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

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

Learn more at:

https://www.taylorwing.com/

Warren Mason Demonstrates the Features of the Harbor Contractor Body

Warren Mason with Harbor Truck Bodies gives us a demonstration of the versitile Harbor Contractor body. See more at http://harbortuckandvan.com

Ranger Design Ladder Rack - The Max Rack 2.0

The Ranger Design Max Rack 2.0 drop-down ladder rack is designed for high roof cargo vans. Perfect for the Ford Transit, Sprinter, Promaster, and NV. It is TOUGH - Made of military-grade aluminum and stainless steel components. There will be no corrosion over the lifetime of the rack. It is SAFE - Easy access from the ground. It has a lower profile on the roof. It is SIMPLE to use - Single-stage operation for fast loading and unloading of ladders on high roof vans.

Learn more at: https://rangerdesign.com/

Tongue Weight Safety Demonstration

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

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

2020 F-Series: There Are Trucks | Super Duty® | Ford

The new Super Duty, now with up to 37,000 lbs. of available towing and 1,050 lb-ft of available torque.* *Max gooseneck towing on F-450 XL, 4x2. Shown with STX Appearance Package. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers. Max torque when equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel engine. Towing and torque are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously. Learn more about the 2020 Ford Super Duty® here: http://ford.to/2Gem1EI

What You Want | F-150 | Ford

With enhanced off-road capability that allows drivers to maximize traction in all off-road environments, the upgraded 2019 F-150 Raptor is ready to claw at the terrain. See the new Trail Control, new FOX Live Valve shocks, and new Recaro front seats in action.

Rightsizing Your Vehicle Fleet to Conserve Fuel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Make Smart Vehicle Purchases

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

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

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

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

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

Find the Right Van Accessories for Your Work Van

Find your Work Van with the Most Useful Van Accessories

Getting the most from your work van is easy when you choose the right van accessories to help you become more organized and efficient. Good truck and van accessories will always pay for themselves by allowing you to maximize your cargo space and productivity, while also keeping your most expensive equipment protected.

With so many van accessories to choose from, the best way to find which ones work for you is to take some time to consider your needs. All tradesmen work differently, and every trade has their own basic tools. Make a list of all the equipment that you use daily. Consider ladders, large and small parts, and inventory. With a list in hand, you’ll be able to visualize your needs and determine which of the van accessories below will be the most beneficial.

Van Accessories for Organization:

Paper holders, bottle holders and reel holders are designed to increase organization by giving you a specific spot to store your equipment. Instead of rolling loose on the floor, your bottles and reels can be fastened down and within easy reach from the door. As for your paperwork and files, keep them all together in a paper holder where they won’t get ripped or crumpled.

Partskeepers are a great way to keep your smallest parts together and secured. With small, dividable bins, they offer a great storage system to take with you onto the job site. Sturdy yet lightweight, you can never have too many Partskeepers for your tools.

Storage bins are available in several sizes, and can be accessorized with bin dividers. These are ideal for holding items and inventory so you can find what you need quickly and easily. Like the Partskeepers, if you have many items to carry with you on the job, then these bins are the ideal solution.

Hooks come in several different styles and can be used to organize tools and equipment near the van doors to be most effective. Hard hat holders can keep frequently used hats within easy reach and safely stowed while on the road.

Van Accessories for Driver Comfort & Safety:

Lighting keeps the cargo space bright, making it easy to find your tools, no matter what time of day or night. It also eliminates any chance of receiving cuts and bruises when searching through your tools in the dark.

Rear Steps are extremely beneficial for tradesmen with high roof vans. Climbing in and out several times a day can put quite a strain on your legs and back, especially when carrying heavy items at the same time. The steps also provide a rugged grip in the winter, so there is no fear of slipping when getting in or out.

Grab Handles, like the rear steps, are designed to provide you with easier access into your van. Whether installed in a high roof of low roof work van, it is always useful to have something to hold onto. It can also be used to tie down additional cargo for safe transportation.

Flettner vents help protect you from any gasses/vapors or smells that may build up in the cargo area of your vehicle. It helps reduce heat build-up and allows moisture to escape should any materials or tools be stored while they are still wet. It is a simple way to stay healthy while working.

For more products to enhance driver comfort and safety, check out our Safety Equipment blog.

Van Accessories for Vehicle Security:

Lockable Doors and Drawers provide two advantages. They can better protect your inventory and tools by keeping them in one place on the rougher roads. Also, they can deter thieves and protect valuable tools while you’re on the job and your work van is left unattended.

Wire grills for your windows can also protect you against theft as well as prevent damage to the van during loading or unloading. They are an easy install and such a simple product that just might help save you a lot of money in the future.

Seat Covers help keep your work van seats clean and in good condition. Instead of getting dirt and grease on your seats and staining them permanently, use custom-fit covers that can be easily removed and washed. Come time to sell your vehicle, you will be grateful you kept them in such good condition.
Learn other simple tricks to help Safeguard Your Work Van Against Tool Theft.

Consider the demands of your trade and your needs, and invest in the van accessories that will pay for themselves with the time and money they save.

For more info call us today at (800) 565-5321, contact a product specialist or request a quote.

Learn more at: https://rangerdesign.com

Venturo Crane Selector Web Tool Pairs Vehicles with Cranes

Venturo® has released a new finder on its website to keep job sites equipped with the proper service cranes. The brand-new Crane Selector utilizes gross vehicle weight, necessary boom length and maximum load capacity to pair vehicles with the most suitable Venturo product.

Venturo cranes are designed for an array of light, moderate and heavy-duty applications, and matching vehicles with the right equipment to meet job requirements improves efficiency and safety on the job site. The innovative Crane Selector is a simple, effective tool to provide operators with the proper crane package.

Each crane, and crane line, is designed for a set of specific uses. Selecting the appropriate crane is an integral step toward more efficient operations and a safer job site. No piece of equipment, even the ideal crane, is 100% foolproof, but an improper product will at best limit performance and at worst endanger workers. The Crane Selector takes some guesswork out of the equation.

This new offering from Venturo joins Venturo Logic Controls™ (VLC) as another recent innovation from the crane manufacturer. The VLC™ Crane Control Management System brings safety, control and reliability to the company’s fully-hydraulic service cranes. This system offers safe, comfortable and smart crane operations by utilizing features like overload protection, a pistol-grip controller and visible safety alerts.

From dependable equipment to state-of-the-art technology, Venturo is ahead of the curve when it comes to safe, effective crane solutions. Try the new Crane Selector tool at www.venturo.com/support/crane-selector. For more information on electric, hydraulic and additional crane options from Venturo, visit www.venturo.com or call 800-226-2238.

Boorman Farms Brothers Build The Ultimate Service Trucks

In Quincy, WA, there is a massive family-owned and operated potato farm, Boorman Farms. This potato farm is run by Carl Boorman, and his two sons, Brandon and Nic. Both Brandon and Nic are managers overseeing the day-to-day operations. Brandon manages the irrigation operations, while Nic manages the mechanic operations.

The fleet at Boorman Farms consists of 9 semitrucks, 4 tractors, and 6 trucks, 4 of which are service trucks used to repair the farm’s equipment.

Three years ago, in 2017, Boorman Farms was ready to add a new service truck to their fleet. Nic went to Curtis Turchak, Sales Manager at Brutus Truck Bodes, who had handled his father Carl’s 2016 Ford F-550 truck order just one year prior. Brutus Truck Bodies, known for quality bodies built to withstand harsh environments and weather, is located in Penticton, British Columbia, about 200 miles north of Quincy. When planning this new build, Nic wanted to include a 12,000 lb hydraulic crane on the truck, which required a PTO. However, Nic was not keen on putting a PTO on the truck and idling the truck to run the crane. For Nic, keeping his engine hours low is a key factor in minimizing maintenance requirements and prolonging the life of the truck. “Longevity is important to us,” explains Nic.

That’s when Curtis showed Nic a few different options to run the crane, including the VMAC Multifunction Power System, which includes a 2,800 RPM power take-off port and hydraulic pump to run a crane. “We didn’t know that VMAC had a multi-power system,” says Nic. “We were familiar with Vanair’s Air N Arc and Miller EnPak, but not VMAC’s Multifunction.” Brandon already had an Air N Arc, and the brothers looked at Miller, but they felt it was too expensive and that it wouldn’t work the way they wanted it to. Then Curtis showed Brandon and Nic the VMAC Multifunction.

“My main concern about buying the VMAC Multifunction was the price,” notes Nic. “It would be the first one we purchased, and I couldn’t think of anyone in our area who had one for me to talk to. Around here if you’re a welder you have a Miller or Lincoln, and then you have a separate air compressor on the truck. Everything is a separate piece of equipment.”

Brutus Truck Bodies is a long-term, experienced VMAC dealer, and Curtis felt confident that if Nic was able to test out the VMAC Multifunction, he’d see it was the right choice.

“I already had a Vanair Air N Arc on my truck, and in the past, I tried to run a suitcase welder off of it. I wasn’t having good luck with it. We got the VMAC Multifunction here to the farm, and started playing with it,” adds Brandon. “It was immediately welding like a dream.”

The brothers were so pleased with how the VMAC Multifunction performed that Nic promptly sold his Air N Arc. They both mounted VMAC Multifunctions on their trucks. “When we were looking at VMAC’s multi-power system we were hesitant—we already thought the Air N Arc was fantastic, but after using the VMAC Multifunction we realized it’s far superior,” says Brandon.

Nic primarily uses the VMAC Multifunction to power his crane when repairing farm equipment. Next, he uses the 45 CFM rotary screw air compressor, and the generator functions. Brandon uses the VMAC Multifunction’s welder a lot, and has found it produces a much more efficient, cleaner power. “I’ve got more options now,” says Brandon. “With the Multifunction I’ve got more power, it’s three phase, it has more amps, there’s just more to work with.”

The brothers also agree the VMAC Multifunction has created a safer working environment due to the ability to use it to power a crane. “When you have a front-end loader picking things up, and you’re working on them, you’re at the mercy of the other operator. But when you have the controls for a crane, you’re in control. It’s a lot steadier and safer.”

It’s now been several months since Brandon got his new service body from Brutus Truck Bodies, and he’s noticed the VMAC Multifunction is getting a lot of attention. “In our area, it stands out,” says Brandon. “People stop and ask questions. I show them the remote controls, and how easy it is to use.”

Not only is Brandon getting questions about his service truck and the VMAC Multifunction air compressor, welder, generator combo, but he’s actually sold it! “Everything is for sale for the right price,” notes Brandon. “A guy came into the yard and fell in love with my new service truck. The VMAC Multifunction was a big selling feature, and a major reason he wanted to buy. He does 24/7 roadside service, and this machine allows him to do everything. There’s enough power to run the trailer, weld on the road, plus the best air compressor.”

It’s clear that when farmers are selling their service trucks as a side hustle, they know their stuff. Brandon and Nic are experienced, and they know what they need and want in their service trucks and equipment to continue running their successful farming business. They need to be able to rely on their investment to keep operations running smoothly, and Boorman Farms has found a winning combo with Brutus Truck Bodies, and the VMAC Multifunction.

About Brutus Truck Bodies Brutus Truck Bodies by Nor-Mar Industries Ltd. is known for their heavy-duty truck bodies designed specifically for harsh applications in forestry, construction, mining and oilfield sectors in the rugged Pacific Northwest. Quality is the cornerstone of their business, and Brutus even has its own in-house training school for their fabricators, as well as an in-house engineer using state-of-the-art 3D CAD software.

But what really matters, are the testimonials from customers like the Boormans, who trust Brutus Truck Bodies for the consistent quality of their builds

“I like to research truck bodies, it’s like an addiction I have,” confesses Brandon. “We’re on our third and fourth Brutus body and they’re some of the best I’ve ever seen.” Superior quality and attention to detail are other traits of this truck builder that Brandon appreciates. And while farming conditions may not be as severe as mining, the environment is still harsh, and it’s important to Boorman Farms that their trucks and equipment last a long time. “At Brutus, they don’t rush or cut corners. Everything has to be perfect, or they’ll fix it and redo it for their customers.”

Curtis Turchak, Sales Manager at Brutus Bodies, welcomes customers and visitors to their facility in Penticton, British Columbia to see their highly skilled team build custom truck bodies by hand.

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

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

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

Switch-N-Go Work Ready Subframe | NTEA 2020

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

Built for Right Now | FORD

If you are impacted by COVID-19 and you’re leasing or financing through Ford Credit, we’re here to help. Call 1-800-723-4016 or visit http://www.fordcreditsupport.com for more information.

2020 Ford Transit rolls out to dealers with new crew van, all-wheel-drive & standard safety tech features

Ford announced today that its 2020 Ford Transit is now available to dealers with plenty of updates including a new crew van, new power sliding door, new seat fabrics, all-wheel drive, 10-speed transmission, standard collision mitigation features and new exterior colors.

Along with cargo van, passenger van, chassis cab and cutaway, a new crew van, which can carry five people in two rows and features side curtain airbags, joins the lineup. Tailored for owners who need to move larger crews plus gear to a job site, the crew van is an enhancement to the 2020 Ford Transit family based on customer feedback.

Exterior updates are subtle but functionally driven. A new power sliding door is available for cargo van and passenger van, while premium high-intensity discharge headlamps with signature LED surround are available.

Three grilles will adorn van, chassis cab and cutaway configurations – a three-bar design with black or chrome bars and an open mesh design for maximum cooling. Vans equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine get a larger grille for maximum cooling. A new interior features durable new fabrics on the seating surfaces, plus myriad cupholders and compartments for storing gear and gadgets.

Grab handles are improved, vents are updated to better direct heated and cooled air, and overall ergonomics are enhanced. Optional swivel front seats are available for the first time in response to recreational vehicle customer requests. The center stack can be optioned two ways – either with a standard 4-inch full-color multifunction display or 8-inch slim-line touch screen display, each with the latest in SYNC 3 plus Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

A 4.2-inch productivity screen in the cluster provides vehicle information and phone call status. SYNC AppLink allows customers to control select apps on the touch screen without plugging in their Android or iOS device. FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and connectivity for up to 10 devices is standard, along with USB outlets in every row of the passenger van. New Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services, which puts an array of tools at the disposal of fleet managers, is now available.

For the first time, Transit offers an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that’s always on and does not raise the load floor or seat height, making this van configuration as easy to enter and exit as the standard rear-wheel drive model. New and improved powertrains are designed to meet a wide range of customer needs. These include an all-new standard 3.5-liter port fuel direct injection V6 and the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost gas engine that now features Auto Start-Stop.

Both gas engines can be ordered with dual 250-amp alternators to provide additional power for upfit equipment and are paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission. New standard driver-assist features include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Post-Collision Braking, LaneKeeping System and auto high-beam headlamps. Additional available features include Adaptive Cruise Control, front and rear split-view camera, adjustable speed limiting and Enhanced Active Park Assist to simplify maneuvering into parallel or reverse perpendicular parking spots.

Available new wheels include a 16-inch heavy duty silver design with black hubcaps, a 16-inch heavy-duty silver steel wheel design, 16- inch forged aluminum wheels and 16-inch heavy-duty forged aluminum wheels. New colors include Agate Black, Diffused Silver and Kapoor Red.

SOURCE: Working Trucks Staff | December 3, 2019

Truck Life: How to Parallel Park | Ford

Take these steps to know how to parallel park and tag a friend who could use some helpful tips.* 

*Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle.