Saturday, December 23, 2006

Trucking Safety: “I” Is for the Interactive Driver

Safety research shows drivers' behavioral styles and attitudes are a better predictor of safe driving practices than their level of safety training. A 1993 study conducted by Behavioral-Values Research Associates showed significant behavior and attitude differences between injured and non-injured workers.

Trucking companies that obtain this information to pre-screen driver applicants have significantly reduced their accident rates, costs, workers' comp claims, and have increased driver retention.

A behavioral assessment measures a driver's normal behavior in four areas: D (Dominant), I (Influencing), S (Steadiness), and C (Cautious, Compliant to Standards).

The D factor determines how drivers tend to handle problems and challenges, the I factor looks at their interactions and influence with others, the S at how they respond to the pace of the environment, and the C at how they respond to rules and regulations set by others.

A DISC behavioral assessment shows how the applicant ranks in each of the four factors from 0% to 100%. Above 50% is considered high, below 50% is low. The higher or lower the ranking, the more intense the behavior will be. In this article, we'll look at the highs and lows of the Core I driver.

The BVRA study showed significant differences in the D, S, and C styles of the injured versus non-injured safety workers. But there wasn't a marked difference in the I factor between the two groups. However, I recommend trucking companies hire drivers who are low in the I style. Here's the reason why.

Drivers who score highest in the Influencing factor tend to be talkative, sociable, friendly, and outgoing. They get distracted easily especially when other people are involved. They'll get bored on long hauls with no one to talk to. They may take extended breaks if they get into a lively conversation with someone.

Drivers with a low I factor are the opposite. They're introverted and shy away from others. They'll be content on a long driver where they don't have to interact with people. They're able to pay more focused attention to their driving.

However, one of our trucking company clients wants its drivers to be somewhat, but not extremely, high in the I factor because they're required to interact frequently with their customers. The company want drivers who are friendly and can relate well with others.

If you feel being lively and likable is important for your drivers, then hire applicants with an I ranking above the mid line. Otherwise, select those low in the I behavioral style.

Watch for upcoming articles in which we'll discuss the drivers you most want to hire: those high in the S and C factors. If you missed it, look for our previous article on the Core D driver. Contact us if you can't find it and we'll send it to you.

Used Truck Buying Guide

Here are some of the most important questions I think a potential buyer should ask his sales person before they buy their truck. By asking these questions to me, or someone else you will save yourself time and possibly a lot of money. I would welcome these questions , and I will answer them accurately and sincerely.

1. Does the truck have any type of warranty?

2. What kind of inspection process do you have on the trucks coming in to your inventory? Comments: The company normally will have an inspection procedure they do when the truck first arrives. Inquire about this.

3. Who owned the truck before you acquired it?

4. Can I take the truck and have it inspected before I purchase it? Comments: It is always a good idea to have another pair of eyes look at the trucks before you purchase the truck.

5. What are the exact specifications of the truck? Comments: We are all human and we all make mistakes. The salesman should double check the trucks and make sure the specifications are correct to meet your needs. Double check the horse power rating, rear end ratios, and transmission models. They will have a great affect on the performance of the truck and your fuel economy.

6. Does the truck have any wreck damage? Comments: Have the salesman look for items like non factory rivets, frame straightness, and other body shop repairs. A salesman with a lot of experience will have a good eye for these type of problems.

7. How many miles are on the truck? Comments: Odometers break unfortunately, but a nice thing about the newer electronic engines is that we can read the internal computers if it is a Detroit engine or a Cummins engine. Have the salesman double check this for you if possible.

8. What should I look for before test driving the truck? Comments: Do a walk around the truck looking at brakes, tires, wreck damage, engine leaks, analyze if the wheel base is correct, look for suspension wear, and overall appearance, take a look at the oil and water for contamination.

9 . What should I look for during a test drive? Comments: Use all of your senses the best you can. Are there any vibrations? Does the engine sound right? What does the exhaust smoke look like, and is it the correct color after the engine has warmed up.? How does the transmission and clutch feel?

10. What do I look for after the test drive? Comments: Check the truck for leaks, check the engine for having too much compression, do another walk around to see if you see any other problems that you missed the first time. Comments: It is always good to know if the truck has belonged to a company that took good care of it.

Used Trucks Central USA's premier Free Used Trucks For Sale website with trucks for sale every week, most with colour photos. We need your help to stock our truck classifieds store! Please list your truck here with us...it's FREE and it will stay online until it sells! Or feel free to browse hundreds of listings and find you the perfect truck.

3 Tips About Bed Caps And Bed Rails For Your Truck

Loading and unloading your truck bed can do some serious damage if you're not protected. Dents, dings, gouges and scratches wreck the look (not to mention the value) of your truck in virtually no time at all. Protecting your bed rails only gets easier with the following 5 tips for truck bed rail and bed cap protection.

Let something besides your paint bear the brunt instead, and dress up your vehicle while you're at it! Top your truck bed (and tailgate, too) with a sturdy set of bed caps, bed rails or both, and you'll discover the following 5 tips: Sweet looks that range from burly to smooth and stylin' Premium protection for your sensitive truck bed paint Simple mounting to your vehicle in virtually no time Extreme tie-down strength for securing the heavy loads Top-shelf durability thanks to tough materials Tip #1: Improve your standard bed rail looks Stock truck beds look pretty boring as-is. And nothing says ugly like a dinged, scratched or dented bed. You might think this frightening bed condition would be confined to painting, plumbing and auto glass installer trucks, but it's an everyday problem for anybody who actually uses their truck as a truck.

Bed caps and bed rails do quite a remodel job on these uncovered stretches of paint. Bed rails top your truck bed with the wicked appearance of smooth black or mirror-polished steel. A matte finish can lend a tough edge to your vehicle. Or, some extra shine can do your truck's body good and is sure to turn heads. Bed caps can bring smooth and rugged looks with the best of them, too–not just for a fresh appearance, but also for covering old marks.

Tip #2: Premium protection for the paint on your bed rails

A key function of bed caps and bed rails is stopping damage before it hits your paint. Loading boxes, tools, bikes and more gets much less precarious with your bed top protected by a set of bed caps. And, they're custom-molded to the exact shape and size of your vehicle, leaving no space uncovered. Bed rails are also effective guardians, rejecting items that would otherwise dent your bed. They keep large cargo from bashing either at the cab or at the gate, along with safe containment of stacked loads thanks to heightened tie down points. This way, you won't have to take it so easy on your heavy-duty rig.

Tip #3: Quick and simple mounting

Bed caps are one of the easiest to install accessories for your vehicle. Most require no drilling to mount securely, instead, attaching with double-sided, heavy-duty adhesive foam tape. Bed caps go from in-the-box to mounted-in-place in a couple minutes, at most. Bed rails typically mount just as fast to the stake pockets of your vehicle. Fitting directly in the pocket, bed rails use a bolt and a backing plate for securing to the top of the bed. Vehicles without stake pockets will require minor drilling.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Moving Truck Rentals

Moving to a new house or office is a challenging task, especially if you are moving to another state. Moving truck rentals, if you get a good bargain, can make the whole process easier and help you cut down on the cost of moving.

The cost of moving truck rentals depends on a number of factors, including is the size of the truck and the distance this truck will have to cover. Some well-established companies providing moving trucks may charge a little bit higher rent. The new players in the market might offer you a lower rate. But you must consider two important factors: safety and reliability.

The bookings for a moving truck can be made online also. Online resources provide detailed information about moving truck rentals by different companies. For different locations and destinations, different rates are available. The rental costs could also depend on whether you have hired a moving truck to shift household items or are looking for a quick business delivery.

Before one finally makes a decision about the company whose truck one is going to hire, it is better to compare quotes. During peak season, the costs spike upwards. They come down during certain months of the year. This movement in moving truck rentals depends on geographical locations and climate.

The moving truck rentals should also be compared with moving trailer rentals if you require a number of trucks. As the carrying capacity of an average trailer is greater than that of an average truck, a truck rental could prove to be much costlier to you. Moving truck rentals are quite high if you want to deliver a package across international borders.

Trucking Companies

There are more than twenty U.S. trucking companies providing freight services to and from any point inside the U.S. Most offer no restrictions on size, location, or destination, and welcome requests for freight quotes from existing or potential clients. Knowledgeable and helpful agents will provide you with any information you may need.

There are numerous companies providing domestic and international freight services for the commercial and residential client. You need to check the reliability and cost savings based on whether you need moving services or the more economical trucking service.

Trucking services provided by companies include business-to-business trucking solutions, business-to-residential freight delivery, residential-to-residential delivery, online rate quotes forms, export documents and documentation, and relocation and moving. The shipment can consist of a parcel, heavy-weight freight, general cargo, personal effects, furniture and commercial freight.

Some companies specialize in the transportation of full-sized containers and do so with maximum efficiency. Bridge tolls and scale-weight charges are included in the price quoted to you. Two hours free time for loading or unloading without the driver’s assistance are allowed by these companies, after which time period you will be required to pay extra charges. If you need the driver’s help in loading or unloading your shipment, you will be billed an extra charge from the packing house. In case your shipment is stopped in transit to complete loading or unloading, there is an additional charge for a stop that is not off-route. You should, therefore, call beforehand to confirm rates on multiple stop pickups or deliveries.

If you cancel pickups or deliveries by phone with fax confirmation before the driver is dispatched, you are not charged. However, if the driver is already on his way, you will be required to pay the rate quoted to you. All storage and detention charges will be billed to you.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Trucking

Trucking refers to transportation provided by various companies to deliver shipments of goods and belongings from one place to another. This includes both domestic and international shipping. You can get quotes online as well as over the phone, with the aid of free information given to you by helpful agents. Reliable companies have a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and to innovation.

On-time delivery and quality service is the ultimate test of any carrier. Same-day, over-night, and second-day services are all available; you just need to specify the one you would prefer.

A trucking company is cash intensive, with a list of endless ongoing expenses, including fuel expenses, truck repairs, rentals, and salaries. Most trucking companies cannot afford to wait for the thirty to sixty days it usually takes to get paid for freight bills. This can cause serious problems in existing operations and prevent you, as an operator, from growing your business. You need to capitalize on your slow-paying invoices through a method called freight-bill factoring. This process enables a company to get paid for the freight bills within a day of invoicing, which eliminates the usual wait and stabilizes the cash flow, removing the worry of waiting for your payment and permitting you to concentrate on running your business.

If you want to build a trucking business, or even if your company has been moving freight for several years, trucking software with operations, dispatch, and accounting features would help you save on paying staff. This software would also aid you in being able to complete the work in less time, so that you can focus on growing your business. Transportation management software, available for sale online as well as otherwise, reduces errors from repetitive data entry, limits exposure to bad debt and insurance liabilities, generates reports so you can closely track your sales and expenses, and improves customer service with up-to-date dispatch information. You can get exactly what you require at an affordable price.

An Introduction To Truck Rentals

To move your belongings to a new house situated a long distance away from your previous one, you can utilize the services of one-way truck rentals. You can rent a truck in the area from which you are moving, load it and drive to the place you are moving to, and then return the truck to the branch of the company nearest your new home.

Shop around for rental companies that focus on truck rentals in order to obtain the best deal. Ask for one-way truck rentals that are available for the dates and destinations you have in mind, simultaneously checking on prices, mileage limits, and costs, as well as any extra fees that may be included in the renting of a one-way vehicle. Work out how much truck space you will need to fit in all your belongings. Contact the rental company for information and advice. They know their job and will be able to figure out, of course with your assistance, the approximate space you will require.

Check the truck you will be potentially renting for its quality. Reliable rental companies will have dependable transportation for the purpose of renting, but you would do well to check the door latches, locks, and tires, if only to reassure yourself that your goods will be safe and will not get damaged. Your insurance agent will be able to tell you if your personal auto policy covers the use of rental trucks and vans, as most insurance companies do not usually cover the use of a delivery vehicle.

Get information about drop-off destinations closest to your new house. Pick-up service for the truck may be provided for in the area that you are relocating to, so ask about it to save yourself some time. Reserve a truck in advance of the date you intend to move so as to avoid any confusion. You will be asked to pay for the vehicle with a credit or debit card.

Trucking Jobs

It is quite simple for qualified truckers to find a steady job, as the demand for truckers is on a rise. But according to recent research, at least 15% of drivers, even those who are experienced, are disqualified when they apply for a trucking position because they lack organization.

When applying for a trucking job, you need to know what to expect. The key here is preparation. You can start the process of applying for a job by talking to a trucking recruiter. However, one recruiter may hire merely for one company, so it is beneficial to speak with several recruiters in order to locate the position that best fits your qualifications and needs.

Be completely honest when speaking with a recruiter about a trucking job. If you need to disclose negative information, do so quickly. You will need to have some necessary documents on hand. These include a current, non-expired CDL with your home address, and your work history for the last three years, though some recruiters may ask you to provide the last five or ten years of your work history. It would be advisable to have professional references, especially in case you have been unemployed for some time. Bring along a list with the names and contact information of your former employers; proof of your work history in the form of old W2 tax forms, DOT numbers or reference letters; a copy of your driving record; and proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. You will have to fill up an I-9 form when you are hired, so be sure you have valid documentation to show your eligibility for hire.

Be prepared to take a drug-screening test, and possess documentation to prove your medical health. Lastly, you will be required to take a driving test, for which you will not get a second chance, so make sure you do well the first time.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Pallet Trucks

Pallet trucks are for moving pallets from one place to another. Pallet trucks make transportation of pallets easier and ease loading and unloading while ensuring safety. They can also minimize time of transport considerably. Since the pallets can be rather heavy, pallet trucks need to be very strong. Pallet trucks are generally used in chemical and pharmaceutical factories, warehouses, food storage facilities, and retail stores. Most pallet trucks can move loads of around 4000 lbs.

Pallet trucks are designed to suit all kinds of environments and terrains, including highly corrosive and unsanitary conditions. Some pallet trucks are made from zinc and stainless steel; they are chrome coated and galvanized to resist even the highly moist atmospheres of pharmaceutical and chemical factories. There are pallet trucks suitable for clean room, laboratory, wash down, and corrosive material handling applications.

There are different types of pallet trucks: low profile pallet trucks, pallet trucks with scales (for weighing loads), big-wheeler pallet trucks (for uneven floors and heavy loads), specialty pallet trucks (made of zinc or stainless steel for unsanitary environments), wheel-nose pallet trucks (for placing pallets closely in a row), ergonomic pallet trucks (for ease of operation), economic pallet trucks, "Freight-Saver" pallet trucks, all-terrain pallet trucks, foldable pallet trucks (light-duty trucks for going down narrow aisles, through doorways, and around tight corners), and electric pallet trucks (with AC drive motors, battery packs and regenerative braking systems).

Some pallet trucks also have adjustable push rods, a wide turning radius, a skin adaptor, and an integral scale. There are some highly advanced pallet trucks that contain a printer, an LCD display, and a keypad with auto-tare functions that work on rechargeable batteries.

Used pallet trucks are also available. Pallet trucks can be ordered and bought online at manufacturer's websites.

Motorcycle Trailer Hitches

Heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and sport utility vehicles are not the only ones that can haul cargo. It may be hard to believe, but motorcycles can be equipped with hitches as well. Motorcycle trailer hitches can be added to motorcycles to allow riders to haul up to several hundred pounds of materials. These are not the only type of motorcycle trailers available. Other trailers that attach to trucks are designed to haul the motorcycles themselves.

Motorcycle trailer hitches can usually be attached to a motorcycle without making any alterations on the motorcycle itself. They are often secured around existing parts of the motorcycle. These trailer hitches are perfect for motorcycle riders taking a long cross country trip that need to pack a large amount of supplies. There are specific trailers made just for motorcycles that attach to these hitches. Different types of hitches are made specifically for use on certain makes of motorcycles. To ensure that the hitch will fit on the motorcycle, it is important to buy the correct hitch for the exact motorcycle make and model. Generally, 500 pounds is the maximum weight limit that motorcycle trailer hitches can bear. Motorcycle trailer hitches usually use hitch ball and mount similar to those found on trucks.

Other motorcycle trailers are made to transport the actual motorcycles. These trailers attach to standard hitches found on many pickups. They are good for towing non-operational motorcycles or hauling the motorcycle over especially rough terrain or over long distances. Some motorcycle trailers are large enough to contain up to three motorcycles at once. The trailers are usually open air, meaning that they do not provide cover or protection from the elements.

Motorcycle trailer hitches allow riders to take necessary supplies with them on long journeys. Without a motorcycle trailer, it would be impossible for many bikers to take the items they need over the course of a trip along with them.

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Moving Trucks

Moving truck rentals are a good choice when you need to relocate your belongings to a new residence or workplace. Inspect the truck before going ahead and renting it. You will be asked to fill out a standard form by the rental company. Check the truck for dents, scratches, rust, as well as for non-functioning or damaged latches and locks on the doors. By checking carefully, you can make sure you are not charged for the damage when it comes to payment. Also, it will help to reassure you to know your goods are safe.

When renting, the rental company will ask you to show personal documents like your driver’s license, your personal proof of insurance and a major credit card, so as to prove you are of legal age (which is usually 25), that you have personal auto accident insurance, and that payment can be secured from you. You can research and reserve your vehicle online or over the phone. However, make it a point to speak with the company you want to hire in person so as to avoid confusion.

You may need to stop at weighing stations, depending on the size of the moving truck rental and where you are traveling. Ask the rental company for information regarding the rules and regulations surrounding weight stations and whether or not you will need to stop. To obtain the specific requirements for each state, call the state police in all the states you will be traveling through.

Inquire about prices and specials you may be offered when renting a moving truck. Shop around for a company that has high standards for their trucks and towing equipment. Many moving truck companies offer unlimited mileage, but customers will have to specifically inquire about this. Get copies of all important documents, like the rental agreement, a driver trip report, and a truck inspection sheet, from the rental company before you drive off. You need to check whether the proof of insurance and the registration are in the truck.

Top five trucks for gas mileage

A few years ago, people would scoff at you if you told them that you were looking for trucks with the best gas mileage. But, as truck sales began to slip downwards, manufacturers started giving due importance to this factor. Today, there has been a dramatic change in the scenario.

The rising costs of gas, has propelled potential truck buyers to go for trucks that can meet their gas mileage demands. Truck makers have now taken firm steps to improve the fuel economy of their makes at all levels.

Usually the ranking of the top five trucks based on gas mileage is founded on a combination factors. The prime parameters are the fuel economy rating given by EPA, the transmission of the vehicle, and its inherent popularity amongst car buyers. The formula for calculation for most gas mileage rankings is a combination of the city mpg rating, which forms 55 percent of criterion, and the highway mpg rating that completes the remaining criteria.

It is really very difficult to bring forth a list that enumerates the top 5 trucks on the basis of fuel efficiency. Not one, not two, but three trucks hold the first rank. This spot is shared by the 2006 Ford Ranger one of the premier trucks that are out in the market today. Ford has made it a point to come out with trucks that offer the best gas mileage. This is why most of their newer models find a place on the best gas mileage list year after year.

However, all the trucks, which feature in the list, have the same engine; the 2006 Ford Ranger is a supremely refined version of its older model that came out in 2005. It has the better off-road capability then other trucks in the rankings and is one of the best alternatives in your search for a truck giving you the best gas mileage.

The completely redesigned 2006 Toyota Tacoma comes next in the list. The Toyota Tacoma is one of the roomier trucks available in the market and its looks are an epitome of sophistication. The only disadvantage of the 2006 Toyota Tacoma is its price tag. It is more expensive then the others.

If you are looking for something on the cheaper side then the 2006 Mazda B-series is the truck that you must go for. A fuel-efficient truck delivers on its promise. It is called in some circles as the bargain pickup truck. Don’t expect styling and comfort but you do get an unashamed practicality with this vehicle.

The Toyota Tundra is the next in line of your picks. It comes with 4.0 liter V6 engine that is geared to give you competitive gas mileage. The truck gives you a mileage of 20 /mpg on the highway and a 16/mpg when you drive in the city.

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 comes a close fifth in the rankings. It comes with a mild hybrid engine that enables the electric motor to keep the vehicles running when idle so the gas engine can be shut off.

Description: When looking for trucks with great gas mileage, the list can be pretty large. You will have a wide variety to choose from. Select the one that best suits your requirement. This article lists out the top five!

Benefits of using a Tonneau Truck Cover

Tonneau truck covers are best suited for trucks that haul cargo that is heavy. These covers provide the ultimate protection as typically, they are made of aluminum and steel that is of superior quality.

Some Tonneau Truck Covers are made of fiberglass, whatever the case all the covers are light in weight and can be used easily. This also makes for easy assembly of the covers and they can set up in a short span of time. Many of the Tonneau covers come with an easy railing snap mechanism, which makes drilling holes into the truck railing redundant.

Tonneau covers come with numerous advantages; and have emerged as one of the most valuable assets for people who own pickup trucks. One of the biggest benefits of using Tonneau covers is that they are configured to provide able security to the valuable cargo that a truck will carry. They are made in a way such that they can lock the cargo, thus preventing many a robbery. They also protect the cargo from the elements and can withstand the toughest of road conditions. Moreover, these covers can be used in any weather condition and you can be assured that the objects underneath these covers are not damaged in any way.

If you are one of those who appreciate a sense of color in your covers, then Tonneau covers cater to this requirement as well. They are available in a range of colors that can blend in with the color of any truck. A potential customer can choose from a wide variety of colors that add that extra something to the overall look of the truck.

Some Tonneau covers are so light that children can easily set them up. As aforementioned this lightweight quality makes them very popular as they can be handled easily. Furthermore, all Tonneau covers are easily foldable and can be tucked away in a small corner of your garage.

Some Tonneau covers are available in the aerodynamic variety. They enable a truck owner to increase mileage of the truck. We have said earlier that they can be put up easily but we forget to mention that all Tonneau covers can be taken down as easily. Once they are down some covers can also be hung well out of the way. Such covers look like a mounted hardware and thus do not stand out.

Some Tonneau covers are retractable in nature. However, bear in mind that a hard cover retracts only in parts. Soft covers retract completely. Aerodynamic retractable covers can retract automatically by the simple pulling of a strap. For those who want a cover for their toolbox, well do not fret. Tonneau toolbox covers are tailor-made to suit this demand as well.

Monday, December 18, 2006

Trucks

Truck manufacturing companies produce powerful, fuel-efficient, well-designed truck product lines. Trucks, whether they are long-haul highway tractors, daytrip delivery fleets, or specialized low-cab forward vehicles, are built to deliver excellent engineering for optimum productivity and ease of maintenance.

Several kinds of trucks and truck-related supplies or services are available for purchase or rental: heavy-duty trucks, construction trucks, refuse trucks, truck parts, truck service, and truck accessories. These include the Cargo, the Condor, the Argosy, the Business Class M2 100/106, the Business Class M2 112, the FLD SD, the Columbia, the Classic/Classic XL, the Century Class S/T and many others that are designed to meet any customer’s requirements. Some companies manufacture vocational trucks and tractors, while some provide services for the over-the-road, construction, municipal, and medium-duty markets. Reliable companies create practical transport solutions for domestic and/or international clients and refuse to compromise on the safety and environmental care built into each truck.

The sale of trucks is targeted towards an owner/operator, fleet manager, or self-employed delivery driver. Truck companies offer services like pH testing the coolant, checking the system for the condition of belts/hoses and leaks, checking the protection level of the coolant, and/or inspecting the condition of radiator mounts for free, if you download a service coupon from a company’s web page. You can get access to a large range of new and remanufactured parts, accessories and components from a truck and truck-parts manufacturing company. Purchasing an electronic parts book would give you a better idea of what you are searching for.

Performance items get a high ranking among truck enthusiasts, as do simple bolt-on cosmetic items, evidence that performance and off-road styled trucks form a popular segment of the truck enthusiasts. The top shopped items change over the course of a month and include gauges, cat back exhaust systems, street performance tires, steps and running boards, 4WD suspension systems, PROM chips, billet grilles and all-terrain tires.

Truck Accessories

The performance parts industry uses the words “parts” and “accessories” interchangeably. Several truck parts and accessories serve similar functions, making it sometimes becomes difficult to differentiate between the two.

Both terms encompass numerous products. Many of these products have overlapping functions and can be categorized both as parts and as accessories. But, in dealing with the performance-parts industry, the functions overlap only in particular instances. Despite this overlap, opinions always vary about the factors that can determine classification. Truck parts and industries each have a list of products, most of which intersect somewhere in the middle. This depends on what their intended use is, and if they are categorized as aftermarket product or OEM.

According to a truck parts advisor, a truck part may have a generic definition, including repair, maintenance, restoration, interior, and exterior enhancement. The products can include air filters, spoilers, oil filters, shocks, or headlamps, which are, in effect, part of the truck. If it is a part of the truck that is original, or a replacement or repair product, it is a part. However, an aftermarket part that is used in order to enhance the vehicle after the original purchase falls into the category of accessories.

But the advisor may say that the word part means the same as the word accessory when you refer to a product in general. However, the specific make and use of it determines what category it will belong to. Accessories could include sun shields, car covers, make-specific paraphernalia, and products that mainly serve to enhance a car or truck. But something like a sport-utility rack could be classified as either a part or an accessory, as could brake pads or rotors, air filters, or oil filters.

Aftermarket products like air filters, floor mats for trucks and high-quality seat covers are generally classified as truck accessories, unless they are the original OEM part. The difference varies from person to person, even among truck enthusiasts and professionals.

Truck Tires

Selection of proper truck tire gives a comfortable ride and reduces the wear and tear on the tire drive mechanism, brakes and suspension parts. Many factors determine the selection of suitable type of tire. These include the terrain where the truck is mostly driven, the climatic conditions, normal driving speed and the full load that is expected to be carried in the truck. Three major tire companies who design and manufacture truck tire for wide range of applications on different and difficult terrains are Mickey Thomson, Super Swamper and Pro com.

Mickey Thomson Truck tire
Mickey Thomson truck tire manufactured by Mickey Thomson Tire Company was founded in the year 1963. Design, development production and distribution of tire and wheel for all applications are the main business of the company. Main focus of the company is to design and produce innovative tread patterns and tire compounds to build the best performance tires in the world, both for on-road and off-road applications. The company has two locations in the United States, one in Ohio and the other in California. Cooper Tire & Rubber Company which is also in tire business having the head quarters at Ohio, USA acquired Mickey Thomson in the year 2003. The combined strength has further helped to consolidate the position of Mickey Thomson in the tire industry as a significant global player.
The company’s major brand name is “Baja” and the specific products under this brand are named on the basis of the type of the tire, such as Baja claw non radial, radial Baja claw, Baja belted and Baja radial MTZ.

Super Swamper truck tire
Interco Tire Corporation located at Louisiana is the manufacturer of Super Swamper Truck Tires. Over three generations, the Interco Tire Company through its sustained focus on design and development has evolved as a leader in developing and manufacturing high performance tires for four wheel drive trucks and all terrain vehicle applications. The company’s patented Thee Stage Lug (TSL) tread design offers effective traction under tough running conditions. The products are branded as Super Swamper and the individual products are classified under this brand name on the basis of the tire type as well as its applications. Super Swamper TSL Bogger, Super Swamper TSL/SX, Super Swamper radial TSL are some of the popular tires manufactured by this company.

PRO Com truck tire
Pro com tire are manufactured by Pro Competition Tire Company located at Ohio, USA. This Company is owned by Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, which also owns the Mickey Thomson tires. Cooper tire is a global Company with manufacturing facilities in three continents and the sales and distribution network all around the world.
Pro com tire are molded with the superior quality rubber compounds, steel and polyester cords in state of the art production facilities. These reliable and long lasting truck tires are supported by warranty. The pro com tire brand carry the general name pro com and the specific products under this name are branded based on the application of the tire. The specific brands are ProComp All Terrain, ProComp Mud Terrain, ProComp X-Terrain and Procomp Xtreme A/T.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

The Benefits of Vinyl Tonneau Covers

Soft vinyl Tonneau covers can provide the same protection as heavier covers with less hassle. There are a wide variety of models to choose from. Vinyl Tonneau covers are extremely lightweight, allowing for easy installation and use. These covers are usually flush with the top of the bed, greatly reducing the truck’s wind resistance. Vinyl covers can sell for much less than comparable aluminum or fiberglass models, often retailing for as little as $150.

Available in nearly all of the same styles as covers made of aluminum or other materials, Vinyl Tonneau covers can come in one piece, and are either supported and locked upright by metal bars, or rolled up and retracted. Other models come in hinged panels that can be folded. All of these styles provide the protection and security needed to keep cargo safe.

One major advantage of vinyl Tonneau covers is that they are very light. For easy installation, the frames snap often into place and so require no drilling. These covers are so lightweight that anyone can put them into place. They can be easily removed when they are not needed, an important feature for people who will use and remove the cover often. Constructed with high-grade vinyl, it is incorrect to assume that because they are so light, they must also be weak. Many models can support well over one hundred pounds of pressure. Vinyl Tonneau covers can provide the same level of protection as aluminum or fiberglass covers.

Vinyl Tonneau covers are installed flush with the top of the truck bed, which greatly reduces wind resistance. Gas mileage increases as wind resistance decreases, making this a significant feature. Reduced wind resistance will allow for faster travel and easier steering.

A great alternative to fiberglass or aluminum covers, Vinyl Tonneau covers are long lasting, provide excellent protection for cargo, and are easy to use.

Truck Driving Schools

Hundreds of companies are search for reliable, trustworthy, and skilled truck drivers. And to inculcate the aforementioned skills, many Truck Driving Schools have sprung up in all corners of the country.

But this crowd of schools makes our job even more difficult. The problem remains—how to choose the right school? Despite this huge number of Truck Driving Schools in the country, there are few indeed which have met the highest standards.

Schools can be divided into three types—schools licensed by the state, which means that the school has met the minimum standards set by the state; certified schools, which means that it has met the standards of skill, knowledge, and curriculum set by Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) of Virginia; and accredited schools, which have the highest standards as they are approved and accredited by the US Department of Education.

Truck Driving Schools usually offer a mixture of classroom and on-road lessons. After imparting and making the students strong in the basics of truck driving, they take them out to the road to get real hands-on experience. Good schools also offer hours of one-to-one driving practice on well-maintained machines.

Some schools which not only offer truck driving training but also help assist in further internships and placements include the following—Fox Valley Technical College, SAGE, Diesel Driving Academy, Isothermal Community College, LCTI Professional Truck Driving School, KIM Richardson Transportation Specialists, Western Pacific Truck School, Georgia Driving Academy, and American Truck Driving School.

Accredited Driving Schools such as Diesel Driving Academy, National Truck Drivers School, International Institute of Transportation Resource, Inc, and Georgia Driving Academy offer placement opportunities. Georgia Driving Academy provides ‘pre-hire employment offers’ even before graduation.

SAGE has earned the reputation of being among the top Truck Driving Schools in the country. It provides both beginners as well as advanced driving courses, and helps its students to develop their profiles and get placements in established companies.

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