselves trailer experts because of our real-world experience that many of our team members possess. A good majority of our team has experience in pulling trailers and hauling equipment. Others have worked in the capacity of building and/or maintaining trailers. Some started out with Felling in production or in parts and service roles. All this added knowledge contributes to a solid understanding of how a trailer is constructed, loaded, and towed for the best and safest possible results.MWS: THE BULK OF OUR READERSHIP WORKS IN CONSTRUCTION. WHAT KIND OF CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT TRAILERS DOES FELLING TRAILERS OFFER?UPHUS: Felling Trailers currently offers upwards of 220 different models, designed and built to haul a wide variety of equipment with capacities ranging between 3,000 lbs all the way up to 120,000 lbs. In addition to equipment trailers, we manufacture models for more specialized markets such as utility industry, underground directional drilling, and trailers for mobile power generation and load bank applications, along with the rental industry. We continually promote ourselves as one of the most diverse trailer manufacturers. MWS: FELLING TRAILERS OFFERS CUSTOM SOLUTIONS. HOW CUSTOM ARE WE TALKING? UPHUS: We’ve built several very custom trailers over the years that few manufacturers would even quote. Some of these projects are completely one-off “floor built” models, others are fully designed and engineered to perform a specific task or haul a specialized piece of equipment. One example that comes to mind, we worked closely with a customer and our engineering department to develop a 25-ton three-axle air brake trailer with a very custom hitch and a multi-level equipment mounting pedestal and attachment point layout for the rail industry. The machine was designed to crawl from the trailer to the top of an open top rail car, then from car to car to unload scrap metal. Pictures of some of our past custom builds can be found on our website.MWS: IT SEEMS NO ONE CAN ESCAPE SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES THESE DAYS. IF A READER NEEDS A TRAILER TODAY, HOW SOON CAN THEY RECEIVE IT? HOW SOON COULD THEY RECEIVE A CUSTOM TRAILER?UPHUS: We have multiple production lines building models ranging in capacity. There are several factors that contribute to the lead time, the largest factor currently being demand. We’ve seen a tremendous amount of demand with most of our lines. The lead times of these lines range anywhere between 55 weeks to 104 weeks. There are instances where the supply chain affects orders even that far out. Trailers with certain hydraulic components or custom suspensions have seen the longest delays. With custom trailers, it really depends on the overall complexity when it comes to lead time. Custom models can range anywhere from 76 weeks to 120 weeks, again depending on the overall complexity.FOR MORE INFORMATION Nathan Uphus is a sales manager at Felling Trailers. Nathan has been with Felling Trailers for over 23 years. He joined the company as part of the producon team and through his me there has worked his way to the role of sales manager for the company. Find out more, visit www.felling.com.An important contributionto safety is routine walk around inspections before towing.”“
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202214HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEHEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 15LIVING UP TO ITS ‘BADASS’ NAMEThe Autocar DC-64
Autocar, LLC made a bold statement when deciding to trademark its DC-64 severe-duty Class 8 vocational truck series as "BADASS." Since then, the brand has lived up to the trademark with the DC-64D dump truck and DC-64 truck series.THE BADASS DC-64For almost 125 years, the Autocar brand has carried a legacy of truck innovation and stands as the oldest brand of specialized severe-duty vocational trucks in North America.The DC-64 series consists of custom-built severe-duty conventional trucks built for specialized applications. Building on the brand’s longstanding history, Autocar's DC-64 conventional Class 8 truck line was relaunched in 2019 with its DC-64R for refuse applications. In 2020 the DC-64M for concrete mixers and the DC-64P for concrete pump applications were brought to market. And in 2021, Autocar announced the DC-64D dump truck. Autocar started from the ground up with the DC-64, designing the truck to handle the most challenging, toughest duty cycle jobs in the industry. Through collaborations with key industry experts with a combined experience of over 200 years in severe-duty trucking, Autocar designed the DC-64 for the best operating experience. The result is a “badass” truck that offers driver comfort and a workhorse that's versatile enough to fit the needs of several vocations.“The DC-64 series is expertly configured and solves many industry issues that other suppliers do not address in their options,” says Jimmy Johnston, president of Autocar Trucks. “Autocar is the only American-owned original equipment manufacturer 100% dedicated to vocational, custom-engineered trucks with seamless body integration, ridding the requirement of structural modifications. These innovations make our trucks safer, more structurally sound, and engineered to have a longer life span benefiting customers with a lower TCO (total cost of ownership) and the 'Always Up' promise.”DC-64 PRODUCTIVITY While a robust and serviceable truck is excellent for business, drivability and focus on the operator are top priorities for Autocar. Regardless of the application, the DC-64 offers the safety of all-welded steel construction, offering added protection in the event of a roll-over accident. Autocar's DC-64 is the only vocational truck with 160,000 psi frame rails with a resistance bending moment (RBM) of 3.91 lb-inch. In addition, every DC-64 Autocar builds is equipped with dual Sheppard M100 steering gears, increasing the wheel cut to up to 50 degrees for easy steering and maneuverability.If an operator ever finds themselves in need of help, they can use Autocar's award-winning, best-in-class Always Up 24/7 direct factory support to access Autocar technicians and sales support experts from each vocation.Operators of the DC-64 love the spacious and functional cab and perfect office chair—the front seat. Though the DC-64 driver ergonomics go beyond space and function, it also can help reduce stress from driving with its 325-degree all-around visibility and 30% more window surface area than competitor models. The DC-64 is full of wins for operators, including being the only Class 8 MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202216HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 17vocational truck with wrap-around windows in the rear corners to increase visibility and reduce blind spots and the greatest windshield rake in the industry at 32 degrees. Additionally, a 7-inch Smart Display in the DC-64 cab includes information operators need at a glance, which helps minimize operator distraction. The DC-64 trucks come with what the brand calls built-in diagnostics, designed to provide electrical diagnostics reports, access to service intervals, bodybuilder and operator manuals, and access to 3D schematics, all viewable on the 7-inch Smart Display. The information on the display helps technicians discover and rectify maintenance issues faster to help get operators back on the road.SERVICEABILITY The DC-64 finds its power from multiple Cummins engine options: the X12, L9, and ISX12N CNG series. These engine options allow for higher performance, fuel economy, and lower operating costs per mile—backed by Cummins' service and parts network. Trucks with an X12 engine also have access to the Single Module after-treatment systems developed to meet customer needs with more efficiency and service access from Cummins.While power is necessary to do the job, Autocar knows serviceability is another aspect to consider when purchasing a severe-duty work truck. With this in mind, Autocar designed the DC-64 electrical system for easy diagnostics and repairs with a best-in-class routing, clipping, and electrical serviceability. Water-sealed connectors are easy to reach, making fault finding and testing accessible. Breathable harness coverings protect the system from elements like water, chemicals, dirt, and debris. Lastly, a Hellerman Titan clamping system and improved routing from the bottom frame flange supports the system every 12 inches.FOR YOUR VOCATION The DC-64 series is custom engineered to perform in almost any vocation or jobsite application. The company’s fourth iteration of Autocar’s DC-64 severe-duty Class 8 line, the DC-64D Dump Truck, is designed specifically and only for dump applications. The award-winning DC-64D is a relentless workhorse that is purpose built to handle the vocation's most rugged terrains and challenges. When you are transporting heavy payloads, you need a reliable and durable truck to handle the requirements of construction, engineering, or mining applications, and the DC-64 is the answer.A DC-64D for dump outfitted with an RS Godwin SCS dump body made of Hardox steel offers durability while weighing less than typical dump bodies. This creates more room for payload capacity. Additionally, its 80,000-lb capacity tow loops are designed to tow or pull with confidence.CHASSIS & BODY Delivering the highest level of body integration, Autocar partners with body manufacturers for parallel engineering of body installation, pre-engineering chassis layout, and pre-wiring components. The advanced body integration work done at the Autocar factory helps speed up the body integration process, improves quality, and ultimately increases reliability and uptime. Treating the dump chassis and body as one complete tool helps Autocar achieve its mission to deliver the highest level of integration in the industry.Designed and assembled in the Autocar manufacturing plant in Birmingham, Alabama, the DC-64D Dump Truck is simple and efficient, with the dump vocation in mind helping to improve performance and operating costs. Now to answer the question, does the Autocar DC-64D dump truck represent its 'BADASS' trademark? You’ll just have to find out.FOR MORE INFORMATIONFind out more about the Autocar DC-64 series, visit www.autocartruck.com.
LOOKS TOUGH WORKS TOUGHER BED SLIDES FOR WORK TRUCKS VANS SERVICE BODIES AND TRAILERS HEAVY DUTY Up to 3 000 lb load capacity BUILT TOUGH 20 year warranty EXTENDS OVER 110 past your taillights FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE COVERED SERVICE BODY TELECOM TRUCK W SHELL EXTENDOWALL IN VAN SIDE DOOR MOUNT WORK VAN RAM PROMASTER VAN STORAGE WITH PULLOUT WORK SURFACE WORK TRUCK WEEK 2022 SHOW DISCOUNT EXTENDED Call or email now to get a complimentary design and quote 800 752 0706 websales extendobed com www extendobed com
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202218UPFIXwww.bigtextrailers.comHeavy Haulers for the Long HaulThe majority of Modern WorkTruck Solutions’ readers work in construction. The construction industry is no stranger to hauling equipment, tools, construction supplies, and more. For those in the market for a new equipment trailer—whether you’re hauling with a pickup truck or a Class 8 tractor—read on for more insight on three different brands that are themselves no strangers to hauling.TRAILERS FOR YOUR NEXT EQUIPMENT TRANSPORTBIG TEX If you’re looking for versatility and durability when hauling equipment and cargo, check out Big Tex. Big Tex’s lineup of equipment haulers features a variety of products that can help you get the job done. From light-duty, yet versatile deck-over equipment trailers like the 14OA to super-duty pintle hitch haulers like the 5XPH, equipped with air-brakes and a super-sized 58,000-lb GVWR, Big Tex has a full lineup of heavy haulers for you to choose from. Pictured is the 22PH Tandem Dual Wheel Pintle Trailer. It features:• 23,900-lb GVWR• Dual 10,000-lb axles• Integrated tongue and frame design• Low profile, pierced beam frame• Heavy-duty adjustable suspension• Rubrail and stakepockets along sides• Spare tire and wheel included• Available with flip-over or mega ramps
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 19 Need a trailer from a brand that knows their stuff? Talbert Manufacturing, a North American leader in specialized heavy-haul solutions, has been building world-class heavy-haul and specialized trailers to rigorous customer specifications since 1938. The company offers complete lines of heavy-haul trailers and specialized transportation equipment for the commercial, industrial, military, and government sectors. Its trailers and equipment are used in applications as diverse as renewable energy, aerospace, heavy construction, in-plant material handling, manufacturing and processing systems, and much more.Those in need of equipment hauling can consider Talbert Manufacturing’s 35FG-BVTL. The 35FG-BVTL is a fixed-neck, drop deck trailer for small- to mid-size equipment machinery. The 35-ton trailer is rated at 70,000 lbs concentrated in 20 ft and features hydraulic ramps for safe, efficient loading and unloading in confined spaces. The 35FG-BVTL is part of Talbert’s Double Drop Series. Its fixed neck provides an economic alternative compared to removable gooseneck designs for operators that do not require a front unload option. Contractors can use the 35FG-BVTL to haul a variety of small- to mid-size construction equipment, making it an economic and versatile choice for millwrights, riggers, and general freight contractors.TALBERT MANUFACTURINGwww.talbertmfg.com
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202220UPFIXSHOW US YOUR RIDE Show us how you’ve decked out your vehicle. Tweet us (@mwsmag) or email our editor (jade@mwsmag.com).Take a pic For heavy-duty, Class 8-sized loads, perhaps a Load King trailer fits the bill. Load King, a Custom Truck One Source brand, has a Hydraulic Detachable Gooseneck Signature Series of trailers, engineered and built to be durable and user friendly. Life expectancy exceeds competitor trailers due to engineered safety factors and innovative design features. Load King truly cares about customer satisfaction, and that shows with loyal customers coming back year after year. Load King takes pride in extensive, innovative features developed for hauling the most weight safely and efficiently. Load King’s Hydraulic Detachable Gooseneck Signature Series Trailer features include:• 503/554 SSSF 18-inch LDH - 55T rated at 110,000 lbs in 12 ft• 12 ft 9-inch high relief scraper neck with connections for future Flip box • First 96-inch pierced plate steel with toolbox lids over bay 1 and 2• Protected air and electric with color-coded air lines• Upper flange reinforcement, full depth outriggers with wide load package• 14 pairs of D-rings, 13 pairs of chain slots, 2-inch Apitong Nominal Decking• Crossmembers on 12-inch centers in outer bays and recessed crossmembers in bucket well (lowest in the industry)• Load bearing wheel covers, all aluminum wheels, excavator notch plate, backhoe tray, four-way plug and battery backup• 27,500 axles with 3/4-inch walls and third axle liftwww.loadkingmfg.comLOAD KING
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202222OPERATIONSFleet operations run on a strict timetable, and when there are disruptions—be they natural disaster, government resource allocation, supply chain delays, or downtime from equipment—economic havoc can erupt. Being prepared for any type of interruption can ensure trucking can recover quickly with minimal impact to the financial wellbeing of the business. Being nimble to identify the loss, correct the issue, and return to full capacity are key to mitigating damages.Insurance policies are custom designed to fit the individual needs of each operation. Working with an agent to secure a mutual agreement on coverage that works best for the fleet is an evolving partnership and should be reviewed annually at minimum. Equipment and buildings depreciate, and changes in the environmental landscape shift. Fuel fluctuations and potential shifts in the timing and transportation of goods to market are all variables impacting the type and amount of insurance coverage one may wish to secure to protect their investment.There is no better time than now for fleet owners to review their current insurance policy and coverage. It might also be helpful if owners talk to others in the industry and compare notes. Fleet owners should put themselves in a position to be proactive rather than reactive. After all, the issue is not if a loss occurs but when it occurs. Being well informed of the insurance coverage for fleet operation will help navigate the road of recovery.Some fleets are fully insured. Some are self-insured. Some have a blended coverage that covers the “small stuff” to avoid a high premium or cover losses that are less than the deductible. It’s not a “one stop shop” of information, but all fleet managers should follow the same steps no matter if the event is handled in-house or with an insurance company.WHAT TO EXPECTWhen reporting damages to an insurance carrier, the carrier will determine if the damage is considered covered property and if the loss was caused by a covered cause of loss. As a part of their determination, they may require speaking with an adjuster, they may assign the case to the SIU (Special Investigation Unit), and they may send out an independent appraiser such as Property Damage Appraisers. The insured may also be contractually required to take certain steps in the event of loss or damage to “covered property.” Be prepared to:• Notify the police if theft, vandalism, trespassing, or any possibility of an intentional, law-violating act occurs.Insurance OptionsCOVERAGE SPECIFIC TO YOUR FLEET By Tom Diehl
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 23• Give the insurance carrier prompt notice of the loss or damage as well as a description of how, when, and where the loss occurred so they can provide immediate guidance throughout the claim process.• Take all reasonable steps to mitigate loss by protecting fleet property from further loss. When possible, secure images to document damage or secure the damage property for future examination.• When expenses are incurred for emergency or temporary repairs, retain all records for consideration in the settlement of the loss.Determining the cause and origin of the loss validates if the damage is a covered cause of loss as described in the policy while also determining if there is a right to recover damages from a responsible third party or subrogation of damages. It is vital the damaged property is retained, preserved, and the chain of custody is maintained to explore potential liability and recovery of damages including applicable deductibles. If a third party is found to be liable for damages, the insurance company will seek recovery of the damages paid out including any deductible incurred by the policyholder.CONSIDER OPTIONSBeing well informed on the value of property, goods, services, and equipment used in the fleet operation can offer alternatives when determining insurance needs and the premiums associated with those coverages. Insurance policies may include specific limits of insurance for covered property, offer a variety of covered causes of loss, and allow specified dollar amounts for named property and a menu of coverage options tailored to secure desired coverage and a premium within a specific budget. For those looking for options when managing insurance costs, consider self-insuring property through higher deductibles, coinsurance with the carrier, or excluding certain property from the policy. Reviewing those options with an insurance agent to gain understanding of the financial impact to the bottom-line premium investment and understanding out-of-pocket expenses when a loss occurs will result in an optimal financial decision for a fleet’s daily operation.Fleets will continue to face challenges with the variable cost of fuel, availability of approved and qualified drivers, shifts in local and national buyers, tariffs and pandemics, and weather and catastrophic events—and each of these factors impact the overall profitability of the business.Proactively identifying ways to mitigate losses may save thousands of dollars in loss avoidance. An annual review of insurance coverage with an agent can help determine a plan specific to a fleet’s operation and keep the insured informed about how to proceed during a loss. A blend of well-planned insurance coverage, self-insurance through higher deductibles, and coinsurance may offer lower rates while still providing peace of mind when faced with providing fleet coverage.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tom Diehl is a vice president at Property Damage Appraisers, Inc., a naonwide independent damage appraisal rm headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. Tom has been associated with PDA for 16 years where he served in various roles from eld appraiser to a mul-franchise owner. He is an expert in heavy equipment claims and helped transform the markeng and sales program at the franchisee level. Find out more, visit www.pdacorporaon.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202224OPERATIONSHow to Spec’ and What to Look for and Look Out for When Considering Vocational SuspensionsMAXIMIZE CONTROL, STABILITY, AND COMFORT BY CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEAVY-DUTY VOCATIONAL TRUCK SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY By Mark Molitor
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 25In today’s vocational equipment environment, suspension geometry and spring type are the two biggest influences on driver comfort and equipment protection. Both factors should be considered along with service environment, duty cycles, and other critical details when specifying a suspension for a vocational truck. Nowhere are these considerations more important than in heavy-haul and severe-duty applications.The two most basic categories of suspension geometry are: 1) Torque Reactive and 2) Non-Torque Reactive. Depending on the circumstances, both types of approach can provide any given vehicle with an adequate suspension, however, a Non-Torque Reactive suspension will provide the most comfort for a driver and the highest level of equipment protection. OVER REACTIONA torque reactive suspension will exhibit a vertical response during all braking and acceleration events. For example, if a vehicle is equipped with a torque reactive front suspension, the front of the vehicle will drop down when the brakes are applied. The more aggressive the braking event, the more pronounced the dropping experience will be for the driver.If the vehicle has a torque reactive rear suspension, then the rear will drop down during braking as well, but it will also raise during opposing acceleration events. One can observe this when tractors or trucks are coming up to speed, because they will raise up and then drop down as the driver shifts gears. All this dropping and rising can not only cause wear and tear on all driveline components but will make the driver pitch forward and back in their seat. Even if the vehicle is outfitted with a high-tech seat that helps maintain driver stability, the vehicle’s steering wheel, gearshift, and the entire cab surrounding the driver can still be in dynamic motion. UPGRADEIf your application has a higher percentage of starts and stops and maneuvering, you should shy away from a torque reactive suspension geometry. If your budget will not allow you to upgrade to superior non-torque reactive suspensions, you may want to consider upgrading just the cab suspension. Advanced cab suspensions like the Link ROI Cabmate, can help reduce the effects of torque reactive suspensions. Unlike traditional cab suspensions tuned to deliver a specific quality of ride only within a narrow range of surface and load conditions, the ROI Cabmate adapts to whatever it encounters. The ROI Cabmate’s electronic control unit (ECU) uses proprietary algorithms to interpret a constant data stream from an accelerometer monitoring the motion of the cab and a position sensor measuring the position and velocity of the cab relative to the frame. The system responds at speeds beyond human Above, a standard steel spring suspension and a standard air suspension below. Link’s award-winning ROI Cabmate Smart Cab Suspension was introduced in 2019. It allows the vehicle’s cab to operate in a constant state of dynamic dampening that produces an optimal ride for drivers and passengers.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202226OPERATIONSperception, adjusting shock absorber stiffness with computer-controlled precision. The result is optimized ride comfort, improved cab stability, and an overall reduction in noise and vibration.SPRINGING INTO ACTIONSpring type is the other big factor in a suspension’s ability to impact driver comfort. The three main spring types in order of least-to-best driver comfort level are: 1) Steel Springs, 2) Rubber Springs/Blocks, or 3) Air Springs. The industry is trending toward using more rubber block walking beams and air spring suspensions. However, I believe the increase in using rubber block walking beams versus spring walking beams has more to do with weight reduction than comfort improvement. The unfortunate reality for drivers is that many rubber block walking beams almost go to a solid-mount state when fully loaded or in creep mode to protect rubber from being overstressed and breaking down.The more interesting trend is with the acceptance of air ride suspensions in vocational applications. Air rides suspensions have been used in almost every vocational application going back more than three decades. However, as we are all aware, our industry moves cautiously, and because of a lack of familiarity, it may take many years for a fleet to become comfortable with ordering its next truck with air spring technology. At this juncture, I would estimate that 30 to 40% of the most severe-duty applications are now using air suspensions with the remainder using either spring or rubber walking beam suspension—with the higher share of those on rubber.AIR LINK DIFFERENCEAlmost every truck runs empty for up to half of its life. This is especially true for vocational trucks such as dump trucks and cement mixers. Link’s air-over-walking-beam technology was patented close to 30 years ago and was originally designed to cope with extreme payloads and the rigors of harsh off-highway defense applications. Vastly superior to heavy-duty leaf spring, rubber block walking beam, two-spring “six-rod,” and trailing arm suspensions, the Air Link suspension provides a smooth, comfortable, uncompromising ride. One of the real benefits of the Air Link suspension is that the ride quality is virtually unchanged when running empty, saving the driver and truck from the pounding associated with steel springs or rubber block suspensions that become too stiff when empty to isolate the driver and equipment from road inputs.The Air Link is available in capacities ranging from 46,000 to 85,000 lbs All Air Link air-over-walking-beam suspensions are 100% off-highway rated, designed to not only survive but thrive in punishing on- and off-highway environments. Once wheel alignment is set on an Air Link, no future adjustments are required. The Air Link air-over-walking-beam suspension is available in capacities ranging from 46,000 to 85,000 lbs.
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 27and has been adopted in many severe-duty applications. The main reason for fleets trying the Air Link for the first time is to promote driver comfort and equipment protection. Another advantage to the fleet besides driver retention is the potential for more trips to occur in the same shift, because drivers can safely operate unladen vehicles at higher speeds on rough terrain during return trips due to the superior ride characteristics.BALANCING ACTThere is no easy suspension solution that addresses all environments and all concerns. While the severe-duty segment of the Class 8 build is small, it is also the most diverse with regard to application, body style, number of axles, ride heights, load center of gravity, and addition of auxiliary axles like pushers, tags, stingers, etc. Here are some factors to consider:• TRUCK LOAD DURING USE: If your return trips are empty or if your load is depleted as you travel, you should use an air suspension that can adjust the air spring pressure to keep your ride quality, driver comfort, and ride height consistent. The uniform ride height Using an Air Link can mean more trips in the same shift because drivers can safely operate at higher speeds on rough terrain on the return trip due to the suspension’s superior ride characteristics.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202228OPERATIONSis important to reduce drive line vibration, which is vital to improving the life of the drive line, but also helps reduce vibration inputs the driver may feel.• If your application spends the majority of time off highway or on poorly-maintained, temporary, worksite roads with lots of articulation events, you should use a walking beam suspension that will offer the best chance of keeping all tires in tractive contact with the ground. If your application has a medium to low center of gravity and zero to two auxiliary suspensions, then I would recommend an air-over-walking-beam for the best driver comfort and equipment protection.• Similar to above, if your application spends the majority of time off highway or on poorly maintained jobsite temporary roads with lots of articulation events, you should use a walking beam suspension that will offer the best chance of keeping all tires tractive and in contact with the ground. If your application has a high center of gravity and more than two auxiliary suspensions, then I would recommend a spring/rubber type walking beam and would apologize to the driver for the rough ride.• Same as above, but many fleets unwisely use a rubber-ride-walking-beam suspension even though the majority of the time the vehicle stays on maintained roads. However, an air-over-walking-beam suspension would be a better choice for driver comfort, particularly for lower center of gravity applications with limited auxiliary suspensions. I see applications every day that use rubber-ride-walking-beam suspensions that should have used the air option. For example, utility bucket trucks, highway construction equipment, long haul tractors, etc.ASK AN EXPERTIf a fleet is specifying a new type of vehicle or configuration that they have not used in the past or want to improve on it, then I would simply suggest they call a qualified suspension manufacturer like Link Manufacturing. This will allow the manufacturer to work through a fleet’s application and point them to the right suspensions—which in some cases might be a competitive offering. No manufacturer should be interested in selling a suspension into an application that doesn’t suit it well. At Link, we are very aware that there are still a lot of owner operators and small fleets out there and having a power unit out of service can negatively impact their livelihoods. We take our role very seriously.ABOUT THE AUTHORMark Molitor brings more than 25 years of experience with engineering in the heavy-duty trucking industry to his posion as senior product manager, chassis suspensions for Link Manufacturing. Prior to his appointment at Link, Molitor held several roles with SAF-Holland including: vice president product engineering, Americas and vice president product engineering, powered vehicle systems business unit. Find out more about Link Mfg., LTD, and its ROI Cabmate and Air Link suspensions, visit www.linkmfg.com. Not only is Link’s 85K Air Link the highest-capacity tandem air spring suspension around, but because of its air-over-walking-beam design, it’s also one of the most resilient, able to continue functioning even if a loss of an air spring were to occur.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202230TECHNOLOGYSolve Network OutagesOPENGEAR’S NETWORK MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS KEEP FLEET BUSINESSES ONLINE
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 31AQMWS: THE TRANSPORTATION SECTOR IS BECOMING MORE DIGITIZED AT A FAST PACE. WHAT IS CAUSING THIS SHIFT IN OPERATIONS?RYCHECKY: Transportation is a complex ecosystem involving many different people, parties, and locations that all need to communicate effectively. Companies require a resilient network to access their most critical applications immediately as they are needed. The three major components spurring this digital transformation, in my opinion, are improving customer satisfaction, improving company reputations, and increasing operational efficiency. However, some companies struggle with network infrastructure, using outdated network applications that need to be replaced with equipment that adheres to and is compatible with the modern requirements of today’s leading network providers. I believe a network resilience solution is absolutely essential for digital transformation in the transportation industry.MWS: WHY IS NETWORK RESILIENCE SO IMPORTANT?RYCHECKY: If there is network downtime, it creates transportation bottlenecks. Think of telematics systems installed in fleet vehicles. They record information on driving behavior including the driver’s speed and braking, they use GPS systems to predict shorter routes, and so much more. If that telematics system isn’t connected to the network, it provides no value to the fleet manager, because it requires connectivity to record data and function properly. Essentially, for fleet managers, the network is their business. If a network is down, the manager is stuck with no information on their fleet vehicles and drivers. In these situations, Opengear can help by putting that remote access into the hands of the fleet manager’s network team because it manages and remedies network routers and switches in the event of an outage.MWS: IS OPENGEAR HELPFUL ONLY FOR THE FLEET MANAGER, OR DOES THE FLEET DRIVER BENEFIT AS WELL?RYCHECKY: I’d say it’s helpful to the drivers. For instance, we worked with a trucking company in Omaha. The truckers were having intermittent network outages at their remote stations, which caused communication delays with them and their delivery. We worked with their network and operations team to spec a solution that provided what we call, “automated management” or “independent management plane” to access their network infrastructure separate from their production network. We were providing an “always-on” connectivity that the drivers weren't getting previously. There was another situation where an airline experienced a network outage, resulting in a plane reroute that lost the airline significant time and money. The airline CEO called me after the fact and said that using an out-of-band network management solution, such as Opengear, would have prevented the reroute altogether. Another client, a state highway system on the West Coast, has four data systems and 235 remote offices. We’ve worked with them to ensure network uptime so that the company can ensure its business continuity to their users. To answer the question, any solution that prevents network outages is a benefit to fleet managers, drivers, customers, and anyone involved.MWS: HOW ELSE DOES OPENGEAR HELP TRANSPORTATION FLEETS?RYCHECKY: For customers having issues with connectivity, typically What do Netflix, Zoom, retail stores, banks, and likely, your fleet company have in common? Network connectivity. Almost every aspect of our world uses a connected network and is becoming even more and more connected as technology advances. A network connection is required for communication within and outside of businesses, to operate daily fleet functions, and to ensure fleet vehicles are on task, maintained, and headed in the right direction through telematics. There’s no question that often technology and connectivity make operations easier, but when a connection is poor and a fleet vehicle loses communication, that simplified way of working becomes a headache many fleet managers know all too well. In a world that’s becoming more digitized by the minute, how can fleets combat connectivity issues?Modern WorkTruck Solutions chatted with Todd Rychecky, the vice president of sales of Opengear in North and South America. Opengear provides network monitoring and data and IT infrastructure management solutions that help ensure network uptime, helping customers cut costs, maximize profits, and experience smooth operations as often as possible. Below, Todd Rychecky shares insight into the changing world of transportation and how Opengear helps fleets today.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202232TECHNOLOGYthe problem is that a router goes down and it simply needs a reboot. One of our customers, a car rental company, didn’t have a system in place to reboot their routers and switches. The company now uses our services to reboot their routers and also as a failover system. This means that if the primary network fiber got cut at the office, the Cisco router would send us the data packets and then we bring up the site via an LTE connection. Therefore, we provide not just the network connectivity and troubleshooting aspect of it, but we are also providing the failover for companies to keep their business running. After all, and I say this a lot, Opengear doesn’t help your company prepare for if your network goes down, but when your network goes down.Opengear also has a security aspect to it. For companies having connectivity issues, it’s discouraged to try and fix those issues “over the network.” Opengear uses an out-of-band management network I mentioned earlier that is separate from the production network, providing extra steps to keep your business’s data private.MWS: WHAT KIND OF COMPANY WILL BENEFIT FROM OPENGEAR?RYCHECKY: Any company that requires a reliable network connection can benefit from Opengear. Our customers run the gamut from ride share platforms to software companies and internet providers, to retail stores, banks, and car dealerships, to state departments of transportation and transportation infrastructure companies. Further, global companies, such as major vehicle manufacturers, with locations and data centers all over the world require automated management and remote access to that management. Opengear provides that remote management solution.MWS: ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS?RYCHECKY: The transportation vertical has been a market of ours for quite some time. And we do business with the older school transportation and government departments, but also the new ones like ride-sharing platforms. It’s been interesting to see how this industry has moved and transitioned from old school to new school. When autonomous vehicles become a reality, they will run on a network, and that network must be reliable. It’s really interesting how this industry is changing and moving into an era of digital transformation.FOR MORE INFORMATION Todd Rychecky is the vice president of sales of Opengear in North and South America. Find out more about Opengear, visit www.opengear.com. TECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSGo to mcsmag.com for solution-based articles with insight from industry experts.LET MCS BE YOUR RESOURCE.LET MCS BE YOUR RESOURCE.SEEKING A SOLUTION? SEEKING A SOLUTION?
TECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSGo to mcsmag.com for solution-based articles with insight from industry experts.LET MCS BE YOUR RESOURCE.LET MCS BE YOUR RESOURCE.SEEKING A SOLUTION? SEEKING A SOLUTION?
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202234SAFETYWhat to Consider with Cargo Securement FROM LIGHT CARGO TO HEAVY LOADS By Ralph AbatoSecuring cargo, particularly heavy cargo on open-deck, hydraulic, spread axle, tank hauler, lowbed, flat bed, gooseneck, and ultra-heavy capacity trailers can tax the knowledge of even seasoned professionals. With the never-ending variety of circumstances and complex challenges, getting cargo securement right is not only an art, but a science.Vehicle operators and others responsible for securing a payload must become intimately familiar with federal regulations and then how these apply to each vehicle’s individual cargo. They must also possess a basic understanding of their cargo’s shape, weight, geometric form, and how physical forces will act on the load once it is in motion. Any misstep along the way, be it a calculation error or a wrong securement method, can result in citations, CSA points accumulation, or an out-of-service violation. The main objective is to avoid a cargo securement failure that was otherwise preventable. Lives, capital, equipment, reputations, and businesses literally hang in the balance. So, it’s important to get the balance correct. Some fleets and drivers have built businesses around hauling specialized types of cargo and become experts in the processes and techniques of securing it for transport.
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 35IT’S COMPLICATEDEverything from boulders to crushed vehicles to metal coils, pipe, and lumber are transported each day. Loads such as articulating equipment and large demethanizer vessels must reach remote and often off-highway worksites. Oversized loads, like 56-ton wind turbine nacelles and their accompanying blades are becoming more and more frequent sights on highways.Fleets like my customer, Northwest Logistics Heavy Haul, have built businesses around hauling specialized types of cargo and have become experts in the processes and techniques of securing it for transport. Those who deal with a wide spectrum of cargo types may have a harder time keeping all the variables in mind, which can lead to improper securement and potential issues.Of paramount concern is the safety of the driving public, but worker well-being must be considered as well. Once cargo is assessed and securement methods considered and calculated, the critical work of securing the load can begin. The securement process itself can present certain risks, as it often requires that workers climb in, on, and around sometimes heavy, unstable, and sharp cargo items to attach chain or other heavy-duty restraints, which themselves can be heavy and unwieldy.IT’S THE LAWFleets and professional drivers must have a strong working knowledge of federal regulations. In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes the regulations. The FMCSA is an agency in the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) that regulates the American trucking industry as a whole. The agency provides information regarding safety as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Parts 392 and 393. The Driver's Handbook on Cargo Securement by the FMCSA also classifies different commodities and stipulates the standards for proper securement of these specific load types. These are:1. Logs,2. Dressed lumber and similar building products,3. Metal coils,4. Paper rolls,5. Concrete pipe-loaded crosswise on a platform-vehicle,6. Intermodal containers,7. Automobiles, vans and light trucks,8. Heavy vehicles, equipment, and machinery,9. Flattened or crushed vehicles,10. Roll-on/ roll-off hook-lift containers, and11. Large bouldersFMCSA regulations are informed by standards published by The Web Sling and Tie Down Association (WSTDA), regarding recommended standard specification for load securement devices, including synthetic web tie-downs, winches used with web tie-downs, and load binders used with chain tie-downs. The WSTDA standards detail definitions, construction, testing procedures, operating practices for tie-downs, winches, and load binders. The National Association of Chain Manufacturers (NACM) writes the standards for steel chain used for load securement.FORCES OF NATUREOnce on the move, physical forces act upon cargo. To keep cargo stable and in position, one must comprehend the basic forces exerted and how they can cause a payload to shift, tip, slide, and otherwise become unstable. The gravitational force equivalent, commonly referred to as “g-force,” is the most important part of the equation, represented as “g.” One g is basically equal to an object’s weight on earth, and knowing the weight of one’s cargo is necessary to understand criteria for the breaking strength and related working load limit (WLL) of tie-down assemblies and other attachments or fastening devices. All such devices are manufactured to include clearly marked information on WLL. These must remain legible for tie-down assemblies to remain in service.According to FMCSA regulations for performance criteria, cargo securement devices and systems must be capable of withstanding these three forces, applied separately:• 0.8 g (or 80% of the weight of the cargo) deceleration in the forward direction;• 0.5 g (or 50% of the weight of the cargo) acceleration in the rearward direction; and• 0.5 g (or 50% of the weight of the cargo) acceleration in a lateral direction.Securement systems must provide a downward force equivalent to at least 20% of the weight of the article of cargo if the article is not fully contained within the structure of a vehicle.WSTDA established the design factor of tie-down straps as 3:1 or a WLL of 1/3 of the tie-down strap’s breaking strength. For chains, the design factor is 4:1 or a WLL of 1/4 of the chain’s breaking strength. The combined ratings of all
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202236SAFETYthe straps or chains must equal at least one-half the load’s total weight. If the load is 80,000 lbs, the aggregate WLL of all the tie-downs together must equal at least 40,000 lbs.ALL ABOUT ANGLESAlong with FMCSA guidelines, one should ensure that these critical conditions are met:1. The cargo should be fully contained and supported by the flatbed structure and should be restrained from any horizontal or vertical movement,2. The cargo should be fully restrained from shifting or tipping over by the truck’s structure and blocking implements of adequate strength, and3. The cargo should be completely immobilized by appropriately applied tie-downs so it can withstand the required g-forces in all directions.4. Consideration should be given to the angle from the horizontal tie-down to its anchor point on the trailer, as this affects the downward pressure. The lower the angle, the less pressure and friction against the load. This may result in the need for additional tie-downs.Often overlooked, the angle of a tie-down assembly can significantly decrease the amount of downward pressure exerted on a load, reducing friction between tiers of stacked cargo, and ultimately, against the deck. As an example, at a 30-degree angle, a tie-down may only be able to exert 50% of its effective downward pressure, which under certain circumstances may allow some cargo, including sheeted materials to slide or become unstable.Unfortunately, the noted angle factors assume equal tension on all parts of the tie-down assembly, but in reality, tie-down tension varies from side-to-side due to friction on the cargo. So, the effective downward pressure impact on actual load securement is compounded.In all cases, chains and straps face limits on cuts, breaks, and other defects as defined in a Defect Classification Table in the CVSA guidelines. Inspectors use the Out of Service Guideline when examining a vehicle’s cargo securement. It’s wise to make chain and strap inspection a part of any cargo securement application process.DON’T FAIL TO PLANSafe securement begins with a clean, safe, and structurally sound transport vehicle. It is of utmost importance to inspect and confirm that the critical components of the vehicle that will be involved in the cargo’s securement are in good condition and are not weakened or corroded. It is particularly critical that the deck structure and the anchor points for the tie-down are not compromised in any way. The securement system or systems one chooses should depend exclusively on the characteristics of the load. Begin by considering several key factors. Is the cargo configured as one piece or as constituent pieces? Will it be prone to sliding? Does it have sharp corners that could cut through In all cases, chains and straps face limits on cuts, breaks, and other defects as defined in a Defect Classification Table in the CVSA guidelines. Inspectors use the Out Of Service Guideline when examining a vehicle’s cargo securement.
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 37webbing? Does it have engineered anchor points that allow for “direct” securement attaching to the article or nothing to attach to, requiring “indirect” securement that passes through, over or around the article? The cargo itself must also be strong enough to withstand the pressure of securement without becoming damaged. Fortunately, in addition to traditional cargo securement and fastening devices like binders, winches, and hooks, there are a variety of tools that can be employed to enhance cargo securement efficiency and effectiveness. Wood or rubber chocks can be added to aid stability. Corner protectors can be used to blunt sharp edges that could otherwise cut webbing and also help to distribute downward force and avoid edge-crushing damage to soft cargo like foam insulation or asphalt shingles. Textile chains, like the Doleco® DoNova® PowerLift Chain Slings and PowerLash Textile Lashing Chain and Tie Down System are about 85% lighter than equivalent strength steel chain and won’t scratch finished cargo surfaces. The application of netting can unitize otherwise unstable cargo, and anti-slip mats can increase the coefficient of friction between the load and the load-bearing surface.CHANGE IS INEVITABLE Cargo can be expertly secured at the outset of transit, but once in motion, everything can and will change. Per FMCSA 392.9 Inspection of Cargo, Cargo Securement Devices and Systems, drivers are required to inspect cargo before driving the vehicle and no more than 49.7 miles (80 kilometers) from where the cargo is loaded.Periodic inspection of cargo securement devices and systems is mandatory when:• There is a change of duty status for the driver, OR• The vehicle has been driven more than three hours, OR• The vehicle has been driven for about 150 miles (240 kilometers)Be in compliance. When in doubt, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website at www.fmcsa.dot.gov for the most up-to-date regulations in the US.ABOUT THE AUTHORRalph Abato has been an acve member of the Web Sling and Tie Down Associaon (WSTDA) for more than three decades. He currently serves as vice chair of the Technical Resource Commiee and has previously served as vice president of the associaon and Technical Chairman of both Tie Down and Sling commiees. He connues to serve on WSTDA’s Board of Directors. Abato is also president and managing director at Doleco® USA. Find out more, visit www.doleco-usa.com. By using Doleco’s textile chains, Oklahoma’s Northwest Heavy Haul made securement easier on workers, saved time, and eliminated the potential damage that steel chains would do to the finish on large demethanizer vessels.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202238MAINTENANCEHeavy haulers know the story all too well—when hauling the heaviest loads on the road, finding the right coupling equipment can be challenging.A big issue is weight capacity. Many manufacturers that produce pintle hitches do not list the capacities, and for anyone in the heavy haul industry, that is a non-starter. Given the inherent dangers of trailer separations, one must know the weight capacity for any pintle hitch. The US saw nearly 1,000 accidents involving trailer separations from 2009 to 2018, and whenever trailer separations occur, they almost always involve a fatality. From 2009 to 2018, 1,156 people were killed in trailer separation accidents.SAFETY NETSBecause of this grave concern, some coupling manufacturing companies have invested a lot of time and resources into developing new technologies. In fact, there is one new hitch on the market that closes with the release of the emergency brakes. While making sure the latch is closed correctly is always the responsibility of the person making the coupling connection—and it’s the driver’s responsibility to verify that the equipment is correctly connected prior to moving the vehicle—mistakes happen, and a great Plan B is invaluable. Any coupling that can help prevent catastrophic accidents saves countless lives in the process. Fleets are taking note and starting to pick up on these life-saving trends. Another feature that affords greater comfort and safety is adding a Type 30 air service chamber for use with a slack-reducing coupling to any heavy haul application. This type of air chamber applies up to 3,000 PSI to dampen heavy loads via the pushrod. Therefore, a Type 30 air chamber is the safest and most reliable for anyone using this style of coupling. By reducing the slack in the connection, the load is hauled much smoother and safer while the coupling equipment benefits from a much longer useful life. Grade 8 fasteners are a must with all pintle hitch applications, but any heavy hauler should look at grade L9 fasteners to ensure the coupling does its job. With a tensile strength of 180,000 lbs per square inch, L9 fasteners are perfect for high-stress environments and supply the additional strength needed to carry any load down the road with confidence. Fleets Appropriate Coupling Equipment Improves Heavy HaulingHOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST EQUIPMENT These images showcase the differences when using a slack-reducing coupling versus a non-slack-reducing coupling.
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 39should always check with the coupling manufacturer to ensure they are using the highest quality fasteners.DRAWBAR ASSEMBLYOf course, when discussing coupling equipment, the pintle hitch only tells half the story. It is also imperative to ensure the drawbar eye’s weight capacity is acceptable for the load and application. A chain is only as strong as the weakest link, therefore the drawbar eye needs to be equally rated for the capacities specified by the fleet. Speaking of applications, some heavy haulers see rough terrain as part of their run, in which case it is essential to use an appropriate front-end assembly that can handle uneven paths. Some suppliers produce a front-end assembly that contains a swivel drawbar eye, and that tandem can handle the roughest of roads with ease. However, in that case, companies must make sure that the swivel drawbar eye carries an appropriate weight capacity.If a company experiences rough terrain and is not using a swivel drawbar eye and front-end assembly, the coupling can wear more quickly. Therefore, consider the coupling material before making a final decision. Not all pintle hitch and drawbar eye materials are created equally, so examine the compounds used during the manufacturing process. Some materials on the market actually work-harden, meaning that as friction builds up on the surface of the coupling, the material gets harder and harder. In this way, it is similar to material found in railroad rails.A set of heavy-duty hinge assemblies will also dampen the load of your drawbar assembly. Pair these with a set of poly bushings, and they will absorb the extreme weight of heavy hauling. Some manufacturers offer hinge assemblies rated at 150,000 lbs. Nylatron bushings are also a great option for many heavy haulers. Nylatron is a NASA-approved material whose characteristics will outperform most polymer materials in a heavy haul application.GAUGES & GUIDESConsidering the weight involved with heavy hauling, it is essential to monitor the wear of all coupling equipment, and some manufacturers offer accessories to monitor and assess the wear of their products. Using tools such as wear gauges will not only help identify critical wear on the horn and drawbar eye, but they can also help a company plan for any potential replacement equipment. Nobody wants to be caught behind the eight ball without a replacement option on hand, and many wear gauges will indicate when a new product should be ordered. Some wear gauges come with a latch gap measuring device, which, if it passes through the gap between the horn and latch when the latch is closed, recognizes when a coupling should be taken out of service. Wear gauges and latch gap measuring devices can play an important role in properly maintaining coupling equipment.Some suppliers also provide step-by-step guides to choose the appropriate coupling equipment. This is a huge help for any company in the heavy haul industry. Sometimes, manufacturers even provide an online website tool that walks users through the process of identifying the correct part number.Ultimately, weight plays the biggest role when selecting the right coupling equipment for heavy hauling, but there are numerous ways to increase safety and make things easier for drivers. When questions arise, its best to reach out to the coupling manufacturer directly for advice on the best coupling equipment to use for specific hauling requirements. A swivel drawbar eye FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about couplings and their equipment, visit www.highbarbrands.com. Some manufacturers offer tools and accessories such as wear gauges.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202240MAINTENANCEHow to Ensure Proper Tire Maintenance for Increased Fuel EconomyEMPLOY A TIRE MAINTENANCE PROGRAMAccording to a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) study, the use of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) or automatic tire inflation systems (ATIS) can improve fuel economy by approximately 1.4%. Fuel savings is not the only benefit here. Arguably, the number two operator or fleet cost behind fuel is tires; therefore maintaining tires properly can offer savings two-fold.Let’s consider the benefits of proper inflation. Underinflation is always the leading cause of tires not reaching their full potential in terms of life and fuel economy. Along with the fuel savings, by always maintaining proper cold tire pressure, operators and fleets can extend tire life by 10%. This is especially important in the case of those who use retreads. According to TRIB (Tire Research & Repair Information Bureau), proper inflation and following Industry Recommended Practices (IRPs) maintains casing integrity through the life of the tire, which can be two or three retread cycles. According to TRIB, it takes approximately 22 gallons of oil to manufacture one new heavy-duty tire. Since most of that oil is used in the tire casing, which is reused in the retreading process, only 7 gallons of oil is required to retread that same tire. This means each time a tire is retreaded, approximately 15 gallons of oil are saved, adding up to millions of gallons of oil saved every year.INFLATION SYSTEMHaving the proper systems in place can help operators reduce the risk of tire-related issues and increase fuel economy. One solution is an automatic tire inflation system. For heavy duty trailers, ATIS maintains your recommended cold tire pressure automatically, using the air brake tank to air up your tires (don’t worry, a pressure protection valve ensures the brakes have priority over tires). While a pre-trip inspection can be effective to verify proper inflation at the beginning of the trip, the driver does not have tire visibility after the vehicle leaves the terminal. In the case of a slow leak or puncture while driving, the tires are maintained without the need for operator intervention. The loss of fuel economy, increased tread wear, and the potential of a roadside call is avoided during the time the trailer is run until the tire can be repaired.As mentioned earlier, underinflated tires increase fuel consumption. It is a common statistic that 10% underinflation causes a 1% degradation in fuel economy. Numerous studies have also found a significant percentage of tires are underinflated. ATIS-equipped trailer. Source: P.S.I.® ATIS
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 41JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 41An FMCSA 2007 study found that only 44% of tires were within 5 psi of their target pressure. This is especially important when considering that low rolling resistance tires are the norm. Don’t expect to see the “as advertised” performance if tires are run underinflated.COMMON MISTAKESAnother thing to consider is that many fleets don’t follow the tire manufacturers’ load tables. Some operators use the maximum pressure listed on the sidewall. The recommended practice is to determine the maximum load on the tires, then refer to the load tables to determine their cold pressure. Some fleets do this because it is “simpler” to manage a single tire pressure across all wheel positions. It should be noted that when using ATIS on trailers, this argument becomes null and void.Another common mistake is using pressure gauges that are not calibrated. On average, some “Out-of-the-Box” slide-style pressure gauges will typically be +/- 2.5 psi, and the accuracy decreases with time and use. This is especially true if the gauge is dropped or damaged.Even worse, some drivers will use a “tire-thumper” or walk around and kick the tires, listening for a certain sound to tell them that the tire is low on air or if it’s OK to hit the road. A Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) study found that the sound of a tire does not change until it reaches 40 to 50% of its recommended pressure, which is technically flat.USING AN ATISWhen implementing an automatic tire inflation system for their air brake equipped trailers, operators specify the recommended cold tire pressure setting to the ATIS manufacturer, which is preset at the factory. After installation the operator must remember to have new tires inflated to approximately 5 to 10 psi below the system cold pressure. After installation, they should let the ATIS bring the tire up to the recommended cold tire inflation setting of the control box. If specifications change, the ATIS control box can be adjusted to the new settings.As part of a commercial vehicle maintenance, ATIS does require periodic inspection and potential adjustments or replacement parts to keep them in the proper operating condition. However, the savings provided far exceed the relatively low cost of maintenance. At a very basic level, a visual inspection of the tire hoses and control box should be part of every pre-trip. Ensure that the input to the control box is in the "on" position. It is also good to manually check the tire pressure a couple times each year. Some systems offer tire hoses with auxiliary ports that allow for faster pressure checks. At least annually, fleets should check the output pressure from the control box. As you can see, proper tire maintenance is important for many reasons, with fuel economy improvement leading the cause. Because of this, ATIS can offer a return on investment in as little as a year. Further, with most systems having the ability to operate without any serious maintenance for many years, it’s a no-brainer addition to any heavy-duty trailer.FOR MORE INFORMATION Pressure Systems Internaonal (P.S.I.®) is a leader in onboard re management systems for commercial vehicles. P.S.I.’s porolio includes automac re inaon systems (ATIS) for commercial trailers, re pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), and related TPMS telemacs products. For more, visit www.psireinaon.com. Checking air pressure on Check Port (CP) hoses with ATIS-equipped Trailer. Source: P.S.I.® ATIS
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202242WORK TRUCK PRODUCTSFREIGHT DEFENSE CARGO SAFEThe Freight Defense Cargo Safe is the most effective electronic locking system available for roll-up door box trucks and cargo vans. The Cargo Safe is an excellent theft deterrent for OEM manufacturers, fleets, and upfitters looking to maximize the security of their vehicles to protect valuable cargo while increasing speed of delivery. The overhead door version features an “auto-locking” technology while both versions feature remote access that can standalone or integrate into the vehicle’s factory provided door locking system.www.vehiclesecurityinnovators.comGO POWERPHANTOM DUAL CHARGERDead batteries on liftgates and pallet jacks are a thing of the past. The newest charging solution from solar industry leader Go Power! pairs the best-selling solar charging system with its newest component: The Phantom dual in, dual out charging system. The first of its kind, the Phantom was engineered specifically for charging both liftgate and pallet jack batteries. The Phantom can save time and reduce fuel costs by making deliveries more efficient. www.gpelectric.com BRIDGESTONEBANDAG B713 FUELTECH DRIVE TIREBridgestone’s new Bandag B713 FuelTech drive tire tread is engineered to increase retread value for fleets. The new tread is SmartWay verified and delivers fuel efficiency as well as improved wear life without compromising on traction or reliable performance. Key innovations to the Bridgestone Bandag B713 FuelTech design include a new proprietary compound that delivers longer wear life for more miles of low fuel cost performance, 3D siping for improved traction, and a continuous shoulder design that distributes weight and torque to fight uneven wear. The Bridgestone Bandag B713 FuelTech tread is available in four different sizes: 210, 220, 230, and 240.www.bridgestoneamericas.comFELLING TRAILERSPCD TRAILERThe Felling Trailers PCD, Pole/Cargo/Dump model class is a true workhorse of Felling Trailers' Utility/Telecom solutions. An operator can carry out a host of transport runs without changing out trailers. The Pole/Cargo/Dump can transport poles, backfill, debris, and even reels with the optional removable reel stands. It is one unit with the functionality of four. Operator safety, functionality, and maintenance are prime factors when any company is looking into equipment acquisition. Thus the PCD's multi-use capabilities can assure operators many years of reliable, time-saving, trouble-free service.www.felling.com
JUNE 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 43Monroe Truck Equipment’s ZDumpPro helps landscapers, construction workers, and other contractors efficiently move materials without worry of spill over or safety. A dump body is an investment, and the ZDumpPro ensures long-term ROI. The long-lasting corrosion-resistant build is designed to withstand years of rigorous use. It’s also designed with user safety and comfort in mind. The ZDumpPro makes the loading, transportation, and unloading of materials an efficient and streamlined process. Features like easy-to-reach latches and options like the spring return tarp ensure the long-term safety of the materials and the driver. “I’ve been buying dump bodies from Monroe Truck Equipment for over 40 years, and they have never let me down,” says Juan Gomez, equipment/facilities manager of HSS Hard Surface Solutions. “They are my number one go-to partner because they are reliable, competitive, and affordable. I would highly recommend Monroe. The turnaround time and service is exceptional.”CUSTOMIZATION CONSIDERATIONSSIDES• Rigid sides• Fold down sidesLIGHTS• 2 LED rear strobes• 2 LED front grill strobes• Mini light bar on self-leveling bracket• Steel underbody toolbox• Aluminum underbody toolbox• Stainless steel underbody toolboxSAFETY• Poly fenders• Back-up alarm• Back-up camera• Spring return tarp• Hand crank tarpBUSINESS INVESTMENTThere are several aspects to consider to ensure a purchase is a wise investment. These aspects include warranties, partners versus vendors, return on investment, and manufacturer-to-customer partnerships. First, warranties help buyers feel secure in their purchase and protect the investment. Choose a product from a work truck manufacturer, such as Monroe Truck Equipment, that offers a clear warranty. Along with warranties, find a manufacturer and dealership to develop a trusted partnership with. While fleet priorities may shift over time, a trustworthy manufacturer and upfitting partner will prove valuable when working toward long-term goals. Further, wise upfitting investments on a work truck can ensure long-term value. When considering the longevity of equipment, the variety of services the fleet provides, and ease of use, long-term value can be truly built into the truck.Finally, Monroe Truck Equipment strives to develop true and trusted customer partnerships. Monroe serves municipalities and commercial users across the country and works to find solutions for their needs.Find out more, visit www.monroetruck.com.featured productALL ABOUT MONROE TRUCK EQUIPMENT’S ZDUMPPRO
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM JUNE 202244In part one of “Trucking Yoga,” Hopes explains that our bodies are designed to move. Movement “jump-starts your heart and every major system and organ in your body.” That’s why intentional movement and exercise is so important for truck drivers and anyone who spends hours on end in a seated position. Hope also explains that movement boosts the “feel-good chemicals and hormones in your brain,” leading to a healthier and happier you. If you’re just getting started on your trucker fitness journey or aren’t even sure where to start, “Trucking Yoga” even includes a checklist to determine your health goals, a list for a daily check-in, and more. The book even mentions comparisons between the human body and truck components to help every trucker fully understand the importance of taking care of their body—just as they would take care of their truck.YOGA POSESPart two of “Trucking Yoga” features its yoga poses in chapters based on the driver’s position in and near the truck. Learn poses from the seat of the cab, such as a neck stretch and nerve glides. These poses even include stretches for your hands and arms and use the steering wheel as a prop.For drivers of sleeper cabs, the book offers more poses. Some poses include variations for both a seated and laying position, while others focus on full body stretching and must be performed while the body is fully reclined. For the majority of our readers in day cabs, these poses can be done on a bed at home before sleeping to prepare your body for rest.The last set of yoga poses are for when the driver is parked and can step out of their truck. The majority of these poses use a truck step or grab handle as props to stretch legs and feet. Some poses are even more familiar, such as squats and lunges. Each pose includes a written explanation and an illustration to help drivers get into the poses and maximize the poses’ benefits. SIMPLIFYING HEALTHHope concludes her book stating that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to come through complicated programs. Just a few simple changes to a daily routine—stretching, movement, and rest—could lead drivers on the road to a healthier body and a less stressed mindset. Reading “Trucking Yoga” can place key movements into a truck driver’s daily movement arsenal. Additionally, as previously mentioned, Mother Trucker Yoga’s videos on Youtube can also help those requiring visual demonstration of the poses. With Mother Trucker Yoga, your drivers will have ample resources to make movement a regular practice. Find Hope’s book, “Trucking Yoga” online and in bookstores.A TRUCKER’S FITNESS TOOLLast year, we introduced you to Hope Zvara and her Mother Trucker Yoga videos, designed to help truck drivers maintain a healthy body, healthy mind, and less-stressed lifestyle while on the road. Since then, Hope has written a book about yoga for truckers that includes more than just yoga poses. The book shares insight on common truck driver health issues, simple life changes with a big impact, yoga poses, and overall wellness. Find out more, visit www.mothertruckeryoga.com.Talk soon! Jade
Call Gary Barker today to get started at 205.795.0247 or email us at gary@mwsmag.comOur digital marketing campaigns can identify prospects interested specifically in your product, and then tell you exactly who they are! See what our customers are saying:You Need Leads!We Have the Solution!The reports are awesome! Thank you. If we can get that level of information from all of our suppliers, we will be very happy! We have already made one machine sale to a prospect from the e-blast and I am sure there will be more. Paul Gazik,Business Development/International Salesfor