Truck Tires

A set of gnarly off-road lights is just about the final piece to your customization puzzle. You can get a pair of performance lights for the factory openings in your bumper, or line up a bank of lamps for extreme power. They come in all sizes—from less than 3” in diameter to beastly 6” housings—for making whatever kind of statement you want. And, with the wide array of makers out there, you can fit a set into just about any budget.

Also, off-road lights like the ones made by PIAA, KC and Hella come in more patterns than sheer brightness. You can pick a long, narrow beam pattern for distance, known as a “driving light.” On the opposite end of the lighting spectrum, “flood lights” sacrifice distance for a massive spread. To cut through nasty weather, a wide and low-intensity “fog light” beam adds to your overall visibility. But, most light buyers stick with the tried-and-true “off-road light” pattern, with awesome brightness and outstanding range.

There are also a variety of bulb options. Most off-road and other auxiliary lights are powered by high-efficiency halogen lights. That’s why most modest light setups can be run off your current battery, with no need for an upgrade. Also, if you have some serious scratch to spend on lights, you can opt for HIDs—incredibly low draw for such clean lighting power. Bulbs for most off road lights are easy to replace, and available at big department or home stores. You may want a set of light covers or light grilles with those new lamps, though. A tossed rock can easily put an unprotected lamp out of commission.

Off-road and other vehicle auxiliary lights usually spark a few common questions. “Why do I need such extreme lighting power on my rig?” The answer is, of course, that your fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun sets. You can keep on chuggin’ through the mud, rocks or dunes well past sundown, or use your lights to set a course through nasty weather. Or, heck, you can even keep your local pickup basketball game playing late. “Isn’t a set of lights extremely hard to wire?” It’s not as hard as you might think, especially with the plug-and-play harnesses provided with most light kits. You could be fired-up in less than an hour. “Would Marty McFly’s or Walker’s truck have been as cool without lights?” No. Absolutely not.

When you need more toughness and utility on your truck, pick from big brands like PIAA lights,
KC lights or
Hella lights, and see a world of difference.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bernhardt

Tonight's Main Event - K&N Cold Air Intakes vs AEM Cold Air Intakes

2007-10-12T18:54:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the air intake battle royale, where we force K&N Intakes and AEM Intakes to fight to the death…or at least until we have a clear winner holding the title of “Best intake for your auto.” At face value, there are some similarities between these two fighters—both pack incredible pipes with the testing and training an intake needs to be a champion. We suspect the subtle differences are where the fight will be won; expect neither to be knocked out but rather jabbed into a bloody, stumbling, slurred submission.

In the black, red and orange corner we have K&N, the taller, heavier, more established fighter of the two. Sure, they’ve been slugging it out with other contenders for more than 30 years, much like an aged and grizzled fighter like Evander Holyfield. But, unlike Holyfield, K&N is sharper than ever, still packs quite a wallop, has their ears intact, and nobody is begging them to quit for their own good. K&N’s advantage comes from not only being the undisputed champion intake, but also from being the brand that practically invented the sport.

AEM struts in as the challenger; a slimmer, faster, younger fighter sporting flashy red and yellow trunks. Buoyed by newer technology and plenty of support in the sport compact realm, AEM’s plan is to take the lumbering K&N with speed, quickness and quality punches. This challenger firmly believes they’re ushering in a new era of intake performance, design and maintenance.

The bell rings, and the two intake brands dance toward each other. They come together, and K&N lands a nice two-punch combination to the nose and jaw, thanks to their intake tubes. Their crosslink material tubes, available on the vaunted FIPK 57 Series and 63 Series Air Charger intakes, keep the incoming volumes of air much cooler than the metal tubes used with every AEM. Not to mention the price—crosslink plastic tubing helps a kit cost less. But, AEM relies on its smooth footwork to land a stinging gut shot, thanks to the dressy look of their pipes, which are slightly nicer in terms of engine compartment looks even when pitted against K&N’s 69 and 77 Series.

AEM also rallies to run K&N into the corner with Brute Force, their brawny truck and SUV intake that’s gaining street cred by the minute. But, K&N escapes damage by striking AEM with their 69 series—an unlikely point on the card for the veteran. Though AEM has the sport compact high ground, most of the 69 Series is able to be configured as a short ram intake or a cold air intake drawing from the wheel well. Then K&N drills AEM in the eye with filter technology, setting off suffocating swelling. K&N’s cotton-gauze with oil filtration system uses its time-tested formula and 1,000,000-mile warranty to land a big blow over AEM’s struggling bid to equal cotton-gauze performance with an oil-less filter.

Round and round they go, trading jabs and the occasional slug that re-engages the crowd to this clash of now-tiring titans. As the 12th and final round passes with many a fist thrown but few landed, the judges must go to the scorecard. Though AEM takes rounds judged on compact performance and looks under the hood, K&N wins the battle by decision with an extra 4hp on the dyno for the F-150 with a 5.4L V8, which happened to be the judges’ trucks. The cooler crosslink tube (which also costs less) helped put K&N over the top of AEM here, making it the current undisputed belt holder for intake performance. But, AEM will likely return soon with some new moves in its quest for the title.

When you need to pick a cold air intake vying for the title, go with a champion like the K&N Cold Air Intake, or a smart, up-and-coming contender like the AEM Cold Air Intake.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bernhardt

Modern Tuning Makes Maximizing Performance Much Faster

2007-10-12T18:53:00.003-07:00

Chances are you’ve seen the Saturday afternoon show geared toward squeezing every droplet of power out of a 50s or 60s classic. You know—the one hosted by two middle-aged guys, one with a toupee that may as well have “this is a toupee” painted on it. They spend the entire half-hour show with a bunch of time-lapsed shots taken of them tearing the engine apart to put in highly-specialized, insanely expensive parts. Once the project’s done, they fire-up the dyno and laud the 3hp gain they received for about 4 hours of total work. If you’re like me, that’s not exactly how you want to spend a weekend, all for 3hp that you may not even notice with your rear-o-meter.

Fortunately, you’re probably also driving a computer-controlled vehicle, like most of the ones sold for the last 25 years or so. That makes tuning much easier, because a set of programming determines the way your engine performs. Replace the programming with a set geared toward performance, and you have near-instant power gains. Don’t get me wrong—there’s a lot to be said for the virtues of a computer-free classic that you have full control over. But, when it comes to getting more power in just a few minutes time without ripping your hands to shreds or spending thousands on obscure parts, a computer-controlled vehicle has a distinct advantage.

How can you make these changes in minutes? With a power programmer or performance chip, like the ones made by Hypertech or Diablosport. These programmers are built to hold performance settings tested by experienced pros for your specific engine. All you have to do is plug it into the OBD-II port beneath your steering column. With simple yes or no commands, you can adjust how you want your engine to perform, upload the new programming, and you’re ready to rock with 25hp or more extra. The maximum time this will take to complete: just 10 minutes.

Many drivers who want the extra power are leery of this tuning method. “How can so much power be had so fast, when the TV pros spend hours to get few gains?” they ask. The answer is that automakers down-tune their cars for the masses. Engines are setup to work the same for you, the budding performance enthusiast, as they are for the elderly, who like to travel half the speed limit or through the occasional farmer’s market. You aren’t the average driver, and performance programmers aren’t average settings. It’s a perfect match for you; it’s not a perfect match for your mother.

Some drivers worry about warranty when they’re considering a performance programmer. Not only to the companies that make programmers take safety into account with their settings, they often give you ways to return to stock settings for service visits at the dealership. And, as with all performance mods, you’re protected by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law that basically states that your vehicle’s warranty can’t be voided by mods unless the mods can be proven as the source of trouble. In other words, there’s no reason to wait—the true potential is waiting to be unlocked, and you can do it without breaking a sweat.

Maximize your ride with performance chips, available from time-tested brands like a Hypertech programmer and Diablosport.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bernhardt

My Boycott Against French Products Starts With Snails But Ends With Tonneau Covers

2007-10-12T18:53:00.001-07:00

In order for everyone to understand where I’m coming from on this issue, I’ll need to delve into the storied history between the US and France. Back in 1914, World War I landed smack dab in the center of Europe, and France bit off a little more than she could chew. Turns out, for all their gusto, those cheese-eating generals couldn’t tell the difference between an Ottoman and a couch. So guess what happened? In came the American cavalry and saved their derrieres. Fast forward to 1939, and another major conflict erupted in the heart of Europe. Basically, it was the same players, same terrain, and same outcome. France got booted out of their own country, and the US had to come over and clean up the mess, again. Why do I bring this up? Simple. We’ve saved that ungrateful country so many times that they have no right to question our international doings. Our Greatest Generation didn’t die face down on the beaches of Normandy 60 years ago for France’s freedom to ignore our every command, no matter how absurd or wimsical.

So me and the rest of the boys down at our local Elk’s Lodge decided to take action. We started listening to this political wonk out of Levittown by the name of O’Reilly. According to his logic, the best way to fight back would be with our pocketbooks. He told us to stop buying French imports, and that’s exactly what we did. Wine? Only from California. Cheese? Better be from Wisconsin. Heartburn medicine? No Nexium for me, thank you very much.

Now, to be perfectly honest, it’s been a struggle. I haven’t had a decent flute of Champaign in nearly 2 years. And don’t even get me started on foie gras. I’m about one lackluster round of hors d’oeuvres away from force-feeding my own goose for even a single cracker’s worth of that pate. But I think all our sacrifice is really paying off because old Jacques up in the Elysee Palace is running away from reelection with his tail between his legs. That one goes out to the Gipper.

Unfortunately, this major victory is really going to the heads of some of the more power hungry boys in our Lodge. They want to expand the boycott to anything that even sounds remotely French. I can understand nixing baguettes from the grocery list and steering clear of cherries jubilee at restaurants. But I need my hair palmade. And after doing some online research, I learned that I really need a tonneau cover.

You see, I have to drive my truck for work, and the cost of gas keeps skyrocketing. I was nosing around on Google to see if I could find something to improve my fuel economy, and that’s when I stumbled across some articles about tonneau covers. Basically, they cover up your pickup’s box, which stops wind turbulence and cuts your drag. Long story short, you can save some serious dough at the pump with one of these. And there are a ton of companies all competing with each other, so the quality is top notch. I was giving serious consideration to Truxedo and Extang, but I finally went with a Pace Edwards retractable tonneau. I still catch hell down at the Lodge, but I don’t care. The cover was made in the USA, and I’m not going to hold it against the company that these miracle truck accessories sound like they came from Nice. C’est la vie.

After researching, the Undercover Tonneau, Extang, and Pace Edwards tonneaus impressed me the most.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bernhardt

Preparing Your Truck For Summer

2007-10-12T18:52:00.001-07:00

By Rich Marsiglia

As summer starts up people will start getting into their cars and trucks. But it is the season which has to be checked out. Summer would also mean that temperatures would be reaching beyond a limit which is something you should think on. The heat would be terrible that would remain the same for the entire season. As the temperatures go high and you have to travel long, it is very important to prepare your truck for summer. This makes your vehicle the perfect one to be for safe traveling. If any problem results and you get up stuck in the side of a busy road or a parking lot then it could be unsafe and could even lead to lots of tensions and confusion.

For the preparation of your truck for summer, it is very important to check the negative effects of heat and other problems in your vehicle. For keeping you and your loved ones safe in summer it is very important to check all these and especially the battery. It is considered to be important as the heavy electrical loads such as game systems, video equipments and the stereo systems could kill the battery along with the extremely hot temperature. This would in turn lead to putting you in terrible danger.

There are several things to be remembered for preparing your truck for summer. The first is to check your battery as the summer heat can be a danger. The connection between the posts and cables should be kept clean. Check the fluid levels always by opening the battery caps, but always wear eye protection. http://tonocover.com/ has all that is required for the automotive needs and it also offers free shipping on most of the products.

The coolant levels and the other fluids are to be checked often. For preparing your truck for summer it is very important to replace the antifreeze annually and the cooling system should be checked always. Other than all these it is very important to check out the engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids and also the windshield washer solvent.

The hoses and belts should always be examined as the heat could result in leaks and damage. The electrical system, power steering and the air conditioning should be checked often. A loose belt or a damaged belt could lead to overheating of the engine. The varieties of truck accessories in the website http://tonocover.com/ are simply magnificent and attractive and are also available at low prices.

The gas as well as the performance mileage should be maximized. Thus the preparations of your truck for summer would be complete. Along with it always make it sure that the tires are inflated and if it is not, then it may seem like driving with parking breaks and above all it could also cost more than driving with inflated tires. The air filters are also to be checked always as it leads to burning of gas for the particular amount of air and also leads to gas wastage. This also results in losing engine power. The gas mileage could be improved by replacing the clogged air filter. It is also proved that the improvement could be about ten percent.

Rich Marsiglia, author for http://tonocover.com You can find more on truck accessories tonneau covers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rich_Marsiglia

Dodge Dakota And Ram Pickup Trucks Wasted Space And Sound

2007-10-12T18:51:00.003-07:00

By Dennis Estelle

Dodge Dakota and Ram Pickup Trucks -All that Wasted Space

Let’s face it, your Dodge Dakota or Ram Regular, Extended or Quad Cab has wasted space under or behind the rear seats. If you are like me, you stare at that empty space every time you get into your truck. Then you hesitate throwing anything under or behind the seat because it makes your pickup look messy. The challenge is keeping the interior of the Dodge Pickup looking as great as the exterior.

Great Looks but Lousy Sound
All Dakota and Ram pickup truck owners discover this very quickly. They have a desire for Great Sounding Stereo but really do not want to hack up their new truck. The OEM radio might offer a CD Player but the quality of the sound isn’t anywhere near what you expect.

Wasted Space and Lousy Sound System
So you have this huge volume of space under the back seat or behind the seat in the case of the regular cab. Your quad cab is crying out for someone to fill that area under the back seat. You are quickly tired of the weak sounding stereo system that came with the Dodge Pickup.
Put that Space to Good Use
Fortunately there are a few ways to handle this now, all depending on your budget and your specific model Dodge Dakota or Ram pickup truck. You can upgrade both the sound and appearance or your new truck with one purchase. Nothing adds great sound quality like the deep bass only provided by a good size subwoofer.
There are custom boxes available in a variety of colors to match the interior of your particular vehicle and so you don't have to compromise its cosmetic integrity. This is especially nice for those who lease their vehicles and want to enjoy added bass without the added hassle of messy installations. Custom Subwoofer Enclosures
The material used in these custom enclosures is a high density polyethylene resin, which is resilient enough to transform into various shapes, yet rigid enough to avoid flexing. It also has enough density to dampen any resonance. Some models even come with amplifiers installed within the unit.
Problem Solved
So you solve several problems at once. You keep your amplifier and subwoofer out of sight of nosey people since the installed enclosure looks like it is part of the original vehicle. Plus you manage to use all that wasted dead space. MTX and Q Logic are probably the two best known manufacturers of these products. Of course various model years have different applications. You'll find them available for Dodge Dakota regular cab, extended cab and quad cab pickup trucks. They are also available for Dodge Ram series of full size pickup trucks. No excuses, its time to upgrade that new Dodge Truck.

Dennis Estelle is owner of http://www.topdodgetrucks.com
Everything associated with Dodge Ram and Dakota regular cab, extended cab and quad cab pickup trucks
from accessories, upgrades and "How To" books.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dennis_Estelle

Truck Comparison - Chevy vs. Toyota

2007-10-12T18:51:00.001-07:00

By Neil Lemons

Texas truly is “Truck Country,” a place where trucks rule the road and are tested to their limits. With Toyota setting up its plant in San Antonio, Texas and its upcoming introduction of the new Tundra, I decided to see how it compares to the Chevy Silverado.

First, let’s look at the steering. Chevy has 20-inch wheels and comes with Goodyear Eagle street tires. Toyota steers well, with 18-inch comes with trail tires and has a smaller turning diameter than Chevy despite having the same-length wheelbase.

When the power of these two trucks was tested, the Tundra did better in straight-line running with 381-horsepower motor, shorter axle gears, 55-percent more transmission gears, and more torque over a wider powerband. On everything other than straight-line blasts, the Silverado won the slalom and figure-eight contests with its 315-horsepower motor.

While the Silverado has higher EPA ratings with the high-tech Active Fuel Management system, it doesn’t offer the all-around benefits. Instead, Tundra transmission’s extra gears gave it the fuel-economy edge against the Silverado.

For those more interested in the interior, the Tundra tends to feel bigger inside than the Silverado and the massive dash looks more like that of a heavy-duty. Chevy tends to go for the more luxury sedan look with the extended cab using dual-hinged rear swinging doors that now open nearly 170 degrees. For a night on the town Silverado seems to be the choice, while Tundra takes a more work-oriented approach.

So after all the comparisons, who is the real king of the Texas roads? Consumers will probably have to let the truck industry know when Tundra is officially released for sale in a few weeks.

Neil Lemons represents Chrome Pickup, an online truck accessories retailer selling grille guards, mud flaps, headache racks, and nerf bars nationwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neil_Lemons

8 Esential Steps To Ship Your Vehicle Nationwide

2007-10-12T18:50:00.003-07:00

By Leo C

You want to relocate your vehicle to another state? You need a Car Shipping Quote. Buy a vehicle from auto auctions or E-bay? You need Auto Shipping. Buy or sell your motorcycle, car, pick-up, minivan or SUV? You need a Shipping Quote.

Why do you need a quote? Because you look for best quality service at a low shipping cost.

What's a "Shipping Quote" by the way? The shipping quote, it's the full price you will have to pay, as a transporter/broker estimate the costs, according to your request info.

What you have to say in the "Quote Request"? At least: vehicle type & size, if operable or not, if you like an open carrier, or an enclosed trailer, locations from where to pick up and the other one for drop off the vehicle, and the moving date.

You may book for free, after you accepted the quested price. As the driver is found and assigned to load your vehicle, you may pay a shipping deposit online.

Vehicle is shipped from origin to destination, by a licensed, bonded and insured carrier.

At destination, just make an inspection and receive the vehicle. Pay the balance cash to the driver: COD - "cash on delivery". Keep the copy of Bill of Lading as your receipt. This BOL contain the records of body scratches and dents, inspected at loading & unloading locations, signed by you and driver.

That's basically what you have do, and what you may expect from transporters. Look for car shipping transporters or auto movers with full license and insurance only.

LeoCozmyk write articles for customer service, business starters, internet marketers, etc. More authors about more topics at http://www.icebergtips.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leo_C

Mack Trucks - The Bulldog Is Back And Stronger Than Ever

2007-10-12T18:50:00.001-07:00

When your sights laser in on a pugnacious little bulldog blazing down the street, what is the first thought that crosses your mind? Well, if you are semi truck driver, you will leap and yell ‘Hey! That’s Mack!’ Bull Dog is a trademark of Mack Trucks Inc, an old horse in the trucking world. Mack Trucks Inc is known for building heavy-duty trucks that are capable of enduring a punishing terrain and the vagaries of nature.

The journey of Mack Trucks began in 1893 when the Mack brothers, Jack and Augustus, bought over Fallesen & Berry factory. Soon, the Macks started experimenting with various steam and electric motor cars. Inspired by the inventions taking place all around him, Jack envisioned the building of heavy -duty trucks and thus began an eventful journey. The first product from the house of Macks was a bus, which was used by sightseeing concessionaire Harris and McGuire, for eight years before it was converted into a truck. The success of this bus egged the Mack brothers to continue with truck development. However, old Mack trucks were known as ‘Manhattan Trucks’ as the brothers had sought a different name to distinguish the trucks from their other business, viz. their horse-drawn carriages.

In the early 1900s, Mack Trucks became famous as ever-reliable trucks that could easily endure rugged terrains. Soon enough, the brothers engaged in adding new features that would enhance the safety and comfort aspect of the driver. For instance, Mack Truck Inc. were the first truck manufacturers to introduce a constant mesh feature that protected gears from being damaged or stripped by inexperienced drivers.

In 1919, Manhattan Trucks was re-christened as ‘Mack’. Later, in 1922, it adopted bulldog as its corporate logo. As to how a bulldog was chosen as, a symbol of Mack Truck Inc. is an interesting story in itself. Lore at Mack Truck Inc. say that during the First World War, the British government had chosen the sturdy Mack trucks for transporting important war supplies and food requirements to the soldiers on the front. These Mack trucks, with their blunt-nosed hood, resembled a bulldog. Besides, the Mack trucks were proving as tenacious as bulldogs. These qualities reminded the British soldiers of their official mascot the ‘British Bulldog’. In fact, when faced with a truck problem, the soldier would often say, "Aye, send in the Mack Bulldogs!" Now, Mack Truck Inc. viewed this as a matter of pride and hence they adopted the bulldog as a corporate symbol to represent all the future generation of Mack trucks.

Since then, Mack trucks have undertaken important missions of national and international importance. For instance, they played an important in the trans-continental convoy conducted by the US Army, which highlighted the need for a national highway system. Similarly, Mack Truck Inc. played a major role in the building of the Boulder dam. It also played an important role in the Second World War. Mack trucks found themselves adorning the role of prime movers, personnel carriers, wrecker trucks, tank transporters, and more.

Thus, Mack trucks had played an important role in the American history and are now serving the needs of a modernized world.

The author has twenty five years experience in the automotive aftermarket in sales, marketing, product management, benchmarking and best practices, and E-Commerce web development. He is currently a Manager of Marketing and E-Commerce Business Development, and the webmaster behind a semi truck parts and accessory site http://www.chromemytruck.com and http://www.trick-my-truck.com

He can be reached anytime at 888-802-0010.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Ottman

International Trucks – Miles Ahead in Customer Satisfaction!

2007-10-12T18:49:00.001-07:00

The interesting logo of the International Truck and Engine Corporation inspires confidence in truckers and truck lovers across over 90 countries around the world. The company manufactures automotive trucks, buses, school buses, diesel engines and chassis. It also designs and manufactures private diesel engines for SUVs, pick-up trucks and vans. Like other reputable companies such as Ford, Isuzu and GMC Navistar International also manufactures rental trucks for Budget Rental Truck.

The International Harvesting Company was formed in 1902 in Chicago, Illinois, as a result of the merger of the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company and the Deering Harvester Company. In the following three decades the company diversified to include manufacturing of farming equipment, gar turbines, construction equipment, trucks, buses and allied components. It was in the mid 1980s that the company began to downsize and concentrated its operations on International truck and engine manufacturing. It retained its original logo and also its excellent reputation in customer satisfaction. The Navistar International Corporation is the parent company of the International Truck and Engine Company.

Today International truck and engine are regarded as the best and assure customer satisfaction each and every time. International Truck and Engine Corporation understands the financial constraints that customers often face and hence has a subsidiary, Navistar Financial Corporation that takes care of this aspect. It also sells through its wide and diverse International truck dealers network new as well as used trucks. Whatever the choice the customer is always guaranteed the utmost level of satisfaction in service.

The diesel range of International engines have now been named ‘Maxxforce’. Thus the name of the truck engine will be Maxxforce, followed by the approximate number of the engine’s displacement. The company endeavors to provide its truckers the best driving experience and hence offers interior packages to suit the driver’s needs. The International Chrome Package for International Class 8 trucks offer a trendy look and reliable service with top grade 304, non-magnetic, non-corroding stainless steel.

Medium and heavy duty International trucks are used in many different vocations and markets such as hauling freight, construction, pickup and delivery, over the road, military, corporate, school buses, emergency services, utility and governments. Some of the heavy duty and medium duty trucks offered by International include the International 9900, International CityStar, International ProStar, International DuraStar, International PayStar and International TranStar

It has always been International Truck and Engine Corporation’s effort to provide their customers the very best service. They have even designed the International WorkStar in a multi-piece manner, which essentially means that in case of any damage only one part will have to be replaced rather than the whole unit. International truck parts are available easily and are characterized by their superior quality and reliability.

The International truck dealers network ensures that truckers are able to find the parts they want in minimum time. International won the 2006 JD Power Award and has the highest customer satisfaction rate among Vocational Class 8 customers. When it comes to brand loyalty International is far beyond its competitors and 91% International vocational truck drivers say that they would replace their current truck only with an International because of the superior performance of the trucks and excellent customer service.

He can be reached anytime at 888-802-0010.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Ottman

The Impact of NAFTA on Trucking

2007-10-12T18:48:00.001-07:00

NAFTA is a treaty agreement that can be described as slightly controversial. One of the area where NAFTA has had an affect is on the commercial trucking industry

In 1994, the United States, Canada, and Mexico signed the North American Free Trade Agreement known as NAFTA. This agreement was intended to encourage the free flow of trade between the countries of North America, and was viewed and touted as a wonderful boost to the economy of all three countries. In the years since the agreement was signed, problems were encountered that were not carefully thought through or ignored by the drafters of the agreement.

Many of these problems directly relate to the trucking industry. The primary cause of concern was the provisions in the agreement that would allow the trucks of each of the signatory countries to travel freely upon the highways of each other’s countries. The main bone of contention has been the overall conditions and standards in the Mexican trucking industry, and the quality of Mexican highways. The 67,000 member strong Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (ODIDA) has been outspoken in it opposition to free access being granted to Mexican drivers.

In 2003, there was court ordered Environmental Impact Reports done on the effect of Mexican drivers using U.S Highways. The courts ruled that the EIR was inadequate, and further studies needed to be done. Recent efforts to control the influx of illegal immigration between Mexico and the United States, and talk of a border fence and increased border security have further complicated the issue.

Mexico does not have anywhere near the safety regulations of the U.S. trucking industry, and if Mexican truckers were to be allowed on U.S. highways, higher insurance rates are one of the predicted impacts of this on the trucking industry. Insurance rates have been steadily climbing as the result of increased liability demands and further increases would create a severe hazard on an industry already reeling from the impact of increased fuel costs.

American truckers see the NAFTA tradeoff as opening up lucrative and already highly competitive American markets to Mexican truckers who will be able to travel freely on one of the best maintained and extensive highway system in the world. In return, American truckers get the chance to travel on poorly maintained and inadequate Mexican highways to visit markets that provide considerably less income potential than what they have in their own backyards. It does not appear to be a very good deal.

The trucking industry faces many challenges of its own today, and the prospect of having it hurt even more by unfair foreign competition is extremely disturbing to truckers. The future of NAFTA and the decisions that will be made in the future by the Congress concerning its implementation are of great concern to everyone in the industry, and also to everyone who depends on the industry to meet their transportation needs.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - a directory of trucking companies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carl_Stinson

Discount Truck Rentals

2007-10-12T18:47:00.003-07:00

By Joe Robertson

Need a truck? You don't really need to own one if you don't need it often. You can always avail the facilities of a truck rental instead. Truck rentals can help you move to places, help you reach your camping destination, help you carry large items that you have purchased from the store and many more. So needing to use a truck doesn't necessarily mean you have to buy one because it doesn't usually pay of. Hence, whenever a truck is needed, a truck rental can be helpful.

Trucks can be hired for just a few hours or even a few days depending on your need. If you're moving from one place to another, you can find a truck through your local truck rental company. Also, depending on the load to be carried, the truck size can be chosen accordingly. And if in case it's inconvenient to drop the truck back to the truck rental, you can always drop it off at one of its other agencies near your destination.

If a truck is needed just for a few days while you get to your camping destination or even simply travel across town, you may opt to rent a car from your regular agency. According to your needs and requirements the correct truck size can be chosen from your truck rental. These truck rentals however come with additional insurance so that you wouldn't be penalised for any damage that may have been caused due to rough roads or bad weather. Hence, these truck rentals are very handy and can be used for a variety of purposes.

You can read more: Truck Rental Articles

Joe, a reporter, has been travelling around the world for more than a decade now and has extensive experience in many fields. Now he has a blog along with other article writers. To know more about him, do visit Random Rants

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_Robertson

Using Dry Truck Shipping To Move Your Products

2007-10-12T18:47:00.001-07:00

If you are in a business producing products, you have to get them to the market. Dry shipping is the most common method of doing this today.

Dry trucking refers to the type of trailer that is used to haul the trucks cargo. There are several different types of trailers in use on the highways and each serves a different basic purpose. Tanker and flat bed trailers are two examples of alternate trailer types. The most common trailer, by far is the dry van trailer. An estimated 41% of all trailers in use are of this type.

The dry trailer is essentially a large box on wheels and can be used to haul just about any type of non-liquid freight. The only limitation on dry and non-perishable freight is that it not be too big to fit inside the trailer. The normal dry van trailer is around fifty three feet long, and attaches to the tractor by use of a fifth wheel. The trailer does not have a front axle and the fifth wheel coupling is a round ball and socket type attachment that supports the weight of the trailer on the back axle of the tractor. The ball and socket connection allows it to pivot for turning. The trailer has front support legs that are lowered to support the uncoupled trailer.

The major advantage of the fifth wheel coupling of the dry van trailer is that it may easily be transferred from one tractor to another. It may also be uncoupled, and parked until needed. It is estimated that there are almost three trailers to every tractor in use.

A modern dry van trailer is likely to have a translucent roof to allow outside light. This feature makes loading and unloading safer. Most have tracks along the inside that are used to secure the loads to prevent shifting during transit. Air ride suspension systems are becoming more common on dry van trailers as more and more delicate electronic items are being shipped in large quantities by dry van trailers. New trailers are also equipped with locking devices to prevent “walking” or shifting when being loaded or unloaded after being detached from the tractor. Many trucking companies offer only dry van services while others have dry vans as an integral part of their trailer fleet. They are the most common and easily recognizable of the trailer types, and they carry the widest variety of products. There is no doubt that the dry van trailer is the workhorse of the trucking industry.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing a list of trucking companies in each state.

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Shipping Your Yacht Over Land

2007-10-12T18:46:00.003-07:00

One would think moving a Yacht would be as simple as sailing off to a destination. Yacht shipping over land, however, is a growing industry as trucking is often the quickest way to get to a destination.

Yacht transports are the common name for a distinct branch of the trucking industry that is concerned with the transport of large boats across land. While it is usually desirable to sail the boat to its new destination, occasions arise when this is impractical, and the boat must be removed from the water and transported by truck and trailer. Many trucking companies specialize in this form of transport and utilize some special equipment to get the job done correctly.

The first major problem in the transport of a yacht by truck is getting the yacht out of the water and onto the trailer. The normal size limits for yachts that are to be trucked are 100,000 pounds of weight, 18 feet of height and 20 feet of width. These limits are set more by the limitations of allowed weight on bridges and highways as well as overpass heights than the capacity of the trucks and trailers themselves. Most dry dock facilities will have the cranes and the expertise to remove the yacht from the water and place it on the trailer. Yacht transport trailers tend to be very low to the ground to allow maximum height of the boat.

The next step is preparation of the boat for transport. The yacht trucking company will normally have a checklist of pre-transport items to guide the owners in the preparation of their vessel. These preparations include the removal or stowing of all loose items. All fuel and water must be removed from the vessel as well as drain plugs left open. All battery cables should be disconnected. Any device that extends above or outside the hull should be removed. This would include antennas and radar devices.

Shrink wrap is a debatable subject among yacht truckers. If the shrink wrapping is done professionally and correctly, it will protect the boat during transport. A poor job could cause damage if wind tears the shrink wrap and allows it to flap and scratch the surface of the vessel. If it is necessary to transport the yacht bow first, shrink wrapping of any glass or Plexiglas windshield is recommended to prevent damage.

A boat is a valuable investment that usually is the subject of much love and devotion from its owner. Yacht trucking companies that have the equipment and the experience in moving them are certainly worth investigating if you need to move your boat.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing articles on trucking.

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Have Your Freight Trailer Hauled By A Trucking Company

2007-10-12T18:46:00.001-07:00

When it comes to the trucking industry, most people don’t realize the diversity. You can, in fact, have your own trailer and have it hauled by another trucking company for instance.

Power only trucking is the industry term for providing the tractor to haul another’s trailer. Freight companies that provide power only service are used for a variety of hauling jobs where the customer has a trailer that needs to be moved but is either unable or unwilling to haul the trailer with his own equipment. One of the examples of a time when power only trucking is used is in the delivery of new trailers to a trucking fleet. Power only haulers will haul the trailers to the fleet’s depots, and drop them off there.

Many of the other uses for power only hauling involve trailers that are used for set purposes and are usually designed to remain in one location for a long period of time. Equipment trailers and job site trailers are two examples of this type. Since the trailer is liable to remain at the job site for an extended time, the company that owns the trailers often foregoes the purchase of their own tractors and relies on the services of power only haulers to move the trailer from site to site.

An exhibit trailer is another example. The same criteria apply here as the exhibit will often be moved to a site and the exhibit will be set up and remain in place for an indefinite period of time. Once again, the cost of purchasing a tractor and hiring a driver to move the exhibit into place, and then remaining idle would be excessive. The power only hauler can deliver the trailer to its new location, and then go on to other work, returning when the exhibit is ready to be moved again.

Disaster relief organizations use ready packed trailers in the same manner. The trailers are loaded with emergency supplies and stand ready to respond to a disaster site. The cost of maintaining tractors and drivers who would be idle until a disaster strikes would be prohibitive. The relief organization, instead, hires power only haulers to transport the trailers to where they are needed, when they are needed.

Power only haulers usually have special tractors equipped with sliding 5th wheels that can easily be adapted to any trailer configuration and turning clearance. Many power only haulers do not restrict their business to this form of trucking, but use their drivers and rigs for routine hauling jobs while maintaining a reserve of drivers to take on ower only jobs when they are needed.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing a list of trucking companies in each state.

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Untethered Trucking Trailers Are Potential Terrorist Toots

2007-10-12T18:45:00.003-07:00

These are dangerous times we live in. Terrorist use our own systems against us, which brings us to the subject of the need for a system to track trucking trailers.

The trucking industry has made good use of the global positioning system (GPS) to track the location and movement of tractors and drivers. The tracking of trailers has lagged behind, however, and is a concern of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA recognizes trailers as a significant security risk. Untethered trailers can easily be used to transport dangerous cargo and are subject to being used by terrorist to move weapons of mass destruction inside the borders of the United States virtually without detection. Almost 800,000 shipments of hazardous materials are being made daily and the risk of lost trailers, or theft is another concern.

One solution to this problem is a National Untethered Trailer Tracking system (UTT). Currently, UTT devices are installed on less than 2% of the nations estimated 2.5 to 3 million dry van trailers. This creates constant inventory problems within the trucking industry. It is not hard to keep track of a trailer when it is attached to a cab, but once it is untethered it is not as easy. The trucking industry uses almost three times as many trailers as tractors which means that at any given time two thirds of all trailers are sitting empty and unwatched. This makes them extremely subject to theft or misuse.

There are several ways that tractors can become lost even in normal use. They may be erroneously moved or parked. Trailers are often transferred to other carriers, and once this occurs the owner loses track of it until it is returned. The need to manually track the locations of trailers is what causes increased costs due to the need to perform yard searches, and sometimes engage in long and costly searches for misplaced ones.

A recent pilot test on a UTT system showed the ability to track the real time location of all trailers in the fleet. The location data is fed to a dispatcher on a regular schedule. The test system involved remote sensing of such things as the status of loads inside the trailer, and provided alerts when doors were opened or cargo was disturbed. This ability to track trailers with the same degree of accuracy as tractors could reduce loss through theft, and help guard against the potential security risks. Although some time would be required to equip every dry van trailer with a UTT device, the benefits seem to outweigh the trouble and expense.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing articles on trucking.

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Priority Shipping With The Trucking Industry

2007-10-12T18:45:00.001-07:00

The economy of the world can often be found on trucks putting across nations. Priority shipping is a way to use the system quickly.

It has long been known that when a customer is asked how soon he needs a shipment his most likely response is going to be to say in a firm voice, “as soon as possible.” In fact, that has been said so often that the meaning of ASAP has changed to often mean, “as soon as we get around to it.” Despite this cheapening of the meaning of ASAP, there sometimes is a shipment that really has to get there as soon as possible. This is where priority freight comes into the picture.

Most shipping mediums have their own version of priority shipping. The Post Office uses Priority Mail which usually has a two to three day guarantee on delivery. If an item needs to be there faster than two or three days, they have express mail which usually can guarantee overnight service. United Parcel Service and Federal Express have similar premium services to address the need for overnight or priority shipment. In almost every case, these shipments use air to get the item to the customer within the guaranteed timeframe. When the size of the item is a factor is where Priority Freight Trucking becomes the only choice. It is size that eliminates many shipments from qualifying for the Postal or combination Air/truck services.

When the item is going to be sent by Priority Freight, there is still a limit to how quickly the delivery can made. The limitation is the distance that must be traveled. Regardless of how much care is taken to insure the shipment does receive priority treatment, the miles of road have to be traveled. This is the only limitation, however, that should be involved. When a shipment is declared priority freight, and the customer has paid for this service, every effort needs to be made to get it there as soon as possible.

One way the trucking industry has handled the demand for priority shipment is through the use of Priority Freight Brokers. A Priority Freight Broker specializes in matching loads with empty trucks. Their major advantage is that they are not restricted to only one fleet of trucks, and by tracking loads and movement of many major carriers; they can insure that the priority shipment is matched to the truck that is available at the earliest time. Trucks move over the highway 24/7 and this fact means that somewhere there should be a truck ready to take the priority load and begin its journey toward its destination. Any Priority mode of shipment regardless of carrier is going to cost more than routine delivery and this is another function of the Broker. They should be able to find you the combination of the best price and the quickest delivery.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - a directory of trucking companies.

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Rising Fuel Prices Hurting Trucking Industry

2007-10-12T18:44:00.003-07:00

The trucking industry is the life blood of the economic body. The rising fuel prices it is facing may make us all sick in the wallet.

It is a basic fact of life that trucks need fuel to operate. Fuel makes up around 25% of the operating costs for the average truck fleet. This is the second highest operating expense trailing only labor costs. Here is an idea of how much impact a rise in fuel prices can have on trucking operating expenses. In 2004, trucks consumed a total of 32 billion gallons of diesel fuel. At that figure, a one cent increase in diesel fuel cost would result in a 320 million dollar increase in operating expense.

The American Trucking Association (ATA) once estimated that for every ten cent increase in fuel cost one thousand fleets go bankrupt. This may have been a bit of an extreme, and it certainly is not true today. Trucking fleets have developed some basic policies for coping with the ever increasing cost of fuel. The most important of these is the fuel cost surcharge.

This method passes on the cost of the increase to the freight customer who in turn certainly passes it on to the ultimate consumer. At least, the trucking industry is not forced to bear the entire burden. It is estimated that fuel cost surcharges recoup somewhere around 70% of the lost revenue from fuel cost increases. Although some outside the trucking industry would see these surcharges and the burden being put on the ultimate consumer, this would pale beside the impact on the average consumer of the trucking industry shutting down completely.

There are other tactics that trucking fleets can use to soften the impact of rising fuel prices. The practice of fuel economy is a basic tactic. The same figures that show the impact of a rise in one cent in fuel cost can be used to illustrate the savings, industry wide, of conserving an extra gallon of gas. Another tactic used is hedging against future increases by purchasing large quantities of fuel during price downswings and storing it for use during high cost periods. This requires storage and pumping facilities and is thus available only for the larger fleets.

It is the small fleets and the independent truckers that are hurt the most by rising fuel costs. They are not able to hedge during higher price periods, and do not do the have the total business to benefit the most from the competitive nature of fuel surcharges. There is no doubt that rising fuel prices has impacted everyone from the consumer to the largest trucking fleets, and despite some tactics that soften the blows somewhat, it will continue to be a problem as little price relief is seen in the future.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing a list of trucking companies in each state.

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The Critical Part Played By The Trucking Industry In The Economy

2007-10-12T18:44:00.001-07:00

Most people grown when they get stuck behind a truck on the road. Give some thought to critical part the trucking industry plays in the economy and you might change your tune.

There is little question that the trucking industry is the oil that lubricates the cogs of our National economy. Over 81% of the value of the freight moved in the United States is hauled by trucks, and 60% of its value. There are very few areas of the economy that are not touched in one way or the other by trucks.

One good example is the manufacturing segment of the economy. Trucks bring the raw materials to the factory, and trucks haul away the finished goods. Although some factories are located on or near railheads, and some are near rivers, and could be supplied in that manner, the real distribution web of the country is the road network and in order to use that we need trucks.

The trucking industry is highly regulated and a major reason for this is the vital connection between it and the health and vitality of the economy. There are many other important elements that make up the total economic picture, and if any of them were to shut down completely, they would have a serious detrimental impact, but if the trucks stopped rolling, the economy would be crippled.

We are living in a time of rapid technological change. Everything seems to be in a state of flux and there are some who might question if the heyday of the trucking industry is in the past. A look at some figures answers this concern. Total trucking revenues have risen almost 60% in just the last ten years reaching a staggering 400 billion dollars per year. During this same period the number of trucks on the highway has increased 18%. There is certainly no indication that the shifting economic tides are having any impact on the need for trucks.

Although the economy might be shifting rapidly as manufacturing jobs move overseas, and the technological revolution continues to introduce change, the basic need to transport food, raw materials, fuel, and finished goods is not likely to abate. The trucking industry is vital to the health of the economy and this should remain true into the foreseeable future. This is not a totally rosy picture, however, as many of the factors that are of concern to the economy as a hold heavily impact the trucking industry. There are employment issues as many trucking concerns experience almost 100% turnover. Regulations and safety requirements, although viewed as necessary, add to both the cost of moving freight, and the ability to trucking firms to operate profitably. Rising fuel costs, of course, have a serious impact of a trucking industry that consumes awesome amounts of fuel daily.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - providing articles on trucking.

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Introduction To The Trucking Industry

2007-10-12T18:43:00.001-07:00

We see trucks on the freeway everyday, but discount their importance to our way of life. Here is an overview of the history of the trucking industry and its importance.

The word truck comes from the Greek word "trochos" which means wheel. This is interesting because it reflects the idea that the earliest use of the invention that was to alter the world was the transportation of goods. It was always possible for humans to transport themselves rather easily by jumping on the back of a horse, but it was not possible to pack everything they owned on the animal's back. It was carts and wagons that were the first wheeled vehicles.

This is the purpose of the modern trucking industry. It moves material goods from one place to another. In the United States, goods have been moved long distances over a variety of highways. The first highways were the rivers, and barges and steamboats were the carriers. Next came the railroads and goods were moved over the iron rails that eventually ran from coast to coast. Wagons and carts continued to doing the hauling, and the first freight companies took on the task of transporting the goods from the river ports and railheads and distributing them to the surrounding areas.

The invention of the combustion engine was the revolutionary development that brought the truck to the forefront. Highways of asphalt began to connect every part of the country, and development no longer depended on the rivers and railroads. Today it is estimated that 81% of the value of the nation's freight moves by truck, and over 60% of its tonnage. This fact is evident to any traveler who is used to seeing the endless procession of tractor trailer haulers moving day and night over the Interstate highways, or lined up in rest areas and truck stops.

The importance of the trucking industry to the nation's economy is best illustrated by the amount of government regulation that it endures. The thought of a trucking strike has haunted the nation's leaders for many years. Trucks are truly the lifeline of the nation moving the food, fuel, and goods that are necessary to keep our world operating. There are large trucking companies with thousands of individual trucks, and small companies with only a hand full. There are independent haulers with only a single truck sometimes driven by a husband and wife team. They haul every thing that you could possibly imagine, and our world could not long survive without them. It has been a long way from that first two wheeled cart pulled by an ox to the eighteen wheel diesel driven giants that ply our highways today.

Carl Stinson is with TruckingCompaniesforyou.com - a directory of trucking companies.

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Why Your Next Pickup Should Be A GM

2007-10-12T18:42:00.003-07:00

By Kim Oxford

Oddly enough, out of all of the research done into hybrid technology GM has been forward thinking enough to make theirs are not only affordable, but ingenious as well. They now offer both the Sierra and the Silverado pickups as hybrids country wide. Using a technology not formerly seen in hybrids, GM attempted to not only lower emissions in their pickups, but to make them handier as well.

Affordable Technology GM wanted to make a hybrid truck that was too well priced to turn down, the major complaint of the hybrid models is high price tag which counteracts the gas mileage benefits. In response to this GM produced their pick up hybrids to cost only $1500.00-$2500.00 more than its gas guzzling brothers, saved with tax cuts at the pump within the first few years of ownership. Especially if you consider that the hybrids produce a 10% improvement in fuel economy, all without sacrificing any power.

Both the Sierra and Silverado offer the same 245 horsepower V8 engine, and can tow up to 7,700 pounds. If you consider that pickup truck drivers are not sacrificing any power and when sitting stopped in traffic it emits very limited pollution for their size.

Hybrid System GM employs what they call a "flywheel alternator starter hybrid system" which uses a compact electric motor incorporated between the engine and the transmission. This electric engine runs the truck when it is slowing or idling at a standstill. They calibrate the flywheel alternator system to turn off the engine more frequently than even those systems used in most smaller hybrid models. Eliminating much of the pollution caused by slow moving traffic in high volume.

Now Your Work Truck Can Double As A Generator Both the Sierra and the Silverado boost four 120-volt, 20 amp three-prong outlets which can be used to provide power for electrical tools and electronics. This eliminates any need for a gassy generator spewing fumes into the air at a work site. The truck must be running, but utilizing it's electric engine allows it to run virtually emission free. GM reports that their hybrid trucks can continue to pump out power for up to 32 hours non-stop before needing to refuel. Aimed specifically at contractors, whose need to access abundant sources of energy and drive long miles to job sites fuel this intelligent new take on a work truck.

Testers Report The power source for tools was not quite as juicy as GM would have you think, however the idea is a brilliant one. No doubt in a few generations they will have nailed down this imperfection in an already forward thinking vehicle.

Although the gas mileage is a tad better overall, it borders on insignificant. Which again is certain to be addressed and updated in generations to come. Reviewers say that the feel of the engine cutting out as you hit ten miles an hour is a bit disconcerting, and takes some getting used to, but its pollution saving benefits far outweigh that small detail. Every accessory on the truck is electrical, so the gas engine only runs when it is needed to for its sole purpose, to accelerate the vehicle.

Overall Appeal The brilliance behind the ideas developed for these pickup truck models is really what drives them at this point. Fine tuning is necessary of any piece of equipment and GM has been making pick up trucks for a long time. They will continue to address the issues and refine the existing good points, driving the hybrid market to continue to bring us new and innovative ideas.

About the Author: Kim is a Creative writer for Cash4UsedCars and loves to write about cars. Check out more used vehicle information at Cash4UsedCars.com.

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Diesel Pickup Truck Parts, Diesel Car Parts, Performance Pickup Truck Parts

2007-10-12T18:42:00.001-07:00

By David Pipes

Best Performance Auto Parts Store

We stock a full line of quality performance auto parts and performance truck parts for Acura, BMW, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Pontiac, Toyota, Subaru and more. You'll also find diesel truck parts for Chevy, Ford, Dodge, and GMC trucks. Our huge inventory of racing parts, car accessories, truck accessories, air intakes system, quality exhaust systems, superchargers, and turbos are insuperable to other auto part suppliers out there. So whether it's auto parts, truck parts or diesel truck parts we have a full line of items regularly in stock and ready to ship to you. We offer nothing but OEM quality automotive parts and truck parts so you'll find only the best performance aftermarket parts with us.

Car Parts

We offer discounts on quality car parts like cold air intakes, suspension kits, drive train parts, exhaust systems, superchargers, turbo kits, engine parts, body kits, shifters, programmers and so much more. Our car parts are for both imports and domestic vehicles and complete with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed on your purchase. We offer the best quality advanced auto parts and advanced truck parts available on the market. In addition, all products you buy are backed by the manufacturer warranty.

Truck Parts

We offer discounts on quality trucks parts, and performance diesel truck parts. We also offer items like truck accessories, superchargers, turbos, intercoolers, cooling system, fuel system, brakes, throttle body's, computer chips and tuners, along with many more parts. Our truck parts are available for both American or foreign vehicles. As with our car parts, our truck parts come with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed and are backed by the manufacturer warrantee. At Best Performance Auto Parts you'll find the best quality automotive and truck products at the best prices.

Complete Auto Parts

Performance auto parts, diesel truck parts, American muscle cars and sport compact parts – we have it all waiting for you. We even sell car accessories and off road truck accessories if you need them.

Auto Parts With Fast Shipping and Easy Ordering

Because of our many auto part warehouses, you will receive your auto parts or truck parts fast. Our online catalog is also protected by the highest security on the Internet so you know your transaction is safe. In most cases, a tracking number will also be provided so that you can track your package and know exactly when it will arrive.

If your looking for wholesale auto parts that you can afford, then you have come to the right place. At Best Performance Auto Parts you will find affordable car and truck parts from a dependable parts supplier so get your auto goods with us today. http://www.bestperformanceautoparts.com

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Freightliner Trucks - Run Smart: They'll Wish They Were You!

2007-10-12T18:41:00.003-07:00

When you see a Freightliner on the road or drive it yourself you truly understand the tagline, ‘Run Smart’, that goes with these spectacular trucks and accessories. Freightliner is the leading producer of medium and heavy duty trucks, commercial vehicles from classes 5 through 8, customized chassis and semi truck accessories.

Freightliner trucks have a rich heritage that can be traced back to as early as the 1930s, when Consolidated Freightways realized the lack of powerful heavy trucks that could negotiate the mountainous roads in the Western part of the U.S. and decided to build trucks known as ‘freightliners’. In 1981 Mercedes-Benz bought the truck manufacturing business from Consolidated Freightways, while the latter focussed on traditional trucking business. Today Freightliner is owned by Daimler-Chrylser and its logo also appears on the Sprinter or the Class 2 Merecedes-Benz van that is sold through Freightliner dealers. The company is also a leader in the school bus, diesel Class A recreational vehicle chassis, and walk-in van markets.

The Merecedes-Benz Sprinter is a tall delivery van, pick up truck and mini bus and essentially caters to corporate clients rather than private users. Companies such as Microsoft are using Sprinters as campus shuttle buses, while companies like DHL and FedEx are drawn to it because of its aerodynamic design that adds to its speed and fuel efficiency. Freightliner trucks are designed well and to run smart but they also cater to the comfort of the driver. When you buy or drive a Freightliner truck you are assured of its service. The enormous network of Freightliner dealers allows truckers to remain stress free about the service, spare parts and maintenance. This combined with its constant customer support and warranties and financing options make it the best choice.

The ‘Excelerator’ program guarantees truckers break down assistance and offers options such as pay-as-you-go with credit cards and special services for preferred members of the program. Alliance parts, accessories and components are available at reasonable prices with every Freightliner dealer in the North America and make maintenance of the trucks easier.

Freightliner trucks such as Freightliner Classic XL, Argosy, Freightliner Classic XL, Freightliner Coronado, Freightliner Century Class are featured on Rig ‘n’ Roll, a trucking simulation game, set in the future in California 2024. The game explores the exciting aspects of hauling loads in the smart and sleek trucks such as the Freightliner and has various modes such as racing, missions, regular truck driving and cruising. The game attempts to capture the thrill and satisfaction of driving a Freightliner truck.

Freightliner trucks, due to their diverse design structures can be used by businesses big or small, for many purposes and vocations. From hauling heavy loads, as transportation for businesses that need to move fast such as courier service to school buses and converted mini homes. Freightliner is a name that is trusted by thousands of truckers in the U.S. and also across the globe and helps truckers run smart, always.

He can be reached anytime at 888-802-0010.

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Kenworth Trucks - Are They Really the World's Best Trucks?

2007-10-12T18:41:00.001-07:00

Every truck enthusiast knows that it is not just the sleek design and look of the truck that matters but in fact the nut and bolt operations and the service that goes with it. When one is talking of the world’s best trucks it is but natural that the simple and elegant red and silver bug logo of the Kenworth truck come to mind. Kenworth, the name stands for superior quality, for life. It has always been the aim of the company to produce trucks of quality that provide the best use to the trucker and his company.

Kenworth was founded in 1923 and has a long and rich history. The name Kenworth is a combination of the names of the partners, Fredrick Kent and Edgar Worthington. Kenworth has been a pioneer in the trucking industry and has always stepped ahead to produce better trucks using the most modern technology. In 1933 Kenworth became the first trucking company to switch from gasoline to diesel engines and in 1957 it produced the first cab-over-engine model. In more recent times the Kenworth trucks have used state-of-the-art aerodynamics to give them an edge over other trucks.The Kenworth truck sales indicate the long nose Kenworth W900 has been the most popular Kenworth over the years is the preferred choice of owner operators. The T300, T600, T660, T800 and the T2000 are also popular models.

A subsidiary of PACCAR, the company manufactures semi-trucks, medium and heavy-duty class 8 trucks. The Kenworth trucks and have even been featured in several films such as in ‘Smokey and the Bandit’, James Bond’s ‘License to Kill’ and ‘A Fountain for Susan 2’. They have also starred in TV series such as ’18 Wheels of Justice’, ‘Movin’ On’ and ‘BJ and the Bear. The cartoon series M.A.S.K also used a Kenworth W-900 and was even a part of its logo.

Kenworth is known to take seriously the needs of truckers and does everything to enhance the performance of the Kenworth trucks. Whether one buys a new Kenworth truck, semi truck or a used Kenworth truck, the owner is assured of the superior quality of the machine as well as the services they will receive.

It’s no secret that the initial purchase price of a Kenworth Truck is more expensive than most other semi trucks. However most educated semi truck owners realize that the upfront cost is only one of three components that actually determine which truck delivers the best return on their investment. Year over year, Kenworth used trucks consistently command the highest in resale value amongst class 8 trucks. Add this to the fact that Kenworth trucks also deliver the lowest operating costs of any semi truck in the market. The bottom line is that the world’s best truck is also delvers the greatest investment value of any semi truck in its class.

The strong sales network ensures that irrespective of where you live you will find the Kenworth truck of your choice. The Kenworth truck company offers the PremierCare program that ensures that the Kenworth truck or any other manufacturer’s semi truck is in excellent shape on or off the road. This program includes roadside maintenance, preventive maintenance and many other services. Furthermore the PremierCare Parts & Service dealer ensures that you get the parts you need for the price you want.

For its incomparable production and sales performance Kenworth has won many JD Power Awards. It is an acknowledged leader in the trucking industry for its persistence in providing its customers the best machinery, technology and services.

The author has twenty five years experience in the automotive aftermarket in sales, marketing, product management, benchmarking and best practices, and E-Commerce web development. He is an internet marketer and webmaster behind a successful truck parts and accessory site calledTrick-My-Truck.com. You can sign up at his site to receive his monthly newsletter as well.

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Truck Paper - Much More Than Just A Semi Trucks For Sale Newspaper

2007-10-12T18:40:00.003-07:00

Jim is a semi-truck driver on his way to Seattle and wants to check out the weather conditions. Instead of his trusted print version of Truck Paper, he goes to truckpaper, and then lands on to the web page of Seattle Met Traffic Flow.

Tom is a semi-truck owner who wants to locate semi-truck dealers situated in Nebraska. He types in truckpaper into Google search and viola! The names of 40 semi-truck dealers get displayed.

When you are involved with trucks, you gotta have information on the tip of your fingers. For years, the Truck Paper newsprint edition has been a trusted friend for many a working owner operator. Usually found at most major truck stops, it is the preferred owner operator companion at the local diner.

Many of the owner operators I have interviewed indicated that they had no idea how many tools and resources were available at truckpaper. What I found was that most diehard truck paper newsprint loyalists rarely use the internet version of Truck Paper.

The truck paper can prove to be much more than just semi trucks for sale. Truckpaper is one efficient pit stop providing information on a multitude of owner operator topics.

The truckpaper.com website makes it incredibly easy to shop for your next semi truck. Their search features allow you to compare pricing and features that provide a more focused approach to getting the most semi truck for your money. Whether your interest lays in the legendary Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks or the Japanese Isuzu or may be the world renowned Scania, you just have to browse through the Truck Manufacturers section.

If you are interested in purchasing a semi-truck, then chances are you may also be in need of financing. Truckpaper.com provides various institutions that are interested in financing your purchase. Whether you are purchasing a new truck or used equipment, various institutions are waiting for turning your dream into a reality.

Now that you have purchased a semi-truck, you might be looking out for a driver. Or may be you are interested in becoming an owner operator. Whatever your needs, you can visit the ‘Industry Jobs’ section and view the jobs listed or post your own requirements. You can also look at the ‘View Job Wanted Listings’ and ‘Post Job Wanted Listings’.

If you are purchasing a newer semi truck for yourself, you might want to sell your old truck. Well, in that case, you need not look beyond truckpaper.com. There are no charges for listing your entry into ‘For Sale Listing’. Similarly, you can also check out the ‘ Want-to Buy’ section and locate a prospective buyer for your used truck.

As you have commissioned your new truck into service, you might want to protect it. Truckpaper.com lists out the website addresses of various insurance companies. It also gives the website addresses of various meteorological departments located in the USA. This ensures that your truck and the driver does not run into rough weather and even if it does, you have someone to compensate for your losses.

Sometimes, your semi-truck might get stolen. So, in such cases, apart from registering it with the police, you can also post the information about the stolen truck on truckpaper.com and who know a fellow trucker might help you to locate your truck.

Truckpaper also hosts information on various topics such as provider of various parts, truck services and accessories, driving schools, periodical and publications useful for members of the trucking fraternity, information on various trucking shows and expos, truck auctions etc.

So, if you are a novice in the world of trucks or a veteran member, truckpaper.com will surely satisfy all your needs.

The author has twenty five years experience in the automotive aftermarket in sales, marketing, product management, benchmarking and best practices, and E-Commerce web development. He is currently a Manager of Marketing and E-Commerce Business Development, and the webmaster behind a semi truck parts and accessory sites http://www.chromemytruck.com and http://www.Trick-My-Truck.com

He can be reached anytime at 888-802-0010.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Ottman

Peterbilt Trucks - There's No One Quite Like A Peterbilt Truck Owner

2007-10-12T18:40:00.001-07:00

Peterbilt Truck owner. Proud. Loyal. Hardworking. Determined. With Peterbilt owners, it's evident in everything they do, right down to the care, attention and Peterbilt accessories they put into and outside their trucks.

The red oval logo bearing the name ‘Peterbilt’ in cursive handwriting might not be of much significance to a man on the street. But the same logo for a truck lover symbolizes premium quality trucks, a penchant for coming up with something new and going at lengths for giving the customers an out of the world experience, even if it means sending engineers onto the field. Well, we are referring to ‘Peterbilt’ a renowned name in the world of heavy-duty truck manufacturers.

However, a sneak peek at the history of Peterbilt reveals that it has not been a walk in the clouds for this legendary truck manufacturer. In fact, unlike cars, motor trucks never had a smooth start. During the early 1900s, railroads were used for carrying goods cross-country. Similarly, rivers, canals and horses were other popular means of transportation. In addition, the lack of motor- ready roads meant that there were few takers for motor trucks.

However, the onset of First World War proved to a blessing in disguise for motor trucks. Railroads were proving insufficient for the transportation of food, war supplies and other material. This meant that more and more trucks were pressed into service by the government. The government also took steps to build highways and quality roads. By the time the war, ended, motor trucks had cemented their place as an important means of transportation.

The growth juggernaut continued rolling well after the First World War. However, the Great Depression brought mixed baggage for truck manufacturers. While some brands were registering growth, there were others like Fageol, which became bankrupt.

Fageol was soon brought by T.A. Peterman, a logger and plywood manufacturer from Tacoma, Washington. His lumber business was registering a phenomenal growth and hence he was looking for creating custom chain drive logging trucks. Fageol was later re-christened as Peterbilt.

Peterman concentrated on quality rather than quantity. When rivals like Ford were coming out with 100 trucks a day, Peterbilt was rolling just 100 trucks a year. Soon it etched a special place in the hearts of truck lovers.

Peterbilt was one of the first companies that sent out its engineers to get a first hand experience of the problems faced by truckers and make appropriate modifications in Peterbilt trucks. This further enabled Peterbilt to climb up the loyalty charts with trucking companies and individual semi truck owner operators.

The death of Peterman in 1945 saw the ownership passing into the hands of his widow, Ida. She sold the assets to the employees of Peterbilt, but not the land. Later in 1958, she announced her plans of building a shopping center on the plant site. This put the new owners into quandary. To avoid the possibility of large and long-term debt, the company was put up for sale. It was later acquired by Pacific Car and Foundry, which owned Kenworth trucks.

Later, it went on to come up with many innovative strategies, like using aluminum to reduce cab and chassis weight and increasing payload capacity, manufacturing trucks for use in transporting refuse, introducing right-hand stand-up drive capabilities etc.

Peterbilt still continues to mesmerize truck lovers with constant innovations and practical approach to truck manufacturing

We will be offering tips and tricks for getting the best value in Peterbilt Accessories for your hard earned benjamins along with life stories from Peterbilt owners. We salute your independent spirit with this virtual museum, and most importantly, your Pride and Class in owning a Peterbilt truck.

We always offer, free of charge, expertise in helping you locate hard to find Peterbilt accessories or designing and locating custom chrome for Peterbilt Trucks. Feel free to use our expertise anytime by calling us at 888-802-0010, or email us at Trick-My-Truck.com

The Trick-My-Truck Owner's Gallery is a photo collection of some of the best-looking Peterbilt Trucks on North America's roads and job sites.

The author has twenty five years experience in the automotive aftermarket in sales, marketing, product management, benchmarking and best practices, and E-Commerce web development. He is currently a Manager of Marketing and E-Commerce Business Development, and the webmaster behind a semi truck parts and accessory sites http://www.chromemytruck.com and http://www.trick-my-truck.com

He can be reached anytime at 888-802-0010.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Ottman

New Oil For New Trucks

2007-10-12T18:39:00.001-07:00

By Rudy Hiebert

The automotive perspective may not be as significant as the emissions from factories but it does not take rocket science to find evidence that vehicles of all types and sizes do contribute. Contributing stakeholders of the automotive source, ie. fuel and motor lubricants, have been major players for solution orientated products by providing new complying emission standards. As an Amsoil Inc. Independent Dealer, I can attest to the fact that synthetic lubricants in diesel and gasoline engines makes significant progress to provide solutions. Reduced sulfur content in diesel fuel is a standard in effect as I write this. Manufactures of new 2007 HD on-road diesel engines are required to use the API CJ-4 emissions compliant standard for engine oils. Increased EGR rates mean 2007 diesels engines run hotter than their predecessors, requiring diesel oils with improved oxidation resistance to prevent thermal runaway and maintain engine protection. Synthetic base stocks have significantly better thermal stability than conventional base stocks.

Truck fleet owners and owner-operators need to know that if they are not astute to the fact that the fuel, with reduced sulfur content they use in these 2007 engines, they run the risk of premature wear if they do not take steps by using the correct and applicable fuel additive. Needless to say, this opens the door to numerous product options from companies of ilrepute that are only interested in making a quick profit. If you put a gas pill into your fuel tank and something goes "south", your truck dealer's O.E.M. will find out what you used and you may be on your own.

Confirming additional information about Amsoil Inc. and product options can be seen at www.lubedealer.com/hiebert

R. Hiebert is T-1 Certified Amsoil products and account opportunities provider with an Authorized Dealer web site at http://www.lubedealer.com/hiebert

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rudy_Hiebert

Healthy Diesel after ByPass

2007-10-12T18:38:00.003-07:00

By Kevin Hamilton

Many questions and concerns from diesel owners over the new Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel (ULSF), EGR’s, DPF’s, and the larger diesel engines have prompted attention to the growing need for supplemental filtration in our diesel trucks. This article should take a little mystery out of Bypass Filtration.

A man was once told by his wife and doctor to take a little white pill each day. He didn’t like spending time & money taking this pill, but eventually, he got use to the routine. Many years later during a checkup, the doctor told him he had suffered a mild heart attack, but thanks to the blood thinning aspirin he’d been taking daily, his life was saved. The doctor expecting him to live for many more years as long as he continued with the aspirin and watched his diet. Like aspirin, a bypass filter can extend engine life and protect it from life-robbing wear. The cost for a Bypass system is so little in comparison to the benefits received.

Why use Bypass oil filtration?

Wear is a continual threat to the performance and life of an engine. Wear is caused by having particles of dirt suspended in the oil that are bigger than the film of oil between moving parts when the equipment is under load. Current full-flow oil filters siphons through about 50 gallons per minute and removes particulates (by-products of incomplete combustion) in the 25 micron and larger range. That may sound sufficient but studies have shown that the most damaging particles to your engine are in the 5-20 micron size. ByPass filtering is perfect for removing these soot particles 1 micron and smaller.

This year diesel engine manufacturers have increased EGR (cooled exhaust gas recirculation) from 15% to 30%. EGR engines run hotter and experience less efficient combustion. These new trucks engines will be subjected to higher levels of soot & acid being dumped back into the engine, increasing wear, oil viscosity and shortening drain intervals as the oil and filter deal with more contaminants.

Older diesel trucks also need added protection of bypass filtration. With time, these engines tend to allow blowby compression gases to pass into the crankcase. This gas carries carbon from incomplete combustion, which is removed by the filter. The oil filter must filter more and more carbon as it builds up in the oil. The older the engine gets, the more carbon must be removed. Higher mileage diesels need the added protection of bypass as much as the newer engines.

Full flow filters are not able to remove minor coolant leaking or condensation that form in the engine, but bypass filtering can capture and evaporate these foreign fluids long before a problem becomes severe and reducing the risk of oil degradation, engine rust and corrosion. Normal filter changes and occasional oil analysis should detect (not mask) any engine problem.

A Bypass system helps by adding another 2-3 quarts to the amount of oil circulating through the engine allowing for additional cooling of the engine. Cleaner oil reduces thickening and minimizes the formation of sludge and other deposits on vital engine parts. Not only is Bypass filtration important, but should be used in conjunction with a high quality synthetic oil that provides oxidation inhibitors, detergents and dispersants in its base stocks.

What are Bypass benefits?

Greatly Extend the Oil Drain Interval, in some cases >100,000 miles

Improved Oil Cooling

Fuel Economy Improved by 5%

Efficient Small Particle and Soot Removal

Significantly Extended Engine Life, most times Doubling Rebuild Interval

Reduced Engine Rust & Corrosion

Equipment Constantly Runs on Clean Oil

Increased Engine Efficiency

Less Downtime

Remove Particles Less Than One Micron

Less oil Purchased & Less Waste Oil in the Environment

How does Bypass Filtration work?

Bypass systems have been around since the 60’s. Bypass filtration is a secondary oil filtering system that by-passes the existing oil filter, taking oil from the oil sending unit or add’l oil pressure port, to a remote filter(s), then returning clean oil back to the engine via the oil pan or valve cover. Some owners may notice a small drop in oil pressure, but system manufacturers note up to 10% decrease in pressure is negligable. A Bypass system is called “partial flow” meaning the oil is being filtered at 8-10 gallons/hour, instead of the full-flow 50 gallons/minute. The oil is now supercleaned to less than 1 micron and you have virtually eliminated engine wear.

There are Dual Bypass filtration systems (two remote Bypass filters) for oil sump capacities of 15 quarts & larger.

There is another kind of filtration that combines the full flow and the partial flow called “Dual Remote”. This system takes the place of your existing full-flow filter and replaces it with a two filter remote system similar to the Bypass.

Bypass systems are quick and easy to install. Someone mechanically minded could accomplished this in an hour or two.

Who makes Bypass systems and how much does it cost?

There are several players in the Bypass market: AMSOIL, Fitration Solutions, and OilGuard to name a few. AMSOIL offers the BMK-11 (Bypass Mounting Kit), Filtration Solutions has the FS-2500, and OilGuard with the EPS-20.

Amsoil BMK-11 runs about $175.00-$200.00 for mounting kit and fittings. Diesel trucks can expect to pay an additional $50 (Dodge) $100.00 (GM) & $150.00 (Ford) for special fittings. A special EaBP filter is about $35.00-$45.00. You can pay $10.00 to become a Preferred Customer with AMSOIL and save about $50.00. The AMSOIL EaBP filters should be replaced after 25,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.

The Filtration Solution FS-2500 runs about $400.00 (depending on your vehicle) for a complete kit, including filter. Additional filters cost about $22.00 each and should be replaced after 10,000 miles.

OilGuard EPS-20 for diesel trucks will cost $229.00 , but the installation kit will add $100.00 (Dodge), $160.00 (GM), and $257.00 (Ford 6.0L). Additional filters are only 8.00 each and under normal highway driving should allow 4 times the manufacturers drain interval.

Arguments continue as to which is best. Tests prove these systems are efficient. The normal payoff for these systems is about 70,000-100,000 miles. If you want the kit installed, you can go to a mod shop and pay anywhere from $50-$125.00 for installation.

SUMMARY

Bypass oil filtration systems simply provide the ultimate protection for your diesel engine whether its old or new. Tests prove these systems can drastically reduce maintenance costs over the service life of a vehicle and extend engine life. The combination of the two filters are synergistic in minimizing engine wear and corrosion. The only downside is a possible lower oil pressure reading and more points for an oil leak.

If you only drive your truck a year before trading it in, this system is probably not for you. but if you truly care about the investment you’ve made in your truck, then this investment is the most rewarding and beneficial for the price. If nothing else, they make your periodic filter change a breeze.

Get a Bypass and save yourself the heart attack when you see the estimate for a diesel engine rebuild.

AMSOIL first introduced the world to synthetics in 1972, and ever since have provided the best in synthetic lubrication, filtration and fuel additives. AMSOIL continues to lead the way in synthetic research & technology. Please visit us at http://www.PremiumDieselOil.com to experience the best in diesel performance.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Hamilton

Truck Air Suspensions: What You Need To Know Before You Buy

2007-10-12T18:38:00.001-07:00

By Matthew Middlebrook

If you’re a serious towing enthusiast, you probably already know the reasons why you should add a truck air ride suspension system to your heavy-duty truck: a quality truck air suspension system helps by cushioning a bumpy ride, leveling your vehicle, reducing wheel hopping, limiting trailer bucking and adding stability during braking. And, an air ride suspension system helps you protect your investment in your heavy-duty truck by preventing the harsh wear and tear caused by heavy towing.

But, before you make a decision to buy a product that can have such a significant impact on your truck, your trailer and your load, there are several factors to take into consideration, including load capacity, manufacturing quality, ease of installation, adjustments to your vehicle, warranty, and much more. Here are a few tips for serious shoppers who are looking for optimum performance and value in a truck air suspension system.

All Truck Air Suspensions are NOT Created Equal

As you start shopping around, keep in mind that there are two main types of air suspension systems on the market:

• Adjustable “helper” springs. This type of system is generally comprised of an add-on helper spring that aids in leveling the truck and reducing vehicle bounce, dip, or bottoming out when hauling a heavy load or towing. The air springs can be adjusted, often with a service station air hose, to the truck’s load condition for more control and leveling support.

Disadvantages: The helper springs are bolted directly onto your truck’s factory leaf springs. Unfortunately, factory leaf springs deflect and twist under acceleration and braking. This axle “wind-up” not only makes the truck drop when you accelerate, but it also makes the truck dive forward when you apply the brakes, throwing nearly all the weight of the truck and trailer onto the front suspension and brakes. Helper springs also tend to distort the natural spring frequency of the leaf springs, actually making the ride worse in certain situations. This type of air suspension system is best suited for leveling the ride and light or occasional towing.

Advantages: initial cost is less expensive. (Note that additional equipment may be necessary over time, offsetting the cost).

• Complete towing suspension system. This type of system is designed to both level the truck and improve the overall ride. Installing these kits involves removing the steel leaf spring on the truck and replacing it with an entirely new air spring. Some manufacturers also replace front and rear shocks for optimum performance.

Disadvantages: More expensive. (Note: if you purchase a quality kit that comes complete with all the bells and whistles for long-term performance, it may offset the initial expense)

Advantages: Truck’s steel leaf spring is removed and replaced with a new spring, which allows for greater handling and control, stability, and safety, even when hauling the heaviest loads. Sometimes the manufacturer will install front and rear shocks to match the frequency of suspension.

Compare Important Features and Options

As with any product, each truck air suspension system claims to have the “latest and greatest” features and benefits. It’s easy to get caught up in all the hype, but when you come right down to it, there are a few things that are more important than others. Here’s a list of major features and options to consider when comparison shopping.

• Quality of materials. Does the manufacturer use high quality premium parts that will hold up over years of heavy hauling? Avoid plastic fittings and lower grade materials that may wear out or need to be replaced. Quality materials translate to greater reliability and a longer life for your air ride suspensions system, even under the harshest towing conditions.

• Ease of use. Is the system easy to use? Can you easily adjust your suspension level? Are there in-cabin controls to help you determine air pressure and load information? An air suspension system that’s difficult to level and adjust will cause you added stress and unpredictability.

• Articulation. Articulation, which is the up and down tilt of the axle, is a critical feature to consider. If you should have an accident and your trailer winds up in a hole, you want the axle to have maximum up and down movement. Most systems have heavy linkage between the front spring and the axle, which prevents adequate articulation.

• Towing capacity. Look for the towing capacity of the air suspension system and be sure it can adequately handle the load you plan to tow. When it comes to towing capacity, the bigger the air spring, the more weight it can handle. Keep in mind that your truck and trailer load should never exceed the gross combined weight rating (GCWR), which is the total weight of the trailer under fully loaded conditions, including food, water, gear, etc.

• Installation options. How is the system installed? Does your truck’s frame need to be altered to install the system? Do holes need to be drilled? Can the system be removed if necessary? Before you buy, be sure that installation won’t be a problem for your or your truck. Find out if you can install the system yourself or if it will require manufacturer assistance. If assistance is required, does the manufacturer provide you with a manual or access to a dealer or installation specialist?

• Warranty and risk guarantee. Does your system provide a warranty that won’t expire before you’ve had time to really test your system with a long haul? Does the manufacturer stand behind the product? Does the manufacturer offer a no-risk guarantee if you are not satisfied with the system?

Buyer Beware

Buyers need to especially beware of the claims made by many helper spring manufacturers that their systems are designed for heavy loads. In spite of the claims, the fact remains that these helper springs are bolted directly onto your factory leaf springs, which are NOT made for heavy towing. With this type of system, you run the risk of the leaf springs twisting under heavy acceleration and braking. In turn, this axle “wind-up” can make the truck drop when you accelerate, as well a throw the truck forward when you apply the brakes, throwing nearly all the weight of the truck and trailer onto your front suspension and brakes. If you merely want to level your ride, the helper spring makes a fine choice, but if you are serious about towing heavy loads, you need to consider a total performance towing suspension system.

Do a little research up front and you’ll avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your truck – and costly repairs down the road. Your main consideration should be overall ride performance, safety and stability during heavy towing. If you’re serious about towing, you need to be sure you are buying an air ride suspension system that can do more than level the ride; it needs to be suited for heavy towing. Like many things in the automotive industry, using an inexpensive aftermarket part often yields less than optimal results.

Author Bio

Matthew C. Middlebrook is the President of Talon - Performance Towing Suspensions. Talon provides “air tuned” truck air suspension systems designed exclusively for American-made heavy duty trucks. Talon’s state-of-the-art total suspension systems include linkage controls axle wind-up, wheel hopping, bucking, and oversteer for a smoother, safer ride. For more information, visit http://www.talon-usa.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Middlebrook

Culmination of the Semi Truck Industry's Best - The 2007 Mid America Trucking Show

2007-10-12T18:37:00.003-07:00