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Volume 55 | Number 1 | January 2019

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Editorial

Editor: Lucas Deal Equipment Editor: Jason Cannon Online Associate Editor: Bill Grabarek editorial@truckpartsandservice.com

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Product Categories Editorial | Lucas Deal

The next step in the Right to Repair movement

By Lucas Deal, Editor lucasdeal@randallreilly.com

D

eep down, we knew it wouldn’t be seamless.

I think in 2015, when the associations of the independent aftermarket and the Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) signed a national Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding access to medium- and heavy-duty truck repair information, many in the industry were so excited by the agreement they didn’t give proper thought to what it would take to make the deal a reality.

I know I didn’t. Which isn’t to say I thought OEMs would sign on the dotted line one day and hand over their technical information the next morning. I knew it would take time to pull together their information, determine what they had agreed to make available and then create online portals for the aftermarket to access and purchase that information.

I expected a year. Maybe 18 months.

The Jan. 1, 2018, deadline set in the MOU for manufacturers to provide access to their diagnostic and repair information seemed unnecessarily long.

Would it really take two and a half years?

Clearly, I was mistaken. Now 40 months removed from the MOU’s signing, members of the independent aftermarket say they remain unable to access all of the repair information promised by the OEM community. Some manufacturers have provided more information than others and, in some cases, aftermarket service providers are able to complete repairs without encountering any

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information accessibility issues. But for most of the independent service provider community, the medium- and heavyduty Right to Repair MOU hasn’t been very helpful.

The MOU was supposed to help level the playing field between dealers and independent service providers.

In chatting via email recently with Total Truck Parts President Marc Karon — who chaired the Commercial Vehicle Right to Repair Coalition that represented the independent aftermarket during the MOU discussions and remains involved in the industry’s dialogue with the EMA — I learned the OEM community has provided the independent aftermarket about as much information as it is willing to give.

If the aftermarket wants more, it’s going to have to fight for it.

“Repair information and diagnostic information are different,” he says. “The OEMs have done a good job providing diagnostic information. This enables the technician to be able to determine what

T R U C K PA R T S & S E R V I C E | J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9

is wrong with the truck. It is the repair information that enables the technician to complete the repair and return the vehicle to service that has not been provided to a great extent by the OEMs.” That’s where the aftermarket needs to step up, he says. The MOU stipulates independent service providers file formal complaints called Service Information Requests (SIR) with the National Automotive Safety Task Force (NASTF) to resolve agreement discrepancies and, to this point, Karon says service shops aren’t doing that.

“Without these formal complaints being reported to NASTF our hands are tied with respect to seeking any further negotiations,” he says.

This is frustrating because I know there are service providers out there dealing with access issues. You might be one of them. I’m having these conversations monthly. Every independent shop owner seems to have at least one anecdote about driving a truck X number of miles to a dealer for two minutes of service because the independent couldn’t reset an ECM after a repair. It’s happening throughout the market and the aftermarket is just accepting it.

That should not happen. The MOU was supposed to help level the playing field between dealers and independent service providers. I still think it can. But it needs to be followed. The aftermarket needs to stand up for itself.

To file a SIR, please go to www.nastf. org/filesir/.

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Editorial | MacKay & Company

The show after the show

By John Blodgett MacKay & Company

I

attended the AAPEX Expo in late October in Las Vegas. I have attended this show for a number of years and it has grown to be an impressive event with a large number of exhibitors and there is always something new to see. This trip is even better if you have some time and can attend SEMA as well, which I unfortunately did not have an opportunity to do this year.

After attending the show for a couple of years, I’ve learned the lay of the land.

On the main floor are the companies with the brands and products you know and recognize and in the basement (I am sure the show promoters don’t use that term) are all the foreign companies either marketing products they manufacture or, more likely, promoting their ability and willingness to manufacture or reverse engineer and manufacture any product you bring them.

More than once I have run into someone I know from a North American component manufacturer who is in the basement because he suspects or has found a company infringing on his company’s branding or products. I don’t believe this happens as often recently because I believe show management has dedicated resources to try and prevent this from occurring.

This year, after a day of walking the show and attending some after-show events, I headed back to my hotel. Since

I procrastinated in making my plans to attend the show, I was a bit away from the main grouping of hotels on the strip. When I checked in, I saw a sign that indicated a reception for attendees of AAPEX or SEMA. The promotional piece stated something about new products, so I thought why not? Maybe I will meet a potential customer or learn something new or, at a minimum, get a free drink.

I was told they could manufacture anything I wanted; they only needed an image of the part.

After following signs and directions to what seemed to be the farthest banquet room from the hotel’s front desk, I found what could have been mistaken as a nearempty cocktail party attended by folks that may have been affiliated with the automotive/truck industry or maybe just pulled off the strip.

There was a limited number of products on display, but they didn’t have a lot to do with cars or trucks. Apparently, the displayed products were to show capabilities that are available from companies in China. Luckily, I arrived near the end

of the reception, just in time to hear the confusing pitch from the reception sponsors (I can’t even remember their name).

They started by saying they were the next Amazon (I’m not sure why they stated that); it made no sense.

Since I was the only one with a coat and tie on, I think they thought I was a potential big resource for them. After some confusing conversation — it appeared the primary sponsor for this reception was in the business of matching the right companies in China to companies in the U.S. that are interested in having a product manufactured. I was told they could manufacture anything I wanted; they only needed an image of the part. They assured me there was basically nothing they could not reproduce with their connections.

Apparently, I had figuratively stumbled into the floor below the basement of AAPEX at the Sands Expo, which was a little eye-opening to the realities of this side of the aftermarket. I got no sense at all that they knew much about manufacturing — let alone manufacturing parts for cars or trucks, but that really didn’t seem to matter to them.

I couldn’t convince them I wasn’t looking for anything to be manufactured in China and I wanted to leave (they had closed the bar), so I gave them my pocket knife and requested a prototype.

I’m still waiting for it.

John Blodgett has worked for MacKay & Company for more than 20 years and is currently vice president of sales and marketing, responsible for client contact for single- and multi-client projects. He can be reached at john.blodgett@mackayco.com.

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Industry Focus

Dealer News California Truck Centers has added two new full-service Freightliner and Western Star locations in San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria, Calif., to its dealer network.

Truckworx has opened a $6 million full-service dealership in Richland, Miss. The Truckworx Kenworth 70,000 sq.-ft. facility triples the dealer’s number of service bays to 28. Truckworx also tripled the size of its parts warehouse to 20,000 sq.-ft.

The Larson Group presented Convoy of Hope with a donation of $106,060 in support of Hurricane Florence relief efforts in the Carolinas.

M&K Truck Centers has acquired three Pozzo Truck Center Mack and Volvo dealerships in Chicago Heights, Ill., and Gary and South Bend, Ind. Also, M&K is expanding its Scranton, Pa., location with a 15,000 sq.-ft. addition, and building a new 60,000 sq.-ft. facility in Romulus, Mich.

Southport Truck Group recently opened its newest facility off I-75 in Fort Myers, Fla. The building features 17 service bays and also offers RV service and repair to support its Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. business.

Paccar Parts has opened a new 160,000 sq.-ft. parts distribution center in Toronto.

The Kenworth-Chillicothe manufacturing plant received the 2018 Encouraging Environmental Excellence “E3” Gold Award from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for demonstrating a commitment to exceed regulatory compliance and attain exceptional achievements in environmental stewardship

Indiana distributor goes to Washington

East Texas Truck Center joins HDA Truck Pride

Republican Mike Braun, president and CEO, Meyer Distributing in Jasper, Ind., unseated Democratic incumbent Sen. Joe Donnelly dur- Mike Braun ing November’s general midterm elections.

Braun flipped the Senate seat, receiving 51 percent of the vote to Donnelly’s 45 percent.

“Serving the state that has given me so much will be the honor of my life, and [wife] Maureen and I are thrilled to begin this next chapter of our American story,” Braun posted on his Twitter account.

Meyer Distributing is one of the nation’s largest aftermarket accessory businesses, with more than 700 product lines, 67 locations and serving customers in all 50 states.

East Texas Truck Center has joined HDA Truck Pride.

With locations in Baytown and Nacogdoches, Texas, East Texas Truck Center offers truck repairs, maintenance, parts, used trucks and new trailers in the greater eastern Texas area. Owned by Josh Burch and business partner Forrest Hodges, the duo say East Texas Truck Center has grown exponentially year-over-year.

“The key to this marketplace is to provide a combination of parts and utilize our eight-bay service shop to be sure we are covering the needs of all of our customers,” says Burch.

“This partnership with HDA Truck Pride is a perfect fit for us as we continue to grow and respond to the increasing demands of our customers.”

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Industry Focus

Navistar debuts tech education partnership Navistar has launched the Navistar Service Essentials Program, a partnership program designed to help qualified technical schools prepare the next generation of truck and bus technicians.

“As we focus on growing customer uptime, Navistar and our International Truck and IC Bus dealers are all committed to combating the industry’s growing technician shortage,” says Michael Cancelliere, Navistar president, truck and parts. “The new Navistar Service Essentials Program provides software and other solutions that will enhance the learning experience and attract additional students.”

Navistar says the program’s offerings include an array of interactive training courses and software solutions that cover engine diagnostics, vehicle health reports, electrical systems and control module programming.

The program also provides access to informational tools related to parts and service. The Navistar Service Essentials Program is being made available to technical schools that partner with International Truck or IC Bus dealers, the company says.

California company to distribute Fox shock absorbers Diesel Exhaust & Emissions LLC in Santa Fe Springs, Calif., has announced a partnership with Fox to become the first Fox commercial dealer.

Fox has been offering high-performance shock absorbers for more than 30 years. The company’s heavyduty shocks are specifically designed for commercial trucks, RVs and off-road equipment and are available for cab, chassis and trailers, Diesel Exhaust & Emissions says.

Michelin announces price increase Michelin North America increased U.S. national account prices up to 8 percent for all commercial brands, products and services, effective Dec. 1, 2018, according to the company.

Michelin says the increases address ongoing investments to better serve customers, increased operating costs and other market factors. Michelin’s account management teams will convey additional details about the changes directly to customers.

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NeoBrake celebrates 30 years NeoBrake Systems is celebrating the company’s 30th year in business in 2019.

In the 1980s, Founder, President and CEO Rick Ballew noticed a trend of public companies buying up private, independent friction companies. It was a trend that didn’t sit well with him as he witnessed manufacturing shortcuts occur as a result of these consolidations, the company says. It was during this business climate he decided to launch NeoBrake.

“Starting out, we marketed CM Brake lining as a way to navigate shrinking distribution channels due to these buyouts,” he says. “Once CM Brake was absorbed, things got tougher.

That’s when we found our own supplier and began formulating NeoBrake linings — a high-quality product back then that we’ve steadily improved upon since.”

NeoBrake plans to celebrate its 30th year through October 2019, with special promotions and anniversary merchandise and gifts.

Optronics named master distributor for trailer harness line Optronics International has been named as master distributor for Connect-to-Protect Brand Trailer Harness Plug Protectors.

Optronics says Connect-to-Protect Brand Trailer Harness Plug Protectors enable users to shield the male end of a trailer’s harness plug when it’s not in use. The product comes in two configurations that accommodate 95 percent of all light- and medium-duty harness connectors, including 4-way flat, 5-way flat and 7-way round terminal styles.

“This product is a practical solution to a common problem that is familiar to anyone with a light- or medium-duty trailer,” says Optronics President and CEO Brett Johnson.

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Industry Focus

WABCO Holdings opens new headquarters

Jerry and Keith’s celebrating milestone In 1968, Jerry Thomas and Keith Decker started as a family owned and operated business fixing trucks and more than five decades later Jerry & Keith’s remains a fixture in the commercial trucking aftermarket in Bakersfield, Calif.

Jerry & Keith’s original facility in Bakersfield was a 4,000 sq.-ft. building with two employees. Today, the company operates a 50,000 sq.-ft. facility with a host of employees and a fleet of delivery vehicles.

“We are grateful for our customers and proud to be celebrating with them to honor our company’s success.

We are also celebrating our team. Our people are the life blood of this business. If you take care of your employees, train them, empower them and respect them, they will take care of your customers and … your business,” says Mark Decker, CEO and secondgeneration owner, Jerry &Keith’s.

WABCO Holdings has officially opened its new Americas headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich.

The new $20 million facility at 1220 Pacific Drive features an open, transparent design and includes office space on two floors, as well as WABCO’s Customer Experience Center, a vehicle test lab, training center and other amenities.

WABCO states the 102,000 sq.-ft. building, located approximately 30

miles north of Detroit, brings WABCO’s engineering, quality, sales, marketing and corporate functions together in one location. Approximately 200 employees work in the building. The company plans to add an additional 90 jobs at the site over the next three years.

BorgWarner publishes aftermarket turbo catalog BorgWarner has published the latest edition of its aftermarket catalog of advanced, high-performance turbocharging solutions, which the company says contains detailed product and technology information as well as an instructional guide for its online “Match-Bot,” an interactive turbocharger matching system.

Volume nine of the high-performance Turbochargers Catalog also showcases turbochargers and ancillary parts, along with part numbers and technical descriptions to help customers find the right product for their individual or market application.

Wiers acquires service location Wiers Fleet Partners has acquired Earl’s Truck Sales & Service of Columbus, Ohio.

Located just south of downtown, inside the I-270 loop, the new Wiers location will be the company’s seventh location offering 24/7 priority fleet service to local companies requiring maintenance and repair for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles.

“The Wiers Team is excited to bring our 24/7 Priority Fleet Service platform to Columbus. Earl’s has a history of taking care of its customers and employees since it first opened in 1937. We share those same values and look forward to helping our Columbus customers deliver more products and services in a safe, reliable and costeffective manner,” says Tom Wiers, owner and CEO, Wiers.

Truck Parts & Service Calendar Event information can be submitted at: www.truckpartsandservice.com/story-ideas/

Jan. 27 Jan. 28-31 March 5-8 March 18-21

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Heavy Duty Aftermarket Dialogue (HDAD), Las Vegas Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW), Las Vegas The Work Truck Show, Indianapolis Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting, Atlanta

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Industry Focus

PSI celebrates 25th anniversary During 2018, Pressure Systems International (PSI) commemorated the 25th anniversary of the development and introduction of its automatic tire inflation systems (ATIS) for commercial vehicles.

PSI’s ATIS for trailers, chassis and dollies automatically adds air to the tire as the vehicle is in motion whenever the tire pressure drops below the tire’s cold pressure setting. A warning light typically located in front of the trailer

is illuminated when air is being added.

The system’s ROI is typically less than one year, the company says. The payback comes in fuel economy, reduced tread wear, fewer roadside calls and lower labor costs. Other benefits include reduced CSA point violations, increased safety and improved efficiency of equipment.

PSI’s ATIS is marketed and distributed in North America by Meritor as the Meritor Tire Inflation System (MTIS).

People In The News The Auto Care Association has added Hailey Ray as director, political affairs.

Navistar has appointed Lyndi McMillan director, business communications; hired Darwin Minnis as Minnis manager of vocational product and bus communications; and hired Bre Whalen as manager of on-highway product communications.

Allison Transmission has appointed Carolann I. Whalen Haznedar to its board of directors.

Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has appointed Christopher Camp plant manager of its Huntington, Ind., manufacturing campus.

Dana Incorporated has Camp hired Shelley Bridarolli as senior vice president of human resources.

Mickey Truck Bodies has announced three additions to its team. Martin Skurka has joined the company as director of engineering. Dean Weldy was appointed to the newly created position of director of van body products.

Steven Proctor has been named director of human resources.

Exide Technologies’ board of directors has appointed Timothy D. Vargo, a current member of Exide’s board, to serve as president and CEO. Jasper Engines and Transmissions has named Joe McDonald vice president of sales.

Kinedyne has announced the passing of Paul Wolford, vice president of sales and marketing. He was 61.

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Procede Software has promoted Lindsay Kramer to director of education and training services.

The board of directors of Cooper Tire & Rubber Company has named Katy Dickson Dickson and Brian Walker directors of the company.

The company also has hired Christopher J. Eperjesy as senior vice president and chief financial officer.

Reyco Granning has promoted John Hinz to vice president of engineering. Walker Great Dane has appointed Bill Healy vice president of aftermarket.

Stertil-Koni has hired Jacqueline “Jackie” Cullison as operations specialist.

Terry Williams, strategic Cullison relationships manager at Commercial Truck Trader, has been elected to the Used Truck Association 2019 Board of Directors.

Velociti hired Nicole D’Agostino as business development manager.

Robert “Bob” Morel has been named the dedicated VMAC territory representative responsible for serving the provinces of Ontario and Quebec.

Walter Surface Technologies has appointed Marc-André Aubé CEO and David Wright vice president, corporate development.

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) presented President and CEO Steve Handschuh with the association’s highest honor, the MEMA Triangle Award.

T R U C K PA R T S & S E R V I C E | J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9

Firestone Industrial Products announced Phil Brown has been named director of commercial vehicle aftermarket, original equipment service and industrial channels for Brown North America.

Idealease has hired Rob Baran as area vice president, national accounts.

ACT Research has hired Margie Dasovich as research manager and Dasovich analyst.

Continental has named Allen Selzler sales technical training specialist for Continental Automotive’s Interior Division, Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket Business Unit.

Selzler Peerless Electronics has promoted Steven Gunther to general manager.

Hiram Diaz was hired as quality assurance manager. Brandon Eble was hired as inside sales manager. Adam Wisniewski was promoted to purchasing manager. Jody Crouse was hired as a field sales representative. Joanna Guild was hired as human resources generalist. Edward Combs has transitioned to a new position as marketing manager. Doug Kirkiewicz was hired as national field sales manager. Laura Heckman has been hired as marketing assistant.

S&S Truck Parts announces the hiring of Sandra Lipezker as vice president of purchasing, Chris Batt as vice president of operations and logistics and Rob Rodriguez as vice president of finance.

Industry Focus

Turbo Solutions enhances app for distributor network Turbo Solutions now offers its identification and selling tool as a desktop and mobile app for inside and outside sales representatives. The company says the tool, Turbo Key, is a proprietary solution that is only available to the Turbo Solutions Authorized Distributor Network.

Enhanced features of the tool are said to include more than 18,500 OEM part number interchanges, detailed photos for verification, engine serial number look up, ordering/shopping cart capabilities, option to “blind ship” to customers and suggested upsell products at the point of sale.

Meritor enhances e-commerce website Meritor announced enhancements to MeritorPartsXpress.com that improve search functionality for more than 100,000 aftermarket products and offer new self-service tools.

Meritor says customers can now use the e-commerce platform’s new search tools to configure, search and identify parts as well as check the inventory status of products at Meritor’s distribution facilities. Updated search bars will deliver more accurate results and quickly identify specific, top-moving product lines, stocking levels and brand options.

The company says authorized warehouse distributor customers will be able to create new guest accounts on MeritorPartsXpress.com to streamline ordering.

A new online forms process will permit customers to return products without contacting customer service. Customized user account settings will include tools to create a personalized default landing page with a choice of price options and build Meritor-centric advertising containing their pricing. Distributors also can use a tool to monitor their spending, Meritor says.

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J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9 | T R U C K PA R T S & S E R V I C E

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Tech Updates

SAFETY RECALLS Autocar LLC is recalling certain 2019 Autocar Xpeditor vehicles. The power steering assist cylinder bracket may not be properly secured to the frame rail, possibly causing an increase in steering effort or a loss of steering ability. A reduction of power steering assist or a loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.

Blue Bird is recalling certain 2017-2019 Vision school buses and 2017-2019 Blue Bird BBCV transit buses with Ford 6.8L Gen IV LPG, gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) engines. The alternator cables may not be routed correctly and may contact and chafe against the air conditioning support bracket or a firewall reinforcement. A damaged alternator cable could result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.

Blue Bird is recalling certain 2007-2019 Blue Bird All American ambulance buses. The clamps that secure the stacked stretchers may fail from repeated use or from high loads. If the clamps fail with patients in the stretchers, it can increase the risk of injury.

Champion Bus is recalling certain 2017-2018 Champion Challenger, Defender, LF Transport, Goshen G-Force and Impulse transit buses equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923 and 75719. When the backseat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, “Seating Systems,” and number 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.” In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.

Collins Bus Corporation is recalling certain 2011-2018 Collins SL, SH, DH, DE and TH school buses built on Promaster chassis equipped with CE White/HSM SB11-30 in. series, standard, unbelted, school bus seats, or SB11-30 in. series school bus seats with lap belts only.

The foam in the knee impact area of the lower seat back may not absorb enough impact in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” If the seat foam does not absorb enough impact energy, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

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The following are safety recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 5700 vehicles. The steering wheel on these vehicles may loosen over time and the steering wheel may detach from the steering column. If the steering wheel detaches, there would be a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

DTNA is recalling certain 2017-2018 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles. The brake lights on these vehicles may remain activated after the brake pedal is released. If the brake lights remain activated, other drivers may be unaware that the vehicle is actually slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of a crash.

DTNA is recalling certain 2017-2019 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles. The driver’s frontal air bag may deploy unexpectedly. If the driver’s frontal air bag deploys unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of a crash.

DTNA is recalling certain 2018-2019 Thomas Built school buses Saf-T-Liner C2, Saf-T-Liner HDX and Saf-T-Liner EFX school buses. The brake caliper mounting bolts may have been insufficiently tightened. Loose brake caliper mounting bolts can reduce brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

DTNA is recalling certain 2016-2019 Thomas Built Buses Minotour school buses with 36 in. or 39 in. wide seats. The rear emergency exit door may not open wide enough to meet the unobstructed emergency egress area requirements. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release.” If the emergency exit door does not open wide enough, it may limit the ability to exit the bus, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.

DTNA is recalling certain 2017-2019 FCCC MC motorhome chassis. The primary air line was incorrectly connected to the secondary air pressure gauge and the secondary air line was connected to the primary air pressure gauge. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 121, “Air Brake Systems.” In the event of a failure of one of the two air systems, an incorrect air pressure reading may occur, confusing the driver, therefore increasing the risk of a crash.

DTNA is recalling certain 2018-2019 Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) MT45G and MT55G vehicles. The engine ground stud may not have been properly tightened, causing the vehicle to seek other electrical paths to ground. If other wires or components unintentionally serve as an engine ground, they may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.

DTNA is recalling certain 2018-2019 Freightliner Business Class M2 and 114SD CNG vehicles equipped with Agility Pressure Relief Devices (PRD). A damaged o-ring may cause the PRD to vent at a lower pressure, potentially resulting in a complete discharge of a full CNG tank. In the presence of an ignition source, a complete discharge of a full CNG tank in an enclosed environment or adjacent to certain structures can increase the risk of a fire.

DTNA is recalling certain 2018-2019 Freightliner 108SD, 114SD, Cascadia, Business Class M2, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation S2C 106 Cab, S2G Cab Chassis, XCL, XCM, XBS, XCP, XCR, Western Star 4700, 4900 and 5700 trucks.

The brake caliper mounting bolts may have been insufficiently tightened. Loose brake caliper mounting bolts can reduce brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

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Fontaine Trailer Company is recalling certain 2019 Fontaine Infinity trailers. These trailers were built with an underride guard compliant for a wheels back trailer configuration; however, due to the customers design changes, the wheel set was moved forward and the vehicles no longer meet the definition of a wheels back trailer. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 223, “Rear Impact Guards,” and 224, “Rear Impact Protection.” The incorrect rear impact guards may not adequately reduce the possibility of a car traveling under the trailer in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the car driver.

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty and F-450 Super Duty vehicles. An incorrect transmission case casting may cause the park pawl assembly to not be secured, possibly resulting in unintended vehicle movement. Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.

Great Dane Trailers is recalling certain 2019 Great Dane Everest CL reefer trailers. These trailers may have been built without brake rollers, causing a reduction in brake effectiveness.

If brake effectiveness is reduced, the distance needed to stop the trailer may be lengthened, increasing the risk of a crash.

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Tech Updates Great Dane Trailers is recalling certain 2019 Great Dane Everest CL Multi-Temp trailers equipped with Haldex automatic brake adjusters.

During manufacturing, the adjuster anchor pins may not have been properly tightened, causing the pins to loosen or detach. A detached anchor pin would cause the automatic brake adjusters to not properly adjust the brakes to compensate for brake pad wear. If not corrected, this could lead to reduced braking ability or loss of brakes, increasing the risk of a crash. Loose anchor pins could cause the automatic brake adjuster to jam, keeping it from returning to its rest position which may cause the brakes to drag, increasing the risk of a fire.

Great Dane Trailers is recalling certain 2019 Great Dane Champion Composite Plate dry freight trailers. These trailers may have an insufficient amount of reflective conspicuity tape along the length of the trailer. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” Without the required amount of reflective tape, the trailer’s visibility may be reduced to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

Isuzu Technical Center of America is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 6500XD and Isuzu FTR vehicles. The cab may not provide an adequate warning to lock the cab tilt-lock after servicing. If the cab tilt-lock is not engaged, the cab can tilt forward while driving. If the cab tilts forward while driving, it can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Mack Trucks is recalling certain 2019 Mack Granite vehicles equipped with snow plow lamp preparation kits. The snow plow headlights can be turned on without other exterior lights, and high beam indicator will not work when the snow plow high beams are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” The driver may operate the vehicle with the snow plow headlights on but the marker and tail lamps off, reducing the vehicle’s visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Mack Trucks is recalling certain 2019 Mack Anthem, Granite and Pinnacle vehicles. The pinch bolt on the upper steering shaft may not have been tightened, possibly resulting in the steering shaft separating and causing a loss of steering. A loss of steering can increase the risk of a crash.

Mack Trucks is recalling certain 2019 Mack Granite, LR and TerraPro trucks, equipped with Bridgestone M854 tires with DOT date codes 2418-2518, Bridgestone M860A tires with

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DOT date code 2518 or Bridgestone M864 tires with DOT date codes 2318-2418, all of size 425/65R22.5. The sidewall steel body cords may be exposed, possibly causing unexpected, rapid air loss while driving. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 119, “New Pneumatic Tires Other than Passenger Cars.” Rapid tire air loss can increase the risk of a crash.

Midwest Fire Equipment & Repair Company is recalling certain 2014-2019 Midwest Fire All-Poly Series emergency vehicles equipped with Class 1 Ultraview Touchscreens manufactured by Hale Products. These touchscreens may experience false switch activations that can happen without the operator’s knowledge causing accessories to turn on or off, affecting vehicle performance. The unintended turning on or off of accessories such as emergency beacons or automatic snow chains can increase the risk of a crash.

Navistar is recalling certain 2019-2020 IC Bus CE school buses equipped with feature code 04AZS (4-channel Antilock Brakes, 4-channel Electronic Stability and Automatic Traction Control). The brake airline tube to the left brake modulator valve may have been improperly routed, possibly resulting in the line kinking, causing the vehicle to pull to the right when braking or preventing the anti-lock brakes from functioning properly. A vehicle pulling to the right during braking or improper ABS function can increase the risk of a crash.

Paccar is recalling certain 2017-2019 Kenworth C500, T600, T660, T680, T800, T880 and W900 trucks, as well as Peterbilt 367, 386, 389, 567, 579 and 587 trucks, equipped with Cummins ISX15 or X15 diesel engines. In certain driving conditions, such as on a long down-hill grade, the fuel line may burst if the fuel pump cooling circuit screen becomes restricted. If the fuel line bursts, fuel may leak onto the road resulting in a roadway hazard for other motorists. The engine may also stall without warning, resulting in the vehicle’s inability to restart, increasing the risk of a crash.

Paccar is recalling certain 2013-2019 Kenworth T680 and T880 and Peterbilt 579 trucks, greater than 30 feet long and equipped with side extender mounted intermediate marker lamp/turn signals that do not include a reflex reflector. Since both intermediate side marker lamps and reflex reflectors are required, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” Missing reflex reflectors can reduce the vehicle’s visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

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Spartans Motors is recalling certain 2019 Spartan K2 Specialty vehicles. The upper mounting fasteners for the air spring may protrude, possibly resulting in the air spring bag being punctured. A punctured air spring may deflate, possibly resulting in an overloading of the tag axle tires, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Spartan Motors is recalling certain 2001-2019 Spartan MetroStar and Gladiator emergency vehicles. The mounting fasteners for the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) cabinets may not be the correct size, allowing the cabinets to break free from their mountings in the event of a crash. If the EMS cabinets become loose during a crash, the cabinets may become projectiles, increasing the risk of injury.

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain 2016-2019 Volvo VNL trucks equipped with Cummins ISX15 diesel engines. In certain driving conditions, such as on a long down-hill grade, the fuel line may burst if the fuel pump cooling circuit screen becomes restricted. If the fuel line bursts, fuel may leak onto the road resulting in a roadway hazard for other motorists. The engine may also stall without warning, resulting in the vehicle’s inability to restart, increasing the risk of a crash.

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain 2004-2019 Volvo VHD trucks equipped with snow plow lamp preparation kits. The snow plow headlights can be turned on without other exterior lights, and high beam indicator will not work when the snow plow high beams are on.

As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”

The driver may operate the vehicle with the snow plow headlights on but the marker and tail lamps off, reducing the vehicle’s visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain 2019 Volvo VNL and VHD trucks, equipped with Bridgestone M854 tires with date codes 24182518, Bridgestone M860A tires with date code 2518 and Bridgestone M864 tires with date codes 2318-2418, all of size 425/65R22.5.

The sidewall steel body cords may be exposed, possibly causing unexpected, rapid air loss during use. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 119, “New Pneumatic Tires - Other than Passenger Cars.”

Rapid tire air loss can increase the risk of a crash.

Wabash National Corporation is recalling certain 2014-2019 Wabash National Van trailers equipped with limb deflectors. The limb deflectors installed on the upper rear corner of the trailers may detach while moving. If the limb deflectors detach, it can increase the risk of a crash.

AUGUST 22-24, 2019 DALLAS, TX www.TruckShow.com

@TruckShow #GATS | #TruckShow

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By Lucas Deal, Editor lucasdeal@randallreilly.com

Cover Story

Strength in numbers Why trucking is eager to capitalize on the ROI potential of truck platooning

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s the largest operating expense of truck ownership, fuel costs garner a lot of attention in the trucking community. Many large fleets work directly with OEMs to lobby and propose equipment specifications that will enable them to reduce their fuel expenditures. Owner-operators regularly evaluate and invest in aftermarket technology they believe is capable of lowering

Volvo Trucks North America and FedEx completed the first successful platooning test between a North American OEM and transportation company in 2018.

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their fuel usage. Even company drivers are incentivized to alter their driving habits to achieve greater fuel economy for their employers.

Saving fuel means saving money.

One emerging fuel-efficient technology that could revolutionize how truck owners outfit their rigs to save fuel is platooning. Not yet commercially available, platooning continues to gain interest due to its exceptionally high fuel savings potential. Platooning also is unique in that it is the only developed fuel-efficient technology that requires more than one tractor-trailer to save fuel.

Platooning is “legalized drafting,” says Fred Andersky, director of customer solutions, controls, Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems. It is a highly advanced, highly controlled driving strategy that links trucks together to reduce aerodynamic drag on all units. In 2016, Trucking Efficiency released a Confidence Report on Two-Truck Platooning that estimated trucks platooned at a distance of 40 to 50 feet earn a fuel savings of 4

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percent for the lead truck and 10 percent for the following truck.

With numbers like that, it’s easy to see why fleets and OEMs are eager to bring platooning to the on-highway market. It’s also easy to see why this is a great time for aftermarket businesses to do their homework on platooning. The advanced technology isn’t here yet, but it’s coming.

How does platooning work?

Trucking Efficiency described platooning in its Confidence Report as “a catchall term for a broad range of possible implementations of fuel economy improvement through controlled operation of two or more trucks in tandem.”

The most visible platooning application is the one far most likely to enter the trucking industry in the immediate future — the two-truck platoon.

These platoons have been in development by truck makers and tech companies for years, and last year multiple OEMs held controlled platoon tests on U.S. roadways. Two-truck platoons do

Cover Story

I could see a period of two to five years before its fully available, and probably 10 years before it really starts gaining roots.

[Adoption] is not going to happen overnight.

— Sandeep Kar, chief strategy officer, Fleet Complete

not operate using a single vehicle system or computer but, instead, connect a series of advanced safety systems from two tractors together to enable them to travel at the same speed and distance apart on a roadway.

With platooning, “everything starts with the braking system,” says Jon Morrison, president, Americas, WABCO. The two-truck platoon systems currently being tested in North America require the most advanced tractor braking systems available in the marketplace.

Anti-lock brakes are required, air disc brakes are strongly recommended, Andersky says.

These brake systems also must be linked through electronic control units (ECU) with forward collision mitigation radar and electronic stability control systems to dedicated short-range communication radios. The radios and their adjoining systems are necessary for the platoon, as their near instantaneous transfer of vehicle acceleration and braking data from the lead truck to the rear truck

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ensure both vehicles remain an equal distance apart at all times — including during emergency braking events.

The brakes are engaged “before you can even get your foot to the pedal,” Andersky says.

Who is going to platoon?

Like most fuel-efficient technologies, platooning was designed for the open road. Nearly all two-truck platoon testing done to this point has been conducted on suburban or rural U.S. interstates

Confidence Matrix: Two-Truck Platooning

Trucking Efficiency’s Confidence Report on Two-Truck Platooning further supported the value the technology offers for the fleet community.

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Cover Story

where trucks could reach the speeds necessary to minimize aerodynamic drag and maximize fuel savings.

Regional and national fleets with multiple trucks traversing the same daily routes stand to gain the most from platooning, says Mike Roeth, executive director, North American Council for Freight Efficiency, which produced the Trucking Efficiency Confidence Report with the Carbon War Room.

“We found the mega fleets are the ones looking to try it,” he says. “They won’t be able to platoon every mile, but if they can platoon two trucks for 400 miles, they’ll see some payback.”

Non-interstate platooning seems less likely, experts say. Some state highways may provide the conditions necessary to achieve the fuel economy benefits of platooning but it is unlikely there are many fleets with multiple units running those routes at the same time.

Additionally, Roeth says the stop-andgo nature and route uniqueness of urban pickup and delivery makes inner-city platooning highly unlikely.

But unlike other aero-based fuel economy products, which only provide payback in ideal operating conditions, the safety systems required for platooning are advantageous at all times.

“That added layer of driver safety will be there all the time,” says Keith Brandis, vice president of product planning, Volvo Trucks North America.

Volvo Trucks completed a three-truck platoon test in California in 2017.

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Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ Wingman product suite is one of many advanced driver assist technologies that are used when platooning two heavy-duty trucks.

When will platooning be available?

Morrison estimates nearly 30 states currently allow some level of truck platoon testing, and OEMs and component suppliers believe state governments are open to legalizing platooning for on-highway operations in the coming years.

But bringing platooning to the North American market will require more than legalization. While stability control and collision mitigation radar are now standard features on most new Class 8 tractors, the technology required to connect the ECUs for those and other safety systems to a platoon exists only at a developmental level.

Says Brandis, “We’re working with prototype parts, not parts off the shelf.”

Brandis adds Volvo continues to adapt and improve its platooning solution in its controlled highway testing with FedEx. Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) also has used occasional onhighway tests to complement its Proving Ground and closed track development work, says Paige Kean, DTNA corporate communications manager.

Peloton, the independent connected vehicle technology company that helped bring platooning to the forefront of the industry in 2011, announced in 2016 that

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its proprietary system would be available by the end of 2017. As of this article’s publication date that system has yet to be released.

Both Andersky and Sandeep Kar, chief strategy officer at vehicle and fleet tracking firm Fleet Complete, believe platooning likely is a few years away.

“I could see a period of two to five years before its fully available, and probably 10 years before it really starts gaining roots,” says Kar. “[Adoption] is not going to happen overnight.”

Andersky submits late 2020 or early 2021 as a potential introduction time while acknowledging full scale acceptance as a longer-term reality. Though Roeth says when that acceptance comes, “you’re going to notice it … two trucks traveling 50 feet apart is not invisible.”

What impact will platooning have on the aftermarket?

When platooning does arrive, it may offer a helpful sales bump for brakes and other braking-related products.

Andersky says a big reason for that is the following distance required for a fuel-efficient platoon. Two tractor-trailers traveling 40 to 50 feet apart at 65 mph absolutely must have OEM performancelevel brake system components and friction material.

Cover Story

Forward collision radar, seen here, is another technology required for vehicle platooning.

The risks associated with alternative products are too great, he says.

“We’re asking drivers to do something we’ve asked them not to do for 50 years and that’s follow really close,” he says.

Adds Morrison, “Those trucks are going to need the highest quality components.”

Andersky also believes truck owners who choose to platoon will need to increase the scope of their daily pre- and post-trip inspections and shorten their PM intervals to ensure all brake system components are operating at peak performance at all times. Any tractor that participates in a platoon with worn or inferior brakes puts both tractors in the platoon and nearby motorists at risk.

Closer inspections include tires, too.

Improperly inflated and balding tires can struggle to maintain proper traction with road surfaces and alter stopping distances.

There’s also the matter of the vehicle safety systems themselves. Morrison says WABCO’s OnGuard advanced driver assistance collision mitigation system was built to require minimal maintenance, but that doesn’t mean the system is indestructible. He says inclement weather or road debris obstructing the system’s radar and camera systems could impact its performance, as could incidental contact to the systems during other vehicle service.

Like Andersky, Morrison says detailed inspections of these systems would be required for any platoon-capable tractor,

adding WABCO offers “training and instructional tools to make sure nothing jeopardizes the performance of the system.”

But Kar doesn’t see these service requirements as being impediments to acceptance for any fleets considering the technology. Platooning may require specific components be installed during maintenance stops but it shouldn’t require additional maintenance.

“I don’t think maintenance [expenses] are really a priority for any fleets considering platooning,” he says. “Their focus is on the fuel economy benefits and how many of their routes and tractors are good fits” for platooning.

Kar adds, “The larger the platoon, the larger the fuel savings are going to be.”

WABCO’s air disc brake and steering gear products are essential to its OnGuardACTIVE collision mitigation system that is used in platooning applications.

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By Bill Grabarek, Online Associate Editor billgrabarek@randallreilly.com

Sales & Marketing

Weathering winter Preventative maintenance and stocking needed parts and products will help you prepare your customers for (and get through) the wintry months.

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inter is here. Along with it — in many parts of the country — comes below-freezing temperatures, snow and corrosive road chemicals, leading to gelled fuel, air and fluid lines that freeze or crack, dying batteries and failing electrical assemblies, among other problems that can sideline a truck or trailer.

It’s January, the heart of winter, and many drivers might need to take reactive measures if the weather starts wreaking havoc with their vehicle. Fortunately,

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aftermarket experts understand what problems to expect and explain which parts, products and services help drivers get back on the road.

Riding out the storm Richard Nagel, director of marketing and customer solutions, air charging, Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, says one of the top issues affecting heavy-duty trucks in the winter is the air dryer not operating properly. This can lead to excessive moisture and water in the service

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tanks, especially during freeze and thaw weather cycles.

“Once you get water into those service tanks and it gets into the lines of the different valves in the truck brake system, [during] prolonged cold that water then freezes and you start to get malfunctions in the brake system, which can leave the truck inoperable,” Nagel says.

Another common problem is when the vehicle’s fuel partially or completely gels, clogging up the filter, says Steve Muth, chief chemist, The Penray Companies.

Sales & Marketing

So few companies bulk up on inventory. There are some, but it’s so important that you have these products on your shelf or you’re not getting the sale because customers need it now.

— Michael Callison, chief operating officer, Midwest Wheel

“Using a quality anti-gel additive like Penray’s Winter Pow-R Plus or Winter Blend to prevent crystallization and gel formation will eliminate most of these problems,” Muth says. “Even then, plugging can still occur if the fuel is contaminated with poor quality biodiesel, which often contains significant amounts of water and monoglycerides.”

If proper preventive measures have not been taken, or poor-quality fuel is in the system, Muth says a recovery product like Penray’s Winter Thaw is needed.

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“We often hear from drivers or techs, ‘My fuel looks fine, but my filter [looks like it] is full of mayonnaise.’ Don’t throw out that filter. Pour in some Winter Thaw and put it back on the truck.”

When a vehicle has been sitting in cold weather, Muth suggests using starting fluid, which is easier to ignite than diesel fuel, “and burning even a small amount in the engine can flash-heat the combustion chambers to enable compression ignition to happen. In diesel engines, it is important to use premium starting fluid with high ether content.”

Phillips Industries addresses corrosion to electrical equipment in its November/ December 2018 edition of Qwik Tech Tips. Corrosion is more prevalent during the winter months, Phillips states.

For vehicles exposed to harsh weather and de-icing chemicals, Phillips suggests trucks should be spec’d with premium, sealed electrical harnesses and non-corrosive components such as non-metallic noseboxes and nylon plugs and sockets.

The anti-corrosive properties of nylon will outlast its metal counterparts because of their susceptibility to corrosion.

The tech bulletin also suggests frequently washing equipment to reduce magnesium and calcium chloride buildup. Phillips, however, warns against power washing, which can force water into tight areas and cause corrosion.

Phillips & Temro Industries (PTI) offers battery blankets that can wrap around batteries as well as a silicone pad

heater that sits under the batteries. When plugged in overnight, these heaters, which use low wattage, keep the core of the starting battery warmer, enabling it to accept a charge sooner in very cold weather and help to extend battery life, according to the company.

PTI also offers an all-in-one system, the Thermostat and Immersion Heater System, that includes the engine block heater, thermostat, Y cord and receptacle.

The system “turns the block heater on and off based on coolant temperature.

Over the course of a winter, the savings on electricity can be as much as a third

Moisture in an air system can condense and freeze, increasing the odds of brake and valve malfunctions. Bendix recommends oil-coalescing cartridges like PuraGuard.

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Sales & Marketing

of the power used [versus] without the benefit of a thermostat solution,” says Ian Vriese, director of global sales.

“We typically see air system failures,” says Tim Grabow, vice president of operations, Blaine Brothers. “With an air system freeze up, the best practice if the truck is in the shop is to let the truck warm up and drain the air system and service the air dryer.”

Another common problem Blaine Brothers sees is gelled and iced fuel.

When a truck sits overnight, the water will separate from the fuel. “If the fuel isn’t treated or maintained, the likelihood of ice in the tanks, lines or filters is quite high,” Grabow adds.

Should a driver get stuck on the side of the road or parking lot with a truck that quit running or won’t start, Blaine Brothers has 30 service trucks to come to the rescue.

Grabow says the calls for roadside service greatly increase in the winter because of blown hoses and various systems freezing up. He adds that all of the service trucks are equipped with most of the items needed to make on-site repairs. Blaine Brothers stocks up on block heaters, windshield washer fluid, wipers, batteries, starters, alternators and diesel additives.

“Many of the road service calls or breakdowns come from the

Phillips & Temro offers pad heaters that are placed under engine batteries to maximize performance on the coldest days.

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Everything is done whenever we see issues. So when a guy comes in for a PM a couple times a year, we’re going to treat that vehicle the same all the time. Everything has to be right regardless of the season.

— Kevin Murray, owner, Columbia Fleet Service Inc.

out-of-towners that really don’t know how cold it gets up here,” Grabow says.

Columbia Fleet Service Inc. also offers roadside service with its fleet of 14 trucks.

“If we get a cold snap on a Saturday, we know Monday will be crazier than crazy because a truck will sit for a couple days,” says Kevin Murray, owner, Columbia Fleet Service Inc. “If drivers are going to have a problem, that’s when they’re going to have it.”

Columbia Fleet Service sees the typical problems trucks have in winter, such as locked up brakes and gelled fuel. The company is sure to stock its shop and service trucks with parts and products its customers will need during the winter months. The company makes sure it’s fully stocked with batteries and fuel additives, one to unfreeze the fuel and another to prevent the fuel from getting to that point, say Kevin Murray and Pat Murray, general manager and Kevin’s son.

“We go through a lot of red and blue air lines between the truck and the trailer because the plastic air lines get brittle in the cold,” Pat Murray adds.

In addition to parts for the entire air treatment system, brake line antifreeze, fuel treatments and diesel starting fluid, Midwest Wheel is sure to stock extension cords, salt, engine fuel heaters, ice scrapers, wipers and tire chains during the

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winter. The company also supplies many service garages.

“If you have it, you sell it,” says Michael Callison, Midwest Wheel chief operating officer. He says many products sold in winter are “truck down or truck frozen up” items, and they’re “not something a customer will wait for.”

Preparing for winter An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The adage holds true when it comes to prepping trucks before Old Man Winter makes his presence felt. PM service, along with providing must-have winter products, will give drivers and their trucks a better chance of getting through winter relatively unscathed. And, experts agree, it’s cheaper to prepare vehicles for the elements than to fix them if they go down during the cold weather.

Normal repairs plus wintertime issues “bring a level of chaos to our shop with emergency repairs or problems because equipment didn’t get PM service or winterization,” says Dean Dally, Blaine Brothers president and owner.

Another issue of ignoring PM before winter is the cost to the truck owner.

“Typically the cost of doing preventative maintenance is much lower than having to deal with a service issue if it happens out on the road,” says Nagel.

Many aftermarket service providers don’t offer winterization services, per se.

Sales & Marketing

In addition to parts for the air treatment system, brake line antifreeze and fuel treatments, Midwest Wheel’s inventory includes ice scrapers, wipers and tire chains.

Instead, checklist items for winterization service are part of the companies’ regular PM they provide their customers.

“We start the winterization process as the regularly scheduled PM service comes due in [the fall]” says Dally. “Up here [in Minnesota], anyway, September and October are when we’re trying to get all of that done so all of our regular service fleets that we take care of are ready when the cold hits.”

Blaine’s winterization list includes checking the cooling system, including belts and hoses; load testing batteries; checking electrical connections on alternators and starters, among many other components; servicing the air dryer; and checking crank case and diesel exhaust fluid filters, says Grabow. “And we always make sure to check that block heater,” he adds.

The PM Columbia Fleet Services provides doesn’t change depending on the time of year. For example, if there’s a problem with the cooling system in July, Columbia will address it immediately, and battery terminals are cleaned all the time. If a vehicle doesn’t have extended life antifreeze, the customer will be notified, regardless of the time of year.

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“Everything is done whenever we see issues. So when a guy comes in for a PM a couple times a year, we’re going to treat that vehicle the same all the time.

Everything has to be right regardless of the season,” Kevin Murray says.

“If you have a comprehensive PM [schedule] and you stick to it all year, you really don’t have the issues a lot of people have that just change the oil. That’s what I stress to everybody,” he says. “I hate to see someone come in and just want an oil change and grease job. I just feel like they’re trying to save a buck by doing that, but it can cost them in the harsher weather.”

Midwest Wheel “offers our customers educated knowledge on what they should be doing. If a customer comes in and buys air brake antifreeze, our counter staff’s first question will be, ‘Are you draining your air tanks?’” Callison says. “Air brake antifreeze dries up the O-rings and the valves and it will cause some issues in the future. It should only be done in emergency cases. You’re having that problem because something else is wrong.”

Callison says it’s a similar situation with customers who purchase emergency fuel treatment because they’re not

treating their fuel. “If you treat it, you wouldn’t have to use the emergency fuel treatment,” he adds.

Nagel says winterization of fleets typically occurs September through October and should include checking air dryer cartridges, purge valves, brake line connections, early signs of corrosion on the air dryer, pneumatic lines and wiring.

“As they say, heat kills batteries, they just don’t die until it gets cold,” says Muth. Topping off the water level with distilled water and cleaning the terminals with Penray Battery Cleaner will help cold weather starting, he says.

Penray Companies provides a gamut of products for winter, including Winter Pow-R Plus, Winter Thaw, windshield spray de-icer, windshield washer antifreeze and starting fluid.

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Sales & Marketing

Other aspects of the vehicle that should be part of winterizing are checking the glycol content and freeze point of coolant and to add corrosion control supplements as needed, such as Penray Pencool products. Muth adds PM before winter is the best time to replace fuel filters because it will be that much easier for gelled fuel to stop up old filters completely.

Stock up early Not only do suppliers prepare early to make sure they have enough product on hand to meet demand from aftermarket distributors, parts and service providers must buy early or risk not having enough product on their shelves or paying more once the winter season begins.

“If you don’t buy by the end of September, you’re not in the game because there can be a 10 to 20 percent increase in price once you’re in season,” says Callison.

“We tend to err on the side of [ordering more] and if we have a little bit of stock left over, we’d rather have it and get the sale than not have it and not get the sale,” he says. “These products don’t go bad, so having a little bit of carryover isn’t the end of the world.”

PTI has booking programs in the summer enabling distributors to stock up on the most commonly used parts.

The company says it also works with various product managers at the OES level to educate their dealers on what to stock for the upcoming season.

“Most large aftermarket distributors

Blaine Brothers’ winterization checklist is part of the regular PM the company provides its customers.

place their winter stocking orders between April 1 and June 15 each year,” says Vriese. “That gives PTI enough time to produce the required parts and have them on our distributors’ shelves by Labor Day in preparation for most fleets’ fall and winter PMs.” Bendix starts heavily promoting its winter parts in the middle of the summer. The company says big sellers tend to be complete air dryers, air dryer cartridges and purge valves.

“We would advise customers to start early (August, September and October) in terms of bringing in stock. You don’t want to get left without a part on your shelf. Being in the market first and promoting vehicle winterization is always a good stance for a distributor to take,” says Jerry Conroy, Bendix North American regional vice president, aftermarket sales.

If the fuel isn’t treated or maintained, the likelihood of ice in the tanks, lines or filters is quite high.bb — Tim Grabow, vice president of operations, Blaine Brothers

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Conroy cautions there are house brands available with marketing that represents Bendix’s trade names but aren’t Bendix products. “If you don’t ask for the genuine Bendix product, you might not know what you’re getting.”

Greg Mixon, director of sales, heavyduty division, Penray, says the company offers an annual promotion on fuel and winter products in parts of the third and fourth quarter, and distributors “should have products on hand by late summer/ early fall.”

He says they should be stocking diesel fuel additives, anti-gels, battery cleaners and general cold weather products, including windshield spray de-icer, windshield washer antifreeze and starting fluid.

“So few companies bulk up on inventory. There are some, but it’s so important that you have these products on your shelf or you’re not getting the sale because customers need it now. If you can’t get it to customers the same day or, at most, the next day, it’s too late,” Callison says. “And, if you don’t have it, you’re not getting the call for something else.”

Marketplace

The Buzz The five hottest products as determined by readers of truckpartsandservice.com

Commercial starter for Class 6-7 vehicles BorgWarner has released a commercial vehicle starter, the Delco Remy Genuine Products 31MT. The company says the 31MT model family provides a range of coverage for the Class 6-7 commercial vehicle aftermarket.

The 31MT starter provides increased reliability, durability and up to 10 percent more peak power than comparable products for medium-duty commercial vehicles, the company says.

It can be used for a variety of medium-duty vehicles from major commercial vehicle OE manufacturers with 12-volt engine sizes up to 9 liters. BorgWarner says each starter comes with a one-year, unlimited-miles warranty for all makes, and an extended two-year warranty for school bus applications in North America.

Portfolio expanded to include popular u-joints Dana Incorporated has expanded its Spicer Select all-makes drivetrain portfolio to include popular u-joints for commercial vehicle applications, while also adding u-joint strap kits.

With the strap kits, Dana says the Spicer Select offering provides a complete u-joint replacement package for many applications.

Dana’s Spicer Select u-joint and strap kit replacement offerings cover the following driveshaft series: Spicer 1710/1760 Series, Spicer 1810 Series and Spicer 1610 Series (u-joints only), the company says.

W W W . T R U C K PA R T S A N D S E R V I C E . C O M

Tool for removing seized wheels AME International introduces RimWit and RimWit Junior, two tools designed to remove locked rims on seized wheels without damaging the tire’s sidewalls or rims.

The company says the portable tire demounting tool is built to fit most aluminum and steel semi-truck rims and is suited for use in a shop or in the field in tandem with an electric or air-impact wrench. The junior size accommodates size 19.5 tire, the company adds.

Side guards for straight trucks Nu-Line has introduced a patentpending side guard for straight trucks. The side guard provides an additional protection barrier in the event of a side collision for trucks that work in close proximity to pedestrians and cyclists.

The side guard’s flexible construction can be assembled within five minutes per side. Installation to each side of the vehicle may be completed within an hour with quick temporary removal when necessary, according to the company. It attaches to the frame with two single bolts and can be adjusted for assembly height and distance from frame to edge of wheel.

The side guard carries a limited lifetime warranty and meets the U.S. Department of Transportation VOLPE Center’s recommended standard for side guard force protection, the company says.

New trio of products for HD trucks Dorman HD Solutions has added more products to its heavy-duty offering.

Three new components the company is featuring are headlight assemblies, oil drain plugs and power window switches. Dorman has more than 35 headlamp SKUs and more than five oil drain plugs and HD Exclusive power window switches.

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Marketplace

Additional sizes for multi-purpose clamps Tectran has expanded the number of sizes for its multi-purpose heavy-duty TEC Clamp line.

Tectran says the clamps are commonly used for suspending and securing hydraulic hoses; wrapped tractor-trailer connections; bundles of hose, cable and tubing; and suction and discharge hoses. The stainless-steel clamp

Off The Line Spotlighting a new OEM innovation

International unveils Class 4-5 work trucks International has debuted its CV Series truck — the company’s refreshed re-entry into the medium-duty vocational segment.

Available in wheelbases from 141 to 243 in., in regular and crew cab — and in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations — the Class 4-5 CV Series gets a 6.6-liter diesel engine under its forward-tilting hood that puts out 350 hp and 700 lb.-ft. of torque matched to an Allison 6-speed transmission, the company says.

The truck has the capability of handling a maximum GCWR of 37,500 lb., and the new driveline is a power upgrade over the 6.4-liter MaxxForce 7 and its 300 hp, 660 lb.-ft. of torque that was found in early iterations of the TerraStar model the CV Series replaces.

To provide flexibility for the many available upfit options, the CV Series offers a dual battery box mounted under the cab and includes multiple fuel tank options and optional exhaust outlets, International says.

“The CV Series has been compared to a field office with perks,” says Navistar’s President of Truck and Parts Michael Cancelliere. “Our philosophy is that driver comfort is critical to get the job done smoothly and efficiently, and the CV Series brings that philosophy to life.”

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hinges are fully integrated into the housing for maximum durability and its secure clasp can be opened and closed by hand.

The company says the clamps are sized by inside diameter and color coded by size so the correct clamp can be selected for each application. Tectran says the clamps have a 5 lb.-ft. torque limit and 100 lb. weight limit.

LED work light Clore Automotive introduces a new LED work light, Model No. LNC1841, from Light-N-Carry. Clore says the LNC1841 combines a powerful internal battery, steady lumen output, long run times, multiple lighting functions and a dust/water resistant housing.

The LNC1841 features an 800 lumen max output, advanced COB LED technology and a 60 lumen SMD focus beam button.

The LNC1841 also features a 3.5-hour run time in the high work light setting, 180-degree swivel handle with multiple magnet mounts and a USB power supply to power small electronic devices like phones and tablets, the company says.

Clore says the lamp includes a wall charger with braided charging cord and a repair service coupon.

Smoke machine bladder adapters Bosch has five new bladder adapters in North America for its HPT 500 heavy-duty smoke machine. The adapters seal off pipes and hoses when checking for leaks and range in size from 1.5 to 5.9 in.

The bladders are used with the HPT 500 High-Pressure Diagnostic Leak Tester. HPT 500 provides a solution for heavy-duty vehicle diagnosis and repair by producing a larger volume of smoke necessary for these larger systems. The machine delivers leak detection smoke at up to 20 psi and simulates truck boost to safely test with the engine off, the company says.

Replacement air springs available World American now has replacement Firestone air springs available and ready to ship, the company says.

The company has added 16 air spring part numbers, which replace a number of OEM products. These new parts expand a product category where World American already features more than 70 part numbers, the company says.

Marketplace

New mixed service tire

Truck suspension family expands

© 2018 Prestolite Electric Inc.

Cooper Tire has expanded its Cooper Severe Series truck and bus radial tire line with the Cooper Severe Series Mixed Service Drive (MSD). The tire is designed to handle the toughest off-road conditions, while delivering long, even wear, the company says.

Cooper says triangular tiebars in the outside shoulder help promote traction throughout the life of the tire while also mitigating heel-toe wear. Designed to reduce total cost of ownership, the casing includes stone ejectors to ensure multiple retreads beyond the original tread life, the company adds. The Severe Series MSD is offered in 11R22.5 (LRH) and 11R24.5 (LRH).

Ridewell Suspensions has revised and expanded its 233-20K truck and trailer product lines. Ridewell says the truck and trailer product lines have expanded availability for galvanized components. The trailer drum brake models have a new crosschannel and hanger design.

Additionally, the company says the 233-20K truck suspension family has expanded options for a factory-integrated, preplumbed air tank kit. The 233-20K Roll Off product line now includes a narrow option for an easier fit onto the vehicle frame.

The 233T-20K trailer product line has added a bridge between the air springs to simplify installation. To reduce maintenance, the trailer line also has been updated with Huck fasteners, the company says.

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W W W . T R U C K PA R T S A N D S E R V I C E . C O M

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Marketplace

Heavy-duty tire changer

Digital torque wrench

John Bean’s T8010TR heavy-duty tire changer can service truck wheels up to 24.5 in. and tires as large as 47 in., the company says.

The tire changer is designed to take up a minimum amount of shop floor space. The company says other features include an integrated control panel that moves into any position, enabling one technician to operate the tire changer; dual roller designed to service tubeless assemblies; and it works with trucks running cosmetically sensitive alloy wheels.

The tire changer also enables quick installation. After mounting the wheel onto the rotating chuck, both beads are quickly broken using the bead rollers, and then the tire is removed using the same bead rollers, the company says.

OTC has introduced a digital precision torque wrench in North America. The tool, Part No. 7380-E150, uses a digital display to show torque measured in real-time and at the point of release. The wrench’s sensitivity and precision also can be used to measure bearing preload torque values, the company says.

The 1/4 in. drive wrench has a 36-tooth ratchet head with measured torque ranging from 1.5 to 150 in.-lb. Clockwise, the wrench is accurate to within +/-1 percent, with counter clockwise accuracy from 10 to 100 percent of full scale. The alpha-numeric LCD indicates torque and measurement settings controlled by four buttons.

When set torque is reached, technicians are alerted with an LED light, audible buzzer and vibration to help avoid overtorqueing. The LED will glow yellow, red or green, indicating when the wrench is being used correctly or when pre-set torque has been exceeded, the company says.

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More Prospect Data | Market Share Data | New Prospects RigDig® has been helping truck equipment dealers increase their targeting and prospecting effectiveness with data insights on 1 million+ active trucking entities for nearly ten years: • Arming sales teams with invaluable prospect/client equipment data • Providing up-to-date market share data for your AOR • Identifying new prospect companies in your territories • Assessing growth trends/emerging markets • Guiding strategic planning To find out how Randall-Reilly’s RigDig® can power your marketing efforts, call us at (800) 633-5953, ext. 1132 to schedule a demo.

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Marketplace

High-powered, efficient brushed alternators LoadHandler Power Products’ family of alternators now includes a variety of brushed alternators designed for high power output and high efficiency.

Application-specific LoadHandler brushed alternators are available in 150-, 160- and 200-amp versions for 12V systems, the company says.

Each brushed design alternator from LoadHandler is available in J180 and pad mount configurations and includes a heavy-duty bearing, rectifier and diode for increased service life and performance in extreme operating environments. LoadHandler 160-amp and 200-amp models also feature a dual internal fan design that increases service life by maintaining optimal bearing temperature during operation for minimal heat damage. Each alternator carries a one-year, partsonly warranty, the company says.

New bearing applications MAHLE Aftermarket’s Clevite brand has three coated bearing applications for high horsepower engines designed to add durability and less distortion at higher RPM levels.

Clevite says new stock options include a performance coated H-Series connecting rod bearing set for the GM 200-229 cid V6 (Part No. CB-1227HK).

The new H-Series connecting rod bearing set features a fluoropolymer-based coating that adds protection in extreme weather, reduces friction to fight dry starts and ensures durability with less wear, the company says.

MAHLE says Clevite also offers V-Series bearings for the Dodge Cummins 5.9-liter with a performance coating (Part Nos. CB-1413VK and MS-2328VK) for engines that push 2,500 hp. The coated bearings reduce friction and drag for increased horsepower and resist breakdown under high-load conditions, the company says.

Clevite also offers a Teflon-based, coated camshaft bearing set for the Generation V GM 6.2-liter V-8 small block (Part No. SH2231S) that may be used for high output boosted LT1 and LT4 engines that have increased valve spring pressures, the company says.

Heavy-duty storage slide Accuride International has launched its AL4160 super heavy-duty aluminum slide in the U.S. The company says the slide is a strong but light solution that combines a full aluminum body with stainless steel components for transportation and industrial applications.

Features of the slide include a high load rating (up to 661 lb.), corrosion resistance, low profile (1.04 in. of side space) and full extension, Accuride says.

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In-cab power source PowerDrive introduces its 1,000-watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter. Designed to provide clean, continuous power for sensitive electronics, such as tablets, LED TVs and laptops, PowerDrive says the inverter is engineered to produce a smooth consistent wave while providing power equivalent to that located in a home, with no lines on screens or interruption in sound quality.

PowerDrive says its inverters now feature upgraded charging ports that include a standard USB 2.4 amp port and a USB-C 3.0 amp (15-watt PD) port. Several models also are Bluetooth-enabled to pair with the PowerDrive app, enabling users to customize settings; check the inverter for battery voltage, output power and product temperature; and power the inverter on and off remotely.

Cleaning system for reefer, dry van trailers Istobal introduces its HW’Intrawash Cleaning and Sanitizing System for refrigerated and dry van trailers and shipping containers.

The company says the system is designed to decrease cleaning time and water and chemical usage by using a high-pressure pumping system to deliver 33 gpm at 1,100 psi and a chemical dosing system with multiple programs that can be adjusted for each fleet’s concentration, quantity and reaction time requirements. It is engineered to clean and sanitize a 53-ft. trailer in about six minutes, Istobal says.

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