Automotive Trucks information on net.

Truckers often complain about the four-wheelers. That is you and I in our personal automobiles. Trucking accidents were down in 2004 by the number of miles driven per accident. However they were slightly up as 11% more trucks are on the road because the economy picked up and more products had to be delivered to the consumer, that’s us too.

This is a huge issue of cars mixing with truck traffic and it has been studied to death. Probably due to the deaths, which can result. I can tell you having driven some 500,000 miles around the country in a 72 Foot Indy Car Truck and Trailer that when you are on the open highway and you separate the speeds of cars and trucks by too much for example trucks drive 55 and cars drive 70 you are asking for an accident to happen. There are many places in this country where the speed differentials are like this. What happens is that cars try to pass at bad times adjust for the trucks and end up causing an accident.

Did you know more traffic deaths are caused going up hills than down hills? Why? Due to the severe speed differential, slow vehicles, such as trucks and fast vehicles trying to pass or adjust and fit in between cars moving in faster lanes, many of these accidents are rear collisions or partial rear collisions. These are among some of the most severe accidents. Trucking is very proactive in their safety innovations as well; due to the previously discussed insurance costs. A new warning system will soon be located on trucks to warn them of an impending rollover risk. The devise will be activated either by transponder on the roadway or roadside service vehicles. It is possible that the 15,000 truck rollovers per year will be cut by over 45%. One thing we must realize is when we make rules to help in aspects of safety the must not slow the flow of traffic or transportation. They should solve both problems, improve flow and improve safety.

Recently in the last five years many state DOTs have sponsored the “No Zone” Safe truck campaign to alert us four-wheelers in cars, mini vans and SUVs that trucks have blind spots just like cars only way bigger. This mass media campaign is said to have cut the number of deaths on our highways by 6,000 per year, simply by waking people up about driving around trucks. Think about it.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:12 AM

Most work trucks are equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS). Chances are, you are paying 10%-15% less for vehicle insurance because of this feature. Now before you say; my insurance is up 30% in the past three years you moron. I say imagine if you added another 10-15% because you had regular brakes. This is great, but it will still take longer to stop your work vehicle than a normal car and of course, don’t forget reaction time. Cars don’t stop by themselves yet. Neither does your truck.

A driver’s reaction time is approximately three-fourths of a second. This time must be transferred to feet and added to your miles per hour. To do this, take the first digit of the speedometer reading and add it to the total speed. If you are traveling 20 miles per hour, your vehicle will travel 22 feet between the time you react to the hazard and move your foot to the brake. 20 (mph) + 2 (1st digit) = 22 feet reaction time. This is exactly why you should slow down in residential neighborhoods. Now let’s add ten more feet since you’re in a work truck. Whoops! Thirty-two feet. You just hit Fluffy the neighborhood cat. Miss Smith is an animal rights activist. Now you’ve had it. Your insurance will not help you from her wrath.

At 55 mph your reaction time is 60 feet. Now add in 160 feet for braking distance. That’s 220 feet. You just rear ended a 560 SEC Mercedes and doubled your insurance. The passenger is faking a sore neck and has a brother in Century City who is an attorney specializing in personal injury.

At 65 mph your reaction time is 71 feet plus 240 feet to stop. This time you rear-ended a ‘Vons Is Value’ truck. Luckily your work truck has one and the airbag deployed, but it broke your nose. Your truck is totaled and it takes twenty days to build a new one providing your insurance company gives you a check first for your old one.

Braking distance is the distance the vehicle travels once the brake is applied and is also determined by the vehicle speed. At 20 miles per hour, reaction distance is 22 feet. Add 18 to 20 feet for braking distance. The total stopping distance is 40 to 42 feet. 22 (reaction time) + 18 to 20 (braking distance) = 40 to 42 feet total stopping distance.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:11 AM

When driving as work truck you must be aware that stopping distances are much greater than when driving an automobile. At the Departments of Vehicles in most States, they recommend the two second rule. Use a two second following distance in good driving conditions. Watch the vehicle ahead of you pass a specific mark: a phone pole, a mile marker, a fence post, any marker that is stationary. When the rear bumper of that vehicle has passed that marker, being counting to yourself: “One thousand and one, one thousand and two.” If your front bumper reaches the marker before you finish counting, you are following too closely.

We at veterans of the transportation industry recommend two and one half to three seconds. Four seconds is not recommended in metropolitan areas because someone will squeeze into the spot after one and one half seconds. It is not that we do not trust you the driver, we have just seen too many accidents.

If traffic is heavy or you are in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Don’t complain. Think of it this way. Those are all your customers. We love traffic, don’t you! Think about it, relax, slow down ad enjoy real job security.

There will be occasions in heavy traffic where you will be forced to slam on your brakes. It’s rather serious and eventually you’ll be put in a dangerous situation by another driver. Your adrenaline will increase your heart rate and you might have to clean out your pants. Watch out. Drive totally defensively. Always expect some one to do something out of the ordinary. Something stupid; something worthy of a place in the Darwin Awards Hall of Fame.

When you are going down hills don’t coast unless you are really low on gas. Save your brake pads/shoes. Use gears to keep your speed down. This will help you stop more quickly. Remember if your get into an accident in a work truck you are already considered at fault since you should know better. Stay alert, pay attention and please think about it.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:10 AM

Many companies have utility trucks or box trucks. You must pay attention to the tires to prevent excessive wear and dangerous situations. It is important to buy truck tires for the rear of your work trucks and vans due to weight factors. You never know when you are going to put a heavier than usual load on them. Proper tire inflation pressure is essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your work vans and trucks. If the tires in the rear of the tuck are duallies then be sure to look at both the inner and the outer tires, it is quite common for operators to run an inside flat and not even notice it. Train your crews to be observant and do a quick walk around or preflight. Inflation is one of the most critical issues:

Improperly inflated tires are dangerous and can cause accidents.

Underinflation increases tire flexing and can result in tire failure.

Overinflation reduces a tire’s ability to cushion shock. Objects on the road and potholes can cause damage that may result in tire failure.

Unequal tire pressure can cause steering problems. You could lose control of your vehicle.

Always drive with each tire inflated to the recommended pressure.

Improper inflation pressures can cause rapid tread wear resulting in failure or a need for earlier tire replacement. This also increases tires rolling resistance and results in higher fuel consumption. Hey, let’s face it. If you save money in gas you make more profit and at these pump prices that is a great idea.

Another consideration is of course comfort, stability and jarring. The last thing you want to have is your 7-11 Supergulp to end up in your lap or your mornings coffee all over the seat and floor. Obviously, you are well aware that properly inflated tires contribute to a more comfortable ride and you are now justified in your belief that such a situation causes unnecessary tire wear. Over inflation can also be dangerous and causes:

Excessive liquid movement if you are hauling containers of liquid

Turns normal speed bumps into bumps from hell

Misalignment of pulleys and belts on portable generators and equipment

Over responsiveness on high speed turns

Shakes tools, products and road assistance kits to depart the vehicle while driving down the road; ever see stuff from work trucks in the road? Make sure it does not happen to you.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:09 AM

There is an ongoing debate or whether a mobile auto detailer or mobile car wash should use a trailer, van or truck unit. Many have different ideas of what would be best. One industry professional, Jeff Hass with 20 years experience believes that trailer units are best and he has developed some of the nicest detailing trailers in the World. www.Detrailers.com . I on the other hand agree with his summation and also see in some cases a van unit might be preferable or even a truck unit. Let’s say you want to use to a truck unit for reasons of space when parking or because you work in an area where your customers have really long single car driveways and backing up is not an option. Here are some thoughts on what you might consider for a truck unit:

Diamond Plating

Your truck bed should be custom made and stand out so that you will not see another one like it. When we custom make our beds, we put on lots of aluminum diamond plate for two reasons:

It doesn’t weigh as much as steel

It looks fantastic.

You might consider this too for your company. Everyone will be impressed by it’s looks. You need to keep it shiny. You can polish it using aluminum wool; the finer the better. You can find aluminum wool at Smart and Final. It is a long thin flat sponge like metal piece. Use some sort of metal polish with it. Don’t use stainless steel wool unless you can’t find aluminum wool because the steel gets imbedded and rusts. When finished, sprinkle on some baking soda, rub it in with a towel, then blast it with hot water and dry it off. Just the fact that your truck looks good will attract people with Harley Davidsons, street rods, ski boats, aircraft or specialty jobs in mind. It’s worth the time to keep your rig detailed out.

Storage Boxes On Bed

The boxes on the bed of your truck should be painted to match the vehicle and company color scheme. The handles on the boxes are chrome and look sharp. You should keep the boxes clean and wipe off all road tar promptly. Boxes should be neat and organized on the inside. Make sure products don’t spill inside. This will cause a terrible odor and mold and mildew buildup. Everything should be in its proper spot. If a customer asks for something specific and you open an orderly storage box in front of them, they will be impressed. Keep the boxes waxed on the inside as well waxed as the exterior of the truck itself.

Trash Control

Trash should be removed from the truck each day. You should keep the yellow, red or blue plastic trashcan on the truck at all times. Most people have trash in their cars; empty water bottles, newspapers, fast food wrappers, receipts, etc. You can find almost anything in people’s cars. Believe us, we have stories. At the end of a good car wash day you will have an ample supply of trash and recyclables. If you don’t pick it up, you will have it all over the truck. Make sure your workers also deposit their trash and food items in the trashcan. If you see a homeless person poking through a dumpster for recyclables, tell your crew to go get him and give him the aluminum cans out of the truck trashcan. If you spot trash while walking up to an office or on your way back to the truck, pick up where rude people have left off. Always think spotless! Every little thing you do will leave impressions in people’s minds. You never know when you might pick up a piece of trash right as the property manager drives up.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:09 AM

The DARPA Challenge II is coming up soon and it appears we may have more than one team complete this year’s course. Forty robotic teams have been picked for a second round of the ultimate challenge. Why is this so important? Well many reasons, one is it ushers in a new age of robotics, which will change the destiny of mankind and provide for our forward progression. The other reason is that we have needs, which cannot be met of our armed forces.

The tip of the sword and war fighters of today must have a multitude of back-up and logistical supply chains to wage and win a war. If we are to be the leaders of the free world, stand up for human rights and lay down the law on tyrannical dictators of yesterday’s Machiavellian principles, then we will need to do more with less. Right now the GAO and US Army are quite concerned with recruitment numbers and new sign up. We need systems which will allow us to move the logistical chain down the road without a driver in each vehicle, thru any terrain and not necessary roads, rivers or tracks. There fore the DARPA Challenge is very significant in our ability to maintain peace on the planet and defend against Evil.

Many systems to help do this are therefore being tested in a prize worth two-million dollars. Systems of navigation have been borrowed from all over the known scientific world. Systems of Artificial Intelligence, radar, lidar, sonar all combined using a net-centric approach to the vehicles electronics. It is possible now to drive vehicles tele-robotically and steering them using satellites. But in this contest everything must be autonomous and cannot use the satellite technologies except for way points so the vehicles stay within the contest borders; we do not want to squash any endangered; “Desert Tortises.”

In the end the military may use a combination of these technologies and some which were forbidden on the this challenge, however one should consider the Satellite navigation systems which do not necessarily need an actual satellite; they could use an aircraft, UAV, balloon, cell tower triangulation, etc..

I propose convoys in the future use a system similar to the ADD System. AFF stands for Automated Flight Following System, which is used in aerial fire fighting to insure that the fire retardant is dropped in the drop zone even though with the smoke the visibility is very low making it difficult to see. As one aircraft goes in another follows in behind it. This off the shelf technology has been used for over a decade now and with the advances of GPS accuracy and GIS modeling of surface terrain by satellite its uses should be incorporated into the laying of smart dust.

# posted by Medical Information : 1:16 AM

Toll Roads in Pennsylvania have often been blamed for the states problematic economy. It is true that when you impede traffic you slow the flows of civilization. This is similar to an over all tax on society, as everything you buy or sell comes by truck. Many Think Tanks have obviously discussed the issues with Pay Toll Highways in the North East and PA is no exception: Great to see the Express Lane for logistics but really why the toll? Here is a thought on the matter? Nearly all of the Toll Ways in America have raised their rates in the past three years. But with high oil prices this is no time to further hammer on businesses, consumers and trucking companies.

Even though everyone knows that Increases in America's Toll Ways, Always Takes it's Toll on Americans, some of these increases are from stressed budgets, well at least this is the excuse from politicians who pass the buck and from bureaucrats who miss manage public funds. Corporations are to be held to the highest of credibility and transparency, yet these colossal giant cluster muck DOT bureaucracies not only impede traffic, but the cost small businesses, citizens millions in the process. How SO? Well first as cars idle to wait in line to pay toll, sometimes in large traffic jams for instance NJ turnpike to NYC, or NY to MASS Turnpike, or Oakland Bay Bridge into San Fran. This causes excessive pollution and clogged arteries (Infrastructure Type). The health issues of pollution are well known as well as the added problems to our health care system in the United States.

The EPA does not control this pollution and instead attacks businesses to reduce. In many cities and states there are idling laws for truckers who could cause pollution such as IL, Ontario Canada, CA, MA and other places. Some say these laws are good and help curb pollution, even the DOT prohibits the idling at many rest stops, the same DOT which allows traffic to snarl up and cause pollution.

# posted by Medical Information : 1:15 AM

Winter will be here soon enough indeed. Once, Winter is in full swing there are serious issues for school buses and school bus safety. The key is preventative maintenance. Many buses blow exhaust underneath either one or both back tires to keep warm and melt ice and snow after they stop to get traction. School Buses Must Be Prepared For Winter Driving otherwise buses get stuck in route or accidents can occur. Many times there is no sense in using buses on some days meaning if no one can get there, why have school that day at all; All the children Left Behind?

School districts are taking the threat of snow and ice seriously during winter, preparing the buses for winter driving conditions in Oregon.

http://www.koin.com/webnews/2004/20040105_buspreps.shtml

One of the most important things you can do of course is to wash these buses and to do it correctly. Many times a good pressure washing company can assist in routine maintenance cleaning of frames to make sure the road salt and such get off the buses which can cause excessive wear to things like brakes. Magnesium Chloride is a huge issue on winter roads: This years Winter will cost government agencies 2 Billion in plowing and spreading salt and chemicals on roads for safety.

It will cost the environmental clean-up and corrosion damage to the trucking Industry 5 million. Some of that will be spent in Truck detailing centers in places like Detroit, Chicago, Denver, Green Bay, Cleveland, New York and Boston. What do they put on the roads? Under 25 degrees Fahrenheit, they use Calcium Chloride, it generates heat when it hits moisture and melts ice and snow, giving off a little advection fog. Calcium Magnesium Acetate 20 degrees-Liquid deicer, limestone and acetic, best for bridges and other areas to reduce corrosion to prevent loss of structural integrity.

Calcium Magnesium Propionate-Powder form made from farm products, cheap and only $300 per ton. Still undergoing tests due to environmental problems, which may be associated with it. Magnesium Chloride 5 degrees to negative twenty-Does not hurt concrete, 40% less chloride into environment, comes in either solid or liquid, liquid preferred, Potassium Chloride- 25 degrees to 12 degrees-Similar to urea. Good deicer and fertilizer. Smells terrible later. Sand-good traction; but major mess later. Environmentally okay, after all it is only sand, sand blasts trucks and screws up paint. Sodium Chloride-15 to negative six degrees-deices, often mixed with sand and salt applications. They call it road salt or you have heard the term rock salt. Urea is used in -25 degrees to 11 degrees- Looks like small white pellets, used usually as a mixture to save costs with other de-icers. Note the freezing temperature is often a factor of altitude and wind chill. What is the trucking Industry doing about this problem?

Manufacturers such as freightliner is using robots to put on special adhesive to prevent corrosion between parts. More stainless steels are being used and other alloys with nickel content. New primers and coatings are being used available from PPG as well as new glass and ceramic coatings such as the NASA formula used and sold by Adsil.

Resins and sealers are used by some to seal components and body parts. Anti-static discharge points are put in strategic parts on trucks. PeterBuilts all come with underbody splash shields now. Mack has galvanized cabs and undercoating on fuel tanks. Transport Topics in another related article in 2004 quoted fleet managers as saying increased washing frequency was by for the best preventative maintenance and was the main advise of fleet owners and managers to prevent corrosion. Many times part of the strategy of a deicer application is to allow the trucks to spread it around and mix it correctly. So the application means just dumping it on the ground and letting the trucks mix it. And the buses and trucks are not alone in this problem. Think on it.

# posted by Medical Information : 1:14 AM

Truck Traffic in the United States is up and with all this construction traffic is slowed. With the construction and the hours allowed to drive reduced, more trucks are needed yet cannot be afforded as trucking companies consolidate and resort to hiring parolees as drivers due to the fact there is no drivers. No rest stops to hold the trucks either due to the increase.

Many cities rebelling with no trucks allowed on city streets such as in New Jersey. Stay on the freeway and keep driving even though it is now against the law to drive more than eight hours and traffic is increased due to number of trucks, increased permit regulations, down sizing of state staff to issue permits, reduced hours to issue permits. What is going on here? OFR, over-friggin-regulation, on top of fuel price increases. By messing up Americas distribution system we are crippling America, and I would not be surprised if there is a nation wide truckers strike. You want to see this nation fall to its knees. It would take less than 6 days. There would be rioting in the streets, runs on what was left at the grocery stores, no power, nothing. Also Clinton got passed the reduction completely of Sulfur in Diesel Fuel by 2006. Sounds good? Wait, will that be another excuse to raise fuel prices by 10-20 cents per gallon?

At this point we cannot sustain that hit. If Diesel keeps creeping up we may see it at another 45 cents per gallon. Why, we have everything we need to control those prices. Engines run a little less hot without the sulfur, which activates on compression with other compounds in the fuel and heats up. If Diesel fuel in Northern states in the winter do not burn hot then we will lose critical engine life of all existing diesel engines. Good for manufacturers of engines yet those engines will need the torque to pull the heavy loads and triples and 53 footers with 90,000 lbs. Otherwise you will have more trucks on the road and more inexperienced truck drivers who do not speak English and cannot read road signs. We need to pay attention and think about the cause and affect of over regulation and fuel price spikes.

# posted by Medical Information : 1:14 AM

Transcontinental journeys are no mean feat, you need a sturdy; trustworthy companion. Not just any auxiliary travel buddy, but a solid, dependable vehicle. When it comes to choosing that vehicle, nothing beats an Overland Expedition Truck, Here's why...

Some of the key features of an Overland Expedition Vehicle:

Completing successful African and Middle Eastern tours in extreme conditions requires a vehicle with grit. Overland trucks provide just that. They're built for one purpose and that's getting you there.

Overland vehicles are not just tough - a big part of the journey is also the enjoyment provided by the truck's large windows, helping you capture those lasting impressions of unexplored territory.

The best overland trucks always provide one unique vantage point in particular, known as “The Beach”, but that we will discuss this shortly.

Before a journey begins, it is essential that the vehicle visit the workshop every three months and go for extensive services prior to the trip. During the trip preventative maintenance also needs to be carried out by a qualified driver.

What makes overland travel in a purpose-built truck so much fun?

All trucks are equipped with:

Inward-facing coach seats with head rests that are specifically designed to provide more storage space for your souvenirs, greater luggage capacity for you and a lot of room for your legs, allowing you to stretch out on longer overland journeys.

This may mean fewer passengers on a trip than there would be with a 'bus' layout with narrow aisles, but the extra space is always appreciated!

The previously mentioned feature is “The Beach” and it's the undisputed highlight of the Overland Vehicle. It enables several people to sit on the roof while giving them the thrill of a 360° panoramic view. To be up and out in the open on an African or Middle Eastern tour is the closest you'll ever get to dreaming with your eyes wide open.

Other features you'll notice while rambling through desert climates and over the African savannah:

The convenient under-seat storage spaces that are excellent for storing your backpack and providing easy access, even while driving.

Side and rear roll-up windows, (if you're having a bad hair day) provide extensive views from inside the vehicle and can be rolled down for protection in case of an emergency. Holiday snaps are so much easier without a bug in your eye.

Large water, fuel and food carrying capacities (no explanation required).

Onboard truck safe and library, overhead lockers, cassette stereo and a professionally-compiled medical kit (we never lock the medical kit in the safe).

Comprehensive range of spare truck parts and tools.

Spacious two-person tents with built-in ground sheets and mosquito netting, gas cookers, cooking gear and cutlery, cooler boxes, tables, camp stools and all-weather awnings (for cooking and shade).

# posted by Medical Information : 1:13 AM

We have all heard all the talk about the fuel economy and innovations of Hybrid Cars and how they are sweeping the nation. Last year in 2004 in fact over 88,000 Hybrids were sold and waiting lists are still climbing. Honda, Toyota and Ford cannot build them fast enough. Things are changing indeed. Although still a drop in the bucket considering the average 17 million cars sold each year in the United States we can see a hyperbolic trend forming as oil prices stay high. Also with China and India entering the global game for demand for oil we will see the price per barrel to continue to remain high even if OPEC decides to stay on the same team, which built their industry there.

The Japanese are now showcasing their technologies in medium sized trucks. In fact Hino Motors, which makes the very popular box type delivery trucks you see around town is now making a diesel electric version to be available in the 2006 models in the US. They have been available in Japan since 2003. The unit is called the Hino 165 Hybrid; pictured here:

The price is still a little steep at $116,000 per truck which is just over two times the cost, but Hino a spokesman said in Transport Topics that in fact the fuel savings over a three year period would cover the additional costs and the Public Relations for companies and the tax incentives in states like MA, CA and NY would more than entice buyers to switch over. The fuel saving is a solid 14 to 27% over the conventional models like the Isuzu and other competing trucks like the one pictured here;

# posted by Medical Information : 2:04 AM

Toyota Tundra models have serious break problems, many of which Toyota is refusing to take responsibility for. Toyota recently issued a recall notice for its 2004-2005 model Toyota Tundras equipped with dual exhaust because one of the exhaust pipes was found to rub against the brake line. Toyota states that this will “possibly cause brake fluid leakage and raise the risk of a crash”. To put it honestly, the friction will cause break fluid to leak and the brakes will fail. Whether the car crashes or not depends on how fast you are going, whether you are driving downhill, and the behavior of vehicles surrounding you.

Toyota has recently been grievously irresponsible about issuing warnings and recall notices on its Toyota Tundra trucks. There is little question that a design flaw in the Tundra causes front rotors to warp very quickly, causing the truck to shudder during braking. Toyota even issued a technical service bulletin, but Toyota dealers have not alerted consumers to the problem. Hundreds, if not thousands, of Toyota owners have been told there isn’t a problem or blamed for “driving too hard”, that is until their 36,000 mile warranty expires. At this point the Toyota dealerships acknowledge the brake problem and offer assistance –- at full price.

The Toyota Tundras are breaking down because the rear brakes do not self-adjust properly. This transfers the entire braking load to the front wheels. The front rotors are not designed to withstand that much pressure and heat, and so they end up warping. This is what causes the severe shimmy and vibration at all speeds, but especially between 40-50 mph.

Because this is a fundamental problem with the rear brakes, rotors that are repaired are completely warped again within 3,000 miles. Toyota has had dozens of other problems with the Tundra model, but they only issue technical service bulletins online and make no attempt to inform customers. Unless the Toyota owner checks the internet every month or two, it is likely they will not notice their faulty calipers, backing plates, lines, bearings, and breaks until it is too late. Either their warranty expires or they suffer through a car accident. The shaking also damages other systems and components in the truck, including transmission and stereo systems. If this has happened to you, you are not alone.

Independent mechanics will be very open about the problems with Toyota Tundras, but Toyota dealerships feign ignorance about the problems. It is safe to say that Toyota is brushing off its customers, denying their claims and endangering their lives. What happens when the brakes start shuddering on ice or snow? What if a small child runs into the road in front of a Toyota Tundra? Many of the victims involved feel overwhelmed. Toyota is a huge company and they are merely individuals. When the dealership tells its customers that this is not a widespread problem, that the warranty does not cover the costs, or that the driver is responsible, these are blatant lies. Maybe the warranty does not cover normal wear and tear beyond a certain mileage, but Toyota designed, marketed, and shipped a vehicle with a fundamental flaw that endangers the lives of people on the road. This is not normal wear and tear; it is a defective product. Toyota is acting in bad faith with its customers, and this is against the law.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:04 AM

A wide scale recall is the last resort for a car company to take with a problematic vehicle, and most automotive problems do not even make it to recall stage. Toyota has been known to avoid issuing recalls at all cost, preferring to issue safety warnings and avoid covering repair costs on vehicles that are beyond warranty. This should put this year’s massive Toyota truck recall into perspective.

This May, Toyota Motor Corp issued one of its largest safety recalls in history. Toyota is recalling more than 750,000 pickup trucks and SUV’s because of problems with the front suspension that could make the vehicles difficult to steer. The recall covers 775,000 vehicles in the United States alone, including 2001-2004 model years of the Toyota Tacoma, the 2001-2002 models of Toyota 4Runner and the 2002-2004 model Tundra and Sequoia.

During the manufacturing of these vehicles, the surface of the front suspension ball joint was scratched. Wear and tear on this ball joint creates friction that makes the vehicles difficult to control. At speeds as low as 20 mph, Toyota drivers have reported ball joints collapsing, causing the front wheels to fold under the truck.

Overall, Toyota admits to conducting five recalls this year in the United States affecting nearly 1 million vehicles. In 2004, Toyota conducted nine recalls affecting 1,060,000 vehicles, according to the NHTSA. This year, Toyota has also recalled:

- 92,577 Celica coupes from 2000-2001 models to adjust daytime running lights that blind oncoming drivers

- 23,000 model year 2005 Tacoma pickups to tighten a lock nut on the parking brake pedal

This ball-joint recall was the second time in the same week that Toyota issued a high-profile safety warning. Just days before the recall was issued, Toyota began looking into 13 complaints about a possible software glitch that could cause the Prius hybrid car to stall at highway speeds. If you or a loved one have been injured by a Toyota truck that has since been recalled, consult a lawyer about collecting damages.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:03 AM

Transcontinental journeys are no mean feat, you need a sturdy; trustworthy companion. Not just any auxiliary travel buddy, but a solid, dependable vehicle. When it comes to choosing that vehicle, nothing beats an Overland Expedition Truck, Here's why...

Some of the key features of an Overland Expedition Vehicle:

Completing successful African and Middle Eastern tours in extreme conditions requires a vehicle with grit. Overland trucks provide just that. They're built for one purpose and that's getting you there.

Overland vehicles are not just tough - a big part of the journey is also the enjoyment provided by the truck's large windows, helping you capture those lasting impressions of unexplored territory.

The best overland trucks always provide one unique vantage point in particular, known as “The Beach”, but that we will discuss this shortly.

Before a journey begins, it is essential that the vehicle visit the workshop every three months and go for extensive services prior to the trip. During the trip preventative maintenance also needs to be carried out by a qualified driver.

What makes overland travel in a purpose-built truck so much fun?

All trucks are equipped with:

Inward-facing coach seats with head rests that are specifically designed to provide more storage space for your souvenirs, greater luggage capacity for you and a lot of room for your legs, allowing you to stretch out on longer overland journeys.

This may mean fewer passengers on a trip than there would be with a 'bus' layout with narrow aisles, but the extra space is always appreciated!

The previously mentioned feature is “The Beach” and it's the undisputed highlight of the Overland Vehicle. It enables several people to sit on the roof while giving them the thrill of a 360° panoramic view. To be up and out in the open on an African or Middle Eastern tour is the closest you'll ever get to dreaming with your eyes wide open.

Other features you'll notice while rambling through desert climates and over the African savannah:

The convenient under-seat storage spaces that are excellent for storing your backpack and providing easy access, even while driving.

Side and rear roll-up windows, (if you're having a bad hair day) provide extensive views from inside the vehicle and can be rolled down for protection in case of an emergency. Holiday snaps are so much easier without a bug in your eye.

Large water, fuel and food carrying capacities (no explanation required).

Onboard truck safe and library, overhead lockers, cassette stereo and a professionally-compiled medical kit (we never lock the medical kit in the safe).

Comprehensive range of spare truck parts and tools.

Spacious two-person tents with built-in ground sheets and mosquito netting, gas cookers, cooking gear and cutlery, cooler boxes, tables, camp stools and all-weather awnings (for cooking and shade).

All overland expedition trucks for our Africa and Middle East tours are equipped with sand mats and, where necessary, tyre chains and winches (you'll find out why, when you get there).

# posted by Medical Information : 2:05 AM

The Net is constantly growing and its users develop more and more applications and utilize it in completely new ways. Several years ago a couple of new sites showed up in the Net; these sites were dedicated to the sale of automotive vehicles. Since that time the number of these sites has substantially increased and I have participated in building one of such sites - European http://www.truck1st.com, American http://www.truck1st.us and Russian search engine for used truck sale http://www.truck1st.ru. Basing on my experience in Internet used truck sales, I can offer you several recommendations on buying trucks and cars; I hope you'll find them very useful.

The main goal of this kind of sites is to connect sellers and buyers of automotive vehicles, both new and used. Using such sites makes vehicle trade much easier for sellers as well as for buyers. These sites create virtual marketplace where buyers can offer their vehicles and sellers can look through the buyers’ stock. So the search for the customer or for specific vehicle becomes unnecessary, saving lots of time and money for both parties.

In practice it looks as follows. The seller places his vehicles at the website, usually it is vehicle description, pictures and additional info (price, delivery terms and contacts). See www.truck1st.com for specific examples. So when the buyer wants to buy a vehicle, he gets online, connects to the website and looks through the sellers’ vehicles. Then he gets in touch with the seller, confirms vehicle specification and availability and purchases the vehicles. Such internet trade allows to shop for vehicles located not only your vicinity, but nationwide and even worldwide. Sometimes it saves a lot of money and lets find exactly what you are looking for.

It is clear that the used car or truck technical condition is a crucial factor. When choosing used truck or car, the more choice you have – the better the chances that you will buy a vehicle in good technical condition. In this case Internet purchase is a very effective solution.

So let’s contact the seller and clear everything up. It is better done by phone, though email message is also acceptable. But you will save a lot of time by making simple phone call. Besides, the human factor in communication is very important, so pick up the phone and call him. What should I mention during my first contact with the seller? Here is a list. But very important – write down everything the seller will say to you. Later, when you think everything over to make decision, you will appreciate it later.

1. First of all represent yourself, name the reason of your call and website where you have found the truck. Ask if the vehicle is still available.

2. Let’s assume it is not sold yet. Then ask about every word in the description to check it is really true. It is much better if you spend 2 minutes of your time now, than to come to the buyer after and find out that there is no air conditioning, though it was mentioned at the website.

3. Ask about everything that was not described – minor technical problems, condition of engine, body, clutch, suspension, tyres, interior. Do not forget anything, you should have complete picture in your mind. For example, the cost of new tyres for tractor truck is about 200$ for a wheel and a lot of people usually forget to ask about tyre condition.

4. When it comes to price, do not be shy to argue a bit. Usually people put a little higher price that would actually satisfy them. Anyway a little of bargaining never harmed anyone.

It is much better for if you choose several vehicles and make several calls. You should not restrict yourself to a single truck, remember – the more choice you have, the better truck you will buy.

So by this time you should have called 3-4 sellers and have 3-4 papers with complete description at your table. Now its your time – relax and think everything over and make your final decision. Sometimes it is wise to call the sellers again and tell them that you have a little better offers – it will surprisingly move the prices down and help you make your final decision.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:03 AM

Buying your first or tenth Ford truck will always create feelings of pride and satisfaction. And of course, you will want to protect your investment the best way you know how, but somehow many people never realize that the simple act of buying Ford truck seat covers can protect and extend the life of your truck. Consider the following benefits of buying Ford truck seat covers.

Protect your Seats

If you drive a truck then you are probably around dirt and mud and other stain causing agents on a regular basis. The easiest way to keep stains from ruining your seats is to cover them with Ford truck seat covers that are waterproof. This way, not only will you protect your seats from regular stains, but also from spills of colas, water, chemicals, and the like.

Increase value, or Resale value

Everyone wants to protect their investment, and amazingly a small investment in Ford truck seat covers will pay off in the long run by protecting your main investment, your truck. This is the case because your actual seats and fabrics will be protected by the seat cover and when the day comes that you want to sale your truck or trade it in, you will be able to get a better price or trade in value because your seats and fabrics will be in impeccable condition, like when you first bought the truck. This benefit alone is worth getting Ford truck seat covers, but there are several more reasons why as well.

Give your truck a custom look

When you have seat covers made for your truck or either buy them pre-made you get the same result—a custom look for your truck. When you put seat covers in your Ford Truck you will be setting yourself apart from all the other Ford truck owners, be protecting your investment, and look a lot better as well.

Keep Your Truck Clean

When buying Ford truck seat covers you should definitely consider getting the custom made with some great fashionable fabrics that are waterproof yet feel like normal soft fabric. You can buy these custom made or even pre-made as well. They are perfect because they generally resist stains, protect your actual seats, and can easily be machine washed as often as you like. This way, your truck will always be clean and you won’t have to worry about staining your clothes either.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:02 AM

You are proud of your Chevrolet truck and want to keep it looking as new as possible for as long as you can. Because of this, you should make the decision to buy Chevy truck seat covers. When you place seat covers over your current seats you will have a custom looking vehicle and all the while be protecting your investment and ultimate resale or trade-in value. However, choosing the perfect Chevy truck seat covers is not as easy as you might think and you should consider the following tips before you start shopping.

Size and Fit for Your Truck

The make, model, and year of your truck affects the type of seat you have, so buying Chevy truck seat covers is not as easy as just picking up a one size fits all option, unless you don’t mind ill fitting seat covers. You will need to make sure you know the make, model and year of your truck so when you are shopping in stores or online you will be able to see which Chevy truck seat covers will fit your truck and those that want. The reason this information is so important is to ensure that you get a quality seat cover that has a custom fit and appearance. If you buy a seat cover that does not require this type of information, it will most likely take away from the look of the truck rather than add to it.

Waterproof

Also, when you are shopping for custom looking Chevy truck seat covers you need to be sure you also buy covers that are waterproof. Many covers are made with fabrics that have a new waterproof technology while remaining soft and smooth. When you buy waterproof covers you ensure that every inevitable rain storm and spill that gets your covers wet won’t affect your real seat upholstery. Be sure they are also easy to remove and wash.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:02 AM