Trucks and Drivers - A 360 Degree View

By Matthew Barr 

Trucks and truck drivers have been in portrayed in films whether it be in realistic stories or fictional ones. Some of the big and smaller but hit movies of yesterday and today has been seen to gain notice because they featured trucks in the story. There are also some movies which had a small part for trucks but still they seem to be noticed by the viewers.

So what's the appeal of these trucks? Many would be attracted to the macho appeal of the trucks and well, the drivers as well. Guys, as everybody knows, just love machines. Others just love the action. And depending on the movie, many would watch the movie for its story too.

If you really want to go deeper about trucks or about the lives of these drivers, you have to watch History Channel's feature entitled the Ice Road Truckers. The series features truck drivers who are exposed to worse road conditions with the ice and all when they haul and deliver materials and equipment to the diamond mines. The difficulty is not only due to the weather but combine this with the fact that these things are heavy.

If you have seen the Convoy, it showed the abuse of the sheriff and other police officials towards truck drivers in particular to the star and his friends in the movie. Well, the truckers bond together in order face the problem at hand and they eventually prevail in the end.

Now, look at the lighter portrayal of trucks in movies. Start with the Transformers. Optimus Prime, the big guy among the good guys in this movie is a truck. If you watch the movie, you will definitely appreciate the shiny body of this truck. While many would picture trucks as big and dirty vehicles in the middle of the road, Optimus Prime is clean and shiny. He also has a good heart.

How about the animated movie, Cars? You would see a lot of trucks on the road here. You can take your pick. Some are clean, shiny and just beautiful while others are old, dirty and just ready to retire. Of course, you would see those trucks resting on the side of the road in the middle of the night. It was even portrayed that they were just tired and sleeping.

Of course, these shows and these movies show the different sides of the being truckers and even the trucks. As you can see in Cars, trucks too get tired even if they are machines. If even the trucks need rest then the more that drivers would need it too. But then there's the image of trucks being big and strong like the one given off by Optimus Prime in Transformers. It somehow counters the connotation of trucks being dirty from being on the road a long time without any washing. On the part of the drivers, movies show that they are not "just drivers." They are also people that also have lives besides driving. With regards to their job, they are really dedicated it. Even though driving may seem easy, their job actually has some difficulties that people don't see.

About the Author: Matthew Barr is a successful webmaster of http://www.urban-neon-car-lights.com. He provides more information on Audi tail lamps, truck and semi truck accessories, and Acura tail lights on this website. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Barr

Choosing The Right Tire For Your Stock Jeep Wrangler

By James C 

When it comes to Jeeps one of the most common questions asked is, "What size tires can I fit on my Jeep?" If you have asked that question or if you intend on putting larger tires on your Jeep you should give this article a read. It will help you make your decision on what tire to buy for your stock Jeep.

There are three models of Jeep Wranglers, the YJ, TJ and JK. The YJ which were made between 1987 and 1995 are best identified by the square headlights and leaf spring suspension. If you have a YJ your best bet without a lift is a 30 x 9.5 inch tire. Next there is the TJ which was made from 1997 to 2006. TJs are identified by the return to round headlights and is the first model to use a coil spring suspension. They have a little more clearance so you can therefore go with a 31 x 10.5 inch tire with no problems. You might have to adjust the steering stops if you keep the stock wheels biut that is an easy procedure. (Do a search for "jeep steering stop adjustment"). Finally you have the newest JK version which were built between 2007 and the present. JKs have an even larger wheel opening as well as an increased wheel base and slightly wider stance. JK's can easily run a 32" tire and even a 33" tire with the right wheels.

So there it is. Those are the basic tire sizes you can fit on stock Wranglers. Of course you should use this as a general guideline only. Consult a tire professional before investing the money in wheels and tires if you are unsure about what tire will fit.

The author of this article participates in the Jeep community with the website Jeep Treads which has a jeep forum and discussion area. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_C

Custom Truck Wheels - Express Yourself

By Ernest Jarquio 

Many years ago a truck was, well, just a truck. They were tough working vehicles used for hauling goods and getting to work and not a whole lot more than that. These days the term "light truck" refers to a variety of vehicles including pick-up trucks, SUV's and vans. These "light trucks" account for approximately 25% of all vehicles on the road and they are considered to be much more than just a "work truck". In fact, for many people the light truck is their only vehicle or their main source of transportation. A current trend includes adding details including custom truck wheels to personalize the truck and express the driver's personality.

Styles To Choose From

Custom truck wheels come in a wide variety of designs and sizes. The average sizes range from 17 inches up to 24 inches in diameter and every size in between. When choosing the size you would like for your truck, it is a good idea to take into consideration the cost of tires since getting "unusual" sizes may cost more especially for a truck since the tires need to be rated "heavy duty".

Another consideration for the size of your custom truck wheels is the effect that size has on the overall appearance of the truck. A simple change such as going to a slightly smaller or larger wheel size can have a large impact on the look of the truck and the statement that the truck makes about your personality. Some people prefer to use two different sizes with slightly smaller wheels on the front and larger wheels in the back.

Effects And Designs

The designs are virtually unlimited and range from ultra-shiny chrome spikes to dazzling rhinestones. You can express yourself in many different ways with custom truck wheels and make your truck one-of-a-kind. Your truck may have an "outlaw" appearance with black wheels accented by silver studs or a "jetsetter" look with polished chrome and rhinestone accents. Maybe you would prefer a superhero image with a spider web design on your wheels which could be carried over into a custom paint job with Spiderman on a web?

Other custom wheels create an optical illusion that the tires are spinning backwards and get your truck extra attention when you are out on the road. Your options are as unlimited as your imagination. "Pimping your ride" is as easy as choosing a custom truck wheel that compliments your truck and your personality.

Shopping For Them

Finding custom tires these days couldn't be simpler. You can get them at most tires stores and the most unique wheels can be found on the internet for a reasonable price. Many of the online stores include a free downloadable instruction guide to assist you in installing the custom truck wheels yourself saving you even more money.

No longer just an old work horse out on the farm, the modern truck has evolved into almost a work of art. Your truck has become almost an extension of yourself and people will recognize you while driving down the road by the unique look of your truck.

Ernest Jarquio is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Just-Tires-n-Rims.com. He provides more resources on topics such as discount truck tires, cheap chrome rims and Good Year tires that you can research on his website even while lounging in your living room. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ernest_Jarquio

Dodge Wheels - Equivalent to Rugged Dependability

By Matthew G Thomas

Ever wondered why the term "wheels" has developed into a slang word for a car? The wheels can be held responsible for this because of its form, as it is the oddest-looking external parts of the car. But more than that, it is because the wheels are the most integral feature that makes a car's main purpose even possible, which is to bring its passenger from one place to another. Sleek interiors and state-of-the-art engine system are all well and good, but without those wheels, the car owner just can't get anywhere.

A wheel can be simply defined as a circular device capable of rotating on its axis, thus facilitating motion. When wheels are used in conjunction with axles, it produces that familiar rolling movement normally witnessed in transport systems today. However, over the years, wheels that are relative to commercial vehicles have developed to serve other purposes. Besides the main objective of transportation, wheels have also become a means to display the vehicle's performance and project its distinctive road style. As a result, wheels of varying diameter and material have been designed to fully cater to these overall goals.

In terms of material, commonly available and the most preferred kinds in the market today are those of steel and aluminum wheels. Steel wheels are the first to gain an extensive fanbase because of its durability and high scratch-resistant feature, while aluminum wheels albeit more expensive are also fast becoming popular due to its lightweight attribute, superior heat conductor trait, and ability to produce customized wheel design through its casting methods. Other wheels offered in the market can also be made from alloy, chrome, magnesium, and silver alloys.

In choosing a set of wheels, Dodge wheels are a smart choice because of Dodge's reputation and continuing commitment for power, style, and rugged dependability. As the wheels are the one who make that vicious connection with the road every time, Dodge wheels have been painstakingly designed to withstand a great deal of pressure under extreme conditions. And as its trademark for quality, it ensures the exact precision fit for every particular model. Dodge models actually have their own standard rim size, but customized rims have been made available as well for other vehicle types. In fact, besides being amenable to custom orders, Dodge wheels have designed every configurations and accessories there is in the market. Most importantly, Dodge provides the guarantee that its wheels will last for a good, long while.

Wheels are not meant to last forever though, what with all the abuse it obtain from the road. Murky road water containing corrosive substances can splash against the wheels, triggering rust on the lug nuts. Numerous road debris can persistently grate on its surfaces. Thus, constant inspection must be made to ensure its proper working condition. Wheels that are producing vibration and road noise are problem signals to watch out for.

Do not procrastinate in purchasing that new set of Dodge wheels, in order to maintain optimum car performance and road safety. GMC Truck Parts for a Powerful Truck Function Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_G_Thomas

Why Are Eighteen Wheelers so Slow?

By Eric Lorence

 

Commercial tractor trailers have evolved in the last twenty years beyond the simple beasts they once were. In the old days, trucks were hulking monsters billowing black smoke and rumbling down the road, shaking the pavement as they rolled by.

Todays eighteen wheelers have some of the most advanced technology available, computerized engine management, twin turbos, modern emission systems, automatic transmissions, and air ride suspensions. But even with light weight aluminum bodies and modern aerodynamics, the biggest expense for trucking companies is still fuel.

Skyrocketing diesel costs has led most major transportation companies to use "governors" or "limiters" on their engines. The largest companies keep those governors set usually between sixty two and sixty eight miles per hour.These slower speeds keep costs down and in many instances increase safety.

Another strategy is to lower the "horse power" rating of the engines. This is accomplished through the computerized engine management system. This however, has the effect of much slower speeds while climbing hills, and slower acceleration in general.

Transmissions and rear-end gear ratios also play a roll. Since heavy trucks are made-to-order at the factory, these specifications vary greatly. Companies will "spec" these trucks according to their various needs and nature of their business.

With new congressional laws on the horizon, owner operators also will have to contend with governor regulations. Soon we will see an entire nation of trucks governed around sixty five. Independents will have little choice but to comply, or risk loosing their "authority" or right to transport goods "interstate".

Lower governors usually mean less "momentum", momentum allows heavy trucks to maintain speed over hilly terrain. This allows a higher average rate of speed that would otherwise be far below the speed limit.

These issues, combined with the massive weights trucks carry, (around eighty thousand pounds or forty tons), will contribute to the "slowing" if the nations highways in the coming years.

About the Author... Eric Lorence was a "long haul" truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits. Visit his Home Page at http://www.zentrucking.com/ Eric's marketing blog at http://www.thoughtsearch.com/ Ready to get OUT of the truck? Trucking life not at all what you expected or were promised? I left the trucking life and started a home internet business. Built it all from my laptop, and so can you! http://www.zentrucking.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Lorence

Double Wide Trailers

By Tony Pang 

Have you ever thought about how we rank everything on a continuum? We seem to love to compare things and then judge the worth of each thing and place it on a scale of what fair good and best. This usually starts with individuals opinions and then as more people agree the rankings become a general consensus.

We do this with everything from what brand of peanut butter we prefer to which hotel we are going to stay in. We also do this with housing choices. When most people are starting out they cannot afford to own their home. They begin with renting an apartment. For people in rural areas many time rentals will include a trailer home, or mobile home. When people have enough money to purchase land but not enough to build a home alternatives that are looked at are double wide trailers. The improvements that have been made on them are remarkable. Double wide trailers provide a great alternative for the person that does not have the money or the time to create a home from the ground up. The construction of the double wide trailers has greatly improved.

In the past double wide trailers used to look like regular trailer houses only wider. Today it is difficult to be able to tell them apart from stick built homes. There are many models to choose from. Some look like ramblers, others are two stories with dormers. If you have the time you can have one custom built regarding the lay out of the rooms. In most models that are knew you pick out the flooring, wall colors, cabinets, bathroom fixtures, and trim just as you would in any other home built. Many of the fifty-five and older communities in popular retirement areas are featuring the double wide trailer as the home for the future. They can be placed on a basement foundation or on a slab; they can have decks attached, as well as garages built on to them. Because of their sound construction they tend to be quite economical to heat and cool. Many resorts and golf courses are using them as their rental properties. They are more economical initially and have the same life span as a house built on sight. The price is lower because several of the homes can be worked on at one time by a crew that stays in one location. This cuts down on the labor cost. You can have one group that does the framing and another that does the more skilled labor. Double wide trailers are moving up the continuum regarding a choice for housing. Due to better construction materials and labor they are a sound alternative for housing.

Does Cheap Tires worth it? More about tires at Pirelli Tires. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Pang

Helpful Tips for New Truckers

By Genevieve Bordeaux

The trucking industry continues to grow rapidly. In 1920, there were one million freight trucks on American roads. By 2006, there were 23 million. This is just one example of many that show what a great industry trucking (freight hauling) has become. There are many things that new truck drivers should keep in mind. Here are just a few:

• If you want to break into this industry, but don't have the experience...what do you do? It is a common catch-22, not just for the trucking industry, but for every working industry. How are you supposed to get experience if no one will hire you because you don't have experience? It can almost feel like you are stuck in limbo. Or stuck between a rock and a hard place or any other cliché will work here. One option is to find a local construction company that use dump trailers. They will usually pay hourly or possibly percentage. Even though it isn't the best pay, it is great for the experience you need to boost your trucking resume.
• Also, if you are new to the industry, it might be a little difficult to understand all the terms and lingo used by other truckers.
• Training is really important for the trucking industry. Some are really great programs and others kind of just let students slide through. You, of course, want the best training so you can get the best job and do the best work, right? So, do some research about the reputations of each trucking school. Your potential employer will probably know which trucking schools are the best as well; this might impress your future employer. Also, some training is free, but make sure they have a great reputation.
• Sometimes road conditions are less than perfect. This can be scary, or at least worrisome, for new drivers. My advice to you is to be prepared for everything. Also, practice in parking lots in bad weather. It is also very important to know your vehicle: How it handles and so on.
• Lastly, find an employer that treats you right. This also requires a lot of research and talking to current employees. Find the pros and cons of each company and figure out what you can deal with and what you can't. There are so many options for trucking companies that it will pay off in the end if you put the time and effort into finding the best opportunities.

In my area, Utah transport is a booming industry as it is across the United States. Trucking companies are always hiring, you just have to have the experience and the motivation to work. Good luck in your trucking endeavors.

You can find a glossary of trucking vocabulary at http://www.twna.org/trucking_terms.htm This seems to be the most comprehensive list of terms. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Genevieve_Bordeaux