Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Pickup Trucks 101: Gas Vs. Diesel

If you are in the market for a new pickup truck, you may be wondering if you should get a gas engine or a diesel engine since there are significant differences between the two. Those differences vary for mid-size, light-duty full-size and heavy-duty full-size pickups.

Which is best for you? Let's look at the differences of the two engine types, focusing not only on the engines themselves, but also on the components that are different between them.

Read the whole story at: http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2017/08/pickup-trucks-101-gas-vs-diesel.html

Sunday, August 27, 2017

Highway Products | Warehouse Walkthrough


Products, Inc. was founded in 1980 and we have been fabricating aluminum ever since. We back all of our products with a Lifetime Warranty.

Friday, August 25, 2017

2018 Ford F-150 Engines Add Power, Efficiency

Photo of 2018 F-150 XL courtesy of Ford.

Ford is revamping its F-150 engine lineup for 2018 to offer a more efficient V-6 and more powerful V-8 in a lineup that will also include a diesel option for the first time, the company has announced.

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For 2018, a 3.3-liter V-6 adds dual port and direct-injection technology to provide more power and torque (plus eight to 290 hp and plus 12 to 265 lb.-ft.) than the outgoing 3.5-liter V-6, along with a projected improvement in fuel economy. This base engine provides a 5% better power-to-weight ratio compared to the 2014 F-150 powered by the 3.7-liter V-6, according to Ford.

The new 2.7-liter EcoBoost increases torque by 25 lb.-ft. to 400 lb.-ft. Horsepower remains at 325 hp. The engine will now be paired with Ford's 10-speed transmission.

The F-150's 5.0-liter V-8 adds 10 horsepower to 395 hp and increases torque by 13 lb.-ft. to 400 lb.-ft. The engine will also be paired with the 10-speed automatic.

Power ratings for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost (375 hp and 470 lb.-ft.) and 3.5-liter high-output EcoBoost (450 hp and 510 lb.-ft.) remain unchanged.

Ford will also offer a 3.0-liter Power Stroke V-6 diesel in the spring of 2018. Ford hasn't released power ratings for that engine yet.

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

IMPROVE YOUR AIR COMPRESSOR’S PERFORMANCE THIS WINTER


Though it may feel like summer just started, the reality is that fall is just around the corner, and with it comes the rain, frost, ice, and in most cases, snow. Now is the time to start planning and ensuring that this winter your equipment is ready to work as hard as you do in the freezing temperatures.

Think back to last year’s winter season, did your air compressor let you down in any of the following ways?

• Refused to start

• Broke down frequently

• Caused a cumbersome safety hazard while parked on the side of the road

• Required maintenance to be done standing in the truck bed or on a ladder next to your truck

• Required snow and slush to be dug out from around the deck-mounted unit so it could warm up enough to run

If any of these challenges sounded familiar, then it’s time to consider upgrading to a VMAC UNDERHOOD rotary screw air compressor. Here’s how a VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor solves each of these issues:

RELIABILITY

VMAC UNDERHOOD70 Installed on Truck
The last thing you need when working outside in the elements is difficulty starting your equipment, or an unexpected breakdown on the jobsite. The VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor is very reliable, and proven to operate in extreme cold conditions. Manufactured in North America in an ISO 9001:2015 certified facility, VMAC air compressors and multipower systems meet high quality standards, and are backed by an industry-leading Lifetime Warranty (Limited).

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance costs are greatly reduced by investing in the UNDERHOOD air compressor as high quality aluminum parts, and few moving pieces means VMAC air compressors require less maintenance and servicing than a reciprocating air compressor. A VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor also requires less maintenance than a hydraulic deck-mounted or engine driven air compressor because there is no hydraulic or engine-related components to maintain. To ensure the best performance, regular compressor maintenance is recommended by VMAC.

SAFETY

Above-deck air compressors can cause a major safety hazard in snowy and icy conditions. Operators have to climb into the back of a snow and ice-filled truck bed to dig out the air compressor to allow it to warm up enough to function. In addition, parking a tow-behind on the side of the road to conduct maintenance is challenging and dangerous, especially in bad weather. By having the UNDERHOOD air compressor stored safely under the hood, boots are kept on the ground, ensuring the safety of operators, and limiting OSHA and WCB concerns and claims.

COLD WEATHER STARTING

The VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor is mounted directly on your truck’s engine, which warms up the compressor on the way to the jobsite, and keeps it warm and protected from the elements, even when temperatures drop well below freezing.

Working outside in harsh winter conditions can be challenging enough, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. The VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor relieves common pain points that many operators suffer from each winter, from decreased productivity to unsafe working conditions. Waiting for an air compressor to warm up, climbing in the back of a slippery truck to dig out equipment, and conducting maintenance on the side of the road in dangerous driving conditions are just some of the challenges that you can take out of the equation with a VMAC UNDERHOOD air compressor. So when planning your investments for this winter, include an upgrade to a VMAC UNDERHOOD rotary screw air compressor, contact sales@vmacair.com.

Learn more about VMAC’s line of UNDERHOOD air compressors, ranging from 30 CFM up to 150 CFM outputs.

Monday, August 21, 2017

TRANSFER FLOW - INCREASE YOUR CAPACITY FOR FUEL AND PROFITS!


A Transfer Flow fuel tank installed on your work truck allows you to spend less time at the fuel pump and more time on the job. Increased capacity gives you the option to shop for the best fuel prices, and save money by purchasing more fuel at one time.


With almost 35 years of engineering and manufacturing fuel tank systems, some of the biggest and best companies trust Transfer Flow for their fuel system needs. To increase the driving range on one vehicle or a fleet of vehicles, we have the manufacturing capabilities and product diversity to help you grow your business.

Increase your capacity for fuel and profits by contacting us at 800-826-5776 or visit our website at transferflow.com.

Transfer Flow – we fuel YOUR success!

Saturday, August 19, 2017

Boss TGS Spreaders disperse deicing materials quickly and efficiently

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The TGS Spreader series from BOSS is the easiest way to arm yourself against all things snow and ice. BOSS tailgate-mounted spreaders attach easily and disperse deicing materials quickly and efficiently to make your job as smooth and steady as possible. All TGS Spreaders are built heavy-duty to handle harsh conditions quickly and efficiently, because BOSS knows the faster you can RESTORE ORDER to your community, the better.
  • Low Profile Design Poly Hopper is designed so that your vision is not obstructed.
  • Solid Poly Hopper Cover is designed to last longer and prevent moisture from entering the hopper.
  • Top Screen with Bag Splitter easily opens bags and filters deicing material.
  • Enclosed 12-Volt Electric High-Torque Motor completely sealed and enclosed.

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Tommy Gate's G2 Series Liftgate



Tommy Gate's G2 Series is the latest in parallel-arm technology. Dual hydraulic cylinders apply direct power to both sides of the platform for increased consistency in motion and stability. With reduced maintenance requirements, wide variety of platform options, and vast hitch compatibility, G2 Series hydraulic lifts are a strong, versatile lift that are convenient, efficient, and make trucks work better.

Liftgate Features

    Dual hydraulic cylinders
    Maintenance-free components
    Recessed control
    Larger platforms
    Fully-enclosed hydraulic system

Tuesday, August 15, 2017

Venturo VC1000 Euro-Style Van Crane Demo


Check out this quick demonstration of the proper procedures to operate the Venturo VC1000 Van Crane.

Sunday, August 13, 2017

Major Navistar Fleet, Mesilla Valley Transportation, Adopts eNow Auxiliary Solar System

Mesilla Valley Transportation recently purchased close to 1,000 eNow energy systems for their fleet of Navistar trucks. eNow and Mesilla Valley Transportation (MVT) will showcase the eNow solar auxiliary power system during the NACFE “Run on Less” program taking place September 5 to 24.

  

 This collaboration is the result of eNow’s work in the industry with multiple truck manufacturers and major fleets. As an example, Navistar’s SuperTruck program demonstration vehicle, CatalIST, recently exceeded the improvement goals set by the Department of Energy for the SuperTruck program. CatalIST achieved a freight efficiency improvement of 104% compared to the control vehicle, sipping diesel at 13 MPG. The vehicle also demonstrated 50.5% Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) with plans for Navistar to increase that to 55% BTE. As part of its efforts to create the ultimate fuel-efficient truck, Navistar tested eNow’s solar energy system on its SuperTruck at Navistar Proving Grounds.

     Simultaneously to Navistar’s testing, Mesilla Valley Transportation (MVT) tested multiple systems on their fleet. “We’re always looking for innovative, more effective and efficient ways to operate,” said Royal Jones, CEO and President of MVT. “Our daily idle time is less than 6% on the whole company fleet and we utilize electric APUs 100%. Over time we had noticed shortened battery life and shortened alternator life due to the demand on batteries and the fact that we run eight batteries.”

The overall results from deployment of the eNow energy system on MVT’s existing Navistar fleet have proven conclusive over diverse road conditions. MVT noted the following results: “Increased daily run time for auxiliary equipment, such as in-cab HVAC; increased battery life from 6 months to 2 years; saved approximately 3 gallons of fuel per day from reduced engine idling; and decreased maintenance cost due to reduction in engine idling."

     The results from Navistar Proving Grounds, combined with MVT’s own testing, led to the purchase of the eNow energy systems for the MVT fleet.

      "These are exciting times for the transportation industry," says Jeff Flath, President & CEO of eNow. "Everyone is looking at ways to reduce cost, improve efficiency, and help the environment, simultaneously. We are about saving fleets money with our technology first and foremost. However, we also believe that leaving the environment in better shape than we found it is critical as well."

Friday, August 11, 2017

FORD CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF TRUCK HISTORY -- FROM 1917 MODEL TT TO 2017 F-150 RAPTOR


  • Ford celebrates 100 years of leadership, innovation, capability and durability for its iconic trucks – from the Ford TT that kicked off this rich history on this day in 1917 to the new Ford F-Series lineup
  • Henry Ford’s vision to create a vehicle with a cab and work-duty frame capable of accommodating cargo beds and third-party upfit equipment proudly endures a century later in the Built Ford Tough F-Series lineup – from F-150 to F-750 Super Duty 
  • F-Series reigns as America’s best-selling truck for 40 straight years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years, thanks to Ford listening to and understanding the needs of truck owners, developing customer-centric product innovations, and delivering purpose-built capabilities, features and configurations; Ford has sold more than 26 million F-Series trucks in the United States since 1977


DEARBORN, Mich., July 27, 2017 – One hundred years ago today, Ford introduced its first purpose-built truck, the 1917 Ford Model TT, forever changing the auto industry – and the very nature of work itself.

A century later, Ford trucks are among the most iconic vehicles in the world. F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 40 consecutive years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years. In Canada, Ford F-Series has enjoyed 51 consecutive years as best-selling pickup and now marks seven straight years as best-selling vehicle.

Throughout this rich history, Ford continuously has worked to improve its trucks by listening to truck owners and developing new innovations that improve their ability to get the job done. These innovations give today’s Ford truck owners greater towing and hauling capability, advanced engines for improved efficiency, and driver-assist technologies that make it easier and more convenient to operate.

Birth of a legend

Nine years after the first Model T saw Ford customers asking for a vehicle that could haul heavier loads and provide greater utility for work and deliveries. On July 27, 1917, Ford responded with the Model TT, which retained the Model T cab and engine. The Model TT came with a heavier-duty frame capable of carrying one ton of payload. The factory price was $600; 209 were sold that year.

Similar to the Fordson tractor introduced in 1917, Henry Ford envisioned a chassis that could accommodate third-party beds, cargo areas and other add-ons to deliver the increased functionality needed to get work done. It was a formula for success. By 1928, Ford had sold 1.3 million Model TTs before replacing the truck with the more capable Model AA with a 1.5-ton chassis.

Henry Ford marketed his early trucks heavily in rural areas, according to Bob Kreipke, Ford historian. “Model AA trucks in particular had a certain class to them,” he said. “Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday.”

Like the Model TT, the Model AA was available exclusively as a chassis cab offered in two lengths, with new powertrain and axle options for greater capacity. To stay ahead in what had become a hotly competitive business, Ford replaced the Model AA with the even more capable Model BB in 1933. Many were outfitted as mail and freight vehicles, ambulances and stake trucks. Two years later, Ford introduced the 1935 Model 50 pickup, powered exclusively by its famous Ford Flathead V8 engine.

By 1941, Ford had sold more than 4 million trucks. Changing over to war production resulted in the loss of consumer sales but a gain in experience building heavy-duty military truck chassis and four-wheel-drive personnel carriers. A year after consumer production resumed in 1947, Ford leveraged that knowledge to provide even more innovations for its customers.

“After the war, a lot of rural Americans moved to urban and suburban centers looking for work, and many took their Ford pickups with them,” said Kreipke. “Ford saw this as an opportunity, and began work on the next generation of trucks for 1948, what came to be known as F-Series Bonus Built trucks.”

This first-generation F-Series covered Classes 2 through 7 capacities – from the half-ton F-1 to the much larger F-8 cab-over truck. With the arrival of the second-generation F-Series for 1953, Ford increased engine power and capacity, and rebranded the series. The F-1 became the
F-100, while F-2 and F-3 trucks were integrated into the new F-250 line. F-4 became F-350. Class 8 trucks were spun off into a new C-Series commercial truck unit that produced iconic C-, H-, L-, N-, T- and W-Series Ford trucks.

Throughout this period, Ford trucks started looking less utilitarian, sporting two-tone paint, automatic transmissions, and improved heater and radio offerings. New standard features debuted with the 1953 F-100, including armrests, dome lights and sun visors. Lower and with a wider cab, the new truck featured integrated front fenders and a more aerodynamic design.

Then, in 1957, Ford tested out a car-based truck – the Falcon Ranchero. Marketed as “More Than a Car! More Than a Truck!,” this light-duty truck brought car-like amenities to consumers.

In 1961 – 44 years after the Model TT – Ford introduced its fourth-generation F-Series. The company’s revolutionary twin I-beam front suspension debuted in 1965. An upscale Ranger package appeared in 1967. Ads emphasized improved comfort, value and durability, as Ford trucks now offered power steering and brakes, and a lower chassis profile. A larger SuperCab option introduced in 1974 featured more comfortable seating to attract dual-purpose work and family buyers.

With the arrival of the sixth-generation F-Series in 1975, Ford dropped the popular F-100, replacing it with a higher-capacity F-150 pickup to combat the C/K trucks from General Motors. By 1977, F-Series pulled ahead in the sales race, and 26 million trucks later, Ford hasn’t looked back.

That same year, a copywriter for a Ford truck magazine is said to have written three simple words that would come to define the brand – Built Ford Tough. It is more than a slogan – it’s the F-Series brand promise to its owners and the mantra for Ford’s entire truck team.

Trucks were fast becoming universal family vehicles, in addition to being work trucks, according to Kreipke. Instead of renting a truck for a big job or for towing, people now had ones they could use for work during the week, then hitch a trailer to and haul the family in for weekend getaways. Ford trucks were adapting to the changing, more active American lifestyle.

Premium edition trucks, such as the Lariat package introduced in 1978, offered more comfort features including air conditioning, leather trim, and power windows and locks. In 1982, Ford charted a different course with an all-new compact truck – Ranger. Versatile and efficient, Ranger quickly built a reputation for being tough and capable, leading it to thrive in diverse markets around the world. Now, after a seven-year hiatus, Ford is reintroducing an all-new Ranger in North America in 2019.

Expanding the Built Ford Tough Lineup

Ford reset the benchmark again in 1998 with the introduction of F-Series Super Duty. Engineered for fleet and heavy-duty work use, Super Duty – from the F-250 all the way up to the F-750 – more clearly defined Ford trucks for a growing base of commercial applications.

With an expanding lineup of F-Series trucks, the company added high-end trim and technology packages to meet customers’ diverse needs. The addition of King Ranch, Platinum and Limited model trucks provided more luxury content along with improved functionality and capability. Features such as premium leather-trimmed seating, SYNC® with navigation, sunroofs and heated seats, along with gross vehicle weight and tow ratings in the 15,000-pound range combined to deliver on the Built Ford Tough brand promise.

While Ford worked to continuously increase truck capabilities, the company made bold investments in efficiency, too. Powerful, yet efficient EcoBoost® V6 engine technology debuted for 2011, providing customers with better fuel economy and power. This was followed by the industry’s first high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body for the 2015 F-150, providing customers the “and” solution of greater efficiency and more capability. Two years later, 2017 Super Duty trucks also got lighter-weight high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy bodies – a savings Ford reinvested in providing best-in-class towing and hauling capability.

Innovation on the performance front continued, too, with Ford leading the way in the specialty truck segment. Early examples include Harley-Davidson F-150 and F-150 SVT Lightning. Then came Raptor – the first off-road trophy truck from a major manufacturer.

Inspired by desert racing and designed specifically to meet the needs of off-road truck enthusiasts, the purpose-built F-150 Raptor set the bar high for off-road performance. Today’s second-generation 2017 F-150 Raptor features a 450-horsepower EcoBoost V6, 10-speed transmission, and segment-exclusive Terrain Management System™ with electronic-controlled transfer case and differentials.

Ford is credited with putting the world on wheels, and Ford trucks helped build America. “Ford trucks carried the loads, the people and the products necessary to get the job done,” Kreipke said.

ABOUT FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 203,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.​​

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

WEATHER GUARD | EZGLIDE2 Drop-Down Ladder Rack Walk Around


The EZGLIDE2 Drop-Down Ladder Rack System. Take a Walk Around a van and see how easy it is to use and install. The easiest, safest ladder rack available.

Learn more at: http://www.weatherguard.com/



Monday, August 7, 2017

Henke - 100 Years of Innovation and Performance

Since 1916, Henke has been providing innovation and excellence to the snow management industry. We are proud of our heritage, and we look forward to our next century of service to those who clear the way.

Henke Today

Today's Henke
A century in the making, Henke Manufacturing has evolved to become an industry leader in designing and building a full line of first quality, commercial duty snow management equipment and allied products.

Our commitment to superior product design and exceptional performance continues to fuel the growth of the Henke brand. Our products are focused on meeting the snow management challenges faced by city/county/state governmental agencies, as well as the surface maintenance operations of commercial and industrial facilities.

Henke’s broad product line provides a wide range of snowplows and spreaders, along with hitches, attachments and accessories. We support our products with a robust Parts Department and responsive Service Department. Centrally located in the greater Kansas City area, Henke offers its products through a network of commercial truck and construction equipment dealers throughout the United States and Canada.

Learn more at: http://henkemfg.com/about/


Saturday, August 5, 2017

HOW LUBE TRUCKS INCREASE EFFICIENCY

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LUBE TRUCKS have become some of the most important tools that a construction, demolition, or mining company can invest in. These support vehicles are capable of keeping even the largest fleets of work trucks and other machines stocked with the lubricants, antifreeze, grease, and other fluids that they need for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Here are a few of the main benefits that lube trucks have to offer:

Learn more at: http://www.taylorpumpandlift.com/products/lube-trucks/



Thursday, August 3, 2017

Selecting The Correct Venturo Crane

Three Steps to Help Determine What Venturo Crane Best Fits a Given Situation:

Determine What Size of Crane is Needed based on Foot Pound Rating required.


  • Foot Pound Rating — based on Foot Pound Rating required. To find out what the foot pound rating should be —find out the weight of the max load that will be lifted & what would be the max distance that load will be moved away from the center line of the crane—Using those two numbers you can determine Foot Pound Rating by multiplying those numbers together — the resulting number would be the foot pound rating of the size of the crane needed.

  • Note: Venturo HT and ET cranes are numbered in Foot Pound Ratings—ie—ET12 is 12,000 foot pound crane / HT25 is a 25,000 foot pound crane / HT50 is 50,000 foot pound rated crane; etc.

Example 1: Max weight to be lifted is 5000 lbs. The crane has to take 5000 lbs. a distance of 10’ away from the center line of the crane. 5000 lbs. x 10 feet would be 50,000 which would mean a 50,000 foot pound rated crane is needed which would be a Venturo HT50.
Example 2: Max weight to be lifted is 1390 lbs. The crane has to take 1390 lbs. a distance of 8’ away from the center line of the crane. 1390 lbs. x 8 feet would mean a 11,120 is needed which would mean a 12,000 foot pound crane is needed, so an ET12 would work in this application.

Example 3: Max weight to be lifted is 2100 lbs. The crane has to take 2100 lbs. a distance of 11’ away from the center line of the crane. 2100 lbs. x 11 feet would mean a 23,100 foot pound rated crane is needed which would mean an ET25 or HT25 would fit this application.
Some HT & ET models have the same max lifting capacity ratings:

HT25 & ET25 — max lifting capacity of 5000 lbs. @ 5 feet from the center line of the crane.

HT30 & ET30 — max lifting capacity of 5000 lbs. @ 6 feet from the center line of the crane.

HT40 & ET36 — max lifting capacity of 6000 lbs. @ 6 feet from the center line of the crane.

What type of crane to use—a “fully hydraulic”— the Venturo HT family of cranes or an “electric-hydraulic” the Venturo ET family of cranes would be determined by the how often the crane is used and what the end user is picking up.

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Andersen Hitches Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection


The Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection from Andersen Hitches is the lightest, strongest, most innovative 5th wheel hitch in the world!

you can order your here! https://andersenhitches.com/Catalog/5...