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USING THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF CFMDEBUNKING THE 185 MYTHNOVEMBER2022WWW.MWSMAG.COMHOW TO STAY VISIBLE & SAFEDECREASE TRAFFIC FATALITIESHEAVY DUTY MACK GRANITE COMMAND STEER REVIEW FEATURINGTRUCKS IN CONSTRUCTIONIoT IN CONSTRUCTIONIMPROVE TRANSPARENCY & EFFICIENCY
CONNECT WITH US on Twitter (@mwsmag), Facebook (www.facebook.com/modernworktruck), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/modern-work-truck-solutions).ISUZUISUZU FTRThe 2023 Isuzu FTR is equipped with the Cummins B6.7 diesel engine and the Allison 2000-Series RDS transmission.www.isuzucv.comINSIDE THIS ISSUENOVEMBER 2022 VOL-7 NO-11GROWING LOGGING COMPANY CHOOSES KENWORTH .......................USING THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF CFMDEBUNKING THE 185 MYTHNOVEMBER2022WWW.MWSMAG.COMHOW TO STAY VISIBLE & SAFEDECREASE TRAFFIC FATALITIESHEAVY DUTY MACK GRANITE COMMAND STEER REVIEW FEATURINGTRUCKS IN CONSTRUCTIONIOT IN CONSTRUCTIONIMPROVE TRANSPARENCY & EFFICIENCYCOVER STORIESOPERATIONSUSING THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF CFM ...........26Debunking the 185 TECHNOLOGYIoT IN CONSTRUCTION .............38Improve transparency and efficiencyINDUSTRY NEWS ................................INDUSTRY INSIGHT ........................... WORK TRUCK PRODUCTS .................IN EVERY ISSUE34LIGHT-DUTYPUSH-TO-TALK IS BACK THANKS TO PEAK PTTMACK COMMAND STEER DOES IT IMPROVE THE DRIVE? HEAVY-DUTY18SAFER SAFETY LIGHTING LIGHTING’S X FACTOR44MEDIUM-DUTYSHOWCASEFEATURINGTRUCKS IN CONSTRUCTIONSAFETYHOW TO STAY VISIBLE & SAFE ............42Decrease traffic fatalities
OPERATIONS HIRING AND RETAINING WORK TRUCK INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES…….. ........................30 Creating an appealing employer brandFEATURED PRODUCT PETERSON ...........................................................................51 LED technology that is clearly superiorMore than half of our readers work in the construction segment—and this issue is dedicated to you! It’s our Trucks in Construction issue. We’ve got our truck showcase on page 18, the Mack Granite with Command Steer, a truck built for the construction industry. Those in the market for an air compressor should check out page 26, where the 185 myth is debunked—because 185 CFM isn’t always a one-size-fits-all solution. Additionally, if you thought push-to-talk was long gone, think again. The article on page 34 explains how it’s alive and well! Push-to-talk might be a technology from the good ole days that’s worth a spot in your operations, but a new technology making its way onto construction yards is IoT (Internet of Things). Read the article on page 38 to discover how it helps operations. Finally, a well-lit worksite is a safe and productive one. Check out lighting solutions on pages 42 and 44. For those that don’t work in the construction segment, we didn’t leave you out. Flip to page 30 to find out how to find and retain employees, because where would our operations be without them? This is a full issue packed with modern solutions for your modern operations. Happy learning!Jade Brasher EditorEDITOR’S NOTEwww.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! Jade3051
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 20226INDUSTRY NEWSHILLTIP ACQUIRES INDUSTRIAL METAL PRODUCTS, INC.Hilltip, manufacturer of snowplows, spreaders, de-icing sprayers, sweepers, and other road maintenance equipment, acquired all assets of Industrial Metal Products, Inc., an Indiana-based manufacturer of truck beds and other quality metal products. The arrangement provides growth opportunities for both companies’ products, while aiding Hilltip’s expansion in the North American market. The acquisition allows Hilltip to manufacture its products in North America using the company’s Fort Wayne facility. Additionally, the facility will immediately get a remarkable expansion for increased production and storage capacity. Hilltip will also establish resources and a customer service team to serve dealers and customers in the US and Canada. Industrial Metal Products will continue production and development of its existing product line as a separate division of Hilltip. It will also still carry the Industrial Truck Beds brand name. For more, visit www.hilltipna.com. FLEET ADVANTAGE’S KIDS AROUND THE CORNER FOUNDATION DONATES JOHN DEERE TRACTOR TO HORSEPLAY THERAPY CENTERFleet Advantage, an innovator in Class 8 fleet data analytics, equipment financing, and life cycle cost management (LCCM), announced a donation of an $18,000 John Deere tractor from Ag-Pro of Hastings through its Kids Around The Corner Foundation to HorsePlay Therapy Center. HorsePlay Therapy Center helps advance development and healing for children with special needs and veterans with PTSD and other injuries. The center uses Hippotherapy (horseback physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy) as well as equine therapy on its mission. This is the second year Kids Around The Corner Foundation has donated to the nonprofit organization. The foundation continues to help children through various donations since its founding in 2014.HorsePlay Therapy Center staff play an integral role in the support of children and veterans with disabilities; and further, no child or veteran is ever denied treatment based on their ability to pay. The nonprofit will use the donated John Deere tractor to maintain HorsePlay Therapy Center’s two horseback facilities in St. Augustine, Florida. For more, visit www.fleetadvantage.com. MACK BULLDOG MAGAZINE ADDS A DIGITAL VERSIONMack Trucks Bulldog Magazine is now available to a wider audience through the introduction of a new online version. The digital platform brings Bulldog to devices everywhere for quicker delivery while minimizing the environmental impact of a printed version. This new digital channel
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 20228INDUSTRY NEWSprovides the same rich editorial content of news that Bulldog has provided for 102 years. This includes articles about Mack products, services, and technologies, plus Mack customer profiles—all to inform and educate readers. The new format offers advantages compared to a traditional printed magazine with the ability to add articles, videos, and photos. Plus, it includes an archive of past material organized to ensure relevance to current issues. Readers can subscribe to the online magazine for free and receive notifications when new material arrives on the website. For more, visit www.macktrucks.com.ROTARY DEBUTS NEW MOBILE ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEM, PARTNERS WITH TEXA TO EXPAND PRODUCT LINERotary, part of Vehicle Service Group (VSG), a Dover company, recently partnered with TEXA to develop its new product line, “Rotary powered by TEXA™”. TEXA is a global leader in the design, development, and production of diagnostic tools for the vehicle repair industry. Rotary showcased its new mobile Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) at the 2022 SEMA Show. The system helps technicians perform static and dynamic calibrations as well as reset the ADAS correctly. This makes it ideal for automotive repair and service shops that need to complete a variety of aftermarket ADAS calibrations. The new “Rotary powered by TEXA” product lines will provide automotive service professionals with fully automatic air conditioning charging solutions. The solutions are designed to make the entire process quick, efficient, and cost effective. For more, visit www.rotarylift.com and www.texausa.com. LIGHTNING EMOTORS ANNOUNCES TRANSPORT CANADA REGISTRATION, EXPANDING COMMERCIAL EV PRESENCE IN CANADALightning eMotors announced that Transport Canada has registered Lightning eMotors in its pre-clearance program. Transport Canada is a federal institution responsible for transportation policies and programs promoting safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation. This registration will enable Lightning to significantly expand its activity in the country. Transport Canada registration adds Lightning’s Class 3-7 electric commercial vehicles to a list of vehicles eligible for Canadian funding programs. As a result, Canada’s fleet operators can choose Lightning eMotors for their fleet vehicle electrification needs. Lightning made its first delivery of zero-emission battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to Canada in 2021. The company currently has about a dozen customers and partners across Canada. Today, there are nearly 50 Lightning eMotors zero-emission vehicles on Canadian roads. These vehicles include the flagship ZEV3 and ZEV4 models in passenger, cargo, and
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202210INDUSTRY NEWSrefrigerated configurations. More than 100 of these Class 3 and Class 4 vehicles are currently in the company’s backlog of orders for Canada. An additional 1,000 vehicles are in the pipeline. Further, several partners including Toronto-based GoBolt have fleets across the US and Canada, opening the doors for additional international partners. For more, visit www.lightningemotors.com. FELLING TRAILERS’ PAN “GRAVITY” TILT TRAILERS RECEIVE DESIGN MODIFICATIONSThe Felling Trailers’ drop-deck Pan Tilt model has undergone design modifications to increase operator ease of use and safety. The Pan Tilt is a gravity tilt trailer, using gravity and a center pivot point for tilting the trailer bed. Felling’s engineering team recently reviewed the Pan Tilt’s design for ways to improve operator ease of use as well as production efficiencies. In the end, Felling made modifications to the Pan Tilt’s locking mechanism, lighting, and license plate mount position and location. For more, visit www.felling.com. TRILLIUM EXPANDS CNG CUSTOMER BASETrillium Energy Solutions announced the opening of a public compressed natural gas (CNG) station in Miami. The partnership between Trillium and the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) made this station a possibility. Ryan Erickson, Trillium’s vice president, says Trillium began fueling DTPW buses in 2018. He says Trillium will continue to support DTPW’s commercial fleet’s refueling needs. Trillium will operate and maintain the new Florida-DTPW CNG Fueling Station on Coral Way. Further, the station will support 560 of the 748 buses the county operates. For more, visit www.trilliumenergy.com. JASPER ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY Jasper Engines & Transmissions, a leader in remanufactured products, announced the availability of its Ram 6.4-L HEMI engine. This engine is available for 2014-2017 Ram 3500-5500 (cab/chassis) and 2014-2017 Ram 3500-5500 (pickup). Jasper New Product Development Group Leader Brad Boeglin says the engine uses Jasper-designed pistons that improve durability and strength. Jasper forged the pistons with a thicker and anodized crown as well as a 10% increase in the skirt thrust area. Further, Jasper coated the skirt with an abradable material that gives the piston better cylinder-to-wall clearance, Boeglin says. Jasper covers the Ram 6.4-L HEMI engine with a nationwide, transferable parts and labor three-year or 100,000-mile warranty. For more, visit www.jasperengines.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202214INDUSTRY INSIGHTAQTIM THORNTONA Truck for the Construction IndustryMWS: THIS ISSUE IS ALL ABOUT THE TRUCKS USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY. WHY SHOULD CONTRACTORS KEEP AUTOCAR ON THEIR RADAR WHEN PICKING A NEW TRUCK FOR THEIR FLEET? THORNTON: Our goal at Autocar, LLC is to provide fleets with a truck that exceeds expectations on both performance and reliability. Whether it’s our work on rear-discharge DC-64M concrete mixers or the DC-64D dump trucks, we are customizing the chassis to the specific application. Many mixer and dump trucks tend to be a stock chassis that contractors fit to the body going onto the truck’s chassis. At Autocar, we work directly with the customer to understand what size and kind of body will be installed on the truck before we begin building, whether it be a dump, concrete pump, or rear-discharge mixer. Then, we work with the company supplying the body to engineer the truck chassis specifically to that body size and layout for a much cleaner and integrated truck design that will last longer, have fewer issues, and consistently work day in and day out. MWS: WHAT SETS AUTOCAR APART FROM OTHER TRUCK MANUFACTURERS IN THE BUSINESS? THORNTON: I think the most significant difference is that Autocar is a truly customer-centric business. We work directly with our customers to understand their needs and engineer the trucks to their specifications. Then, after the truck is delivered and in service, we continue to support them directly through our Customer Service or Autocar Solutions group. So, if a customer has an issue, they can call or enter a ticket directly with us. One of our Autocar technicians will follow up with them within five to 10 minutes to help resolve their problem. From there, our factory trained technicians work directly with the owner or provide direction to the customer’s technicians to troubleshoot the problem, and we keep the ticket open until the customer signs off on the solution and the truck is back in service. Autocar Solutions will also work with dealers and service centers to ensure the truck is back in business. No matter where the unit is, we take ownership of making sure the unit gets fixed and AUTOCAR’S DC-64 IS DESIGNED AS THE “GO-TO” TRUCK FOR CONCRETE AND CONSTRUCTION APPLICATIONS
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 15back to the customer ready to work as quickly as possible.MWS: WHICH AUTOCAR TRUCK IS BEST SUITED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY? THORNTON: The Autocar truck most suited for the construction industry is our DC-64 severe-duty conventional chassis. We developed the truck and introduced it in 2020 for multiple construction applications, including concrete mixers, pump trucks, and the BADASS dump truck. The DC-64 is truly engineered for severe-duty applications, designed to withstand any challenge thrown its way, and to be the “go-to” truck for concrete and construction applications. Construction truck operators have to drive the truck to many different off-road sites that aren’t always easy to access, so we get excited when drivers comment on how they love driving their DC-64 and how comfortable and easy it is to drive. Like our other trucks, the DC-64 is built to be operator-friendly so that they love operating it for their jobs.MWS: THERE SEEMS TO BE A DESIGN THESE DAYS. WHAT KIND THORNTON: The DC-64 is designed for the operator’s comfort. The truck has 325-degree visibility with wraparound windshield glass, so it is easy to see in front of you with limited blind spots. It is also equipped with twin Sheppard 100 steering gears, helping make the truck easier to steer, which is one of the biggest things operators say they love about driving the truck. The DC-64 also has a 50-degree wheel cut and offers a tight turning radius, helping operators maneuver throughout the construction site and roads. It’s actually the feature that operators respond to and enjoy the most because of the twin Sheppard 100 steering gears and the tight wheel cut they provide. When people are in the construction business, maneuverability, turning radius, and turning ease are essential. The ease of use and drivability is one of the things that many of our repeat customers have commented on because it helps to get the job done faster. The steering design also helps reduce operator fatigue making for a safer work environment. These design factors help the operators feel more comfortable navigating the most challenging worksite.All our trucks are also equipped with a 7-inch Smart Display on the
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202216OPERATIONSdashboard, allowing operators to use its no distractions mode or toggle the display to find and identify fault codes and pull up the truck’s schematics if there is an issue.MWS: WHAT FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY DO THESE TRUCKS HAVE THAT IMPROVE SAFETY? THORNTON: I have already mentioned how driver visibility is an important feature for us, but we are also in the process of introducing our Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS). The system is currently available on the Autocar ACX cabover models and helps to provide operators with an active safety system. ADAS includes features for blindside detection, forward collision mitigation, and has undergone extensive testing for its rollover stability control and advanced emergency braking system (AEBS) to help provide refuse operators with an additional layer of safety. The AEBS will actively engage the brakes of the truck if preceding warning signals are ignored in the event of an impending collision.MWS: DOES AUTOCAR OFFER AFTER SALES SERVICES?THORNTON: Customers can enter a ticket with us and get one of our factory trained service technicians on the phone, chat, or by email. In addition, all Autocar trucks include a telematics system that allows operators and technicians to remotely access fault codes to determine what may have caused an issue. We can then assist with solutions through remote diagnostics and troubleshooting using telematics. Autocar also offers customers the option to add extended service warranties.MWS: ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS? THORNTON: Autocar has been in the vocational trucking business for decades. Only recently we re-entered the severe-duty conventional truck space with the DC, predominantly used within the construction industry. So, a lot of people are not yet aware of Autocar Truck as a player for dump or mixer trucks. As the word gets out, we get more people that learn the benefits of having Autocar as a partner to support their business.We may only be getting started with our DC-64 severe-duty conventional truck, but we plan to become the leader in purpose-built trucks and provide the best tools for the construction market.FOR MORE INFORMATION Tim Thornton is vice president at Autocar, LLC. Joining the company in 2020, Thornton tackled building structure for the DC-64 severe-duty visit www.autocartruck.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202218HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEHEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEMack Granite Command Steer Review
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 19Mack Granite Command Steer ReviewDOES THE NEW FEATURE IMPROVE THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE? By Jade Brasher
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEThose who work and drive trucks in the construction segment know the stresses of the job. Not only do truck drivers have to focus on operating a truck hauling valuable equipment on a tight schedule, they also have to be aware of their surroundings at all times when maneuvering through construction sites, as people and parts are constantly on the move.The engineers and designers at Mack Trucks understand. That’s why they’ve equipped their Mack Granite—a construction industry powerhouse—with Command Steer. I drove a Command Steer-equipped Mack Granite on a quarry site, and I’m here to report back on whether the feature lives up to the hype.GRANITE POWERBefore we get into the industry innovation that is Mack Command Steer, let me offer a short refresher on the Granite.Mack offers two engines with the truck, the MP7 and MP8. The 11-L MP7 engine offers 325 to 425 hp and 1,200 to 1,560 lb-ft of torque. The MP8, a 13-L engine, pumps out 415 to 505 hp and 1,460 to 1,860 lb-ft of torque.The Granite’s MP engines pair well with Mack’s mDrive HD transmission. Tuned to work optimally at 65-mph with the
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS flexibility to pull heavy loads, the 13- or 14-speed mDrive HD is lighter than competitor transmissions, and it also offers multiple PTO locations, enhanced stability with heavy loads, and more. The mDrive HD also features a Grade Gripper that prevents the truck from rolling when stopped on a hill for up to three seconds after the driver removes their foot from the brake pedal. Another mDrive HD feature, the Mack transmission allows drivers to raise engine torque and RPM before engaging drive. This feature helps drivers in freeing their trucks from mud. Mack also offers uptime support with the mDrive, such as GuardDog Connect and Mack Over the Air. Mack also offers the Allison RDS Series and Eaton Fuller manual transmissions.GRANITE GOODNESSAside from its powertrain, the Mack Granite, already a recognizable truck in the construction industry, features some of the latest innovations in technology and engineering. Tim Wrinkle, Mack’s construction product manager, says the Granite features “application excellence” with its forward and back axles, visibility, and steel galvanized cab for protection and driver comfort. He says the truck exceeds SAE rollover standards and features safety technology from Bendix with the Bendix Fusion 2.0. Mack also offers body builder support and integration with a dedicated team that takes calls and helps upfitters put thousands of different bodies on trucks.COMMAND STEERSo what exactly is Mack Command Steer? According to Mack, Command Steer is a “variable steering assist” system that provides up to 11 Nm of torque assist—the equivalent of 10.67 lbs of assist. It uses an electric motor and computer with the Granite’s existing hydraulic steering. The system includes sensors that ingest input over 2,000 times per second, monitoring driver input, road conditions, and the environment. The system essentially reduces driver effort—by a whopping 85%—and assists in reducing overall driver fatigue by 30%.The system offers drivers a less-fatigued steering experience, smooths rough roads, split-friction stability, and a quick return-to-zero that slings the wheel back into position when the driver lets go of the wheel. Aside from
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEcomfort features, Command Steer assists drivers in controlling their truck and load in windy situations, blowouts, and helps with driving and braking on uneven roads.TESTING GROUNDSMack invited myself and several other journalists to Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, to try Command Steer for ourselves. We drove out to the middle of a large quarry in the area, H&K Group’s Easton Quarry and Asphalt facility. Don’t worry—although there was work taking place at the facility, we had an entire section of it to ourselves … and we wore hard hats!Mack and H&K Group made the facility a great testing ground for the ride and drive. The grounds included a maneuvering course with traffic cones, an off-road section with alternating depressions in the ground, an opportunity to simulate backing into a loading or unloading station, and an area to perform a three-point turnaround.I was one of the first at the event to drive a Mack Granite that was not equipped with Command Steer. We drove a Granite spec’d without Command Steer first in order to adequately compare trucks with and without the feature. I performed all the events without hitting cones or finding myself stuck in a rut; however, the steering, which was comparable to other heavy-duty trucks on the market—required continuous cranks and arm over arm, hand over hand movements. I didn’t think much about it at the time because this was what I was accustomed to feeling when driving a Class 6-8 truck. It took driving the Command Steer-equipped Granite to realize the big difference between driving with and without Command Steer.I TRIED ITI’m not exaggerating when I say I immediately noticed a difference in the Command Steer-equipped Granite and the one without. I even said it out loud to the Mack representative who was riding along with me in the passenger seat. With Command Steer, instead of cranking the wheel with my
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS With Command Steer, instead of cranking the wheel, I was gently steering the Granite through the cones and other obstacles on the course.”“
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022HEAVY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEarms on top of each other, I was gently steering the truck through the cones and other obstacles as I would in my personal Honda Accord.Maneuvering in and out of the cones and other obstacles on the course was done with ease instead of with the anticipation that my arms would be sore the next day. That 85% reduction in driver effort and 30% improved driver fatigue was no joke—and numbers don’t lie.IMPROVED EXPERIENCENow, to answer the questions: Does Command Steer improve the driving experience? Will drivers prefer driving Granite trucks with Command Steer versus other truck models? Will Command Steer help with driver retention?From my experience, Command Steer truly does improve the driving experience. Anything that offers less effort on a job that’s already stressful is a win in my book. I’m not a professional truck driver, so I won’t try to answer if a driver would prefer driving a truck with Command Steer versus one without. But I will say, how couldn’t they? As manufacturers are moving toward more driver-centered features in their work trucks, I’d say this one definitely hits the mark. The industry is hurting for professional drivers, and anything that improves their experience behind the wheel, in my opinion, will aid in driver retention.ABOUT THE AUTHORJade Brasher is the editor of Modern WorkTruck Soluons magazine. Reach her at jade@mwsmag.com. Find out more about Mack Command Steer and the Mack Granite, visit www.macktrucks.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSThe culture of buying the right air compressor for the job is based on the legacy of the 185 CFM towable compressors. The 185 CFM towable market found roots in the Michigan City, Indiana area. Those roots run deep at BOSS Industries, and it is that legacy that continues to drive innovation in the mobile air compressor market.But one of the industry’s biggest challenges when choosing the right compressor for the job has been the consumers’ history and comfort level with the 185 towable compressors. Because of this, when spec’ing out an air compressor for the mobile truck market, a typical response is: “We need 185 CFM.” This is based on an “it worked best last time, so it’s what we need now” attitude. However, this could not be further from the truth. CHANGING A MINDSETIn its time, the 185 towable was a much-needed solution for operating air tools on the jobsite, and it still has its place in some markets. However, choosing the right air compressor for the job at hand is even more critical as energy consumption and job efficiency become more important factors as we move forward. PTO drive options, better engines, and more efficient tools produce the exact same equipment that suits your needs at the lowest cost of ownership.In today’s climate of raw material shortage, vendor issues, and increasing demand for product, now is the time to change the way we spec Are You Using the Right CFM for the Job?DEBUNKING THE 185 MYTH By Chuck Hamilton
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS compressors. Why spend the financial resources on 185 CFM of air when the job only calls for 100 CFM? A rotary screw air compressor, by design, needs to be operated at its rated capacity to experience its optimum benefits and performance. If not, service and maintenance costs could increase. Most applications seen today could benefit from less volume of air, which, in turn, would save upfront cost, lower engine run times, lower service costs, less wear on the tools, and more. Many times, choosing the right method of air compression is just as important as choosing the capacity (CFM) and pressures (PSI). Think about it like this: Does the job dictate continuous air, e.g., jack hammers, piercing tools, or running any air tool for longer than 20 minutes at a time? Or does the job call for intermittent air, e.g., impact wrenches, drills, or any air tool with short duration usage, such as removing lug nuts on a wheel? If the job requires continuous air, then a Rotary Screw type compressor is the right choice. If the job requires intermittent air, then a Piston type compressor better fits the bill.COMPRESSOR DIFFERENCESA rotary screw compressor is air-on-demand, meaning you have immediate, continuous air that can run for hours or even days. The bonus is the fact that there is no air reservoir (tank) needed. This design uses two rotating lobes that are in an oil-flooded system. The oil serves
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSthree primary functions: 1) It seals the tolerances between the lobes (screws) to create compression, 2) it helps lubricate the bearings on the rotors and gear boxes, and lastly, 3) it transfers the heat from compression to the cooler. A piston type compressor (reciprocating compressor) uses the piston and rings to build pressure and fills an air reservoir (tank). This requires a short pressure build time to fill the appropriate size air reservoir but is ideal for on/off, short air usage applications. CHOOSING A COMPRESSORNow that compressor differences have been established, it’s time to decide what CFM and PSI to choose by considering the tools used on the job. BOSS Industries recommends sizing the compressor to the rated specifications of the tools used to ensure the life span and investment in the air tools. Choosing the right type and size of an air compressor is just as important as choosing the right tool for the job.BOSS Industries’ underdeck rotary screw air compressors and generator products are intelligently designed systems. BOSSAIR underdeck products produce air from 30 CFM to 900 CFM and power generating options up to 62kW. BOSS underdeck systems feature plug-and-play, time-saving wiring systems, no-drill mounting platforms, spin-on filters, and the industry leading B-CAN digital interface. Partnered with the BOSS lifetime warranty program, the BOSSAIR underdeck compressor and power systems is a top choice for the work truck industry.BOSS also offers a wide range of abovedeck compressor systems, both hydraulic driven and engine driven. Additionally, the trend is now moving into a more “multi-functional package” for a total and complete service or work vehicle. Air, AC power, welding, hydraulics, battery charging, and jump starting capabilities round out a more complete package rather than just air.To help you, the BOSS sales team is dedicated to help customers make intelligent choices when choosing the right air compressor—and not just for the bottom line. To help even more, BOSS offers an industry-first Air Consumption Guide on its website—a great start when spec’ing out a new work or service truck.Together, let’s work smarter, not harder. ABOUT THE AUTHORChuck Hamilton is the director of more, visit www.bossair.com.
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
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSHiring and Retaining Work Truck Industry EmployeesCREATING AN APPEALING EMPLOYER BRAND It seems no one can find employees these days, and those that can find a worker can’t hold onto them—and often at no fault of their own. The work truck fleet industry is no exception. In fact, some might say our industry has led the workforce in the labor shortage for years before the pandemic. Lance Christensen, the senior director of strategy at Bayard, shares his insight on the topic.
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS AQLABOR SHORTAGES ABOUND ACROSS MANY INDUSTRIES IN INDUSTRY HAS SEEMED TO LEAD THAT CHARGE. AS THE CURRENT WORKFORCE LOOKS TO RETIRE, HOW CAN TRUCKING COMPANIES APPEAR MORE DESIRABLE TO A YOUNGER GENERATION LOOKING FOR WORK?CHRISTENSEN: As Gen Z and the youngest of Millennials contemplate careers in the trucking industry, their expectations for employers vary greatly from previous generations. Raised with an almost infinite amount of information in the palms of their hands, the latest entrants into the workforce value the purpose, culture, reputation, and transparency of an employer far more than previous generations. But it starts at the hiring process. Trucking companies, or any company for that matter, should be aware of the time the hiring process takes, as instant gratification is the new norm. If the hiring process takes too long, applicants will move on to companies hiring quicker. It’s also important to note that in 2022, flexibility is key. Traditional rigid work schedules and regimented vacation policies do not appeal to younger workers who want greater flexibility. Companies must do their best to offer flexibility wherever possible to compete for talent.Finally, newer, clean, and well-maintained equipment is a must. Any old or damaged equipment should be kept out of sight from any jobseekers. If they arrive for an interview and the only piece of equipment they see is low-quality, they will likely assume it will be assigned to them.ONCE A COMPANY HIRES AN EMPLOYEE, WHAT ARE SOME STEPS IT CAN TAKE TO ENSURE THE EMPLOYEE STICKS AROUND?CHRISTENSEN: One way to retain talent is by creating a competitive and gamified structure in onboarding, training, safety, and performance. With a focus on competing, there is less time and interest for seeking other employment opportunities. Another way is by employing a simple, straightforward pay structure. Confusing and complicated pay structures are viewed as duplicitous. Even if designed to pay for high performance, they are often perceived as a way to avoid paying earned wages. Additionally, it’s important to maintain an appealing employer brand that is visible across the digital landscape. Saying that a company is a great place to work with a fantastic culture that values its employees is great, but these and similar claims must be reflected in a company's online presence and reputation as well. Corporate and employee personal posts need to be genuine and authentic.WHAT STRATEGIES SHOULD COMPANIES EMPLOY WHEN IT COMES TO POSTING POSITIONS? CHRISTENSEN: While compensation still weighs heavily in the decision-making process (favored by 40% of 18 to 25-year-olds in a recent ATRI survey), this younger generation is quick to turn from employers that do not share similar values. In fact, in a recent ATRI survey, 84% of 18 to 25-year-olds consider company culture important. From the job posting, it’s imperative to give accurate details about compensation and make sure the compensation range matches across all postings. Likewise, a company’s online reputation and presence should match what is being sold through the job advertisements. Advertising perks like great pay, excellent benefits, and flexible schedules will backfire if current and former employees complain on social media that the company has terrible pay, basic benefits, and no work-life balance.Further, bonuses cannot make up for below-market compensation. Advertising a $5,000 sign-on bonus will not make up for a pay rate that is $4/hour less than the competition. Set your pay between the 50th and 75th percentile, and use sign-on bonuses sparingly with a clear purpose, such as to entice job seekers to a new location.YOU MENTIONED JOBSEEKERS ARE LOOKING FOR ‘AN APPEALING EMPLOYER BRAND.’ CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF THOSE ASPECTS?CHRISTENSEN: The aspects young jobseekers are looking for in a new job include values, long-term employment potential, culture, and advancement opportunities. They will look at whether a company shares their values and what the organization's views are on transparency, culture, and social causes. Jobseekers will often envision themselves in the role to make sure they’re suited for all aspects of the job: the type of work, the equipment used, the work schedule, the pay rate, etc. They will also look to employees who are already at the company to see if they are enjoying their positions and being properly appreciated by their supervisors. A major factor for young jobseekers is if leaders started in an entry-level role at the same company. This will allow them to measure the possibility of advancement opportunities at the company.HOW CAN A COMPANY ENSURE IT DELIVERS THOSE ASPECTS?CHRISTENSEN: Ensure the needs and desires of young jobseekers by allowing a space to provide feedback, creating a mentor program, and tracking promised perks. Give new hires an easy way to provide feedback with an option for anonymity. Encourage and reward the feedback, even if it is difficult to hear, and never retaliate for candid and honest feedback.Having a well-organized mentorship program with a mentor assigned for each new hire can set new hires up for success in the beginning of their careers. Careful and thoughtful selection of mentors is important, as they must be approachable, sincere, and able to identify and communicate unspoken needs to leadership. Have a
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSmentor or supervisor monitor data and performance of anything promised: pay, benefits, hours, days off, schedules, etc. These should be tracked closely over the first 90 days. If anything is falling short of what was promised, it should be rectified immediately.HAVING NEW EQUIPMENT IS OFTEN MENTIONED WHEN DISCUSSING DRIVER RETENTION. WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON THAT?CHRISTENSEN: Having the latest technology is nearly unavoidable in new work trucks, with many of the new features improving both user experience and safety performance. Keeping a balanced fleet of new and well-maintained equipment is a winning strategy. Always account for current drivers' requests and feedback when considering fleet upgrades. If drivers prefer their older well-maintained piece of equipment, avoid forcing them into something new, if possible. When a tenured driver is requesting a new truck, make it happen as soon as possible. Avoid giving new trucks to new drivers until you can complete the requests from the tenured employees.However, while new drivers prefer new trucks, they are typically satisfied with newer, well-maintained trucks. It is more important to ensure that any truck they have been assigned is dent free, well cleaned, and ready to run.CLOSING THOUGHTS?CHRISTENSEN: At the end of the day, respect goes a long way in the recruitment and retention of drivers. Listen to what they have to say, and act on requests when possible. Take time to explain when actions cannot be taken. Reward drivers when they come up with good ideas—especially if it improves the bottom line.While the retail, hospitality, and tech industries have already made significant changes to attract and assimilate this emerging workforce, unfortunately the transportation industry has lagged, thus making it even more critical to adapt soon. FOR MORE INFORMATION Lance Christensen is the senior director of strategy at Bayard. In industry, Christensen has traveled from the driver's seat to the boardroom with many steps in a trucking company, Christensen has spent the last 16 years as an where he enjoys pushing the limits of technology, tools, and media wizardry to build industry leading talent lance.christensen@bayardad.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSAQWHAT IS PEAK PTT, AND WHY SHOULD OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT IT?KARONIS: We provide businesses with a very fast and efficient way to communicate across the entire workforce. We leverage LTE wireless data, the internet, and purpose-built rugged radios to make this happen. All of our radios are equipped with GPS, which also lets owners, supervisors, and dispatchers easily keep track of all field personnel. ITS HEYDAY A FEW DECADES AGO. WHY SHOULD CONTRACTORS AND OTHER INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS GIVE IT ANOTHER LOOK?KARONIS: Yes, Nextel was a great service. The service was abruptly stopped by Sprint in 2015 to re-allocate its resources to modernize its wireless network. When this happened, over 20 million users were left without the service. At the same time, smartphones became the norm. But, smartphones were never meant to be used as a two-way radio. Besides being expensive, they lack features that a purpose-driven PTT device has, such as being extremely rugged and very loud. Not to mention the fact that you can communicate with your entire team in a second or less. WHEN PEOPLE THINK OF TWO THEY MIGHT THINK OF RADIOS. WHAT MAKES PEAK PTT DIFFERENT FROM THOSE DEVICES WE REMEMBER?KARONIS: Traditionally, two-way UHF and VHF radios for business use require FCC licensing, which requires paperwork and cost. Moreover, a traditional two-way radio system using repeaters and other equipment can be quite expensive. Our radios require no license and provide users with nationwide coverage for a fraction of the cost of a traditional radio system. Did You Think Push-to-Talk was Gone Forever?WITH PEAK PTT, NATIONWIDE PUSH-TO-TALK IS HERE ONCE AGAIN!DID YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW OWN A NEXTEL DEVICE? often used on jobsites and between employees and managers. They eventually made a quiet exit as smartphones came on the scene. But fortunately, they’re back, thanks to Peak PTT. George Karonis of Peak PTT shares more below.GEORGE KARONIS
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS JUST ABOUT EVERYONE HAS A CELLPHONE THESE DAYS. WHY IS PEAK PTT A BETTER SOLUTION FOR WORK COMMUNICATION THAN CELLPHONES?KARONIS: The Peak PTT solution provides businesses with instant, always-on communication across their entire workforce. Unlike a cellphone that requires users to make a call to someone who may not answer, a dedicated PTT radio ensures instant communication. Furthermore, Peak PTT radio can only be used for one thing: work-related communication. Cellphones can be used for a host of other time-wasting, unproductive things, such as social media, surfing the web, and personal business. Another important topic I feel is relevant in regards to cellphones is distracted driving. Our PTT radios can be used while driving and are DOT compliant. ARE YOUR RECEIVABLES FLAT?ARE YOUR RECEIVABLES FLAT?WATCH YOUR RECEIVABLES INFLATE WITH PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISINGHELP IS JUST A CALL AWAY 205.795.0223 | RUSSELL@MWSMAG.COM MWS Can help GIVe TheM a lIFT.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022OPERATIONSMODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS COVERS A VARIETY OF WORK TRUCK INDUSTRIES. WHICH INDUSTRIES DO YOU THINK WOULD BENEFIT MOST FROM USING PEAK PTT?KARONIS: We have clients across a wide variety of industries using our service. Any company with workers in the field can benefit from our service. Whether it’s a driver or field tech communicating with other employees, managers, or even office personnel, communication becomes exponentially more efficient. EXAMPLE OF AN INSTANCE WHERE A PEAK PTT DEVICE IMPROVED OPERATIONS OR SAFETY WHILE ON THE JOB?KARONIS: We’ve heard and continue to hear from multiple customers all the time that one of the biggest improvements they have seen is the responsiveness of their field workers. Prior to using our radios, cellphone calls would many times go unanswered. That isn’t the case anymore using Peak PTT. Business owners, also really like the 60-second GPS location service that is built in to every radio. This location awareness provides for improved employee productivity as well as a degree of peace of mind. HOW DOES THE PROCESS OF GETTING A PEAK PTT SYSTEM WORK?KARONIS: Those interested can contact Peak PTT from our website or over the phone, and we can make recommendations on the products and service that best fits the need. Customers would then purchase—and own—the radios.Our monthly service is $24.95 per radio, unlimited PTT service, support, and 60-second GPS tracking with no contracts. This includes nationwide talk, unlimited channels, secure and encrypted communications, recorded transmissions with playback, SOS alerts, and cross-talk between companies.We preconfigure and set up our radios for the customer and ship them ready-to-use out of the box. Customers can have an unlimited number of channels as well as customized names for each channel or radio.FOR MORE INFORMATIONGeorge Karonis is a manager at Peak PTT. Find out more, 855.600.6161.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022TECHNOLOGYIt’s becoming increasingly popular for decision-makers to use the Internet of Things (IoT) during construction projects. The IoT in construction usually involves using smart sensors and similar data trackers to provide real-time information, allowing for improved visibility over operations. Some leaders even invest in IoT construction equipment to get better insights into performance, overall usage time, and more. Below are some specific ways those in the construction industry can get the most out of IoT technology.TRACK ASSETS & PEOPLEMany applications of the IoT in construction center on helping site managers know precisely where assets or employees are at any given time. The value of construction equipment makes it a heavily targeted category for thieves and vandals. However, IoT trackers allow users to set geofences around their assets and notifies users whenever those assets move outside a predefined area. IoT construction equipment can also sync with workers’ identification badges. The technology tells leaders which employees use assets ranging from hammers to backhoes. That information is particularly useful if linked to equipment that requires specific training. Site managers could get themselves in legal and regulatory trouble if someone uses items without the necessary certifications or qualifications. Depending on how the IoT technology is set up, it could tell site leaders which employees use certain pieces of equipment and when. That’s an excellent way to manage risk. Another option is for workers to don IoT wearables. That approach helps IoT in Construction Makes Operations Safer, More EfficientIMPROVE TRANSPARENCY, EFFICIENCY, AND SUCCESS RATE By Emily Newton
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS managers see when they enter or leave a site, making it easier to plan tasks and whole workdays without dealing with interruptions or relying on guesswork. IoT construction equipment often has associated operator statistics, too. Perhaps a person uses machinery recklessly or has wasteful habits such as idling too much. IoT data supports productive supervisor coaching in such cases, helping the discussions stay relevant.IMPROVED AWARENESSUsing the IoT in construction projects can also entail relying on smart sensors to help people have a more accurate understanding of environmental risks. For example, some sensors embedded in safety vests light up and vibrate when people are in dangerous areas. That extra awareness extends beyond the wearer to individuals who may be operating heavy or ear-damaging equipment nearby. Safety signage is a common sight in construction areas. IoT devices will never replace it. However, they can help people become aware of the threats they may otherwise miss altogether or not notice until it’s too late. Applying the IoT in construction can also mean people become more aware of when they’ve overtaxed themselves and need to take breaks. Some devices track statistics like heart and respiration rates or perspiration levels. The data is crunched to determine whether that individual is working too hard and is at risk of collapsing if they don’t take a break soon. In short, IoT construction equipment provides better awareness in a couple of ways. First, it alerts people to threats in real time so they can avoid them without incident. However, the associated data can also tell supervisors of trends that could cause future accidents if not mitigated. Thus, it supports improved decision-making to keep a site safer from the start through the end of a construction project. AVOID SUPPLY DELAYS The construction industry has been like most others in that it has experienced supply chain delays. The IoT can’t prevent all those slowdowns, but it can increase efficiency regarding what happens to incoming parcels during their journeys.One ongoing challenge is that goods typically change hands multiple times before reaching their final destinations. IoT sensors can show
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202240TECHNOLOGYpertinent details once customers or supply chain clients learn that shipments have slowed down en route to construction sites. For example, where did the backup occur? Which shipping partner was handling it at the time?Thanks to those details, the affected parties can act sooner to reduce the length of any delays. They can also use the data to track trends indicating potential problems with supply chain partners. Does a particular company repeatedly handle fragile goods roughly? Do they promise to deliver the goods within certain timeframes but then fall short?Since IoT devices track data continuously, they help people verify how specific supply chain partners perform over time. The associated information makes it easier to justify putting providers on probation or reminding them how they don’t match up to previously agreed minimum standards.SUPPORT PROJECTSPeople use many metrics to determine whether a construction project succeeds. Did it finish on time, under budget, and with minimal accidents? If so, it was likely successful. Relying on the IoT in construction can’t address all inefficiencies and unsafe working practices that could cause a project to get behind schedule or have too many worker incidents. However, the associated data can show project and site managers where room for improvement exists.IoT construction equipment data helps leaders remain actionable rather than notice issues before it’s too late to rectify them. This allows projects to proceed as planned with fewer problems.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Emily Newton is an industrial writer supply chain industries.SOCIAL CLIMBINGADVERTISERS MWS SOCIAL MARKETING CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS:• INCREASEbrandawareness• BOOSTinboundtraffic• BECOMEanindustryauthority• IMPROVEwebsearchrankings• RAISEconversionrates
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022SAFETYAccording to recently released information from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the traffic fatality rate for the first quarter of 2022 increased to 1.27 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. That is up from the rate of 1.25 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles in the first quarter of 2021. The 7% jump is the highest since 2002 and translates to nearly 10,000 deaths.“The overall numbers are still moving in the wrong direction,” says Dr. Steven Cliff, NHTSA’s Administrator, in the report. “Now is the time for all states to double down on traffic safety. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there are more resources than ever for research, interventions, and effective messaging and programs that can reverse the deadly trend and save lives.” REASONS FOR INCREASEPart of the ominous trend can likely be attributed to increased roadway volume. The year 2021 saw a massive spike in nationwide traffic volumes as the population began driving more after pandemic restrictions slowed and commuting patterns adjusted upward in response. In 2020, there were 228.2 million licensed drivers in the US. In 2021, that number increased to 232.8 million. In 2022, the licensed driver count is expected to land at 238.6 million. That means 10 million more drivers on roadways over the relatively short span of 24 months. Many of those drivers face new types of traffic patterns, aging roadways, detours, and multiple levels of digital distractions from mobile phones and smart watches to satellite radio options. It’s clear that roadways aren’t trending upward in terms of safe environments in which to work. It’s also worth noting that over 8.3 million drivers in the United States are between 16 and 19, and are continually learning as they go in this new and intense driving environment.Additionally, road construction and maintenance projects continue to rise in overall numbers and dollar expenditures, especially with a heightened focus on infrastructure improvements across the country. State and local expenditures on road projects were marked at $78 billion in 2011 and rose to around $100 billion in 2021. These additional road construction projects mean a “driver desensitization” can set in for motorists who lose patience with frequent construction zones and delays and begin to take chances with safety when navigating work zones.How to Stay Visible and Stay Safe2022 FIRST QUARTER TRAFFIC FATALITIES AT 20-YEAR HIGH
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS HOPE ISN’T ENOUGHAs governments and citizen groups scramble to decrease the rising tide of fatalities with public service campaigns warning of the dangers of speeding and reckless driving, the onus, for now, falls on fleet operators to work toward a safer operating environment. Waiting for things to get better in terms of safer motorist behaviors isn’t an option.“Public safety initiatives aren’t enough to make roads safer in the short term,” says Frank Li, general manager at Opti-Luxx in Hudsonville, Michigan. “We of course need to do everything we can to make sure road crews, citizens, and equipment are safe. Vehicle lighting is a big part of that overall effort. Safety on the road starts with being seen by other motorists.”Fleets are turning to Opti-Luxx by rapidly growing numbers in 2022 to provide fast, affordable, and highly functional LED lighting. Products like the popular Pocono Class 1 LED Light Bar can be quickly brought online, along with multiple supplemental warning lights and markers.“We know from research that providing a clear visual alert to motorists can save lives,” Li says. “For that reason, we strive to make sure the overall coverage, luminosity, and features of our LED installations provide a visual alert that is superior to other lighting configurations.”KNOW YOUR ABC’SLighting can be a challenge to assess. After all, if there’s an installed light on your vehicle and it’s functioning, it’s easy to take a quick glance and then check lighting off the list of safety concerns. But pay attention the next time you’re driving on bustling roadways, and you’ll likely notice a significant problem. The visual competition you face to alert distracted motorists of your presence is daunting. Hobbyists, independent contractors, municipal vehicles, flashing commercial signs, and advertisements are all competing for your attention. The effect can increase the aforementioned driver desensitization, making your warning lights less noticeable. What can set your fleet apart from the visual clutter so motorists’ attention is heightened? Opti-Luxx is guided by what the company calls, “The ABC’s of Warning Lighting”: All-over, Bright, and Changing.A Position lights in many vehicle positions for complete sightline coverage. This doesn’t mean a “random scattering” but instead a strategic set of coverage rooted in the best transportation research regarding motorist behaviors and applicable warning light LED color laws.BBRIGHT. Make sure your lumens cut through all kinds of weather, time of day, and visual clutter challenges. LED warning lights should have lumens that fit your environment best.CCHANGING. Look for dynamic and/or variable flash patterns because not all road situations are the same. You should have the appropriate color and pattern at your fingertips for any given scenario.If you follow these points, you’ll be on your way to making sure your fleet commands respect and stands out from the crowded, visually cluttered roadways.COMMAND RESPECTInstallation of LED lighting for any fleet should be straightforward, enough that managers will make the necessary safety investment. “At Opti-Luxx, we know that all the best LED lighting in the world won’t make a difference if affordability is thrown out the window,” says John Lawrence, director of administration at Opti-Luxx. “We pride ourselves on providing the best LED lighting options with rugged reliability and a total cost of ownership value that is unmatched.”Once the first step of finding the right features and affordability is set, Opti-Luxx suggests seeking the assistance of LED vehicle lighting experts to guide you through the ordering and delivery process.FOR MORE INFORMATIONengineering, program management, safer with the best and brightest LED Fleets have turned to Opti-Luxx to provide fast, affordable, and highly functional LED lighting. Products like the popular Pocono Class 1 LED Light Bar can be quickly brought online, along with multiple supplemental warning lights and markers.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202244SAFETYEven today, many work trucks are fitted with separate 6-inch oval or 4-inch round stop, tail, turn, backup, and warning lamps. Each lamp requires a wiring and mounting hole in the vehicle body panels, frame posts, docking plates, or gussets. Each of these holes can reduce structural integrity and by their nature of being holes, can contribute to the intrusion of moisture and other contaminants that are generally understood to contribute to corrosion and potentially structural degradation. “Our customer’s products are developed and manufactured to deliver quality, value, and performance,” says Marcus Hester, chief marketing officer for Optronics International. “We heard immediate positive feedback from the marketplace when Optronics introduced its Fusion LED combination stop, tail, turn, and back-up lamp, because it consolidated multiple lamp Making Safety Lighting Safer with a Distinct DesignTHE X FACTOR
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 45functions into one, while significantly reducing the number of wire and mounting holes in truck bodies.”Originally introduced in a 9-inch oval format, the Fusion LED combination lamp was soon also made available in 4-inch round and 6-inch oval sizes with grommet-, flange-, and surface-mount versions that fit virtually any standard lighting application. Optronics Fusion lamps changed the equation by combining multiple lamps into a single lamp footprint, reducing complexity and cost, while helping maintain a truck body’s structural integrity. “As an example, mounting a 6-inch Fusion surface-mount LED combination lamp requires only a half-inch hole for the lamp’s wiring and four mounting holes to accommodate rivets or screws,” Hester says. “The low-profile, half-inch-thick LED lamps mount snugly to a vehicle’s surface while preserving the vehicle’s structural soundness.”WARNING!Optronics recently announced its new STLW FusionX family of combination stop, tail, turn, backup, and warning lights. Featuring a signature “X” LED lighting array in their centers and available in eight versions, the FusionX lamps are the newest members of Optronics’ Fusion Series combination lamps. Multiple lamps can be wired to operate flashers either asynchronously or be connected, allowing users to achieve synchronized illumination patterns. This feature enables fleets to choose the flash sequence that best meets their environment.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202246SAFETYUntil now, combination lamps with warning light features have had the potential to be misunderstood because their flashing warning lights continue to operate even when their brake lights illuminate. The dual illumination patterns of these noncompliant lamps could confuse others on the road by presenting mixed signals. The issue made these lamps impractical for many vehicles, particularly those in the utility, construction, and roadside service sectors. “Previously, end users had to install separate warning lights because there just wasn’t an adequate solution out there,” Hester explains. “Our fleet users have vehicles and workers in the field night and day—24/7, and they demand the utmost in safety and regulatory compliance for their vehicles.”Optronics’ FusionX LED combination lamps solved the problem by disabling the warning light function as soon as the brake light is illuminated. The warning override feature helps eliminate potential misinterpretations by others on the road or worksite and allows the FusionX to fully meet FMVSS 108 requirements. The lamps also meet the SAE J595 standard for Class 2 and Class 3 directional warning lamps.“Optronics’ new FusionX offers fleets and body builders all of the benefits of a multifunction combination lamp in addition to being DOT compliant in all modes of operation,” Hester adds. “This is a highly functional and compliant combination stop, tail, turn, backup, and warning lamp, and its unique x-shaped central LED looks attractive and is attention getting.”CUSTOM FLEET FITAccording to Hester, warning lamp programmability is also a critical feature for fleet buyers. He suggests that each fleet has their own idea of the most attention-getting sequence. FEATURING A SIGNATURE “X” LED LIGHTING ARRAY IN THEIR CENTERS AND AVAILABLE IN EIGHT VERSIONS, THE FUSIONX LAMPS ARE THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF OPTRONICS’ FUSION SERIES COMBINATION LAMPS. THE FUSIONX FULLY MEETS FMVSS 108 REQUIREMENTS AS WELL AS SAE J595 STANDARD FOR CLASS 2 AND CLASS 3 DIRECTIONAL WARNING LAMPS. LIKE ALL LED PRODUCTS FROM OPTRONICS, THESE LAMPS COME WITH A NO-HASSLE, ONE-DIODE LIFETIME WARRANTY PROTECTION THAT WILL REPLACE A LAMP IF EVEN ONE DIODE FAILS.
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS With four preprogrammed flash patterns to choose from, the FusionX STLW lamps with their warning light offer users significant flexibility. Their centralized x-shaped LED array serves as both a white backup light and a white, amber, or alternating white and amber warning flasher with two cadences to choose from. “In the case of the FusionX, I think the flash pattern and the tempo will make this an interesting lamp for the industry to consider,” Hester says. “The combination of the two creates the visual novelty that’s necessary to rise above the other lighting-based clutter on the road and to redirect people’s attention to potential hazards.”Multiple lamps can be wired to operate flashers either asynchronously or be connected, allowing users to achieve synchronized illumination patterns. This feature enables fleets to choose the flash sequence that best meets their environment. “STL” versions of the lamp are also available without a warning function.WORK-READY The lamps come in grommet-mount versions as well as flange-mount versions. The STLW314MGHB grommet-mount version is also available in the STLW314MSHB recess-flange-mount version. The STLW316MGHB grommet-mount version is also available in the STLW316MSHB surface/flange-mount version.“These are very versatile and functional lamps,” Hester adds. “The FusionX offers the marketplace the kind of flexibility it’s looking for.” The lamps come hardwired and ready to install. As an integrated electrical system solutions provider, Optronics is also able to configure the lamps with industry standard connectors by request. FusionX lamps are available in both bulk and polypack packaging.The lamp’s lenses are made of tough polycarbonate material that is sonically welded and resistant to dust and moisture and is suitable for harsh operating conditions. The lamps employ a solid-state, surface-mount device (SMD) design that protects their electronics against moisture, shock, and vibration. Like all LED products from Optronics, these lamps come with a no-hassle, one-diode lifetime warranty protection that will replace a lamp if even one diode fails.“The FusionX family of LED lights was designed to be compact, highly functional, and exceptionally attractive,” Hester notes. “The lights specifically address multiple industry lighting needs that were not being met—and look slick doing it.”The new STLW and STL FusionX family of combination stop, tail, turn, backup, and warning lights are available in sample form now and are expected to be commercially available for shipping by the end of 2022.“The addition of a compliant warning light function in the FusionX was a logical next step in the evolution of the Fusion Series,” Hester says. “Optronics is always striving to address industry needs and to make its lighting products more valuable to the end user. I think we’ve more than succeeded with the FusionX.” Optronics’ FusionX LED combination lamps disable the warning light function as soon as the brake light is illuminated, eliminating potential misinterpretations by others on the road or worksite. STL versions of the lamp are also available without a warning function.FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about Optronics’ www.optronicsinc.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 202250WORK TRUCK PRODUCTSVMACUNDERHOOD40 FOR SPRINTER VANSVMAC has released the UNDERHOOD40 – Van Series for 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans with a 2.1-L turbo diesel engine. This UNDERHOOD40 rotary screw air compressor produces up to 35 CFM of continuous air at 100 psi (150 psi max). This vehicle-integrated air compressor is mounted in the Sprinter’s engine compartment, freeing up to 10 cu ft in the cargo area. A combined air/oil cooler and air/oil separator tank is the only component installed in the cargo area, taking up just 1.7 cu ft. The total air compressor system weighs only 85 lbs, which reduces GVW by as much as 290 lbs compared to other 22-30 CFM air compressor systems.www.vmacair.com/vansTRANSFER FLOWTransfer Flow introduced a gasoline high-capacity replacement fuel tank for 2020-22 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty short bed, crew cab pickups with 6.2-L and 7.3-L engines. The 58-gallon fuel tank system increases the truck's driving range. The tank is made from American-made 12-gauge aluminized steel. Each fuel tank is equipped with internal baffles for additional durability and to reduce fuel slosh. This system has a complete installation kit, including straps and mounting hardware, to get the heavy-duty tank mounted and ready for the road. The fuel tank comes with a 6-year, unlimited mile warranty.www.transferflow.comOPTI-LUXXMICHIGAN SERIESThe Michigan Class 1 LED Warning Light produces an attention-grabbing warning signal designed to meet the demands of multiple commercial vehicles, including work trucks, municipal, construction, tow, and delivery. Available in both 4-inch round and 6-inch oval options, the Michigan Series produces a powerful amber warning signal and comes standard with eight different flash patterns to choose from. The rugged LED warning light easily connects to fleet vehicles with the included three pin amp connector. Get noticed and stay safe with the Michigan Series of warning lights.CONTINENTALContinental launched a new lineup of General tires for regional on/off-road all position use called General Grabber OA 2 and OA 2 Wide Base (WB). These 2nd generation tires have a new tread compound to improve mileage, chip and chunk resistance, and protect the casing to allow for multiple retreads. The tires provide great traction, minimal stone retention, and durability. The industries that benefit from these heavy-duty tires are construction, material transport, cement, utility, emergency vehicles, heavy haul and special loads, and mining/quarry. Continental will be phasing out the General Grabber OA and OA WB tire.SEE ADPGLED TECHNOLOGY THAT IS CLEARLY SUPERIORSEE ADPG 8SEE ADPG 49
NOVEMBER 2022 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 51Don’t take your forward lighting technology for granted. The superior performance of LED headlights offers improved lighting in any weather and every lighting condition. The increase in output of LED highlights enhances safety while their energy-efficiency, low power consumption means they last longer.Through an intelligent engineering process geared toward innovative and high-value LED lighting solutions, Peterson USA-made, LED headlights were born out of collaborative systems-level integration with vehicle manufacturers. From concept to design, engineering to prototype, and assembly to production, the LED-specialized solution was focused on reliability and cost.Considering the light that the LEDs emit, they are very small in comparison. Peterson LED headlights are made up of two LED chip-on-board units per assembly; one for high beam and one for low beam, providing brilliant light. Each chip-on-board unit contains five LEDs.The state-of-the-art optics and diode technology built into Peterson’s LED headlight provides a dramatically crisp beam. Its wide, more even pattern has a 5600k color temperature that closely matches natural daylight. The more natural light leads to improved object recognition at night while the more even-beam-pattern reduces eye strain for the driver.The wider, more even beam pattern gives drivers exceptional night lighting including shoulder visibility. When drivers can see the edge of the roadway, they can more easily detect stopped vehicles, obstacles, animals, and people on the side of the road. And whether the road surface is flat or sloping, the roadway and roadside are well lit.PETERSON DURABILITYBecause of the LEDs' energy-efficiency, they do not need to be replaced as often. And, these popular headlights boast a solid-state design and rugged construction, which protects the electronics against moisture, shock, and vibration, and means they last longer than traditional sealed beam lights. For built-in durability, Peterson’s LED headlights have its standard H4 three-blade terminals integrated directly into the cast alloy housing rather than wired onto the light as a separate pigtail. With the impact-resistant, heavy-duty polycarbonate lens bonded to rugged aluminum housing, the LEDs provide outstanding vibration resistance. Their strength and shock resistance in addition to their energy efficiency extends the service life.Imagine the dramatic improvement Peterson LED headlights will make out on the road ahead and to the side in any condition. Don’t take your forward lighting technology for granted.Find out more, visit www.pmlights.com.LED TECHNOLOGY THAT IS CLEARLY SUPERIORfeatured product Peterson’s DOT-legal 701C 7-inch round LED headlights improve lighting performance for any PAR56-equipped vehicle—heavy-duty, over-the-road truck.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM NOVEMBER 2022In operation since 1978, the logging company, started by brothers Robert and Billy Walker, expanded its operation in 1998 by investing in a chipping business, hauling chips from the woods to area paper mills. Along with the logging operation, the company runs 17 trucks—all Kenworths. The latest models are eight Kenworth W990s purchased through Worldwide Equipment in Spartanburg, South Carolina.Walker and Walker contracts with private land owners for harvesting trees, then the company transports the logs to mills for processing. Tyler Walker, co-owner and son to Robert, says the land is within a 50-mile radius of the company, and the mills can be as far as 100 miles. That’s how the average truck runs roughly 130,000 miles annually.WHY KENWORTHAccording to Tyler, a key to the company’s success has been reliability—and that rings especially true when the crews are out harvesting. “We can’t afford to be down in the woods, so we need great parts and service support, which we’ve received that from Worldwide Equipment,” Tyler says.Walker and Walker purchased its newest Kenworth W900s for a couple of reasons. Tyler says, “The new W990 has more comfort features, along with a longer frame ... It's not like driving an old-school truck—it drives more like a car. It's so quiet, and the ride is smooth. It's spacious and comfortable. Our drivers like them."On the operational side, the Kenworth W900s are equipped with 550 hp engines and 13-speed manual transmissions to tackle altitude gains, differing terrain, and mud. A wide track front axle provides a tighter wheel cut to further assist in navigating remote paths.MAKING A STATEMENTAside from its reliability and capability, Walker and Walker’s trucks also act as rolling advertisements. The company painted all the trucks the same color, and each truck also has the company name on its door with a reflective vinyl. Tyler says the rolling billboards helped contribute to the growth of the business.Tyler says just within the last two years, 40% of the tracts Walker and Walker has harvested have gone toward residential or commercial building projects in the area, signaling a growing community. He says that also offers plenty of opportunities for Walker and Walker growth, not to mention the different timber markets currently in consideration. Walker and Walker plans to add more trucks to the fleet once it finds qualified drivers, Tyler adds.Find out more about the Kenworth W900, visit www.kenworth.com.Talk soon! JadeGROWING LOGGING COMPANY CHOOSES KENWORTH FOR ITS FLEET That’s a lot of time spent in the truck. And when a jobsite is a remote forest, such as the ones Walker and Walker Logging sees on a regular basis, that truck must be reliable. Walker and Walker Logging, based in Laurens, South Carolina, chose to run Kenworth trucks in its fleet since operation. Read below to find out why the company runs Kenworth.