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6/28/24

Safety Tools Truck Drivers Need to Have

Garmin - DriveAssist 51 LMT-S 5" GPS with Built-In Camera and Bluetooth, Lifetime Map and Traffic Updates - Black

Truck drivers perform an important but dangerous work. Safety then should always be a top priority whether on the road or loading and unloading the boxes and crates they're required to deliver. The task proves to be more tiresome particularly if the driver works alone with no companion to help in the loading and unloading aspect.

In the U.S., trucks are among the vehicles that often get involved in road accidents. In 2000 alone, the Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that more than 450,000 big trucks encountered accidents.

Currently, there are approximately 3.5 million truck drivers in the U.S. handling different types and sizes of trucks. These people should have undergone the necessary CDL or commercial driver's license training that is one of the important qualifications considered by companies when hiring truck drivers.

Trucks need to have the right safety tools that will allow them to fix problems during their travel and navigation devices to guide them when locating their destination. For those who transport huge boxes, they also need to have the proper equipment such as levers for loading and unloading purposes.

GPS navigation device - This is a very important tool that helps drivers locate the place they're going to. With its small monitor, drivers will be able to view a map of their area of destination. There are also units that have voice features and tell drivers the streets they can take.

Vehicle backup camera - As it's hard to monitor a truck's blind spots, having a backup camera is very helpful. This is normally attached on the top part of the license plate and is connected to a monitor positioned on the dashboard or sun visor. With this tool, a driver can easily check what's behind the truck while backing up or moving along the highways before changing lanes or making turns. It's an affordable device that's a must today for all types of vehicles.

Jack and tire iron - You never know when you'll get a flat tire or your tires experience low pressure the reason why having a jack in your truck is very important. The CDL training course will teach you the right way of changing tires so this should not be a problem in case you encounter flat tires during your travel.

Tire chains - Also known as snow chains, these devices are meant to provide traction when you're driving through snow and ice. These are fitted in the drive wheels of the vehicle and are required by transportation authorities during snowy conditions. Usually, they are sold in pairs. When these are in place, you have also to reduce your speed to ensure the safety of your vehicle.

Other than these devices, a truck driver traveling on long hauls should also bring along water, food and extra clothing. There are times when you need to travel through desert areas or places wherein there are no restaurants along the highways so it's always best to be ready.

Getting your CDL training should provide you with the appropriate knowledge on truck driving safety and the tools you need to have while traveling. So never ignore its value for it will benefit you for the long term.

By

For great information on CDL training, visit Truck-School.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kalyan_Kumar

6/25/24

Driving Tips for Wet Roads



After the Woodbridge Township, New Jersey Mayor explains the unique vehicle needs of municipalities, the various payment options available to cities wanting to bundle fleet vehicle purchases with upfits are detailed by a Ford Pro FinSimple Municipal Finance Operations Specialist.


6/22/24

New Chevy Silverado HD. Own Work. Own Play. Own Life. | Chevrolet


The new Chevy Silverado HD is hauling in more power, a new interior, and our most revolutionary available towing tech ever. Own the HD life. Learn more about Silverado HD here: https://www.chevrolet.com/trucks/silv...

6/19/24

TOP 10 BEST ELECTRIC TRUCKS 2023



But what's the best electric truck out there? We've done the research and put together a list of the 10 best electric trucks for 2023. Watch this video to find out more!

2.13M subscribers

6/16/24

Our NEW 2024 Ford F450 Platinum FULL EXTERIOR Review!


Links to many of the accessories I review and use from etrailer! https://www.etrailer.com/infm-big-tru... RV Towing Upgrades *Reese Goosebox Gen3: https://www.etrailer.com/Fifth-Wheel-... *B&W OEM Gooseball: https://www.etrailer.com/Gooseneck/B-... *B&W Fifth Wheel Hitch: https://www.etrailer.com/Fifth-Wheel/... *B&W Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch: https://www.etrailer.com/Fifth-Wheel/... *Equalizer Weight Distribution Hitch: https://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distr... *B&W Tow and Stow Hitch: https://www.etrailer.com/Ball-Mounts/... *Curt Drop Hitch: https://www.etrailer.com/Drop-Hitch/C... RV and Trailer Equipment Upgrades *RoadArmor Suspension Equalizer: https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Leaf... *HD Shackle Straps and Wet Bolts: https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Leaf... *RV Suspension Upgrade (travel trailer, Cargo Trailer): https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Leaf... *16” G Rated Wheel Tire Combo: https://www.etrailer.com/Boat-Trailer... *Goodyear Endurance 15” Trailer Tire: https://www.etrailer.com/Tires-and-Wh... *Goodyear Endurance 16” Trailer Tire: https://www.etrailer.com/Tires-and-Wh... *Furrion Wireless Backup Camera: https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Camera/Fu... *Furrion Wireless Side and Rear Cameras: https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Camera/Fu... *Phoenix Electric Trailer Jack 4,000 lbs: https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Jack... *GlowStep Revolution Steps: https://www.etrailer.com/RV-and-Campe... *LCI Solid Steps: https://www.etrailer.com/RV-and-Campe... *LCI AutoLeveling System: https://www.etrailer.com/Camper-Jacks... *Reese Fifth Wheel Dual Motor Landing Gear: https://www.etrailer.com/Camper-Jack/... Must Have Equipment! *6000 Watt Generator Kit: https://www.etrailer.com/Generators/e... *3200 Watt Inverter Generator: https://www.etrailer.com/Generators/e... *2000 Watt Inverter Generator: https://www.etrailer.com/Generators/e... *30amp to 50amp Power Cord: https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Wiring/Mi... *LED RV Replacement Taillights: https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Ligh... *Fastway Tire Chocks: https://www.etrailer.com/Camper-Jack/... *RV Foam Sprayer: https://www.etrailer.com/Car-Cleaner/... *RV Soap: https://www.etrailer.com/Car-Cleaner/... Truck Upgrades *Airlift 5000 Airbag Kit: https://www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-Vehi... *Airlift Wireless Air Controller: https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-... *Access Toolbox Bed Cover: https://www.etrailer.com/Tonneau-Cove... *Bedrug Bed Liner: https://www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-Truc... *Floormats: https://www.etrailer.com/s.aspx?qry=F... *Etrailer.com is the official sponsor of my channel.  Equipment reviewed may have been provided by them as part of that sponsorship. All reviews are honest and unbiased. This channel is for entertainment purposes, and you should always do your own research prior to making a decision! Sponsored items may be in this video. Always research multiple sources before making a purchasing decision. As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchase

6/13/24

How Odometer Fraud Became A $1 Billion Problem


Odometer fraud is a stealthy and a lesser known form of fraud that is hard to detect, but can cost a car buyer thousands. Fraudsters will roll back odometers on cars to hide the vehicle's mileage in the hope of extracting a better price. And as used car prices rose during the pandemic, odometer fraud could've become a more attractive way to make some extra bucks. About 10.5 million cars on American roads have had their odometers tampered with in some way, and about 1.9 million individuals have had their odometers rolled back, according to Carfax. The average cost to those affected is about $4,000 in addition to higher taxes. It is enough of a problem that there is even a federal Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation at the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administation (NHTSA) It is staffed by agents investigating these types of crimes. The department estimates that about 400,000 vehicles are sold each year with false odometer readings. Chapters: 0:00 — Introduction 01:28 — Chapter 1: Fraud 03:10 — Chapter 2: Enforcement 05:03 — Chapter 3: Victims 09:56 — Chapter 4: The Problem of Technology Produced by: Robert Ferris Editor: Jacob Harrell Camera: Shawn Baldwin Senior Managing Producer: Tala Hadavi Graphics: Jason Reginato » Subscribe to CNBC: https://cnb.cx/SubscribeCNBC

6/10/24

Fleet 101: Understanding Truck Tires and Rolling Resistance

 


Do you genuinely understand how rolling resistance in commercial truck tires impacts your operation? Understanding rolling resistance, its impacts, and why it matters is vital for fleet managers looking to enhance fuel economy and reduce operating costs.

Several factors impact rolling resistance, including tire design, pressure, load distribution, road conditions, weather, and speed. Adopting strategies such as selecting low rolling resistance tires, maintaining proper tire pressure, conducting regular tire maintenance, and load management can help minimize rolling resistance.

Read on for more information and tips! Want to make sure you never miss an update from Work TruckSubscribe to our eNewsletter today! 

What is Rolling Resistance?

In simplest terms, rolling resistance is the amount of energy a tire uses over a specific distance. It can also be explained as the force resisting the motion when a tire rolls on a surface. Rolling friction is a key factor contributing to rolling resistance, affecting the energy losses and overall efficiency of a vehicle. It’s a crucial factor in the physics of moving vehicles, directly influencing fuel consumption, vehicle performance, and how fast tires wear.

Rolling resistance impacts fuel consumption and vehicle performance by indicating how different factors like tire pressure and load affect the resistance a vehicle faces.

When a tire rolls, it deforms and dissipates energy as heat, necessitating additional energy (fuel) to maintain speed and overcome this resistance.

According to Continental Tire, rolling resistance accounts for up to 30% of a truck’s fuel consumption and C02 emissions. Whether you operate a small fleet of a few trucks or a large fleet with several hundred vehicles, ANY fuel savings and emissions reductions can add up.

Understanding 'Tire Hysteresis' in Commercial Fleets

No, we didn't start making up words - tire hysteresis happens when a tire flexes as it touches the surface of the road. This process leads to an energy loss that reduces forward momentum. 

This one element can equate to 85-90% of a tire's rolling resistance, according to research.  

Additional Factors Impacting Truck Tire Rolling Resistance

Several factors can affect the rolling resistance of truck tires, including:

  • Tire Design: A tire’s materials and structure influence its flexibility and deformation while rolling. Tires with low rolling resistance typically use special rubber compounds and tread designs.

  • Tire Pressure & Alignment: Underinflated tires have a higher rolling resistance than properly inflated ones. Maintaining optimal tire pressure is critical to minimizing resistance. Proper inflation pressure directly impacts rolling resistance by stabilizing tire temperature, reducing tire deflection, and stiffening the tire belt. Additionally, properly aligned tires will wear evenly and smoothly, reducing friction with the road.

  • Load Distribution: The weight of the vehicle and its cargo also affects rolling resistance. Heavier loads increase resistance, requiring more fuel to maintain speed. Where you place your loads can also increase rolling resistance and uneven tire wear.

  • Tire Deflection: Minimizing tire deflection is crucial for reducing energy loss. Engineering tires to minimize deflection can significantly lower rolling resistance, contributing to better fuel efficiency.

  • Tire Width: The width of a tire plays a significant role in its rolling resistance. Wider tires, which have become more common in recent years, can increase rolling resistance, affecting fuel efficiency.

  • Road Conditions: Surface texture and terrain play a significant role. Smoother surfaces offer less rolling resistance than rough or off-road conditions.

  • Weather: Higher temperatures can soften tire rubber compounds, improving grip but increasing rolling resistance.

  • Speed: The effect of rolling resistance becomes more pronounced at higher speeds, making it an important consideration for long-haul operations.

According to Continental Tire, rolling resistance is one of five sources, including gravity, aerodynamics, inertia, and mechanical friction, which must be overcome for a work truck to move forward.

Why Does Rolling Resistance Matter to Commercial Work Truck Fleets? 

Rolling resistance is critical for fleet managers because of its impact on fuel economy. A lower rolling resistance means the vehicle consumes less fuel to maintain speed, directly translating to cost savings. 

For fleets operating across vast distances, even a slight improvement in fuel efficiency can significantly reduce operational expenses.

Furthermore, reducing rolling resistance contributes to a fleet's environmental sustainability efforts. Lower fuel consumption means reduced greenhouse gas emissions, helping fleets to meet regulatory requirements and environmental targets.

Strategies to Minimize Rolling Resistance in Truck Tires

So, can fleet managers make any impact when reducing rolling resistance on their fleet tires? Can rolling resistance be avoided? Not completely, but work truck fleet managers can adopt several strategies to minimize rolling resistance and optimize fuel efficiency. By implementing these strategies, fleet managers aim to overcome rolling resistance, which is crucial for maintaining steady speed on level ground and optimizing fuel efficiency.

  • Select Low Rolling Resistance Tires: Consider those specifically designed for low rolling resistance when choosing tires. These tires can help achieve better fuel efficiency without compromising safety or performance.

  • Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Regularly check and maintain tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Implementing a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) or automatic tire inflation system (ATIS) can automate this process.

  • Perform Regular Tire Maintenance: Routine inspections and maintenance, including checking treadwear, alignment, and balance, can prevent uneven wear and extend tire life, reducing rolling resistance over time. Replacing worn tires saves more than fuel: it can also help avoid dangerous blowouts.

  • Keep an Eye on Load Management: Consider vehicle weight, how you distribute your cargo, and how much your load weighs. Efficiently managing vehicle and cargo weight can also help minimize rolling resistance. Use load optimization strategies to distribute weight evenly and avoid overloading.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lauren Fletcher

Lauren Fletcher

Executive Editor - Fleet, Trucking & Transportation

Lauren Fletcher is Executive Editor for the Fleet, Trucking & Transportation Group. She has covered the truck fleet industry since 2006. Her bright personality helps lead the team's content strategy and focuses on growth, education, and motivation.

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