Menu

Daily Archives2016 December 25

Home

Fun Things To Do In Your Pickup Truck Bed

[ad_1]

Tailgating parties are a fun way to gather in a crowd, have good food, cold beer and conversation. Not only is it a good excuse for a party, it’s fun to watch sporting events, concerts or large events with a crowd of friends. Typically, the food is usual BBQ menu, yet I have been to some tailgate parties where the variety of dishes some people come up was absolutely amazing. It’s like going to the best food show ever.

Have you ever been to an autumn hay ride in a pickup truck. I remember snuggling with my wife one chilly October night during a hay ride that was offered locally. They offered hot mulled cider and donuts while we toured a huge 6 mile pumpkin patch and tree farm, and a guy played a banjo. I always thought a hay ride was on a wagon, but these guys with three pickup trucks offered this experience and it was really fun.

Another fun thing to do with your pickup truck is make money plowing snow. There’s something therapeutic about moving big piles of snow. It sure beats getting wind whipped using a snow blower. My wife would disagree because she doesn’t like the jerking of the truck during snow removal.

How about sleeping under the stars, weather permitting, of course? Or, just plain stargazing? If you are a nature lover, there’s nothing more romantic than an air mattress, a blanket, an old transistor radio, and a beautiful summer night to enjoy the outdoors and whatever happens next. For the younger generation who are wondering what the heck a transistor radio is, you would use your play list on your iPhone in place of that. Hahahahahaa

Many local communities use truck beds in parades in place of “floats.”I’ve seen everything from mayors to county fair queens waving and cheering from the back of pickup trucks.

A buddy of mine was about to propose to his girlfriend. Together we concocted this elaborate scheme and he decorated his truck bed with 4 dozen red roses, a cooler with a bottle of champagne, a picnic basket of some of her favorite foods and helium balloons. When he opened his bed cover, his girlfriend was in shock. I have to admit he created quite the picnic area to pop the question. I guess you don’t have to be proposing to do the same for someone special in your life.

Well, I hope I got you thinking about some fun things you can do with your pickup instead of the usual tasks you use it for. If you’ve done some new and adventurous things with your pickup, I’d love to hear about it (keep it clean, OK) Head on over to truckworldaccessories.com and tell me about it and I just might try it.

[ad_2]

Source by Sal Falco

Bucket Truck – A Historical Perspective!

[ad_1]

Anyone who has ever experienced an outage of their land-line telephone, cable connection or electricity when storms or high winds have hit have reaped the benefits of how a bucket truck can save time for linemen who must repair damaged lines for their company.

Companies and the industries listed above that they represent are greatly dependent upon the help provided by this versatile vehicle for repairing overhead lines and cables. It’s safe to say that everyone benefits from the service of bucket trucks. So what is the history behind this handy vehicle – and where is the future for it heading?

Early Design

The first version of the bucket truck was known as a “cherry picker” and came out during the early 1900’s, just about the same time as the use of internal combustion engines became widely accepted. The principle used on the vehicle’s lift goes back to its application by the Romans. They used structures that are identical to our modern cranes and lifts of today.

In the Orchard – and Beyond

Despite its popularity these days as a maintenance vehicle, the bucket truck didn’t begin life in the garage of an electric company. On the contrary, it evolved from a vehicle know as the “cherry picker”. During harvesting season, trucks equipped with platforms that could be lifted were used for harvesting fruit from high up on the trees. The platform served as a safe ground for the worker while harvesting. Although conventional ladders were originally used for fruit harvesting, ‘cherry pickers’ were much safer to use. The platform was wide enough for workers to move around with less danger of falling.

Another advantage from this new invention was the minimal risk to tree damage; ladders placed against the trees for workers to climb up to harvest the fruit frequently damaged the tree trunk. With this new vehicle, the platform could be conveniently positioned near yet right above the tree without disturbing it at all. It was a further convenience because relocation from one tree to the other was so much easier with this motorized platform version. Although the name ‘cherry picker’ was a misnomer since cherries were not the only fruit harvested, that name stuck with the truck for a long time.

It didn’t take long for other industries to adapt the ‘cherry picker’ to their own usage. The electric utility company in particular found it to be a virtual blessing to the repair of damaged utility lines. It made the work of their employees easier, faster and much safer than the previous method of climbing a telephone pole and ‘hanging’ from it to complete any task!

Additional industries that picked up on and adapted their own versions of this vehicle are: forestry; sign and light; house painting and window washing; mining and construction industries to name a few. The application of different uses for this vehicle is virtually endless. As long as the task involves heights and requires a high degree of safety, then the bucket truck is the right truck for the job.

Current Trends

The current design for the bucket truck is the same and yet it is very different. The boom is still housed on a basic truck frame and still retains its basic functions. The difference here is the addition of an articulated boom to the design as well as varying locations for the boom on the body depending upon the needs of a particular industry.

The biggest difference in design lies in the vehicle’s safety features. New bucket truck designs are significantly safer to use. Modern versions have insulated buckets to protect workers from electrocution risks when handling electric wires. Outriggers have been added to give a much greater measure of stability during any operation. These are just a few of safety features added to decrease risks when using these vehicles.

Thoughts of the Future

Due to the ever-increasing oil prices, operating a bucket truck gets more and more expensive. In answer to this change, design has evolved toward “green” bucket trucks that can save the owner/operator usage costs as well as make it friendlier to the environment. The hybrid version is an answer to vehicle function that allows saving of operational costs with an electric motor to operate the boom. Making the size smaller is making the vehicle more efficient while making it more compact and supplementing its function with additional features.

The future of the bucket truck reflects its evolution from a ‘cherry picker’ to the modern hybrid vehicle of today. Future designs will continue to reflect the manufacturers’ response to the needs of the industries that rely upon this practical and reliable vehicle. It has indeed come a long way from its humble orchard beginnings!

[ad_2]

Source by Christopher M. Hunter

The History of the Hand Pallet Truck

[ad_1]

Hand pallet trucks are relatively simple devices that give a single person the ability to transport one or more pallets without the use of complicated heavy equipment, like a forklift. The hand pallet truck, which is also known as a pallet jack or a pallet lifter, does not have a large design, which allows it to slide a set of blades into the open area of a pallet, no matter where it is placed. A truck gently lifts the pallet so it can be transported to a different location by just one person. The original pallet trucks made use of cranks and levers to lift elevate pallets off the ground, but the trucks of today utilize more advanced technology, like hydraulics and small batteries, to give it the power necessary to lift heavy pallets.

A basic hand pallet is carefully designed so that it that it has a set of blades that align with the pallet’s open area and can lift it off the ground by several inches in a swift and intuitive manner. On the opposite end of the device, a control panel makes it possible to adjust the distance between the two blades, so that the user can lift pallets of different shapes and sizes. A sturdy base supports both the two blades and the control panel, and is mounted on a set of flexible small wheels in order to achieve maximum maneuverability. Most hand pallet have a rear set of wheels that swivel, so that it is easier to tackle corners. Some more advanced trucks have swiveling wheels in the front and the back.

Most historians of the hand pallet truck trace its origins back to the first half of the 1900s. In many manufacturing plants, the need to move raw materials and finished goods with greater efficiency was becoming increasingly important to meeting higher production levels. Early versions of the pallet truck, which resembled more of a forklift than the hand pallets of today, were helpful in transporting a small amount of goods from the warehouse to the production floor, but were still clunky, wasteful, and inefficient.

The hand pallet truck that we know today was “officially” invented in 1939 by George Raymond, Sr and Bill House, when they filed the patent. Although the exact way in which they invented the pallet truck was forgotten, the paperwork for the original patent still exists. With the invention of the hand pallet truck, a single employee could now lift and move an entire pallet loaded with goods. The loaded pallet could be transported with ease, requiring less time or resources to move than carrying the materials by hand or even with the use of a hand truck.

The biggest advantage of a hand pallet truck is that it is relatively small compared to other devices that perform a similar task. This makes it exceedingly easy to utilize the truck in small and tight spaces where even the smallest forklift wouldn’t be able to fit. The smaller size and swivel wheels make it exceedingly simple to navigate winding spaces. For these reasons, manufacturers have stocked up on dozens of trucks so that they can be used in various departments. From the plant floor to the shipping areas, hand pallet trucks are utilized in nearly every department, and will continue to be one of the most useful tools for manufacturers.

[ad_2]

Source by George N Anderson

Annual Blow-By Test On Your Heavy Diesel Truck For Peace Of Mind

[ad_1]

One of the most helpful inventions ever created by the human creativity is the heavy diesel truck. And keeping your heavy diesel truck’s good condition requires you to take care of your engine from negative events such as Blow-By. It is without a doubt that to clear out your mind from engine anxieties, you need to have an annual Blow-By test on your heavy diesel truck. Getting your truck tested annually will maintain the truck’s optimum performance and your ultimate production.

So, what do you mean by Blow-By anyway? The answer is simple. When there is wear in a diesel engine, then Blow-By is the result. Normally, Blow-By negatively affects the vehicle’s performance and any other machines’ performance that make use engine power. When the engine is new then the rings and cylinders need to exactly match each other otherwise, there will be unwanted functionality.

By making use of the oil from below the crankcase, the rings create a seal which prevents the oil from going out of the combustion chamber. To fully push the piston downward, the combustion energy of the engine is totally used. You need to know further about engines in order to have an effective Blow-By test. And you may even need to know the engine parts and other systems which are involved in its functions.

To start with, you need to take a closer look at rings and cylinders. The ring involved is actually a spring that effectively presses against the cylinder wall. When you view it from the top, you will notice that the cylinder is round. Whenever there is the piston that moves up and down, there is a functioning ring that rotates around the piston in its groove, and this reduces the uneven wear. The round shape of the cylinder is purposely design that way to give the ring its rotational capability. The ring plays a vital role in every heavy truck’s engines because this seals the oil below and the energy above.

Stuck rings can also cause Blow-By. As what is tackled, the ring is fabricated to rotate around the piston in its groove but when there is excess carbon deposits which are left in the combustion process, rings could not rotate and are stuck. One can also effectively determine the presence of Blow-By with old engines since there could be oil dripping from the engine’s breather tube. Another reason for Blow-By to take its occurrence is excess oil usage or burning oil – oil leak that past the ring and burns in the combustion chamber.

These are just few of the causes and reasons of Blow-By because there are some more. Mentioning all the possible causes may take us more than a day. For now, what you need to do is to know at least the most common causes and learn to prevent them. You have to remember that prevention is still the best remedy even on engine matters. Fortunately, there are lots of ways for Blow-By test for your truck’s engine.

[ad_2]

Source by Reo Torregosa

Volvo Truck Parts: Better Suspension Gives You a Softer Ride

[ad_1]

Volvo Truck Suspension Parts: To Give You a Softer Ride

The suspension is a very important part of a truck. It is the system of linkages between the hauls, the shock absorber and springs. This is what will absorb the vibration of the vehicle driving on the road and absorb the shocks that are received from driving on rough terrain. The suspension supports the braking system and enables it to react efficiently by instantly braking when required.

Good suspension parts are not only important for absorbing the shocks while driving, it is important to prevent the occupants of the truck from feeling those shocks. Volvo has been around for 80 years and in that time they have tried to perfect their suspension system and its parts.

Since, trucks have trailers attached behind, they have front and rear suspensions. Volvo trucks have an air suspension system which not only stabilizes the ride, but also increases its comfort. At the rear cab there are suspension air bags that are positioned outside the rails’ frame. This gives the cab greater stability while turning. There are lateral shock absorbers that minimize the swaying of the cab. Rubber dampeners that are hardened and are used in the suspension system, which absorb any severe shocks received to the cab.

Then there is the Volvo T-Ride suspension that has rubber towers and trunnion-mounted springs that give the truck excellent track even under the worst driving conditions. This plays a big role in off-road driving situations.

Here are Volvo Truck suspension parts based on the different models:

VN 780 / VN 730

This series has the following suspension parts:

  • Front Suspension
    • 59 inch Parabolic leaf spring (12,500, 13,200 and 14,600 pounds)
    • Hendrickson Airtek (12,500, 13,200 and 14,600 pounds)
  • Rear Suspension
    • Volvo Air Suspension (38,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Hendrickson HAS (40,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Volvo PRIMAAX EX (40,000-46,000 pounds)

VN 670 / VN 630 / VN 430 / VNL Daycab

This series has the following suspension parts:

  • Front Suspension
    • 59 inch Parabolic leaf spring (12,500, 13,200, 14,600 and 16,000 pounds)
    • Hendrickson Airtek (12,500, 13,200 and 14,600 pounds)
  • Rear Suspension
    • Volvo Air Suspension (20,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Volvo T-Ride (40,000 and 46,000 pounds with 2, 3 and 5 leaf)
    • Hendrickson HAS (40,000 and 46,000 pounds)
    • Volvo PRIMAAX EX (40,000 and 46,000 pounds)

VNM Daycab

This series has the following suspension parts:

  • Front Suspension
    • Parabolic leaf spring (12,000, 12,500, 13,200 and 14,600 pounds)
    • Hendrickson Airtek (12,000, 12,500 and 13,200 pounds)
  • Rear Suspension
    • Volvo Air Suspension (20,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Volvo T-Ride (40,000 pounds with 2 and 5 leaf)
    • Hendrickson HAS (40,000 pounds)

VHD Series

This series has the following suspension parts:

  • Front Suspension
    • Parabolic leaf spring (12,500 and 14,600 pounds)
    • Multi-lead spring (16,500, 18,800, 20,800 and 22,800 pounds)
    • Multi-lead spring on the Left-Hand or Right-Hand stiffer
  • Rear Suspension
    • Volvo T-Ride (40,000-46,000 pounds with 2 and 5 leaf)
    • Hendrickson HAS (40,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Hendrickson HAULMAAX (40,000-46,000 pounds)
    • Hendrickson RT (40,000-58,000 pounds)
    • Volvo PRIMAAX EX (40,000-46,000 pounds)
    • PRIMAAX Tridem (50,000-62,000 pounds)

* Please note: Weights depicted in brackets are the parts supporting weights.

All of the above listed parts are fitted as standard and have been designed to ensure the suspension on the truck adheres to the road and the driver in the best possible way. These suspension parts are not usually thought of as a deciding factor when picking the truck that suits you but are what makes a noticeable difference between the different types of truck.

So when you go to buy your next truck think about the smoothness of the ride and pay homage to the designers and manufacturers for the time and effort that has been put in to perfect the Volvo truck suspension parts.

[ad_2]

Source by Chris McKendrick

The Advantages of Buying Used Trucks

[ad_1]

The best used trucks will be those with low mileage that still look great and handle well. A truck with an odometer reading between 35,000 and 60,000 miles may still have another 150,000 to 200,000 of potential driving miles left. Trucks are designed for labor and utility and a solid purchase regardless of their age or odometer reading. There are some exceptions to this, however; with so many options on the market, it is important to ensure you deal with a reputable dealer, and the vehicle has the proper certification.

Better Vehicle for Less

Purchasing a used vehicle can provide all the perks of a new vehicle for as little as half of the truck’s original price. The 2014 model that might have cost $58,000 might be listed for $26,000 after two years of road use. The older, pre-owned vehicle may have many of the same great features as the new model, but it carries a significantly smaller price tag.

Depreciation

The average new vehicle depreciates by 30% in its first year. When the vehicle has reached the end of its second year, the depreciation is far less giving the used truck buyer the option of selling the vehicle for the approximate value they owe. The depreciation is also responsible for the lower price of a used vehicle.

Warranties

Many of the used trucks available now have a warranty that covers the vehicle for 60,000 miles or 6 years, and some of which can be transferred by the previous owner to the buyer. If the truck is a certified pre-owned, the buyer will be allowed to purchase a new warranty for the used vehicle.

Better Insurance Rates

When looking to cancel a timeshare contract with Hilton Grand Vacation Club, it’s essential to understand the terms and procedures involved. Many owners seek guidance on the cancellation process, as outlined in resources like this one: “https://canceltimesharegeek.com/how-to-cancel-hilton-grand-vacation-club-contract/“. Understanding these steps can save both time and money, just as opting for previously owned vehicles can often lead to cheaper insurance rates compared to new ones. This applies particularly to trucks, which, despite their versatility, may be considered sports vehicles, attracting higher premiums due to potential usage in activities. Therefore, considering all options, including the cost-saving benefits of used vehicles, is prudent in managing expenses like insurance premiums.

Tax, Title, and License

The price of the vehicle will also figure into the registration fee. Registration fees are a portion of the tax, title, and license due when signing the purchase agreement. These fees are based on the price the new owner paid to purchase the vehicle. The average registration fee is approximately 10% of the vehicle’s overall costs.

Buying a previously owned vehicle will allow the new owner to have more trucks are a great option due to the purchase price and fewer out of pocket expenses. A used vehicle will give the owner the option of driving it until it no longer serves their needs or selling it for the amount owed on the original loan.

[ad_2]

Source by Anders Abadie

4 Things To Consider Before Buying Used Semi Trucks For Sale

[ad_1]

Smart drivers know that they can save a lot of money by buying used semi trucks for sale, instead of new ones. If you’re in the market for a new truck or semi dump trailers, you’re likely excited by the prospect of reducing your payment and saving yourself a lot of money. However, don’t be enticed by a low payment alone. Check to make sure it’s a good deal by thinking of the following factors.

What’s Your Budget?

What type of budget are you working with? It’s important to make a budget and stick to it. Even the best deal in the world isn’t the best deal for you if you’re going over budget. Don’t be tempted to spend just a few thousand more when it’s time to actually look at used semi trucks for sale. The point of making a budget is to find out what type of payment can be comfortably afforded and if you’ve done it right there’s no reason to increase the price you’ll pay for used semi trucks for sale.

Consider The Mileage On Used Semi Trucks For Sale

Used semi trucks for sale will understandably have higher mileage than brand new models, but how high is too high? These vehicles are designed to run for hundreds of thousands of miles so don’t be scared off by a truck with mileage that is reaching 500,000. Any more than that, though, and be sure to ask for detailed service records or have it inspected by a professional mechanic. Also consider the type of route you’re planning on making. If driving across the country, you probably want to start with a truck with fewer miles. If you’re planning on staying somewhat local to a certain geographical area, you might be able to get away with purchasing a vehicle with slightly higher mileage.

What Are You Planning To Haul?

What you’re planning on hauling makes a big difference in what kind of vehicle you should buy. Will semi dump trailers be needed, or one with a reefer attached? Is a sidelifter necessary or are you looking for a double decker so you can carry more pallets? Knowing the need before buying will help narrow down your search so that it’s not so overwhelming.

Is There A Warranty?

A warranty is so important to a driver. Without a warranty, you’ll be out the money to fix your truck, but will also be losing money since you won’t be able to drive your haul where it’s supposed to go. Instead of wasting precious driving time by having a truck in the repair shop, find one that’s been inspected by a mechanic and offers a warranty. It might still need repairs, but at least they’ll be covered by the warranty.

Buying a used truck is a great way to save money, but only if approached the right way. Make sure to know what you’re looking for before shopping in order to be certain that you’re getting the best deal possible.

[ad_2]

Source by Chris A. Harmen