Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Why Some Truck Drivers Get Road Rage

Turn on the television to watch the news and you're likely to see at least one story of injuries or deaths caused because of road rage. Do truck drivers get road rage? Unfortunately, some of us do.

Most people are aware of drivers that get upset because of traffic. They are seen nearly every day on the road screaming at the people in front of them who aren't going fast enough. Quite often, however, road rage turns dangerous and lives are lost.

Aggressive driving isn't anything new. Drivers with Road Rage are seen driving too closely behind another vehicle, speeding, changing lanes without ensuring they are clear, forgetting to signal that you're changing lanes, or being rude to other drives. Aggressive driving becomes road rage when the driver who is already frustrated with traffic overreacts or retaliates with some type of violence.

Various media sources have reported the incidences of road rage, many of them which have ended in loss of life, but need not characterize each accident as being the result of road rage. If you happen to notice an actual case of road rage where a driver is purposely trying to run someone off the road as well as if a person is exhibiting impaired driving, contact the authorities to alert them. Many cell phones can be used to do this simply by dialing #77.

Drivers who drive the farthest are often the most like to react if they are confronted with aggressive or rude drivers. Unfortunately that means that many truck drivers, who have been on the road for hours trying to deliver a load, sometimes are guilty of road rage.

Of course, the best course of action when someone is driving poorly is to not become emotionally involved if someone cuts you off or is going to slow. Not all cases of road rage happen while drivers are on the highway. Some occur in parking lots where people are vying for the same parking spot.

Road rage seems to be an epidemic in the country. Women are as likely to have problems in this area as much as men. The drivers come from all walks of life and are in all age groups.

What can be done about this problem? Some professionals recommend having those guilty of road rage attend a support group. Other suggestions are to require each person found guilty in court of road rage to attend anger management courses. In either case, something needs to be done.

Do truck drivers get road rage? Truck drivers are as human as the next person. They will have episodes where they get frustrated by the way others on the road are driving. If they realize they have a problem, they may want to seek help from professionals.

This special report was brought to you by The Trucker Blog If you would like more information on how to make more money, stay healthy on the road, and other articles dedicated to Truckers go to TheTruckerBlog.com.

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Sunday, June 15, 2008

How to Buy a Used Budget Jeep - Body Check

By Henri Cormier



First you need to decide on your budget as this will play a big part in the make and model Used Jeep you will be able to afford. For this article I'm working on a budget of $5,000. You think that's not a lot of money, however you can pick up a nice budget Jeep for that price range and still have a few dollars to make it your own. I will cover the making it your own in my next article. In this price range you are looking at an early 90's Wrangler in the US or YJ's in Canada. Once you've found a potential Used Jeep here are the areas you'll want to check out.


Verifying the Outside of a Used Jeep Body
Jeeps have their rust problem areas that will be affected differently depending on where you are located, aka rust belt or not. Starting from the front of the Jeep working your way back, first run your fingers underneath the front fenders where the fender flares meet the metal fender. What you're looking for here is rust, holes and/or loads of bondo. Water, dirt and salt gets stuck between the fender flare and fender and basically rots it out. This is easily repaired of the fenders can be replaced. Use this as a negotiating tool in your offer. Next is to get a visual of where the front fenders attach to the body or tub. This should be a straight seam. If it is bulging be aware there is rust between the panels that will need to be addressed. Another good spot to check from outside the Jeep is the windshield frame. Check in bottom center of the windshield where the seal meets. Look for signs of repair and buckling of of the seal. Also, if the Jeep has a softop, check the top channel where it is attached via screws to the windshield frame. This needs to be properly sealed or water will seep in from under the channel and into the windshield frame rotting it from the inside out. Last trouble spot from the outside to do a visual is in the rear. The rear quarter panels have a seam that joins to the bottom of the floor just under the rear swing tailgate. This seam is also prone to rust and will buckle. If the Jeep you're looking at has no seam there be very weary and ask many questions. There should be 2 rubber flaps under the rear quarter panel just under the rear lights. Pull these back to see if there are chucks of mud and other crap stuck there. This is a catch all area for mud, water and salt that will rust the Jeep from the inside out if not cleaned thoroughly.


Verifying the Inside of a Used Jeep Body
Inside the Jeep there are a few areas to check. First don't be afraid to pull up the carpets. starting from the front again you want to lift the carpet and check where the front floor panel joins to the side of the tub. Pretty much where the Jeep logo is stamped. There are 3 seams in that one location that are very prone to rust. Next is to check under the carpet
for the seat brackets. Make sure the floor is sound and ask questions if you see signs of patching. Also check under the Jeep where the mounts go through the C-channel. Next is the roll cage. This is an important safety item. Again pull the carpet and double check where the cage is bolted to the floor. Check the seatbelt mount as well as water, mud and salt will gather at these locations, settle and rot. Also check under the Jeep for patching from
the underside to cover any holes or weak spots. Last is to lift the rear seat and carpet to check the floor, seat mounts and seatbelt mounts.


As always, don't be afraid to spend some time under the Jeep looking at all the seams, patching and anything that looks chopped or "booty fab". Depending on what you see from the outside, I would also suggest getting under the dash with a flashlight to see if any water got in there via the air ducks or rotted windshield frame. Rust under there could be well hidden and cause bad grounds, cracked/frayed wires and general electrical gremblins.


This would conclude the body check. Jeeps will have trouble spots and in this price range you will most likely have to put up with some body work and preventative maintenance to help reduce the rust and rot. Depending on your skills, tools and comfort level, these can be used as negotiation tools to get a better price on something you can easily fix. If you're not so comfortable at least you now know where to check and what to look out for so you not buy a money pit.


This part one of a six part series I'll write. Stay tuned for:


- How to buy a Used Budget Jeep: Frame Check
- How to buy a Used Budget Jeep: Engine & Drivetrain Check
- How to accessorize your Used Budget Jeep
- How to build a mild offroading Used Budget Jeep
- How to upkeep your Used Budget Jeep


Hope this was informative and helps you discover the Jeep addiction!








Henri Cormier is an avid Jeep builder and fabricator of all offroad vehicles. Owner of http://www.JeepinCentral.com where you can buy all your Used Jeep Parts for your budget Jeep and Auto-Salvage-Project.com where you can buy your next repairable salvaged Jeep project.


Thursday, June 12, 2008

Drop Deck Trailers - Two Levels For Your Loading Convenience

By Marilee McCormack 



Drop deck trailers offer a much easier loading option than most other designs of trailer that are available. The floors on these trailers drop down one level once they are clear of the tractor unit or truck. The most common types of these trailers include flatbeds and curtain siders. They typically have a body with wheel wells which project into the actual cargo space. They are designed to be raised or lowered on the wheel set, which will bring the floor of the trailer body flush with the floor section of the dock. It is possible to arrange the suspension so that it is adjustable, and can be further adjusted to accommodate the various heights of loading docks that are common.


One of the best ways to purchase drop deck trailers is to find a reputable online website that offers these products for sale. You can go to your favorite or preferred manufacturer, or you can visit a site that lists multiple types of trucks and trailers, their sellers' contact information and other information that is pertinent to purchasing and/or using these specific trailers. One of the most common manufacturers is Raven, who produced the all aluminum 48 foot by 102 foot step deck in 1999. This particular trailer features a tandem number of rear axles, aluminum floor and air ride suspension.
While this is one design of drop deck trailers, there are of course several others. There are many manufacturers who produce these trailers. A newer model, the Manac 2009 version, has a 53 foot by 102 foot body with air ride suspension, steel composition and many other features.


Whether you are looking for new or used drop deck trailers, you can find many online. When you are shopping online for these, or other trucking necessities, it is best to find a site that has specific searches. After all if you are looking for a flatbed version then you should not have to weed through various other styles in order to find exactly what you need. A better way is to locate a site that offers specific search criteria. You simply put in the information about the trailer that you need and you are presented with multiple listings that match exactly what you are looking for. Not only does this save you time, but if you are purchasing used trailers then it can also save you money.








Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks Sales. In addition to editing, Trucking SEO and Website Marketing Services are offered.


Friday, May 30, 2008

Privacy Policy


We have created this privacy statement in order to demonstrate our firm and continuing commitment to the privacy of personal information provided by those visiting and interacting with this web site. We hold the privacy of your personal information in the highest regard. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices for this website.


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Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Mitsubishi Fuso Trucks

By Vanessa Beaty Platinum Quality Author



Although a Mitsubishi Fuso may not be a name that you see or hear very often, these medium to light duty trucks have been around since the 1960s. Mitsubishi is a very well known name and their Fuso line of commercial haulers has made itself quite a reputation among truck drivers. From dump trucks to sweepers these trucks are dependable and efficient, according to those who drive them.


The first Mitsubishi Fuso trucks were first seen on a global scale in the 1980s. They began their ascent to popularity in the Asia-Pacific market in the 1970s and soon found themselves being accepted worldwide. Australia has given much rise to the Fuso's popularity over the past few years. Today you can normally recognize a Fuso by the Canter badge on the front or by the Mitsubishi badge which is typically found on the back of the truck. The Mitsubishi Fuso is comparable to United States models such as the Toyota Dyna, Hino Dutro, and the Chevrolet W Series of commercial vehicles.


The Mitsubishi Fuso Canter is a lighter duty commercial vehicle that is primarily manufactured in Japan and a few other Asian countries, but is also sold in the United States. Europe, the Mid-East and a several other countries have also seen the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter come to life. The Fuso is manufactured by the Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation in Japan with facilities also operating in Portugal since the 1980s.


From reefers to construction models, the line of Mitsubishi Fuso trucks offers the perfect choices for those looking for a medium to light duty professional vehicle. The manufacturers turn out approximately 15,000 new units each year and to date there have been more than 100,000 vehicles produced by this company. These trucks typically boast high production quality standards which are certified by ISO standards and when combined with a test track and a very extensive final inspection for quality it really is no surprised that these are one of the most popularly sought after trucks for light duty work. You can simply type in Mitsubishi Fuso on your browser's search engine to see the listings for sellers of these trucks. Finding used Mitsubishi Fuso trucks is also possible, and at very reasonable prices. And of course, you would expect a Mitsubishi to be very fuel economical as well. If you are vying for a truck that provides quality craftsmanship and massive fuel savings you really can not go wrong with this one.









Vanessa Beaty is a Freelance Writer - See Her Professional Website At:


Write Next Door - Articles and Website Content.



Vanessa Beaty - EzineArticles Expert Author

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Is Four Wheeling Safe for Families?

By Buck S. Johnson



Four-wheeling is full of young people and singles, but it is certainly not void of families. The pasttime is a great form of recreation for the entire family and there are a growing number of family-friendly organizations that cater to them.


Kids absolutely love riding in a rig while it jolts over gravel and pivots around large boulders. Try stopping along a trail and having your kids jump out to search for the most interesting thing they can find in the woods. Bring the items back home and use them in your next craft project at home or save them for a scrapbook of your adventures.


Perhaps contrary to popular belief, four-wheeling is a very safe form of recreation when carried out with good safety practices. If you are thinking of taking your family for an off road outing, make sure everyone is wearing seatbelts and that there are no lose items in the cab of your vehicle that could be harmful if thrown about unexpectedly. Confirm that all passengers are aware of the uneasiness of the terrain ahead. Allow only persons that do not require child restraint systems to travel in the vehicle while off-roading.


Another thing to consider when you are off-roading is clothing and other outdoors items. Just as you would when hiking or camping, you should have all the typical necessities on hand when in the wilderness. Take plenty of water and food rations, emergency flares, emergency bedding, flashlights, and communication devices such as a cell phone, GPS, and/or radio. In addition to the typical survival kit items, be sure to bring actual four-wheeling equipment such as tow straps, tools, rope, tie downs, tarps, etc.


It is best if your vehicle has a tow package and hitch for getting out of sticky situations. On that note also, it is always best to travel in multiple vehicles when off-roading. The worst situation to be in is stuck in the elements without a friend to help pull you out. Although, one of the greatest aspects of off-roading is the communal factor. If you happen to get stuck and you don't have a friend traveling with you (or you are both stuck!), your best chance of getting out is usually to wait for the next off-roader to come by. Almost every off roader will stop to help a fellow driver no matter how sticky the situation. This is one of the strongest bonds in the four-wheeling community. It is just one manifestation of the comradery of the sport.


Another family-friendly aspect of the sport is simply being outdoors with the people you love most. It's sort of like taking a camping trip or a hike with your family. There is excitement that comes with exploring the wilderness together and overcoming challenges with every turn. Kids and parents find new respect for each other in this atmostphere. Plus, it gives everyone a chance to work on something together even when not off-roading. Dads and sons, mothers and daughters, siblings and friends can work together on the vehicle. There are countless opportunities for teaching about the mechanics, engineering, safety and survival.


By joining a four wheeling club in your area, you can easily find the best places for off roading, meet others in the four wheeling community, and better organize your trips.
Mountain Transit Authority http://www.MTA4x4.com) (San Jose, CA)
http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/events/index.html (Pennsylvania)
Southern Four Wheel Drive Association http://www.sfwda.org (Southern U.S.)








Buck Johnson is the vice president of ChromePickup.com. For the last 20 years they have provided offline truck accessory retail products, and for the last 10 years have provided Ford truck accessories available online. Find headache racks and other additions at http://www.ChromePickup.com


Four Wheeling - Understanding An American Pastime

By Buck S. Johnson



For decades people have been rock climbing, snow wheeling, mudding, and otherwise off-roading in their pickup trucks, Jeeps, and other four-wheel drive vehicles. This arguably extreme sport can be described as a cross between human rock climbing, hiking, and roller coaster riding.


Most people who enjoy 4-wheeling on a regular basis are those who have grown up around it. They are from small mountain towns, valley and coastal communities. They spent the better part of their childhood learning how to maneuver river beds and scale rock walls. They know the limits of their vehicles because they're committed to testing them with each run.


Some, however, have grown up (and even still live/work) in the cramped quarters of large cities. These people are burdened with blatant advertising at every turn, smothered in cement, deafened by noise and engulfed in smog. Some of the most passionate 4-wheelers have come from this background having discovered a love for the outdoors. For these people, four wheeling is an escape and a refuge from the constraints of modern society. They leave the hustle and bustle behind for a chance to spin their wheels in God's creation.


Outsiders of the sport may see four-wheeling as an upset to nature's beauty. After all, these vehicles are usually far from green with their poor fuel economy (compared to smaller cars or hybrids), over powered engines and large tires. Many see these vehicles being hauled down the road (or driven if they're street legal) and wonder why on earth someone would go to such great lengths, spending time and money on such "extravagances".


The thing is, when you love and enjoy something you will expend all your resources to sustain it. Just as a concert pianist spends thousands of dollars on his piano or a golf pro spends oodles of cash on collared shirts and goofy hats. Whatever you enjoy, you work to keep that hobby alive and well in your life. It's all a matter of interest, priority and perspective. For the four-wheeling community it is close to the top of the list.








Buck Johnson is the Vice President of ChromePickup.com. For the last 20 years they have provided offline truck accessory retail products, and for the last 10 years have provided Dodge truck accessories available online. Find headache racks and other additions at http://www.ChromePickup.com