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  • July 2016

    • July 2016

    Eric Vos, FedEx Freight, TMCSuperTech2015 Grand Champion
    Employees & Training

    TMCSuperTech Grand Champions

    July 11, 2016
    The past winners of TMC’s annual National Technician Skills Competition:2015Eric VosFedEx FreightBoise, Idaho2014 & 2013Mark McLean, Jr.FedEx FreightMontgomery, N.Y.2012Christopher...
    FLEET20MAINTENANCE20LOGO 285164617 std 57150d1b96a7e
    Diagnostic & Repair

    Three reasons truck batteries need backup support

    David A. Kolman
    July 11, 2016
    You don’t know cold weather until your route takes you through Manitoba and Saskatchewan in the dead of winter, says Phil Clark, a contractor with a trucking company based in ...
    TMCSuperTech is two-day event specifically designed so technicians can exhibit their knowledge, skills and aptitude with medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles. This is done through a series of both written and hands-on problem-solving and diagnostic tests and challenges, designed to evaluate both theory and practical application.
    Employees & Training

    TMC competitions bring out the best in professional and student technicians

    July 11, 2016
    The steps involved for participating in TMC’s National Technician Skills Competitions.
    The National Student Technician Competition, TMCFutureTech, is designed to promote career opportunities as heavy truck technicians.
    Employees & Training

    TMCFutureTech2016

    July 11, 2016
    TMC is hosting its second annual National Student Technician Competition – TMCFutureTech. Velociti, a global provider of technology deployment services, is the competition’s official...

    More content from July 2016

    While new software brings many benefits to any organization, there are often headaches as well. However, problems can be avoided by properly preparing for the implementation process.
    Shop Management

    How to smooth the implementation of new maintenance management software

    Bob Hausler
    July 11, 2016
    Ways to ease the burden of implementing new software.
    When designing a vocational truck, carrying out competent research, along with proper planning, can avoid unintentional consequences and added costs.
    Shop Management

    Cost control begins when spec’ing new vehicles

    David A. Kolman
    July 11, 2016
    Proper vehicle design can reduce costs and improve vehicle reliability.
    Membership in TMC, - which is composed of fleet maintenance professionals, technicians, educators, suppliers and OEMs – is a good way to not only stay on top of today’s equipment maintenance, but to prepare for future technology.
    Employees & Training

    How to remain mainstream in your field

    Janet Howells-Tierney
    July 11, 2016
    Complex equipment requires a wide range of knowledge and that can be had through participation in TMC.
    With the theme, Crafting Maintenance and Technology Solutions, TMC’s 2016 Fall Meeting is focused on providing a comprehensive collection of educational sessions to keep attendees informed on the latest vehicle technologies and maintenance practices to help them improve trucking efficiencies and uptime.
    Employees & Training

    How fleets can craft maintenance and technology solutions

    Josh Smith
    July 11, 2016
    TMC’s 2016 Fall Meeting offers a comprehensive educational sessions designed to keep maintenance personnel on the cutting edge of vehicle technology.
    TMC meeting attendees and TMCSuperTech competitors are encouraged take advantage of the Technician Development Committee training sessions, designed expressly for technicians and shop supervisors.
    Powertrain

    PTDC offers hands-on training for fleet personnel

    Josh Smith
    July 11, 2016
    Like last year, all TMC Fall Meeting attendees and TMCSuperTech2016 and TMCFutureTech 2016 competitors are invited to attend the Professional Technician Development Committee ...
    Ryder 54c9519de3786
    Powertrain

    How clean is your vehicle fuel?

    David A. Kolman
    July 11, 2016
    A clean fuel storage tank ensures that the highest quality of fuel is ready for use in vehicles. Not only does high-quality fuel keep trucks on the road, it reduces the costs ...
    A view of a metal foil insulation blanket over an exhaust bellow within an engine compartment.
    Powertrain

    Managing heat in engine replacement programs

    Bruce Kaplan
    July 11, 2016
    Most fleets are familiar with the laundry list of good reasons to replace engines in their fleets. The rule of thumb is that replacing an engine can effectively double the lifespan...
    With its inherent capabilities, ultracapacitor starting systems have potential to eliminate the expensive downtime that truck drivers and fleets often experience as a result of dead batteries, particularly in colder climates.
    Battery & Electrical

    An end to dead vehicle batteries?

    Steve Sturgess
    July 11, 2016
    Ultracapacitor starting systems are being applied to heavy duty trucks.
    This drum, with less than 30,000 miles, shows early wear from aggressive friction material.
    Brakes, Tire & Wheel

    Which brake choice is right for your fleet?

    Jim LeClaire
    July 11, 2016
    Most heavy duty fleets have three brake alternatives.
    With a standard method for recording work that was performed and why a certain part failed, confusing descriptions are eliminated and there is consistency throughout any maintenance organization.
    Shop Management

    Industry coding standard helps technicians ensure maintenance data integrity

    Jack Poster
    July 11, 2016
    Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards (VMRS) were developed more as a standard coding convention for universally tracking maintenance costs and functions.
    Even though tire experts have been preaching how important it is to maintain proper tire pressure for more than 30 years, tire underinflation is still a major issue facing fleets.
    Shop Management

    It’s all about tire inflation

    Al Cohn
    July 11, 2016
    Some do’s and don’ts on tire pressure.
    Workers benefit from mentoring because they receive advice and guidance from those with greater knowledge and experience. Those workers then make fewer mistakes and become more productive.
    Shop Management

    It is our responsibility

    Joel Levitt
    July 11, 2016
    Through mentoring, any organization can help build a sustainable talent pipeline.
    Advancing technologies, digitalization and disruptive innovation are significantly transforming the transportation and fleet maintenance industries. The challenge is how to prepare to ride the enduring waves of metamorphosis.
    Shop Management

    Disruption is driving significant industry change

    David A. Kolman
    July 11, 2016
    Organizations best prepared will be able to endure and succeed in the Age of Disruption.
    Technicians aren’t the only ones who profit from earning industry certifications. Fleets, shop owners, customers and other drivers on the road all can benefit from continued technician training.
    Shop Management

    Is technician certification worth it?

    Josh Smith
    July 11, 2016
    An investment in technician certifications can keep a fleet’s vehicles on the road and increase productivity.
    TA leverages the training and certification of its technicians by qualifying 12 of them each year to compete at the annual TMCSuperTech, an event that honors commercial vehicle technician professionalism and acknowledges the best of the best.
    Shop Management

    One organization’s approach to technician training and certification

    David A. Kolman
    July 11, 2016
    Modern trucks have evolved to a level of technical complexity that forces truck service facilities to advance their approach to diagnostic, maintenance and service routines. This...
    The recently updated ANSI/ISEA 308.1-2015 Workplace First Aid Kits and Supplies introduced two classes of first aid kits.
    Shop Safety

    Are you prepared for the new workplace first aid kit standards?

    July 11, 2016
    Recognizing that unforeseen emergencies for vehicle technicians and drivers can occur at any given time, maintenance and repair shops always should have an up-to-date and fully...
    Produced in a factory setting and utilizing a standardized industrial process, remanufactured parts are returned to same-as-new (or better) condition and performance, and carry warranties similar to that of new replacement parts.
    Shop Management

    A simple solution to increase margins without sacrificing quality

    July 11, 2016
    Remanufactured parts can be a simple solution for diverse repair and maintenance needs.
    Lincoln Electric RP6 Weldable Rust Preventative Fluid 577c17c651a7d
    Fluids & Chemicals

    RP6 Weldable Rust Preventative Fluid

    Lincoln Electric
    July 1, 2016
    The Lincoln Electric RP6 Weldable Rust Preventative Fluid provides up to six months of indoor corrosion protection by preventing rust on ferrous metals, while not adversely impacting...
    Optronics 576af94b5b0b8
    Battery & Electrical

    HLL88/89 Series LED headlamps

    Optronics International
    June 22, 2016
    The Optronics HLL88/89 Series DOT-compliant high and low beam sealed LED headlamps are designed to replace standard 4” by 6” sealed beam halogen and HID headlamps. Their light...
    Air Lift 2013 16 Ram ProMaster LL 5000 kit 57233 576d6aad17143
    Chassis, Body & Cab

    LoadLifter adjustable air spring kits

    Air Lift Company
    June 22, 2016
    The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 adjustable air spring kits, No. 57233 and LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate adjustable air spring kits, No. 88233, work with the vehicle's existing suspension...
    Transfer Flow 70 gallon toolbox tank combo 5769b73a9393f
    Powertrain

    70-Gallon Toolbox and Fuel Tank Combo

    Transfer Flow, Inc.
    June 10, 2016
    The Transfer Flow 70-Gallon Toolbox and Fuel Tank Combo is designed for 1999 to 2016 Ford, Ram and GM full-size diesel trucks. It sits on the bedrails, and has an adjustable storage...
    Yokohama 108R 5769b79c1a8ec
    Brakes, Tire & Wheel

    108R regional all-position/steer tire

    Yokohama Tire Corp.
    June 9, 2016
    The Yokohama Tire Corp. 108R regional all-position/steer tire is SmartWay-verified and comes in sizes 295/75R22.5, 285/75R24.5, 11R24.5 and 11R22.5. With a deep, 22/32nd tread...
    PPG Delfleet Essential 5769b68a477d5
    Collision & Painting

    Delfleet Essential commercial paint system

    PPG Commercial Coatings
    June 9, 2016
    Two colors have been added to the PPG Delfleet Essential commercial paint system. The low VOC epoxy primer is available in white (No. ESU481) and black (No. ESU482) in addition...
    TSE UL Disc Air Brake Actuators 5769b79f5946e
    Brakes, Tire & Wheel

    UL-Disc Air Brake Actuators

    TSE Brakes, Inc.
    June 9, 2016
    The TSE Brakes UL-Disc Air Brake Actuators are designed for transportation equipment using air disc brakes. The full immersion electro-deposition coating inside and out and an...
    CFI 481HP Floor Coating 7inW for Print 5756ee958440f
    Shop Equipment

    Wearcoat, No. 481HP

    Coatings for Industry (CFI)
    June 7, 2016
    The Coatings for Industry Wearcoat, No. 481HP, a high-performance floor topcoat, resists yellowing over the long term. Ideal for settings subject to damaging sunlight, Wearcoat...
    Bendix Fleet MetLok Brakes 5759c2ba42d25
    Brakes, Tire & Wheel

    Line of Fleet MetLok Brakes

    Bendix Brakes
    June 1, 2016
    The Bendix line of Fleet MetLok Brakes has been enhanced to provide improved friction performance and coverage, and it has expanded to include rotors as well as pads. Designed...
    Peterbilt Model 579 Configurator App 5759c30de985e
    Shop Management

    Model 579 Configurator App

    Peterbilt Motors Company
    June 1, 2016
    The Peterbilt Model 579 Configurator App allows customers to build their own Model 579 on their iPad, choosing from a range of specs, colors and configurations. The app, free ...
    Isuzu FTR 5759c37174cf7
    Chassis, Body & Cab

    2018 FTR

    Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc
    June 1, 2016
    The Isuzu 2018 FTR has been introduced to the Class 6 medium duty truck segment. The FTR will be powered by the company's 4HK1-TC 5.2L turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel engine. The...
    Dana 44 front shadow 574ef3bb833f6
    Chassis, Body & Cab

    44 front axle

    Dana Incorporated
    June 1, 2016
    The Dana 44 front axle, an addition to its Crate Axle program, delivers performance for a variety of applications, including off-road vehicles, forklifts, pickup trucks, pushback...
    Big Ass Mobile Light Stand 5734f8a7c7768 576d930d73a0b
    Shop Equipment

    Mobile Light Stand

    Big Ass Fans
    May 11, 2016
    The Big Ass Mobile Light Stand offers 360 degrees of rotation, so technicians can get bright, direct light under the hood, under the car or wherever else they need it. The LED...
    Hunter Road Force Elite 5739d851d41d8
    Tools

    Road Force Elite

    Hunter Engineering Company
    May 5, 2016
    The Hunter Road Force Elite quickly performs both traditional wheel balances and Road Force measurements. The laser-based machine vision system determines wheel dimensions and...
    geodyna 8250p 57223ed137391
    Tools

    Hofmann geodyna 8250p Wheel Balancer

    Snap-on Equipment
    April 9, 2016
    A video wheel balancer for cars and light trucks, the Hofmann geodyna 8250P, from Snap-on Equipment, features fully automatic data entry via scanner and smartSonar, the pinpoint...
    Portacool Jetstream 270 1 570d60ba3899b
    Shop Equipment

    Jetstream 270

    Portacool
    March 29, 2016
    The Portacool Jetstream 270 provides intense cooling power with airflow that can be felt up to 100 yards away. With built-in handles and heavy duty casters, the mobile Jetstream...
    Kinetic Fuel Technology K100D 8oz 56f19d353ab43
    Fluids & Chemicals

    K100D Diesel Fuel Treatment and Stabilizer

    Kinetic Fuel Technology, Inc.
    March 22, 2016
    The Kinetic Fuel Technology K100D Diesel Fuel Treatment and Stabilizer encapsulates water molecules in ULSD, bio-diesel and home-heating fuels, providing a complete burn. The ...
    Buyers Municipal Dump Spreader 56f19b0ee561a
    Chassis, Body & Cab

    SaltDogg Municipal Dump Spreader (MDS)

    Buyers Products Company
    March 21, 2016
    The Buyers Products SaltDogg Municipal Dump Spreader (MDS) combines a dump body with a spreader that allows for four-season operation. The MDS is offered in 10', 12' and 14' lengths...
    Chicago Pneumatic CP87700 56cf3228b7d33
    Shop Equipment

    Twin-Wheel Dolly, No. CP8770

    Chicago Pneumatic Tools - North America
    Feb. 24, 2016
    The Chicago Pneumatic Twin-Wheel Dolly, No. CP8770, has a lifting capacity of 1,543 lbs (700 kg), which is suitable for maintenance of wheel diameters 21.4" to 50.5" (545mm to...
    1056 XL 575721fdef08d
    Tools

    Nitrocat Stubby Impact Wrenches, Nos. 1056-XL and 1076-XL

    AIRCAT by Florida Pneumatic
    Feb. 3, 2016
    The Florida Pneumatic Nitrocat Stubby Impact Wrenches, Nos. 1056-XL and 1076-XL, are available in 1/2" and 3/8" sizes. The Nitrocat provides 550 ft/lbs of torque at a free speed...
    Homak 36 inch 8 drawer top chest 56b4c1bdab6a8
    Shop Equipment

    36" H2Pro Series 8 Drawer Top Chest

    Homak Manufacturing, LLC
    Feb. 3, 2016
    The Homak 36" H2Pro Series 8 Drawer Top Chest features an HMC high-security tubular locking system, replaceable ball-bearing drawer slides, full-length aluminum drawer pulls and...
    OTC Multipurpose Bearing and Pulley Puller Set No 4534 568feb288f3ce
    Tools

    Multipurpose Bearing and Pulley Puller Set, No. 4534

    OTC, Bosch Automotive Service Solutions
    Jan. 5, 2016
    The OTC Multipurpose Bearing and Pulley Puller Set, No. 4534, is designed to help technicians pull bearings, alternators, generators, power steering and crankshaft pulleys, timing...