3/27/23
Norstar SD Service Bed | Norstar Company
Our SD truck bed is our best selling model and in this video we show you exactly why.
The Norstar SD Service bed is perfect for the tradesman. Our Service Bed offers multiple standard tool boxes and many options for your on the go needs. This bed comes with 2 vertical cabinets, 2 angled boxes, 2 top boxes, and 2 rear underbody boxes plus a bonus locking rear shovel compartment for tons of storage. Multiple option choices allow you to build this bed to your industry. All doors are gas shock equipped and locking paddle latches are standard as well as a serviceable, tamper-resistant integrated door hinge system – new for 2020. Our 2.5” receiver allows you to add a hitch for bumper pull cargo and a 2 5/16” gooseneck ball is standard in case you are hauling a heavyweight. Our receivers are lab tested and certified for 18,500 lbs bumper capacity and 30,000 lbs gooseneck capacity. Standard adjustable galvanized tool trays with available cabinet tool drawers can add the finishing touch if you have a lot of parts or tools for your work load. Dual LED rear work lights and cast aluminum light housings as well as tail gate are standard features on the SD. These beds are a perfect complement for any single or dual wheel work truck with smooth 12 gauge sides, 11 gauge bumper and gloss black powder coating.
http://www.norstarcompany.com/index.cfm
https://norstarparts.com/
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3/25/23
All-New Ford F-Series Super Duty® Debut | Ford
The next level of Built Ford Tough, the All-New Ford F-Series Super Duty® truck. This one is for the builders.
3/23/23
2023 Ram 2500 Rebel® | Power to the Weekend
The all-new 2023 Ram 2500 Rebel® helps make your life worth binge-watching. Power to the weekend.
3/21/23
F-150 Lightning: Ford Intelligent Backup Power | F-150 | Ford
With available Ford Intelligent Backup Power, the F-150 Lightning* automatically kicks in to power your home. Enough to power a home for 3 days with the extended-range battery.**
*Pre-production vehicle with available features shown. Available starting spring 2022.
**When home is properly equipped and home transfer switch disconnects home from the grid. Based on 30 kWh use per day using the F-150 Lightning with extended-range battery. Your results may vary depending on energy usage.
Learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning here: https://ford.to/3wgnSD9
3/18/23
THE UTILITY DECK by Highways Products
The Utility Deck is the industry’s first load bearing bed cover with utility boxes and a utility gate, creating the ultimate alternative to a service body. The utility deck comes loaded with standard features.
With the secure storage beneath the cover combined with the compartment boxes, there is over 2.5X as much secure storage compared to a long bed single rear wheel service body. And, you still have deck space for materials, equipment, and tools
Patent pending.
To learn more, call 1-800-TOOL-BOX (1-800-866-5269) or visit us online at https://HighwayProducts.com/Custom/Ut...
3/17/23
Ford BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving for F-150® | Ford How-To | Ford
Find out about available Ford BlueCruise* — hands-free highway driving technology available for the Ford F-150.
*Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. Ford BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving feature. Only remove hands from the steering wheel when in a Hands-Free Blue Zone. Always watch the road and be prepared to resume control of the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner's Manual for detail and limitations. Available on select vehicle models. The BlueCruise Prep Kit contains the hardware required for this feature. Requires purchased three-year connected service plan with regular map updates, FordPass™ App and modem activation. BlueCruise functionality expected third quarter 2021CY. Three-year Connected Service term with regular map updates begin on service start date. To continue service, a new connected service plan must be purchased. Plans are subject to change. See your Ford Account for terms and details. Service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Failure to regularly update could result in BlueCruise being unavailable.
Learn more about Ford support here: https://ford.to/36tjcC2
3/15/23
EV Battery Show: LFP & NCM Explained
Ford is adding a second battery chemistry – lithium iron phosphate (LFP) – to its electric vehicle lineup beginning later this year. Learn how this new chemistry differs from Ford's current chemistry, nickel cobalt manganese (NCM).
SUBSCRIBE: http://ford.to/SubscribeFordMotorCompany
3/13/23
USPS ordering 9,250 electric vehicles from Ford | FOX 13 Seattle
The U.S. Postal Service plans to buy more than 9,000 new electric vehicles from Ford.
Watch FOX 13 Seattle Live: https://www.q13fox.com/live
FOX 13 Seattle is Western Washington's source for breaking news, weather, traffic, politics and sports.
3/11/23
Towing Tips, Tools and Tech: A Ford Towing Video Guide | Ford
Towing Tips, Tools and Tech features over an hour of towing knowledge, plus advanced technology available on Ford trucks and SUVs that you can take advantage of. We cover everything you need to know from how to determine how much your vehicle can tow all the way up to the exciting features that add convenience to the towing experience, like Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Profiles, and more.
3/07/23
Tommy Gate Liftgate for Commercial Cargo Vans - Cassette Liftgate
The Cassette Liftgate mounts below the van, giving full access to the back of the vehicle without using the lift. These models are ideal for operators who need the functionality of a liftgate when interior storage space and access are a priority. The platform is made of corrosion-resistant aluminum, and all models include an automatic retention ramp, underside skid plate, and one-touch storage.
3/05/23
Secure Latch Pintle Hitch by Curt
The SecureLatch™ pintle hitch series is engineered to streamline the trailer hookup process, featuring an auto-locking design. Each ball and pintle combination and pintle hook comes with an auto-locking mechanism to couple the trailer latch without manual coupling required.
Just Strike. Drop. Auto-lock!
As you back up to the lunette ring, the built-in striker plate helps center and align the towing connection. Then, lower the lunette ring down onto the pintle hitch. The auto-locking lever will automatically engage the primary coupling latch. Simply insert the secondary safety pin, and you’re ready to tow!
SecureLatch™ pintle hitch products are available in a receiver-mount or adjustable pintle mount style. We offer pintle hooks, ball and pintle combinations, pintle mounts and adjustable lunette rings.
3/03/23
Value of Effectively Maintaining Upfits
- Photo: GETTYIMAGES.COM/KARANDAEV
Your upfit is spec’ed, purchased, and installed, and you are now utilizing it in your operations. The next step in the upfit process is ensuring proper maintenance.
Top Upfit Maintenance Challenges:
A huge challenge many fleet managers face in maintaining upfits is simply communicating the value and importance of proper upfit maintenance to field personnel and drivers.
“Most drivers understand the importance of oil changes, brake services, etc., and will typically make sure their vehicle is serviced in a timely manner. But prioritizing upfit maintenance in a similar fashion typically isn’t something that comes naturally. The fleet manager must educate their frontline personnel on the critical aspect of properly maintaining the vehicle’s equipment; not only to maximize its effective lifecycle and control costs but also to ensure the safety of their fleet personnel in the field,” said Jeff Klinghoffer, regional engineering manager for Holman Enterprises.
At the end of the day, it comes down to education and awareness.
“As a fleet manager, you’ll need to communicate the importance of proper upfit and equipment maintenance to your drivers. Beyond that, you can certainly implement processes and procedures to assess the condition of the vehicle and its upfit regularly. You can also explore potential gamification or incentive programs to help secure buy-in from your drivers,” Klinghoffer added.
Let’s face it; fleet managers have a lot on their plate.
“Fleet managers face daily challenges mixed in with bigger picture issues that include building a safe, reliable, and appropriate truck for the job while making executives and stakeholders happy. Finding the time to answer all of the challenges can be difficult,” said Mathew Marcussen, director of customer relations for BrandFX. “Taking the time to do research and learn more, in the beginning, will reap great savings, benefits, and efficiency in the end. Also, purchase a body that maintains its good condition over a long period will reduce the cost of repairs and service.”
When it comes to the different types of materials used in upfitting, you need to select the right material for the job.
“Ladder racks on top of cargo vans are impacted by either the snow and ice removal chemicals in the Midwest or the salty air near coastal regions. Using aluminum and stainless steel in those products is a must to provide the customer a quality product that gets them a good return on their investment,” said Katie Groves, national fleet sales manager for Adrian Steel.
Don’t forget to depend on those who know upfitting best.
“Partner with an upfitter that has a national presence and a team that can support these instances,” Groves recommended.
6 Mistakes Maintaining Upfits
While mistakes may not often happen when maintaining upfits, they can occur. Here are a few top ones to avoid:
Mistake 1: Lack of Inspection
Just as drivers need to inspect your vehicle for leaks, tire wear, etc., they should examine their upfits, too.
“Constantly check routing and clipping for rub points, just because a battery cable was tied up nicely last time you inspected it doesn’t mean a clip didn’t break loose since then,” said Brad Howard, director of Operations for Fontaine Modification.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Preventive Maintenance
When it comes to the vehicles themselves, preventive maintenance (PM) second nature, but that may not be true for upfits.
“Fleet managers realize that adhering to a recommended PM schedule is vital to optimizing the vehicle’s lifecycle and controlling the total cost of ownership. However, the same methodology also applies to a vehicle’s upfitting and equipment, but preventive maintenance for these items is often overlooked,” said Kelly Klemisch, regional engineering manager, Holman Enterprises.
To avoid this mistake, work upfits into your PM strategy for your vehicles.
“Regular service for equipment such as air compressors, material handling units, and aerial devices should be included in the unit’s PM schedule. Additionally, you can also include inspections in the schedule as well, so drivers receive reminders for those items as well. Or, at the very least, take measures to keep these PM items top-of-mind for drivers and operators. For example, you can track crane or compressors hours on an interior door decal,” Klemisch added.
Mistake 3: Not Adjusting Upfits Correctly
Make sure that ladder racks are correctly adjusted to your ladders.
“A properly adjusted ladder rack will keep the ladder secured on the van during transportation, reduce noise that could cause driver distraction, and extend the life of both the ladder and ladder rack,” said Katie Groves, national fleet sales manager for Adrian Steel.
Mistake 4: Misusing Upfit Equipment
You should also ensure your drivers and frontline workers fully understand how to use the vehicle’s equipment properly.
“Many vocational vehicles feature sophisticated and complex attachments, so training your employees on the best practices for using these units will help to minimize premature wear and tear and maximize the equipment’s effective lifecycle. This also applies to something as simple as a vehicle’s storage units. We often see fleet personnel overloading a service body or interior shelving with more than it is intended to hold, and this really impacts the longevity of these items,” said Klemisch of Holman Enterprises.
Mistake 5: Wrong Service Timing
When you service certain upfit items is also essential.
“When you service trucks, and related upfits is a big item. One example is a snowplow: make sure to service at the end of the snow season AND beginning of the season,” said Patrick Clark, director of fleet sales for Dejana Truck and Utility Equipment.
Mistake 6: Improper Equipment Storage
Where you store your equipment has a considerable impact on its useful service life.
“Also storing equipment inside helps preserve the life. Work with the local upfitters to make sure you are servicing cranes, liftgates, plows etc correctly,” said Clark of Dejana Truck and Utility Equipment.
Source: https://www.worktruckonline.com/10120069/value-of-effectively-maintaining-upfits
3/01/23
CURT QuickPin™ No-Latch Coupler | Hassle-Free Trailer Hookup
A tradition coupler latch is a hassle to use. So, the QuickPin™ coupler doesn’t have one!
Introducing the CURT QuickPin™ no-latch trailer coupler. QuickPin™ is a revolutionary design, doing away with the traditional latch mechanism for simple, stress-free trailer hookup. Most couplers use a complicated hinging latch that's prone to wear out and become corroded, leading to difficulties and frustration.
Instead of a latch, QuickPin™ uses a simple hitch pin to create a safe, reliable, hassle-free towing connection. It's as easy as dropping the trailer tongue onto the hitch ball, inserting the QuickPin™ hitch pin, and that's it! No more wrestling with a rusty latch, and no adjustment or tightening needed.
This trailer hitch coupler is fully tested according to SAE-684 specifications. It is available in standard hitch ball sizes and trailer tongue beam widths. It also has standard mounting holes to fit most existing trailer tongue bolt patterns (mounting hardware not included).
Features and benefits of QuickPin™
- Innovative design allows fast, hassle-free trailer coupling with just one pin
- No jamming or complicated hinging components prone to wear
- Easier to use than traditional couplers
- Fastens securely with included pin and clip
- No adjustments or tightening needed
- Lasso lanyard secures pin to coupler to avoid missing pieces
- Stamped steel construction for dependable strength
- Passes SAE-684 performance testing
- Available to fit standard trailer ball diameters and trailer frames
- Compatible with most existing coupler mounting hole configurations
- Protected by a durable black powder coat finish
- Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)
2/27/23
Isuzu NPR-HD Diesel Class 4 Cabover Truck Walkaround
2/25/23
Maximum Maneuverability Landscape/Debris Body
Here's a great example of a 14' Landscape Dump Body, which can also be used as a Debris Body with 48" steel sides that are half solid and half steel mesh with swing-away rear barn-style doors, tarp, and receiver. The best part of this particular rig is the maneuverability of this truck. It is mounted on an Isuzu Tilt-Cab or often called a Low Cab Forward chassis that only has a 132" wheelbase. That is about the same as a pickup truck with an 8' bed. This truck will get in and out of places other units would struggle with and will run circles around other trucks with a 14' truck bed.
Call Premier Truck Center to find out more about a truck body that will make your job easier and more efficient. We fabricate our own flatbed products. Call us at (941) 729-8196 or visit us on the web at http://www.premiertruckcenterllc.com/
2/23/23
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.
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.
Learn more at: https://rangerdesign.com
2/21/23
Buyers Products Pro Series - Aluminum Tool Boxes for Trucks
Our Aluminum Pro Series of Truck Tool Boxes are built to withstand the harshest conditions with the features a pro would demand. Proudly designed and constructed right here in Northeast Ohio, these boxes are our most reliable line yet.
View our entire selection of Pro Series Truck Tool Boxes here: https://www.buyersproducts.com/catalog/truck-boxes-11/xd-truck-box-785
2/19/23
F-150 Lightning: At the Work Site | F-150 | Ford
The F-150 Lightning*—with features like Pro Power Onboard, available Tailgate Work Surface, available enhanced 360-degree Zone Lighting and targeted maximum available towing of 10,000 pounds,
** plus 400 pounds of payload in a secure, lockable, 400-liter, washable, drainable Mega Power Frunk,†—is a zero-emissions tool to help you get the job done.
*Pre-production vehicle with available features shown. Available starting spring 2022.
**Max towing on XLT and LARIAT models with available extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow Pkg. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers.
†Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
Learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning here: https://ford.to/3wgnSD9
2/17/23
The All-Electric 2022 Ford E-Transit™ Is Ready | Ford Pro™
Our all-electric 2022 Ford E-Transit™ van is ready for the challenges your business takes on. Available with Ford Pro™ E-Telematics,* where you can monitor things like range and help maximize run times, along with upfitting configurations based on your business needs, the E-Transit will be the workhorse of your fleet. So let Ford Pro electrify your fleet- giving you the ability to focus on the work that matters most. Ford Pro. A productivity accelerator for your business.
*Eligible vehicles receive a complimentary 3-year trial of E-Telematics services that begins on the new vehicle warranty start date. Requires modem activation. Terms and conditions apply. Telematics service and features, and access to vehicle data depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. After the 3- year trial, annual service contract is required for E-Telematics service. Call 1-833-811-3673 to activate E-Telematics service.
2/15/23
Lift the Load with a Venco Venturo ET6K Electric Crane
The ET6K winch features a high-efficiency, heavy-duty three-stage electric planetary gear drive, 12V permanent magnet motor and dual braking systems, and comes standard with a capacity overload shut-off system, aircraft-quality wire rope, and remote control pendant.
Available options include radio remote control, anti two-block system which meets ANSI B30.5 safety standards, mounting pedestals for platform body applications, outriggers and jacklegs for a variety of truck bodies and an adjustable boom rest with a load block storage hook.
The ET6K is recommended for general service applications on any truck with a GVWR of 8,000 LBS or more.
- See more at: http://venturo.com/product/et6k/
2/13/23
CURT CrossWing™ Lightweight 5th Wheel Hitch | Features & Benefits
The CrossWing™ 5th wheel hitch #16600 by CURT gives you the best of both worlds by packing extraordinary strength into one lightweight hitch. With the main body weight of only 60 pounds, it is 65% lighter than most traditional 5th wheel hitches while still offering a 20,000 lb. weight capacity, so strength and muscle are not sacrificed.
Its patent-pending ShockDrop technology provides a smoother towing experience by reducing jerking and jarring, and its structure allows fore, aft and lateral head articulation when connecting on uneven terrain, so you can be comfortable and confident in your ride no matter what type of rugged roads you encounter.
The CrossWing™ also features a reinforced head connection point that provides exceptional strength, along with a unique coupling system that eliminates guesswork by offering a visible contact surface.
Features and benefits of the CURT CrossWing™ lightweight 5th wheel hitch:
- Premium steel construction offers robust 20,000-lb. capacity
- Features patent-pending ShockDrop technology to reduce jerking and jarring
- Reinforced head connection point for superior strength and peace of mind
- Easy, one-person installation and removal (fits industry-standard rails)
- 65% lighter than most traditional 5th wheel hitches (main body weighs 60 lbs.)
- Unique coupling system eliminates guesswork by offering visible contact surface
- Head channel guides kingpin into place for easier hookup
- Allows fore, aft and lateral head articulation when connecting on uneven terrain
- Easy-to-reach release handle for ergonomic operation
- Three points of height adjustment from 16-3/8" to 20-3/8"
- Coupling point offset 5" rearward for added turning clearance
- Premium, carbide textured black finish for lasting rust resistance
- High-grade steel design for added strength vs. aluminum
- Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J2638
2/11/23
Why Getting Your Vehicle Serviced Regularly Is Essential
The mechanical condition of a vehicle dictates its safety
as well as its performance on the road. In order to guarantee
- a smooth ride,
- prolong the life of a car,
- and increase its safety
The owner should always consider getting the vehicle serviced regularly. The main reason why this procedure is required is to ensure that any mechanical anomalies can be spotted and rectified before they can cause harm.
The routine maintenance is a small price to pay to guarantee one's safety on the roads. So what are the benefits of acquiring this service?
- It reduces the repair costs - maintenance procedures are preventative in nature and this means that it is a good way of avoiding major repair bills as a result of oversight.
- It reduces the chances of getting surprise breakdowns.
- Regular car services will lower the possible risk of getting involved in an accident
- Servicing involves various procedures that guarantee better fuel consumption. In essence it is cheaper to run a car that regularly goes for servicing
There are several kinds of servicing available and they include the following:
6 month or interim car service
This is a procedure that is intended for those individuals who cover a lot of mileage over short periods. This means that the car will require more regular checks to avoid unforeseen faults. Some of the work includes filter and oil changes as well as a comprehensive diagnostic check for all essential functions.
12 month or comprehensive car service
This is an all inclusive checkup that should be mandatory for all cars that are used on a regular basis. Most service providers do no less than 70 checks as well as some necessary adjustments. Replacement of worn out components is also done where necessary. The procedure includes Spark plug and air filter replacement among other processes.
Winter Inspection
Ensure that your car is ready to withstand winter conditions by getting a specialised check. Winter safety checks should be a mandatory practice for all car owners.
Car owners have a wide variety of options when it comes choosing a vehicle servicing company, whether you are driving a Land Rover or a Volswagen Polo. There are even new companies offering to service your car at your home or work place.
Of course, for those owners that are mechanically savvy, there is the option of servicing the car themselves. But you have to be qualified to do so and you must know exactly what you are doing.
Whether you use a professional's help or do it yourself, getting your car is very important.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7432715
2/09/23
CRASH TEST Pickup Trucks – Ford F150, Toyota Tundra, RAM 1500, Nissan Titan
The majority of pickups recently put through the passenger-side small overlap front test struggled to maintain their structure, but two trucks — the 2019-2020 Ford F-150 and the 2019-2020 Nissan Titan — earn a good rating.
► These results are valid only for models sold in the USA
✅ Source: IIHS
2/05/23
Ford F-150 Lightning: Edmunds Best of the Best | Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2023
With the Edmunds Best of the Best award, we’re honoring the car, truck or SUV that’s not only Top Rated in its segment but a true standout among all vehicles on sale today. Out of the 17 excellent contenders in 2023’s Edmunds Top Rated Awards, it’s the Ford F-150 Lightning that stands out as a cut above them all. The Lightning fuses utility and an excellent electric powertrain together into an electric truck that’s truly the full package, pushing itself to the top of our list for Edmunds Top Rated Best of the Best 2023.
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning pricing and review: https://edmu.in/3HETiIO
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