4/30/20

Standard Features on a Taylor Wing Truck Tool Box | Toolbox for Trucks


The original Taylor Wing Tool Box is simply the best in the industry. Constructed of 1/8” thick, marine grade aluminum, they’re twice as thick as most competitor's boxes plus there’s a stiffening system in the lid. Highest quality. Strongest. The best. Period.

Learn more at:


4/26/20

WALTCO - Customer Testimonials - North American Trailer



“Value to us is having an excellent product, number one, great service number two, and the reliability of the product itself that we don't see them come back for any issues. WALTCO does all of that for us.”
- David Ward, President and Greg Giguere, Director of Sales & Operations, North American Trailer

4/24/20

Kargo Master EZ Lo-Down Drop Down Ladder Rack


The Kargo Master EZ-LoDown™ Drop Down Ladder Rack is uniquely designed and engineered to gently lower and raise a ladder into position for easy loading and unloading. It includes heavy-duty hydraulic-assisted arm with lockable clamp arms and rollers on each ladder platform to provide safe and smooth operation for heavy ladders or load to slide down the side of the van. The Kargo Master EZ-LoDown™ Drop Down Ladder Rack drops 15″ lower than any competitor models. After being lowered, a horizontal ladder is only 4 ft above grade, which eliminates climbing, stretching, or reaching for heavy items.

Learn more at: https://www.kargomaster.com/

4/22/20

Tongue Weight Safety Demonstration


Proper trailer tongue weight improves the vehicle and trailer towing experience by improving performance. Not enough tongue weight or force on the hitch/tow ball causes an increase in trailer sway from side to side, making it difficult to control. Conversely, too much tongue weight or force on the hitch/tow ball could overload the rear tires of the towing vehicle, pushing the rear end of the vehicle around. This could also negatively affect the vehicle handling. Performance is impaired as you might not be able to go around corners and curves properly, and your vehicle may not stop quickly enough when you press the brake pedal. The Weigh Safe Drop Hitch effectively measures the tongue weight of your towing load, improving the vehicle tow load balance and performance.

Learn more at: https://www.weigh-safe.com/

4/20/20

GMC HUMMER EV Pairs Incredible Capability, Zero Emissions


“Quiet Revolution” campaign featuring LeBron James telegraphs GMC’s future with its first all-electric truck 



DETROIT – GMC will introduce the GMC HUMMER EV, bringing bold design and remarkable capability to the electrified vehicle space, during today’s big game, in an ad titled “Quiet Revolution” featuring LeBron James.

The spot juxtaposes the staggering anticipated performance metrics of GMC’s first all-electric truck with the remarkable quietness inherent in the operation of an electric vehicle.

The GMC HUMMER EV truck will showcase the GMC brand’s design and engineering potential, and will feature:

·        1,000 horsepower
·        11,500 lb-ft of torque
·        0 to 60 mph in 3 seconds

“GMC builds premium and capable trucks and SUVs and the GMC HUMMER EV takes this to new heights,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick and GMC. “We are excited to debut our revolutionary zero-emissions truck during the biggest night in TV advertising.”



The 30-second TV spot featuring James is scheduled to air during the second quarter of the big game in the U.S. and during the fourth quarter in Canada. The spot highlights the anticipated performance of GMC’s all-electric super truck, which will generate remarkable metrics in terms of horsepower, torque and acceleration while providing incredible on- and off-road capability. All of this is combined with the vastly reduced noise and zero emissions inherent in the operation of an electric vehicle.

As part of the digital and social media marketing push surrounding the big game ad, GMC took over the YouTube homepage masthead on Friday, Jan. 31. Customers can follow the conversation at #GMCHummerEV.

The GMC HUMMER EV will be revealed on May 20, 2020 and built in Michigan at General Motors’ Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant[2].

More information is available at www.gmc.com/HummerEV.


About GMC
With a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 and now selling in a dozen countries across the world, GMC offers purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest standard. From the all-new compact SUV Terrain to the Sierra HD, our trucks and crossovers deliver GMC’s signature combination of intuitive technologies and premium execution, with the popular Denali representing the pinnacle of GMC design, performance and amenities. Details on all GMC models are available at www.gmc.com, on Twitter at @GMC or at www.facebook.com/gmc.




[[1]]  Based on General Motors estimates.
[[2]] The GMC HUMMER EV will be built in Michigan at GM’s Detroit Hamtramck Assembly with globally sourced parts.

4/18/20

Rightsizing Your Vehicle Fleet to Conserve Fuel



Fleet rightsizing is a management practice that can help vehicle fleet managers build and maintain sustainable, fuel-efficient fleets. Fleet inventories often grow over time to include vehicles that are highly specialized, rarely used, or unsuitable for current applications. By evaluating fleet size and composition, managers can optimize vehicle use, conserve fuel, reduce emissions, and save money on fuel and maintenance.

Evaluate Vehicle Needs and Use
Fleet managers should understand their fleet's daily vehicle use and needs. Most fleet managers already have a handle on their number and type of vehicles, average mileage, payloads, and fuel economy. Fleet rightsizing combines this information with a critical look at fleet operations to identify opportunities to reduce energy use. When rightsizing, fleet managers should evaluate how important each vehicle is to the fleet’s performance by asking themselves:

What tasks are accomplished by each vehicle? Or, what is the drive cycle?

What is the daily, weekly, or monthly mileage of each vehicle? Or, what is the duty cycle?

Are fleet vehicles the optimal vehicle type, class, and size for the job?

Are there any vehicles that are no longer cost effective to operate or are no longer fulfilling their purpose?

Are there any vehicles that are no longer being used or have experienced a lot of downtime?

What is the fuel consumption of each vehicle? Can any vehicles be replaced by lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles?

What is the age of the vehicles? Can any vehicles be replaced by newer, more efficient and reliable vehicles?

Are there any alternatives to owning or leasing a vehicle, such as shuttle bus services, motor pool vehicles, sharing vehicles with other offices/agencies, vehicle stipends, public transportation, or short-term rentals when needed?

Considering the answers to the previous questions, what is the optimal composition of the fleet required to properly support the fleet’s needs?

In addition to reviewing telematics or fleet analysis data, fleet managers should consider soliciting input from drivers when conducting a rightsizing review, as they can be very knowledgeable about how vehicles are being used to support operations. Gathering this input also gives drivers a stake in the development of rightsizing recommendations. Fleet managers can solicit input through driver surveys or face-to-face meetings to establish consensus.

A fleet rightsizing strategy should evaluate the business case of each vehicle to determine whether reassigning, replacing, or eliminating the vehicle would reduce fuel and maintenance costs without compromising fleet activities. Fleet managers often need to define evaluation criteria and rank vehicles to complete this analysis. A fleet dominated by sport utility vehicles, for example, may find that mid-size sedans can suffice with a significant reduction in fuel costs.

Fleet managers may develop their own analysis or use existing evaluation tools. The Vehicle Allocation Methodology developed by the U.S. General Services Administration is an evaluation framework that federal agency fleets use to ensure fleets are cost-effective and contain the appropriate number and type of vehicles. Learn more about this methodology in the Comprehensive Federal Fleet Management Handbook (PDF).

Make Smart Vehicle Purchases

Fleet managers may decide to replace older vehicles with more fuel-efficient or alternative fuel vehicles. These purchasing strategies may help fleet managers make decisions that meet operational needs and conserve fuel:

Transition to Smaller, More Efficient Engines: Using smaller engines can help fleets meet operational needs without downgrading vehicle class. Some fleets choose to switch from 6-cylinder to 4-cylinder engines to help reduce fuel use and emissions. In many cases, the new, smaller engine can have nearly the same horsepower as a larger engine. Fleet managers can also improve fuel efficiency by selecting smaller engines with optional gearing for their application.

Choose Lighter Vehicles: When purchasing new vehicles, look for opportunities to reduce vehicle weight. Lightweight materials, such as aluminum frames, and smaller components can reduce rolling resistance and drag, thereby improving a vehicle’s fuel economy. For example, a 10% reduction in vehicle weight can improve fuel economy by 6% to 8%. Also, try to avoid unnecessarily large body configurations and heavy accessories. For more information, refer to the North American Council for Freight Efficiency's Confidence Report.

Use Alternative Fuels and Vehicles: Alternative fuel and fuel-efficient advanced vehicles can reduce a fleet's fuel use, making them economical options for many fleets. Cost savings from vehicle maintenance, operation, and fuel use and price often offset higher purchase prices.

Source: https://afdc.energy.gov/conserve/rightsizing.html

4/16/20

Find the Right Van Accessories for Your Work Van

Find your Work Van with the Most Useful Van Accessories

An Upfit Package with Ranger Design


Getting the most from your work van is easy when you choose the right van accessories to help you become more organized and efficient. Good truck and van accessories will always pay for themselves by allowing you to maximize your cargo space and productivity, while also keeping your most expensive equipment protected.
With so many van accessories to choose from, the best way to find which ones work for you is to take some time to consider your needs. All tradesmen work differently, and every trade has their own basic tools. Make a list of all the equipment that you use daily. Consider ladders, large and small parts, and inventory. With a list in hand, you’ll be able to visualize your needs and determine which of the van accessories below will be the most beneficial.

Van Accessories for Organization:

Paper holdersbottle holders and reel holders are designed to increase organization by giving you a specific spot to store your equipment. Instead of rolling loose on the floor, your bottles and reels can be fastened down and within easy reach from the door. As for your paperwork and files, keep them all together in a paper holder where they won’t get ripped or crumpled.
Partskeepers are a great way to keep your smallest parts together and secured. With small, dividable bins, they offer a great storage system to take with you onto the job site. Sturdy yet lightweight, you can never have too many Partskeepers for your tools.
Storage bins are available in several sizes, and can be accessorized with bin dividers. These are ideal for holding items and inventory so you can find what you need quickly and easily. Like the Partskeepers, if you have many items to carry with you on the job, then these bins are the ideal solution.
Hooks come in several different styles and can be used to organize tools and equipment near the van doors to be most effective. Hard hat holders can keep frequently used hats within easy reach and safely stowed while on the road.

Van Accessories for Driver Comfort & Safety:

Lighting keeps the cargo space bright, making it easy to find your tools, no matter what time of day or night. It also eliminates any chance of receiving cuts and bruises when searching through your tools in the dark.
Rear Steps are extremely beneficial for tradesmen with high roof vans. Climbing in and out several times a day can put quite a strain on your legs and back, especially when carrying heavy items at the same time. The steps also provide a rugged grip in the winter, so there is no fear of slipping when getting in or out.
Grab Handles, like the rear steps, are designed to provide you with easier access into your van. Whether installed in a high roof of low roof work van, it is always useful to have something to hold onto. It can also be used to tie down additional cargo for safe transportation.
Flettner vents help protect you from any gasses/vapors or smells that may build up in the cargo area of your vehicle. It helps reduce heat build-up and allows moisture to escape should any materials or tools be stored while they are still wet. It is a simple way to stay healthy while working.
For more products to enhance driver comfort and safety, check out our Safety Equipment blog.
Van Accessories for Vehicle Security:
Lockable Doors and Drawers provide two advantages. They can better protect your inventory and tools by keeping them in one place on the rougher roads. Also, they can deter thieves and protect valuable tools while you’re on the job and your work van is left unattended.
Wire grills for your windows can also protect you against theft as well as prevent damage to the van during loading or unloading. They are an easy install and such a simple product that just might help save you a lot of money in the future.
Seat Covers help keep your work van seats clean and in good condition. Instead of getting dirt and grease on your seats and staining them permanently, use custom-fit covers that can be easily removed and washed. Come time to sell your vehicle, you will be grateful you kept them in such good condition.
Learn other simple tricks to help Safeguard Your Work Van Against Tool Theft.
Consider the demands of your trade and your needs, and invest in the van accessories that will pay for themselves with the time and money they save.

For more info call us today at (800) 565-5321, contact a product specialist or request a quote.
Learn more at: https://rangerdesign.com

4/14/20

Venturo Crane Selector Web Tool Pairs Vehicles with Cranes


Venturo® has released a new finder on its website to keep job sites equipped with the proper service cranes. The brand-new Crane Selector utilizes gross vehicle weight, necessary boom length and maximum load capacity to pair vehicles with the most suitable Venturo product.
Venturo cranes are designed for an array of light, moderate and heavy-duty applications, and matching vehicles with the right equipment to meet job requirements improves efficiency and safety on the job site. The innovative Crane Selector is a simple, effective tool to provide operators with the proper crane package.
Each crane, and crane line, is designed for a set of specific uses. Selecting the appropriate crane is an integral step toward more efficient operations and a safer job site. No piece of equipment, even the ideal crane, is 100% foolproof, but an improper product will at best limit performance and at worst endanger workers. The Crane Selector takes some guesswork out of the equation.
This new offering from Venturo joins Venturo Logic Controls™ (VLC) as another recent innovation from the crane manufacturer. The VLC™ Crane Control Management System brings safety, control and reliability to the company’s fully-hydraulic service cranes. This system offers safe, comfortable and smart crane operations by utilizing features like overload protection, a pistol-grip controller and visible safety alerts.
From dependable equipment to state-of-the-art technology, Venturo is ahead of the curve when it comes to safe, effective crane solutions. Try the new Crane Selector tool at www.venturo.com/support/crane-selector. For more information on electric, hydraulic and additional crane options from Venturo, visit www.venturo.com or call 800-226-2238.

4/12/20

NEW 2020 GMC Sierra AT4 2500 and Denali 3500 HD Dually Pickup Trucks at Chicago Auto show


Love the tailgate on here, two crew cabs. Standard box and long box with duallies.

Always thought of GMC as having the best heavy duty and optioned-out trucks., the 2500HD and 3500HD both with the Cummins 6.6 diesels. An industry leading 1100ft-lbs of torque, 10 speed automatic transmission manufactured by Allison gives you all the tree stump pulling you can want with almost 30 highway mpg's!

There is also a new 6.4 Gas engine for those that don't need diesel power! You can see that the vehicle is equipped with a fifth wheel for towing goose-neck trailers. Max trailer weight of 27,000 lbs Optional supercharger package on the cyclone.

Source: Internal Combustion



4/10/20

7 Tips for Sharing the Road with Semi-trucks

Vehicles and semi-trucks driving on an interstate

Driving near large trucks

Did you know 75 percent of commercial vehicle accidents are caused by drivers in passenger cars? While actions like distracted driving certainly play a role in some of these cases, there are likely multiple occasions that happen simply because drivers don’t understand how to safely maneuver around large vehicles.
Though sharing the road with semis is a daily task, not all motorists understand the limitations of a semi — mainly wide turning radiuses, slow stopping times and large blind spots. To help educate the general public on safe driving techniques, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) started a highway safety program called Share the Road. Using some of the ATA tips and our own, we’ve compiled a list of driving habits that will help make the road a safer place.

Seven tips for motorists sharing roads with semis

Roadway safety is the responsibility of all drivers, but you can take certain steps to ensure you’re doing your part. When driving near or around a semi-truck, be sure to:
  1. Drive defensively
    Operating a vehicle probably comes second nature to you. But, no matter how comfortable or skilled you are behind the wheel, it’s important to remain alert at all times — especially around large trucks. Semis are bigger in size and weight, making them slower to react to avoid collisions. Pay attention to vehicle locations, traffic flow, vehicle signals and weather so you can anticipate problems and have plenty of time to safely change course if necessary.
     
  2. Keep a safe distance
    Driving close to a semi puts you at greater risk for being hurt by sudden stops, tire blowouts or roll overs caused by strong wind. So, whether you’re behind, in front or beside a large truck, leave plenty of space for merging, swerving and maneuvering. It’s best practice to keep at least a four-second following distance between you and the trailer in case of a sudden stop.
  1. Avoid blind spots
    The right side of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is the largest blind spot for a truck driver — sometimes blocking their view for three or more lanes. Other areas of concern include directly in front of the cab, behind the trailer and certain zones along the driver’s side. Avoid spending time in these zones to ensure the driver can see you.
     
  2. Pass quickly
    Passenger vehicles typically travel faster than semis, so it’s not unusual to pass a lot of trucks along your route. Practice safe passing by driving closer to the shoulder rather than the truck, and speeding up instead of lingering.
     
  3. Don’t cut a large truck off
    Semis have much longer stopping distances — up to two football fields when traveling 65 mph. To prevent a rear-end collision, make sure you can see the entire front end of the truck before merging in front of it.
     
  4. Dim the bright lights
    When traveling near or past a semi, make sure your bright headlights are dimmed. Bright lights reflecting off large truck mirrors can cause two seconds or more of temporary blindness when traveling at 55 mph. The general rule of thumb is to lower your bright lights when you’re one block (or closer) behind a semi.
     
  5. Always signal
    As mentioned, trucks require more time to react to motorists stopping, turning or merging lanes. Because of this, it’s important to signal the driver at least three seconds or more before upcoming changes. This timing allows the truck driver to slow down or move over.

4/08/20

Venco Venturo Industries | VLC™ Crane Control Management System | NTEA 2020


Making Cranes Smarter
The VLC™ Crane Control Management System brings safety, control and reliability to Venturo fully-hydraulic service cranes. This system offers safe, comfortable and smart crane operations by utilizing features like overload protection, a pistol-grip controller and visible safety alerts.

4/06/20

Switch-N-Go Work Ready Subframe | NTEA 2020


The Switch-N-Go Work Ready Subframe for Snow and Ice Spreader, Dumpster,  Asphalt, Tanks etc.

4/04/20

GMC 2020 Change Points: Bold Design, Smart Technologies and New Standard Safety Features

2020 GMC Family
DETROIT  GMC strengthened its 2020 truck and SUV lineup with premium, bold styling and smarter technologies. GMC raises the bar by adding standard safety features to Terrain and offering the first-ever AT4 Acadia. Acadia joins Sierra 1500 and Sierra Heavy Duty as the newest addition to the AT4 sub-brand, which will be available across the entire GMC lineup in the next two years. The successful rollout of GMC’s next generation pickups continues with the addition of innovative features to the Sierra 1500 and the launch of an all-new Sierra Heavy Duty.
Terrain
GMC’s small SUV is updated for 2020 with GMC Pro Safety on all trim levels, an expanded standard safety package that includes:
  • Automatic Emergency Braking.
  • Forward Collision Alert.
  • Lane Keep Assistance with Lane Departure Warning.
  • Following Distance Indicator.
  • Front Pedestrian Braking.
  • IntelliBeam Headlamps.
This new set of standard safety is complemented by an optional Driver Alert Package that includes Adaptive Cruise Control – Camera, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Park Assist and Safety Alert Seat. Denali models add Front Park Assist in addition to the Rear Park Assist.
Denali models of the premium compact SUV get multiple updates, including a new Denali Premium Package that combines the Advanced Safety Package and Comfort Package to include Adaptive Cruise Control – Camera, ventilated driver and front passenger seats and heated rear seats, among other premium features. The 2020 Terrain Denali is also differentiated from other models by a premium suspension that includes new internal valves to deliver a more refined ride, in addition to unique spring isolators that already contribute to reduced road noise compared to other Terrains.
The popular Terrain Black Edition, which adds 19-inch glass-black wheels and darkened details, has been renamed the Terrain Elevation Edition. It will continue to be offered with Summit White, Graphite Gray Metallic or Ebony Twilight Metallic paint.
Acadia
The Acadia’s fresh look for 2020 was announced earlier this year. It goes on sale in late summer, with new distinctive design, standard advanced safety equipment and technology advancements. Exterior design updates include a bold new grille, new front and rear facias, standard LED lighting and signature GMC C-shape lighting, complemented with interior refinements. Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Park Assist are now standard on all trims.
GMC offers more customer choice, introducing the first-ever Acadia AT4 with more aggressive exterior styling and darkened finishes and a new 2.0L Turbocharged engine standard on SLT models.
A new nine-speed automatic transmission is now standard for the 2.0L, 2.5L and 3.6L engines, and ride and handling are enhanced with all-new suspension refinements. Additionally, the 2020 Acadia is the latest GMC with Electronic Precision Shift replacing the conventional shifter.
Additional technology enhancements include:
  • New GMC infotainment system.
  • New head-up display (late availability).
Sierra  
The 2020 Sierra offers premium, segment-leading features with the addition of the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine and the expansion of its carbon fiber bed and 10-speed automatic transmission. Sierra 2020 is the first full model year availability of the CarbonPro Edition with the carbon fiber bed, available on AT4 and Denali.
Other available tech additions include an upgraded ProGrade Trailering System that features a segment-leading 15 total available camera views, including a segment-first transparent trailer view (accessory equipment required). Adaptive Cruise Control – Camera is also added for 2020. The system features a single high-mounted camera behind the rearview mirror and can bring the Sierra to a complete stop.
Additional 2020 Sierra changes are outlined here.

All-New Sierra Heavy Duty
The all-new Sierra Heavy Duty — which commenced production earlier this summer — adds innovation where it matters, combining greater trailering capability with technologies designed to provide customers with added confidence while towing up to a class-leading 35,500 pounds on 3500 Regular Cab, long box, two-wheel-drive, DRW diesel models.
Features include:
  • Available Enhanced ProGrade Trailering system featuring class-leading available 15 camera views, including a segment-first transparent trailer view to virtually see through a trailer in tow (accessory equipment required). Also available on 2020 Sierra 1500.
  • Available smart trailer integration, designed to integrate the iN∙Command® Control System from ASA Electronics1, provides the ability to monitor and control select functions of compatibly equipped trailers through the myGMC mobile app2.
  • Segment-first available 15-inch-diagonal head-up display offers useful trailering information, including vehicle speed, navigation information and an inclinometer display for the road grade.
  • Available segment-first Rear Camera Mirror.
It’s not only in-vehicle technology enhancements that provide customers with a world-class towing experience, the new Sierra Heavy Duty also marks the introduction of the first-ever Allison 10-speed automatic transmission mated to the legendary 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel, offering high torque, high power, low noise and exceptional durability.
For those looking to take refined capability off-road, GMC fortifies the new AT4 brand with an all-new Sierra AT4 Heavy Duty available for Crew Cab configurations as both a 2500 and 3500 single rear wheel offering. Additionally, the world’s first six-function MultiPro tailgate is available on all trims and standard on SLT, AT4 and Denali.
Canyon
The 2020 Canyon adds new features including a standard Tire Fill Alert that provides an audible, visual indication when tire pressure is added, as well as a new available remote locking tailgate.
The All Terrain trim expands package and feature availability by adding Driver Alert package, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. The addition of a Carbon Black Metallic exterior color choice rounds out Canyon’s model year updates.
About GMCWith a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 and now selling in a dozen countries across the world, GMC offers purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest standard. From the all-new compact SUV Terrain to the Sierra HD, our trucks and crossovers deliver GMC’s signature combination of intuitive technologies and premium execution, with the popular Denali sub-brand representing the pinnacle of GMC design, performance and amenities. Details on all GMC models are available at www.gmc.com, on Twitter at @GMC or at www.facebook.com/gmc.
# # #
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver's responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle's owner's manual for more important feature limitations and information.

4/02/20

Custom Designed Welders Bodies by Harbor Truck Bodies

Harbor can custom build a Welders Body 
for each customers unique needs







It seems that there's no such thing as a standard Welder Body because every welder want something different.Harbor can custom build a Welders Body for each customers unique needs.Here's a 9' Low Pro 34" Open Top Service Body with Stainless Steel lids and with slightly raised front compartments to the standard height of 40" closed compartment style.

This also has a small sized transverse compartment with two compartments for tall gas bottles in storage, while in the main front compartment are bottle brackets and rings for short gas bottles. This also has the rear compartment cut off and an 18" work platform with V-groove on the back plus the standard 8" step bumper.

This is all mounted on a new Dodge 3500 regular cab chassis and makes for a very clean looking rig.

Let Harbor create a unique body for you! Call 800-433-9452.

Visit us at www.harbortruckandvan.com