Alexandria, Virginia – The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) and CarriersEdge are pleased to announce the opening of the 2011 Best Fleets to Drive For contest and survey, an annual evaluation of the best employers in the trucking industry. Now through October 31, 2010, company drivers and owner-operators may nominate their trucking companies by completing an application form on www.BestFleetsToDriveFor.com.      

CarriersEdge, the leading provider of online driver quality improvement solutions, will be conducting the survey for TCA. As in previous years, the company expects that the survey data will reveal a wealth of carrier success stories in areas such as benefits, professional development, driver and community support, safety record, and company culture.

One of TCA’s goals is to ensure that this information gets to the general public, where it can serve as a tool to combat the truck driver shortage.     

“Best Fleets to Drive For promotes the positives. It shows that there are a lot of good opportunities available right now in trucking,” said John Kaburick, chairman of TCA and president of Earl L. Henderson Trucking Company, Salem, Illinois. “When people who haven’t previously considered a trucking career learn that carriers are offering unique bonus systems or perks like gym memberships, that could be just the incentive they need to give those companies – and the trucking industry in general – more serious consideration.”

Another goal of the survey is to focus attention on promoting the companies that are already doing a good job, and push others to follow in their footsteps – continually improving the overall average and status quo.      

“Being listed as a Best Fleet to Drive For has a cascading effect,” said Mark Murrell, president of CarriersEdge. “Companies represented in the survey get a lot of positive P.R., which results in more drivers wanting to work for them. Other carriers want the same competitive advantage, so they strive to implement similar or better features within their own companies. The end result is an improved trucking industry for everyone concerned.”      

The recognition is good for driver morale, too. Richard Bailey, president of Boyd Bros. Transportation, the overall winner in last year’s Best Fleet for Company Drivers category, said, “We couldn’t have won as a Best Fleet without our drivers speaking up, asserting that they like what we are doing and are happy driving for us. Such word of mouth is a powerful thing and goes a long way toward improving driver satisfaction.”

The survey is open to all for-hire trucking companies with 10 trucks or more, whether TCA members or not. These are evaluated against a broad range of criteria reflecting current HR best practices. Nominations must originate from one or more company drivers and/or owner-operators affiliated with the carrier. Initial information provided by the nominator will be further corroborated through interviews with the company’s management and an additional random sampling of the company’s drivers. Top finishers will be identified as Best Fleets to Drive For, and the highest scoring fleets in each of the Company Driver and Owner-Operator categories will be named that category’s overall winner.

To view best practices from last year’s survey as well as profiles of the overall winners, visit www.BestFleetsToDriveFor.com.

LEXINGTON, S.C.  – Southeastern Freight Lines, a regional less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation services provider, is introducing a service feature new to the LTL industry: Estimated Time of Delivery (ETD). Southeastern can now estimate the delivery of a shipment within a two-hour window and provide this information to customers via the Internet, PDAs and mobile phones.

Previously, customers could visit various reports online to see that a shipment was out for delivery, but they had to call the service center to get an estimate of when the shipment would be delivered. This was usually a “guesstimate” of when the driver would be in the area based on experience. While not always accurate, this was the best that could be done given the technology available.

The new ETD feature is supported by the information technology investments made by Southeastern over the past decade. Southeastern’s Synergy Routing System designs the most efficient route for freight delivery, taking into account customer addresses, appointment times and even the fact that right turns are faster than left turns. Using this data and standard handling times associated with the volume of freight, Southeastern is able to develop a schedule of estimated delivery times. A plus/minus one hour window is added to the computed delivery time to allow for traffic or customer delays.

Once a window of time is established, Southeastern’s Laser Dispatch System provides real-time data communications that show the actual route start time along with the arrival and departure times at each customer stop. This information corrects the original schedule, if necessary, and if a delay impacts the schedule outside the two-hour window, the system automatically adjusts the subsequent deliveries accordingly. The ETD is then displayed on the status report which can be viewed by the customer and service center associates.

“In today’s market, providing customers with the information they need when they need it is just as important as moving the freight, and our customers can always count on Southeastern to be at the forefront of transportation technology,” said Braxton Vick, senior vice president of corporate planning and development for Southeastern Freight Lines. “By making the best use of our onboard computer technologies, satellite and terrestrial communications, geo-coding tools, sophisticated software and the Internet, we are able to keep our customers updated with the most accurate information available.”

About Southeastern Freight Lines

Southeastern Freight Lines, a privately-owned regional less-than-truckload transportation services provider founded in 1950, specializes in next-day service in the Southeast and Southwest and operates 76 service centers in 12 states and Puerto Rico. Southeastern has a network of service partners to ensure transportation services in the remaining 38 states, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Mexico. Southeastern Freight Lines provides more than 99.35% on-time service in next day lanes. A dedication to service quality and a continuous quality improvement process that began in 1985 has been recognized by more than 300 quality awards received from customers and associations. For more information, please visit www.sefl.com.

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.:— Following two rounds of revisions in emissions standards since 2004, problem rates for heavy-duty truck engines in 2010 are nearly twice as high, on average, as rates for engines manufactured prior to these emission changes, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Heavy-Duty Truck Engine and Transmission StudySM released today.

The study finds that 51 percent of owners of one-year-old heavy-duty truck engines in 2010 report experiencing some type of problem. However, prior to the changes in emissions standards that were implemented in 2004 and 2007, only 26 percent of owners of two-year-old truck engines experienced some type of problem.

“Clearly, the emissions requirements have put a burden on engine manufacturers, and the result is that today’s engines—although environmentally improved—are more problematic,” said Todd Markusic, senior director of the commercial vehicle practice at J.D. Power and Associates. “Given the quality issues that arose from the last emission standards redesign in 2007, the new emissions standards in 2010 will no doubt create another challenge for engine manufacturers, but those that best handle the integration of these new standards will have a competitive advantage.”

The study also finds that the number of engine problems increases by 55 percent, on average, after 50,000 miles of usage—up to 80.5 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) from 51.9 PP100. As a result, satisfaction with engines decreases by nearly 40 points (on a 1,000-point scale) after 50,000 miles.

Now in its 14th year, the study measures customer satisfaction with engines and transmissions in one-year-old heavy-duty (Class 8) trucks. Engines from Detroit Diesel and Navistar perform particularly well.

The most-commonly reported engine problems are issues with electronic control module calibration (cited by 14 percent of owners) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve (13 percent).

The 2010 U.S. Heavy-Duty Truck Engine and Transmission Study is based on the responses of 1,682 primary maintainers of one model-year-old heavy-duty (Class 8) trucks. The study was fielded in February and March 2010.

About J.D. Power and Associates

Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction.  The company’s quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually.  For more information on car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

About The McGraw-Hill Companies

Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a global information and education company providing knowledge, insights and analysis in the financial, education and business information sectors through leading brands including Standard & Poor’s, McGraw-Hill Education, Platts, and J.D. Power and Associates. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2009 were $5.95 billion. Additional information is available at www.mcgraw-hill.com/.  

 



 

WASHINGTON  – The American Truck Dealers (ATD) led a coalition of trucking industry executives Wednesday to meet with senior members of the Obama administration and to discuss the state of the industry, the impact of higher costs resulting from new emission mandates and options to boost medium- and heavy-duty truck sales. 

The meeting, held at the U.S. Department of Treasury with Ron Bloom, Obama’s senior counsel for Manufacturing Policy; Kyle Treadway, ATD chairman; Dick Witcher, ATD vice chairman; and Phil Brady, NADA/ATD president, laid out the economic and environmental challenges facing truck purchasers, which has resulted in depressed sales of more than 60 percent compared to four years ago. Other stakeholders at the meeting included truck and engine manufacturers, drivers, lease and rental companies, equipment manufacturers and fleet managers.

“The Obama administration is currently considering additional ways to stimulate the economy and this meeting created a dialogue on how the trucking industry, which employs 7.3 million Americans, can play an important role in the nation’s economic recovery and put people back to work,” said Treadway, president/CEO of Kenworth Sales Company in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Wednesday’s invitation was extended by the White House after ATD, trade associations and truck companies sent a letter to President Obama stressing the importance of the trucking industry to the nation’s economy as well as the fallout which has occurred in truck sales and manufacturing over the past year. Click here for the letter.

In both the letter and the meeting, the trucking coalition urged the administration to consider ways to help stimulate the commercial truck industry, including a proposed temporary 10 percent investment tax credit or “green voucher” towards the purchase of any 2010 emissions-certified trucks and other incentives.

“Due to the 2010 nitrogen-oxide requirements adding almost 10 percent to the cost of a new truck on top of the strained economy, further stimulus is needed to boost the new truck market,” Treadway added. “This would help strengthen our manufacturing base, create jobs and further reduce greenhouse gasses.”

In addition to the tax credit proposal, the coalition highlighted several issues associated with selling trucks in the current marketplace, as well as options to increase commercial truck exports from the United States.

“Our efforts to educate policymakers will continue on Capitol Hill, where we will encourage Members of Congress to work with the White House to consider incentives that will sell more efficient trucks and enhance the likelihood of a sustained recovery,” Treadway said.
Source: NADAFrontPage.com

Tampa, Fla. –  Pegasus TransTech announced that six more independent truck stop/travel centers have signed up to offer TRANSFLO Express® truck stop scanning for their trucking customers. TRANSFLO Express is now available at more than 750 truck stops in the U.S. and Canada including Pilot, Flying J, and Love’s locations.

The new independent locations include:

* PlazaGo just off U.S. 50 in South Hutchinson, Kansas.
* Safeway Travel Center off I-65 in Hope Hull, Ala., just south of Montgomery.
* Ghost Town Fuel Stop & Restaurant on Rt. 20 & 26 in Casper, Wyo.
* Steel City Fuel Center near the junction of I-94 & I-90 (the Indiana Toll Road), in Lake Station, Ind.
* The I-10 Truck Stop off I-10 in Rialto, Ca., just west of San Bernardino.
* Fuel Express just off I-40 in Holbrook, Ariz.

According to Ed Boulis, owner of the I-10 Truck Stop, TRANSFLO Express has been good for his customers and good for business. “A lot of customers come here to use it,” he said.

“I like it,” said Matt Snyder, manager of PlazaGo in South Hutchinson, Kan. “I think it’s going to do great here,”

With TRANSFLO Express, drivers simply hand their documents to a trained cashier for scanning. In seconds, these documents are sent electronically to the fleet for immediate billing and payroll processing. Because TRANSFLO Express expedites document delivery, fleets and drivers get paid faster.

“We welcome our new partners to the TRANSFLO Express network,” said Bob Helms, chairman and CEO of Pegasus TransTech. “We are very pleased that TRANSFLO Express is now available in the unique locations they serve.”

About Pegasus TransTech

Pegasus TransTech Corporation helps transportation companies go paperless, improve operating efficiency, increase profit, and drive consistent, repeatable results by strategically creating images, electronic forms, and Enterprise Workflow Solutions. TRANSFLO Express truck stop scanning from Pegasus TransTech provides same-day access to delivery documents, speeding cash flow and reducing costs.

For additional information, please visit www.pegasustranstech.com or call 800-783-8649 or email info2@PegasusTransTech.com.

Freewheelin' honors Labor Day all week long with a guide to things that are “Made in the USA” -- vehicles, fuel, clothing, musical instruments, hardware, home furnishings, even food.  Hosts Meredith Ochs and Chris T. tell listeners where to find all-American goods and introduce some of the folks who make them and the places they're made. Freewheelin’ with Meredith Ochs and Chris T., a daily high-energy talk show featuring news, pop culture topics and guests from the world of trucking, music and more, airs from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm ET on Road Dog Trucking Radio, SIRIUS channel 147 and XM channel 171. For more information visit www.sirius.com/roaddogtrucking and www.xmradio.com.

KIRKLAND, Wash.,  – Kenworth Truck Company featured a colorful, Kenworth vinyl wrap prototype on its new Kenworth T700 with a 2010 PACCAR MX engine at the recent Great American Trucking Show in Dallas.
 
Developed in conjunction with Sirlin Enterprises, the prototype wrap was shown to customers visiting the Kenworth booth during the show.
 
“We wanted to show customers a new, unique way of spec’ing their Kenworths to further emphasize their commitment and passion for The World’s Best(R) trucks,” said Judy McTigue, Kenworth director of marketing planning and research.
 
Kenworth plans to launch the Kenworth Wrap Program in the near future. The colorful wraps will provide a distinctive and eye-grabbing upgrade, and each design will be available with a large number of solid paint colors. The Kenworth wraps are expected to cover three different levels of detail, offer long-lasting durability, and cost many times less than paint.
 
Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best(R) heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel-saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company’s dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, compressed and liquefied natural gas trucks, and medium duty diesel-electric hybrids. In 2009, Kenworth became the first truck manufacturer to receive the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Excellence award in recognition of its environmentally friendly products. Kenworth’s Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth. A PACCAR Company.

GREEN BAY, Wis. – Schneider Logistics, a leading global logistics provider and part of the Schneider National enterprise, announced today that it has agreed to sell its freight forwarding and customs house brokerage business in the United States and China to Norbert Dentressangle, a major European transportation, logistics and freight forwarding company based in Lyon, France. The transaction, which is expected to be final by October 1, 2010, does not affect Schneider Logistics’ other international supply chain services, including transloading, warehousing, distribution, port dray services, inland logistics management, supply chain management, brokerage or domestic China transportation services.

There will be no job losses incurred through the sale, with all Schneider freight forwarding and customs house brokerage associates in the United States and China becoming employees of Norbert Dentressangle. The sale encompasses seven locations in the United States (San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta, New York and Chicago) and two locations in China (Tianjin and Shanghai).

Norbert Dentressangle, founded in 1979, reported 2009 revenues of (U.S.) $3.5 billion. Today the company has 27,000 employees throughout 355 locations in 17 countries. With more than 6,900 tractors and 8,600 trailers, as well as 5.3 million square feet of warehouse space, Norbert Dentressangle has become one of the top European transportation, logistics and freight forwarding providers. According to Schneider CEO and President Chris Lofgren, the expertise of Schneider’s freight forwarding and customs house brokerage team will enable Norbert Dentressangle to grow its existing business and leverage its European customer base to generate new business in the United States for themselves as well as Schneider’s current customers.

“As we continue to refine our Enterprise strategy, it has become clear that while freight forwarding and customs brokerage is an exciting business with significant potential, it is not part of the strategic focus on our core truckload, logistics and intermodal services. When making strategic decisions like this, our guiding principle is that our people deserve to be aligned with a company that shares our core values and plans to invest in the people, technology and resources to grow the business. The freight forwarding and customs brokerage associates will have great opportunities for growth and success with Norbert Dentressangle,” Lofgren noted.

About Schneider Logistics, Inc.
Schneider Logistics, Inc. is an international logistics provider to Global 2000 companies. Schneider Logistics helps customers capture strategic business value from their supply chains in the form of lower distribution costs, reduced inventory, improved customer service and increased availability to working capital. The company provides end-to-end supply chain management, transportation management and international logistics services.

Schneider Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Schneider National, a premier provider of truckload, intermodal and logistics services. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., Schneider National has provided expert logistics and transportation solutions for 75 years. A $2.9 billion company, Schneider National conducts business in more than 28 countries in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information about Schneider Logistics, visit www.schneider.com.

Heavy haulers that transport loads above 120,000 pounds gross combination weight (GCW) must carefully specify their trucks for both durability and power. An over-spec’d truck may reduce fuel mileage and increase acquisition costs, while an under spec’d truck may not be sufficient move the load, or may increase maintenance costs. The challenge is to achieve the right balance between the truck’s job requirement and expected annual mileage to help produce the lowest operating cost per mile.
 
2010 ENGINES - SCR OR EGR
This year, that challenge is increased with 2010 federal engine emissions standards in the United States and Canada. When it’s time to purchase new trucks, these standards may necessitate some changes to the heavy hauler’s current equipment configurations.
 
“The extent of these changes depends upon each heavy hauler’s choice between two available engine technologies, which may also affect truck performance and operating costs over its lifetime,” according to Samantha Parlier, vocational marketing manager for Kenworth Truck Company in Kirkland, Wash.
 
Heavy haulers can choose an engine aftertreatment approach that utilizes selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology in combination with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), or an in-cylinder approach through increased EGR.
 
Both technologies use EGR to circulate a portion of an engine’s exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to remove particulate matter from the exhaust. A critical difference is the amount of exhaust gas that is recirculated back to the engine; the enhanced EGR approach uses a significantly higher level of recirculated exhaust gases. SCR also mixes a reactant – most commonly a solution of urea and de-ionized water known as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) – with the nitrogen oxides (NOx) in exhaust gases. The exhaust then passes through a decomposition reactor, where the DEF reacts with the NOx to convert it into nitrogen and water.
 
Increased EGR reduces NOx by boosting the amount of exhaust gases in the engine cylinder, then slowing and cooling the combustion process and burning off pollutants. The increased heat created with the enhanced EGR approach requires greater engine cooling capacity. Increased EGR also requires more fuel to be injected into the DPF for active regenerations.
 
“SCR doesn’t rely on engine heat to treat emissions, so SCR-based engines offer the advantage of higher fuel economy,” Parlier said. “Since SCR doesn’t narrow the engine’s maximum speed range for optimum efficiency, or its “sweet spot,” to attain emission reductions, fleets also can still maintain fuel economy at lower or higher engine speeds.”
 
According to Parlier, it is important for heavy haulers choosing SCR to consider DEF tank capacity and placement. “To support SCR system integration, Kenworth has a range of exhaust and DEF tank sizes and locations designed for heavy haulers. This helps heavy haul operators to maintain their wheelbase and body configuration when spec’ing Kenworth trucks with 2010 engines,” Parlier said.
 
“Kenworth’s large DEF tank provides operators with a maximum range of over 5,000 miles between refillings,” she said. “For those haulers where truck frame space is critical, Kenworth provides a 5.6-gallon tank with a clear back of cab option unique to the industry. The tank has a range of more than 1,500 miles between refillings. When combined with a Kenworth SCR and DPF package under the cab access step, there is essentially no impact to the customer.”
 
Not all SCR technology engines are the same, however. “An aftertreatment catalyst using copper zeolite is much more efficient than one with iron zeolite at reducing NOx at normal engine operating temperatures,” Parlier said. “Engines using copper zeolite may enjoy up to an additional 2 percent fuel economy improvement over engines using iron zeolite.” PACCAR engines and Cummins engines both use copper zeolite.
 
ENGINE COOLING
Heavy haulers rarely run trucks with engines under 15 liters. Most choose engines rated at 475 hp and 1,750 lb-ft of torque and higher. Engine cooling is always a serious consideration.
 
“These trucks can spend extended periods pulling a heavy load up hills at slow speeds with little air circulation, so the radiator package is critical,” Parlier said. “Kenworth’s 1,780 square-inch radiator — our largest — and wide hood for the Kenworth T800 help handle the most demanding heavy haul applications.”
 
Parlier recommends dual, 15-inch cowl-mounted air cleaners to keep that big engine breathing easy. “These give the engine cooler air than an under-hood air cleaner, and the 15-inch duals have four times less restriction than the typical single air cleaner,” she said.
 
WHEELBASE AND FRAME RAILS
The truck’s wheelbase is an especially important consideration when spec’ing a heavy hauler. Local length and weight regulations generally dictate the ideal length. “Some states closely follow the Federal Bridge Formula, which can dictate the number of axles required and how they’re spaced,” Parlier said. “However, any longer-than-necessary wheelbases reduce maneuverability, which is critical for negotiating heavy haul tractors on crowded job sites.”
 
To haul heavy loads, frame rails typically need to be reinforced. The amount of reinforcement will depend on the truck’s wheelbase and axle capacities “An inserted 3/8-inch frame is usually required for most heavy haul tractors, but you can get two inserts,” said Kenworth’s Parlier. “The longer the wheelbase and the more axle capacity you add, the more rigid the frame needs to be.”
 
AXLES
The rear axle ratio choice will also affect startability, but choose it carefully to ensure a good balance between cruise speed and low gearing. “Kenworth recommends a startability of 15 percent to 20 percent for most heavy-haul applications. “You typically don’t want to spec anything faster than a 4.11:1 ratio unless you’re running a two-speed rear axle or an auxiliary transmission,” said Parlier. “In extreme applications involving bridge decks or oilfield equipment, you may see ratios upwards of 10:1 or even 12:1.”
 
For haulers running long distances at highway speeds, the ratio chosen should be as low as possible without undermining startability. “As a rule of thumb, pick the rear axle ratio for efficiency on the highway, and get the startability required from your transmission ratios,” said Kenworth’s Parlier.
 
Durability is another issue to consider when spec’ing the rear axles. “The 46,000-pound axles with heavy wall housings are most common for heavy haul tractors. For extreme heavy haul applications, Kenworth offers planetary axles with capacities up to 150,000 pounds,” she said.
 
Traction needs will also dictate axle choices. “We recommend wheel differential locks or a cross lock on at least one drive axle,” said Parlier. “Automatic Traction Control is an option on antilock brake systems that control wheelspin on slippery surfaces, which can be a big help when starting a load on a muddy job site.”
 
Heavy haulers in need of pusher axles to comply with local weight and axle requirements can choose from steerable and non-steerable types. A 20,000-pound steerable is most common, but a 22,000-pound non-steerable is also available if needed. Operators who run non-steerable pushers often have to lift the pusher to negotiate corners or they end up scrubbing the tires. Steerable pushers offer the benefit of improved tire life because the axle will steer through the corner rather than scrubbing the tires. This also reduces the stress on the truck in these situations.
 
“The most versatile configuration is a 22,000-pound steer axle, 46,000-pound tandem drive axles, and a 20,000-pound steerable pusher,” noted Parlier.
 
And fleets running lift axles may want to consider upgrading their braking system. “A four-channel antilock brake system is standard,” said Parlier. “We’d recommend a six-channel system for anyone running lift axles because it will help prevent flat-spotting of the lift-axle tires.”
 
FIFTH WHEEL POSITIONING
Proper fifth wheel positioning is also critical to ensure full use of the rated capacity of all axles, especially the front. “Front axles rated at 20,000 pounds are most common. But a 22,000-pound rating is available for extra-legal loads,” Parlier said.
 
At those kinds of ratings, heavy haulers need wide-aspect front tires not only to handle the load, but also to meet some states’ tire-width requirements. The rule is typically 600 pounds per inch of tire width, but it can get as low as 500 pounds per inch width. “Mounting 425/65R22.5 tires on the front will be good for up to 22,000 pounds on the steer axle in most states,” she said. “You can go to wider 445 section tires to maximize tire width and improve flotation over loose surfaces.”
 
Kenworth takes careful measures to optimize steering geometry and offers among the best-in-class wheel cut with its T800. Parlier recommends a dual steering gear system. Other manufacturers may install a single steering gear with an assist ram. But Kenworth uses dual steering gears on front-axle ratings 16,000 pounds and above to provide among the best system the industry can offer.
 
“Heavy haulers often find themselves on job sites maneuvering at slow speeds, which places a lot of pressure on the steering system,” Parlier said. “Kenworth recommends an oil cooler on the steering system to maintain safe operating temperatures under demanding conditions.”
 
SUSPENSIONS
Rear suspensions on heavy haulers have historically been mechanical types, but air suspensions are also popular. “The ride is better and you have more operational flexibility,” said Kenworth’s Parlier. “By lowering the air suspension, a driver can back under and pick up a lowboy trailer instead of using skid ramps and ramming into the trailer in order to couple it to the tractor.”
 
Kenworth offers different versions of its eight-bag air suspension to suit different applications. The AG460 is commonly used for 46,000-pound tandem axle configurations, and the AG690 can be used for tri-drive applications. Kenworth will still mount skid ramps on the end of the frame for heavy haulers who elect to use them.
 
TRANSMISSIONS
The approach to spec’ing transmissions for heavy haulers is similar to that of power: the more, the better. In this case it’s ratios. Heavy haulers typically choose an 18-speed manual. But in very heavy applications, options include a two-speed auxiliary transmission or two-speed rear axle. In both cases, they double the number of available ratios, allowing improved startability and driveability. A two-speed auxiliary transmission will double the reduction, while a two-speed rear axle will increase the reduction by a third. “A two-speed axle works well up to about 190,000 lbs. GCW, but above that I’d recommend an auxiliary transmission,” Kenworth’s Parlier said.
 
DRIVER PERFORMANCE
Finally, heavy haul truck operators should look at driver performance-related items to help them gain operational efficiencies.
 
Since heavy haulers often deal with large, oversize loads, look at specifying as much glass area as possible and plenty of mirrors, Parlier said. “Four-way adjustable, cowl-mounted mirrors can be complemented with convex mirrors. The cowl mounting helps because the mirrors are not subjected to countless door slams and stay in adjustment longer than door-mounted types.”
 
Parlier suggests picking low-replacement cost windshields, when available. “Most vocational fleets replace at least one windshield side per truck annually. Two-piece flat-glass windshields with roped-in seals can be replaced in 30 minutes for less than a hundred dollars, which can save thousands of dollars over the truck’s life,” he said.
 
Many heavy haulers want a sleeper to enable them to run farther without risking logbook hours violations, but want a more cost-effective solution than paying for the extra length of a big sleeper. Kenworth’s 38-inch AeroCab(R) sleeper offers a comfortable bunk that has become a popular choice for heavy haulers.
 
An extended day cab might be the right choice for those heavy haulers that do not need a sleeper, but are still looking for a little extra room in the cab. The spacious Kenworth Extended Day Cab enhances driver comfort with an additional 6 inches of length and 5 inches of cab height compared to Kenworth’s traditional day cab. The Extended Day Cab also offers 2 more inches behind the wheel, additional leg room, up to 21 degrees of recline in the driver’s seat, and 2 extra cubic feet of storage behind the driver’s seat.
 
For a quieter driver’s office, Parlier recommended Kenworth’s QuietCab(R) sound insulation package. “The QuietCab option reduces in-cab noise by two decibels. That’s the equivalent of turning the sound level down by half,” she said. “A quieter, more comfortable driving environment may help to reduce fatigue and keep drivers more productive.”
 
To enhance truck productivity and the driving experience, consider adding a navigation system like the Kenworth NavPlus(TM), Parlier said. It offers true truck navigation by Garmin, communication, diagnostics, and infotainment technologies. The system, developed on the award-winning Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive software platform, is fully compatible with the Kenworth Electronic Service Analyst (ESA), a computer-base diagnostics tool, which simplifies troubleshooting.

Some good advice and things to consider when spec’ing your next heavy hauler.

Fort Dodge, IA  — Decker Truck Line, Inc. announced their Drivers of the Month for July. Kirby Goos was named the Driver of the Month for the Flatbed Division, and Michael Brown was chosen for the Reefer-Van Division. 

Goos has been driving for Decker for about seven years. He and his wife, Shirley, have eight children and 15 grandchildren. Goos’s favorite way to relax after being on the road is spending time at home with Shirley. He enjoys yard work and riding his motorcycle, and loves to watch Nascar on television. One of the most important pieces of advice Goos gives to new drivers is to ask questions. “That’s one of the best safety tips,” said Goos. “If you don’t know something–ask!” His biggest pet peeve is people who don’t do their job. 

“Kirby is on a dedicated run from Chicago to St. Joseph, Missouri,” said his dispatcher, Sue Anderson. “He will also pick up loads in Sperry to get back to Chicago for his next load there. He is easy to work with, delivers on time and gets along well with customers. I haven’t heard any complaints on his performance. He always completes his computer work correctly and in a timely manner.” 

Michael Brown, the winner for the Reefer-Van division, has a 15-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter. A driver for Decker for four years, Brown says his biggest safety tip for other drivers would be to “avoid distractions, and to expect the unexpected.” He advises new drivers to plan ahead, and tells them that tough times never last, but tough people do! 

The former running back (University of Texas at Austin, 1980-85) watches mostly football and nature shows on television, and he enjoys listening to jazz and is currently listening to a lot of George Clinton. His dispatcher, Michael Kehoe, said Brown is a pleasure to work with. “Michael is always willing to take the load, and he communicates well, insuring an on-time delivery.” 

Founded in 1931, Decker Truck Line, Inc. is a diversified carrier, transporting flatbed, refrigerated and dry van freight to the 48 contiguous states and seven Canadian provinces. Under the sole ownership of Don Decker, Decker’s corporate office is located in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Additional terminals are located in Davenport, Iowa; Mediapolis, Iowa; Mason City, Iowa; Hammond, Indiana; Birmingham, Alabama; Ft. Wayne, Indiana and Missoula, MT.

Newark, N.J.  --  To expand its truckload division, SalSon Logistics took delivery in August of 50 Freightliner Select 2007 or newer tractors.

            “It’s an exciting time at SalSon because we’re growing and are able to offer more than ever to our customers,” says Travis Smith, SalSon executive vice president. “These 50 additional trucks represent our commitment to servicing customers. We want to accommodate the increased business from our existing transportation partners and the addition of some key new partners.”

The new trucks will be utilized in the company’s expanding truckload segment as well as its load-to-ride (LTR) and dedicated fleets.

            A Newark, N. J., based truckload carrier, SalSon Logistics is a full service, 24-hour/7-days-per-week truckload, dedicated contract carriage, LTR, and warehouse provider.  The truckload division is located in Conley, Ga.

            Earlier in the summer, SalSon, a Smartway Partner, added 60 new Wabash Duraplate HD trailers to its fleet. The additional equipment signals SalSon’s dedication to long-term service.

            “We’re ready to service any customer needs right now,” says Smith. “We foresee even more growth on the horizon and we’ll be well prepared to handle it.”

For information about SalSon’s services or career opportunities, visit salson.com.

 

About SalSon Logistics

SalSon comprises four integrated operating companies: SalSon Logistics (Truckload and dedicated carrier), SalSon Xpress (Northeast Region Less than Truckload), SalSon Trucking (Container Freight Station), and SalSon West (Container Freight Specialist). Together, these companies serve the needs of leading manufacturing companies, providing full-service, seamless solutions to the complexities of supply chain management and helping clients achieve a greater return on assets. SalSon’s integrated trucking company, warehousing service and contract packaging are designed to help reduce customers’ supply chain management costs.

BATTLE LAKE, Minn.,  – It’s not often that you’ll hear a truck dealer say “wait.” But, that’s just what Lavel Larson, an owner-operator from Battle Lake, Minn., heard when he visited his dealer to buy a new truck.
 
Larson, who is leased to Valley Express and makes runs to California and the West Coast, was operating a Kenworth T2000 with close to a million miles under the hood. “It was time for a trade-in,” Larson said. “I bought the T2000 back in 2003 and really liked the extra space it offered, and was happy with the performance and fuel economy. I was ready to buy another.”
 
“As a salesman, you certainly want to get a truck sale, but I knew if Lavel waited for the new Kenworth T700 to come out, he’d be more than happy. He’d be ecstatic,” said Joel Hought, a salesman with Wallwork Kenworth – Fargo.
 
“Joel said the new Kenworth T700 offered more room, better amenities and new technology. What he told me and showed me, sold me,” said Larson.  “But he didn’t need to sell me on durability and reliability of the T700 – with all the years driving a Kenworth, I knew what I was getting – a quality vehicle.”
 
Thus, Larson became the first owner-operator to buy the aerodynamic Kenworth T700. According to Larson, things have gone smoothly and the transition to a new 2010 engine – a 500-hp Cummins ISX15 driven through an automated transmission – has been a non-issue as well. “I welcome new technology and had no qualms about buying a truck with the new engine,” Larson said.  “Having to use DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) isn’t a big deal either.”
 
Thus far, fuel mileage is exceeding that of his previous truck, “and it will only get better through the break-in period,” Larson said.  “And the room, quietness and storage in the T700 are terrific.  It was good in my last truck, but this is even better.”
 
Operating an efficient truck is top-of-mind for Larson.  The Kenworth T700 is EPA SmartWay(SM) certified and possesses the least aerodynamic drag of any Kenworth.  His T700 includes stylish aerodynamic chassis fairings, bumper and hood; 19-inch wide side extenders with 7-inch rubber edges; and dual Kenworth aerodynamic heated mirrors. Larson runs fuel-efficient wide-base tires on the drives and has ordered a new trailer with wide-base tires and trailer side skirts to also aid aerodynamics. To help reduce idling – which he reports at 6.6% of engine time – he uses an auxiliary power unit (APU) which utilized Kenworth’s pre-wiring and pre-plumbing package offered at the factory.  To assist with fuel economy, he can take advantage of the standard, high-tech Kenworth Driver Information Center and utilize the Kenworth GPS system to help reduce out-of-route miles.
 
For driver comfort, Larson started by choosing the premium Kenworth Diamond VIT interior. Then, as options, he selected Kenworth’s new drawer style refrigerator; a 4-spoke, leather Kenworth SmartWheel(R) multiplex steering wheel; adjustable, telescoping tilt steering column; and Kenworth Air-Cushion Premium Plus highback heated seats. Larson also chose Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with best in class lighting down the road and an estimated 11-fold increase in bulb life compared to conventional sealed beams, and a 30-inch by 78-inch folding upper bunk with magazine rack.
 
His T700 75-inch AERODYNE(R) sleeper has an 8-foot cathedral ceiling, which opens up the work environment and provides room to stretch out and relax – plus sit upright in the upper bunk. The sleeper, which comes standard with a 42-inch by 80-inch liftable lower bunk, has a pull-out desk, full-length door-enclosed hanging closet, rich-looking wood grain accents, wall-to-wall carpet, and Xenon incandescent bulbs for excellent lighting.
 
The T700’s roomy interior, which features an industry-leading 60-plus cubic feet of storage space and nearly 25 percent more interior volume compared to a similarly specified Kenworth T660, gives Larson plenty of space to handle long trips.  And, there is nearly 30 inches between the driver and passenger seats for easy sleeper access.
 
Larson also went with air disc brakes for the first time and said the stopping distance is shorter. “They’ll also require less maintenance and have a longer life than traditional braking systems.”
 
An owner-operator since 1989, after serving two years as a company driver to learn the ropes, Larson followed a family tradition – his dad was a long-time trucker.  “Truck technology and driver comfort items have really changed and I’m impressed with what the T700 offers and the fuel efficiencies it has.  The fairings really dress up the truck as well.  It’s a great looking truck, comfortable and fuel efficient.  I’m sure I’ll put close to a million miles on this tractor as well.”
 
Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best(R) heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel-saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company’s dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, compressed and liquefied natural gas trucks, and medium duty diesel-electric hybrids. In 2009, Kenworth became the first truck manufacturer to receive the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Excellence award in recognition of its environmentally friendly products. Kenworth’s Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth. A PACCAR Company.

GREEN BAY, Wis. –  Getting financing in today’s economic climate can seem daunting for drivers who want to be their own boss. That’s why Schneider National has introduced a financing program to reduce the barriers for drivers looking to become owner-operators for the first time. The new No Credit Check Smart Start Lease Purchase program is offered by Schneider Finance, a truck-financing affiliate of Schneider National.

Offered in addition to existing Schneider financing programs, the No Credit Check Smart Start Lease Purchase program presents a special, no-money-down, low-monthly-payment leasing option on late-model, gently used trucks that are spec’d for owner-operators and include access to a nationwide maintenance program. Through the No Credit Check Smart Start Lease Purchase program, applicants will not be subject to a credit check to obtain the lease.

“It’s a very tight credit environment, and just because some individuals can’t secure traditional financing doesn’t mean they aren’t qualified from an experience level,” said Steve Crear, general manager, Schneider Finance. “The Smart Start Program offers the no-credit-check option to give new owner-operators peace of mind, knowing they can still pursue a great career opportunity.”

With a variety of financing packages designed to meet almost every credit situation, Schneider Finance specializes in setting up owner-operators with the equipment and financing plans they need to be successful small business owners. Schneider Finance offers a wide range of new and gently used trucks that are spec’d for owner-operators. All trucks also include auxiliary power units for no-idle cooling and heating to control fuel costs and maximize comfort.

“When an experienced driver is considering a new career or resuming a former career as an owner-operator, Schneider Finance takes the time to understand the entire story,” added Crear. “Many people experience bumps along the road when it comes to credit history. Schneider National has been around for 75 years, so we understand what it really takes for an owner-operator to be successful.”

Schneider National has the largest base of freight in the industry, providing owner-operators consistent weekly miles and settlements. Owner-operators who lease with Schneider National have access to the resources they need to lower their operating costs, such as the Purchase Power program that allows drivers to leverage Schneider’s big-company buying power for fuel, maintenance, tires, insurance and more. Schneider owner-operators also have access to the company’s 22 Operating Centers, which offer low-cost food, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi access, fuel and other services. Experienced owner-operators can choose from Schneider National’s percentage or mileage-based lease options (new owner-operators are typically offered the mileage-based lease option only).

For more information about tractor leasing/purchasing with Schneider Finance, contact Schneider Finance at 1-800-28-LEASE (1-800-285-3273). For information about Schneider National owner-operator opportunities, visit www.schneiderjobs.com or call 1-800-44-PRIDE (1-800-447-7433).

Checking out idled trucks used for spare parts during the economic downturn before they return to service will be particularly important after new federal safety regulations go into effect in the Fall of 2010, said Chris Harrison, general manager of CIT Kenworth of Morton, Ill.
 
In 2010, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) implements the Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 (CSA 2010) program, http://csa2010.fmcsa.dot.gov/, which places greater significance on truck maintenance and includes more stringent penalties for violations.
 
Harrison and managers from CIT Group Inc. locations in Joliet and Normal, Ill., offer truck operators several recommendations to accomplish that review from their own customers’ experiences.
 
Andy Cox, service manager for CIT Kenworth of Chicago in Joliet, Ill., said the practice of using idled trucks for spare parts was common among a variety of customers from line haulers to construction companies.
 
Cox recommends a parts inventory and fleet maintenance tracking program, something like the PremierCare Connect system offered by Kenworth Truck Company. The Connect system is particularly useful because they can help fleets keep track of needed repairs, particularly ones identified by the drivers, which CSA 2010 will require. They also link the company’s service department directly to the parts department at the local dealer, Cox said. The hosted system can then be set to automatically order high-demand parts.
 
“One of the issues we run into is where parts have been taken off of sidelined trucks, but no records were ever kept of which parts were removed,” Cox said. “So if they took a fuel pressure sensor, for example, and no one wrote it down, then nobody would notice until somebody tried to start the truck.”  
 
The new CSA 2010 program identifies 10 different groups of parts and accessories that the government considers critical for safe operation. Among them are lamps, reflective devices, electrical wiring, brakes, glazing and window construction, fuel systems, coupling devices including fifth wheels, miscellaneous equipment such as heaters, and frames, cab and body components. So, for any sidelined trucks that fleets will return to service, Harrison and Scott Dehm, body shop manager at Central Illinois Kenworth in Normal, also recommend the following steps:
 

• Check the fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fuel filters before putting idled trucks back into service. During the winter, water or moisture can condensate on top of the fuel tank from the fuel constantly freezing and thawing. The lower the fuel level in the tank, the bigger the problem can be, he added. The algae forms from the condensation, not on the diesel fuel itself, but it can contaminate the fuel.
  

• Do not use diesel additives to treat algae in a fuel tank. The truck should be towed to a repair facility that can drain the fuel tank, the fuel pump and fuel lines, properly dispose of the contaminated fuel and clean the injectors and filters, he added. Using additives inside the tank can make the contamination problem worse, particularly if the truck has a 2007 model or newer engine.  Newer engines depend on a fuel with a very low sulfur content in order to meet the strict emission limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board.
  

• Replace damaged fuel tanks with OEM-quality replacement tanks. TRP Aftermarket Parts offers replacement fuel tanks made by an ISO-certified manufacturer that uses the same thickness and grade of aluminum standards called for in OEM manufacturing.
  

• Check engine oil seals. When trucks sit for long periods of time without being routinely started and allowed to run for brief amounts of time, the rubber in the seals can actually dry out and deteriorate.
  

• Examine drive belts, hoses, fittings and adaptors, plus the exhaust system for leaks. If they need to be replaced, choose quality replacements like those offered by Dynacraft and TRP®.  
  

Harrison said before returning an idled truck to service, it should always be checked out by a trained qualified technician since CSA 2010 establishes vehicle maintenance as one of seven categories under which carriers will be examined. Harrison and Dehm also recommend a number of maintenance steps truck operators and maintenance managers can take to be prepared for CSA 2010:
 

• Wash the truck and trailer routinely, particularly during the winter season to remove chemical de-icers and road salts from trucks and trailers. Routine washings not only prevent corrosion of the body, they also prevent buildup and potential damage to the truck’s and trailer’s electrical system and wheel components including brakes. Routine washings also help prevent build up of road salts on fifth wheels, which can cause them to seize up.  Quality brake components, like the spring brake chambers offered by TRP Aftermarket Parts, feature coatings that protect them from rust jacking caused by chemicals and road salts. However, allowing calcium chlorides and salts to settle on truck and trailer parts for long periods of time can encourage premature damage, particularly if any cracks or chips develop in the protective coating.
  

• Develop a routine maintenance program for trailers that includes periodic inspections and replacement of trailer brakes such as the spring brake chambers offered by TRP. Trailers often sit unused for long periods of time in truck operations.
  

• Consider a replacement program for truck, tractor and trailer lights. New light emitting diode (LED) lighting products, like those available from TRP Aftermarket Parts, can enhance detection of the vehicle or trailer when it’s parked in a dark or dimly lit parking lot or on the side of a road, something that’s particularly important in the dead of winter.
  

• Follow engine manufacturers’ recommendations for regular valve adjustments and DPF filter cleanings, like the FSX cleaning service provided by participating Kenworth and Peterbilt dealers for trucks equipped with 2007 or later compliant emission systems.
  

• Conduct regular analysis of your engine oil condition. This can help you identify potential failures prior to a major expense or downtime.
  

“As with any vehicle or trailer, regular preventive maintenance properly conducted can identify the potential for problems in the shop before they occur on the road or become a violation of the new federal regulations,” Harrison said.   
 
About PACCAR Parts
PACCAR Parts operates a network of parts distribution centers worldwide, which offer aftermarket parts sales support to Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF dealerships around the world. The company offers quality brands that not only meet OEM specifications, but also customers’ expectations regardless which major manufacturer makes their trucks. Among those brands are CLIMATECH, ROADLEVELER, and MIRREX.
 
PACCAR Parts also distributes TRP Aftermarket Parts for commercial vehicles, which are available through a network of authorized retailers that include Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF dealerships. From dump trucks to cement mixers, delivery vans to tractor trailers, school buses to transit buses, TRP offers reliable aftermarket products that are designed and tested to exceed customers’ expectations regardless of the vehicle make, model or age.  For more information, visit www.TRPParts.com.