Postal Fleet Gives Stamp of Approval To Eaton Fleet Advisor Systems

March 1, 2001
The largest highway carrier of United States mail in North America Mail Contractors of America Inc has purchased the Fleet Advisor system of Eaton Corp's
The largest highway carrier of United States mail in North America — Mail Contractors of America Inc — has purchased the Fleet Advisor system of Eaton Corp's Trucking Information Services. The systems eventually will function in the carrier's entire 1,000-plus fleet of trucks.

The Mail Contractors' systems include features of Fleet Advisor such as satellite communication capabilities, GPS, and Eaton M-100 on-board computers. Systems also include InfoTach and Tracking Advisor GIS software that provide digital tach-o-graph recording and schedule-exception handling, which support planning and route execution. The systems also will allow for seamless integration with the carrier's back office Enterprise computer system.

For more information, contact Eaton, Trucking Electronic Systems Division — Trucking Information Services, 6209 Ramada Dr, Clemmons NC 27012.

Web Site Lets CAD Models Be Downloaded

Design engineers can now download two- and three-dimensional models of more than 700 products from the Band-It web site at www.band-it-idex.com.

Available are 3D IGES models customized for 27 different systems, 3D Step, and 2D DXF six-view layouts. The free service is available 24 hours a day through Band-It's on-line catalog. A unit of Idex Co, Band-It manufactures and supplies stainless steel clamping, fastening, and identification systems.

Freightliner Clarifies Market Plans for Unimog

A news report has said Freightliner plans to offer a “very large sport utility vehicle” called the Unimog. Freightliner Trucks and American LaFrance will indeed offer a vehicle called the Unimog in 2002, but it is in no way a consumer-oriented SUV. The Unimog is a medium-duty commercial truck intended for vocational markets from fire and rescue services to municipalities, agriculture, utilities, and the military. Freightliner intends to market this as a commercial vehicle and sell it to commercial customers.

Built by Mercedes-Benz for more than 50 years, the Unimog is a specialized vehicle suited for plowing snow, fighting fires, agricultural applications, and other tasks performed by commercial vehicles.

In conducting market research for this product, Freightliner had considered that a small group of off-highway enthusiasts might be interested in this product. Some older versions of the Unimog are owned by private citizens in the United States. These vehicles are a smaller version of the Unimog, and are different in size and design from the one Freightliner will offer to the North American market as a commercial vehicle. Though Freightliner's plans were speculative, it now has no plans to market this vehicle to that small group of off-highway enthusiasts.

AVK Threaded Inserts Enhance Byler Line

Byler Rivet Supply has expanded its fastener line to include AVK threaded inserts. These inserts are blind captive nuts and externally threaded captive studs that are installed from the front side of the workplace. They can replace conventional fasteners in press-in, weld-in-place, and loose-hardware applications. Benefits of these threaded inserts include:

  • Threaded inserts and studs provide strong load-bearing threads in lightweight thin-gauge material.

  • Attachments to plastics are easy with AVK's wedge head design.

  • Fasteners can be installed without damaging the finish.

  • They provide superior corrosion resistance.

  • Hydroformed and tubular metals shapes offer design and strength advantages in many applications.

For more details or a free catalog, contact Byler, PO Box 154093, Irving TX 75015.

FPC Introduces O-Ring Weld Flanges

O-ring weld flanges from Filtration Products Corp (FPC) provide an economical, leak-free connection to a hydraulic reservoir or other components. The O-ring boss (ORB)-style thread allows a leak-free fit without use of thread sealant or tape. The piloted, forged steel flange design allows for easy positioning and distortion-free welding. These flanges are available in thread sizes from SAE-6 to SAE-32 and in a 33/8"-12 size. FPC also offers a complete selection of O-ring style suction strainers to accompany these weld flanges.

For complete information, contact FPC, 670 Hamel Rd, Hamel MN 55340.

Side-Mounted Hydraulic Reservoir Offered

Buyers Products Co has added a side-mounted polyethylene reservoir to its line of hydraulic reservoirs. This 50-gallon frame mount reservoir was designed for applications where behind-the-cab mounting space is unavailable, making the SMR50P suitable for dump truck and garbage truck applications.

Constructed of heavy-duty polyethylene with a maintenance-free textured surface, the reservoir features a lifetime warranty. The SMR50P comes complete with a high-capacity chrome breather, sight level/thermometer gauge, and aluminum L-brackets with mounting straps. Buyers Products also features the side-mount reservoir in complete wetline kits designed for various applications.

For more information, contact Buyers Products, 7700 Tyler Blvd, Mentor OH 44060.

Alcoa Revamps Next Generation Wheel

Alcoa Wheel Products International offers the new Next Generation hub-piloted wheel, which replaces the earlier New Generation version, offering even more payload potential to weight-sensitive fleets and owner-operators. Next Generation wheels can boost a rig's payload potential by as much as 630 pounds over steel hub-piloted wheels and up to 724 pounds over steel ball-seat wheels. This wheel carries a 7,300-lb load rating. Wheel sizes are 22 × 8.25 (PN 883620) and 24 × 8.25 (PN 983620), and weigh 47 and 55 pounds, respectively. All wheels are 10-hole hub-piloted mounting with 285-mm bolt circle. For more information, contact Alcoa, 1600 Harvard Ave, Cleveland OH 44105.

Mini Rotary Lock Offers Concealed Actuation

Eberhard Manufacturing Co has a mini rotary lock designed to be mounted to the inside of a door skin for concealed, remote actuation. The new mini rotary lock can be used on panels, vehicle compartment doors, and industrial cabinets. Engineered as an alternative for applications using end bolts, the mini rotary locks feature an Everlube finish on internal latch components for corrosion protection and added lubricity. The lock also features a two-stage latch mechanism and a load rating of 350 pounds. The mini rotary lock must be used in conjunction with a 1/4"-diameter striker. For more information, contact Eberhard, PO Box 368012, Cleveland OH 44136-9712.

Fluidic Has Component Metering Systems

Fluidic Systems PK2 and PK3 component metering systems have standard features such as the patented positive displacement rotary cavity pumps that have universal chemical compatibility and function without valves and liquid shaft seals. The pressurized and cooled NEMA enclosure with safety pressure interlock switch helps ensure safe operation in hazardous locations. Other safety features include automatic shutdown with internal pump fault sensors and shutdown circuitry for uncontrolled “freerun” protection resulting in troublefree operation.

Easy-to-use controls eliminate programming. The Pump Select control allows the operator to run any of the metering pumps individually or in combination of two or three. This permits purging or color changes and the ability to change A, B, and C ratios from 1:1 to 50:1 on the fly. The Ratio Check control serves a dual function as a fill station. For more details, contact Fluidic, 2655 S Orange Ave, Santa Ana CA 92707-3738.

Reese Products Unveils Multi-Fit Hitch Receivers

Reese Products has introduced a trio of new Multi-Fit hitch receivers. The new hitches are designed to fit a range of both old and new trucks. Two of them are intended primarily for use with full-size pickup trucks and vans, while the third is intended for sport utility vehicles.

Multi-Fit hitch receivers incorporate round tubes rather than the square tubes used on earlier products. The hitches accommodate many applications with bolt-on, no-drill installation. Each one includes Reese's collar and plug.

For more details, contact Reese, 51671 State Road 19 North, Elkhart IN 46514.

Wysong & Miles Provides XCell DNC Press Brakes

Wysong & Miles Co is offering its new XCell DNC press brakes. The XCell features high operating speeds with forming accuracies of 1/2 degree or better. Consistently accurate forming is achieved through dual linear encoders that provide ±.0008" ram repeatability. The XCell is furnished with a pedestal-mounted, GE digital servo motion controller, and a programmable, 24" range X-axis back gauge that operates at 650 inches per minute and positions and repeats to ±.001".

Optional R-Axis back gauge and other options are available. XCell press brakes are available in models from 60-ton/6-foot to 500-ton/20-ft capacities.

A free brochure is available upon request. For more information, contact Wysong & Miles, PO Box 21168, Greensboro NC 27420-1168.

Milemarker Adds Winch

Milemarker Inc has added a new winch to its line of two-speed hydraulic winches. The new Super Heavy Duty two-speed 12,000-lb winch incorporates an iron body that can be mounted on three separate sides. This continuous-duty winch comes with roller fairlead, 3/8" × 100' cable, and weighs 100 pounds complete. For further information, contact MileMarker, 1450 SW 13th Court, Pompano Beach FL 33069.

Studio AeroCab Sleeper Optional on T600, T800

Kenworth Truck Co's 86" Studio AeroCab sleeper is now optional equipment on its T600 and T800 models. It had been exclusive to W900B and W900L models.

Rodney Hallsted, a Billings MT owner-operator, took delivery of the first T800 Studio AeroCab. Roger Westlund, owner of R&R Trucking of Audubon MN, is the first T600 Studio AeroCab customer and will take delivery of six Studio AeroCabs.

The Studio AeroCab has a sofa that pulls out to a 42" bunk; a fixed bunk is optional.

The sleeper comes standard with Kenworth's VIT interior package, which offers a hand-stitched diamond interior in multiple color choices and wall-to-wall carpeting. Two full-length closets with doors are standard, plus a driver-side drawer unit for clothes. Shelves in the closets are also available.

A fold-down table (16" by 22") is standard, doubling as a work desk and a place to eat meals. A built-in television installation package allows an entertainment system to be mounted.

The T800 can be specified with a 244" wheelbase to accommodate Canadian restrictions. For full information, contact Kenworth, PO Box 1000, Kirkland WA 98083-1000.

Aggressor Plows Through Heavy-Duty Jobs

Meyer Products' Aggressor snowplow is designed to meet heavy-duty needs of municipalities. This plow incorporates eight vertical support ribs and three trip springs to withstand harsh punishment.

The Aggressor moldboard is manufactured from either 7- or 12-gauge steel or 3/8"-thick polyethylene. Offered in four sizes of steel (8, 9, 10, and 11 feet) and two sizes of polyethylene (8 and 9 feet), the Aggressor features a two-year warranty including parts and labor. For more information, contact Meyer, 18513 Euclid Ave, Cleveland OH 44112-1084.

Kwik Klip Simplifies Trailer Building, Repair

Makco Manufacturing Co Inc announces nationwide availability of the Kwik Klip trailer deck clip. This product has been used for nearly 40 years in the trailer industry for repair and building. With Kwik Klip, drilling through steel I-beams is not necessary. To install it, drill through wood decking and bolt the Kwik Klip in place. The clip fastens and bites into the wood, creating a durable fit. Kwik Klip is available in rust-inhibiting finishes. For more information, contact Makco, PO Box 830, Edinboro PA 16412.

Bri-Mar Adds Heavy-Duty Gooseneck Series

Bri-Mar Manufacturing has added a new trailer to its line: the DT616-14LPHDGN Gooseneck Series. These trailers have an 80" inside-width deck with a length of 16 feet. With a 14,000-lb GVWR, trailers are suitable for heavy-duty applications. Landscaping professionals will appreciate their versatility and low profile. Trailers can handle skid steers with attachments, garden tractors, mini excavators, and backhoes. Standard features include 6-foot loading ramps that stow away under the deck, four D-rings bolted through the 10-gauge floor, 4" drop axles, split barndoor tailgate, and 10,000-lb drop leg jack.

The DT616-14LPHDGN Gooseneck comes with one coat of primer and two coats of enamel and is available in red, gray, black, or blue. For more information, contact Bri-Mar, 1080 S Main St, Chambersburg PA 17201.

Utilimaster Launches Trademaster Series

Utilimaster Corp has introduced the Trademaster line of compact utility/service vehicles suitable for contractors and installers. Aerodynamically designed for a cutaway chassis, the Trademaster offers storage options and access from inside and outside the truck. Available in 10- and 12-foot body lengths and 80" and 96" widths, trucks have an interior height of 78" and 49" of interior floor space — enough room to stand and work.

Outside access to equipment and tools is made easy from double rear doors that open 47" wide. A 10"-deep rear step bumper and a low-mount body add to the efficient, ergonomic design of the Trademaster. Vertical and horizontal exterior storage compartments — six on 10-ft models and eight on 12-ft models — permit organization of tools, wire, fasteners, or equipment.

The Trademaster truck body is built of 3/8" Tedlar sidewalls. Other highlights include:

  • Easy-to-read dashboard instruments.
  • 1⅛" exterior-grade plywood floor with anti-slip surface.
  • Stainless steel, noncorrosive compartment door handles.
  • Three-way cargo light.
  • .032-inch aluminum one-piece roof.
  • Undercoating.

For complete information, contact Utilimaster, 65906 State Rd 19, PO Box 585, Wakarusa IN 46573-0585.

Ravens Combines Aluminum, Steel in Combo Dump Trailer

Ravens Inc has reversed the traditional “combo” trailer and applied it to a frame-type dump trailer.

The new aluminum-steel frame-type dump trailer combines Ravens' aluminum construction with its new steel business acquired from Galbreath in April 1999. The new combo features the same aluminum frame as Ravens' all-aluminum dump trailers and paired it with the AR400 steel tub used on the steel trailers. The intention is to lower weight while providing the ruggedness of a steel tub for those that haul heavy and abrasive materials. The trailer is about 24 pounds per foot lighter than an all-steel frame-type trailer.

For more details, contact Ravens, 1400 Fairchild Ave, Kent OH 44240-1818.

Travis Rolls Out New Aluminum Bottom-Dump Trailer

Travis Body & Trailer Inc is introducing its aluminum bottom-dump trailer. After successful field-testing, the trailer is now in full-scale production. Weight with super-single wheels and a tarp is 9,760 pounds, more than 4,000 pounds less than most steel bottom dumps. The base model, with eight steel wheels, has a base weight of 10,500 pounds.

This trailer comes standard with 24-cubic-yard capacity; aluminum shedder/slope plates, hopper and chute, subframe, front and rear fenders, front ladder, drop legs (removable), and air tanks; HMW plastic windrow deflector, rocking upper coupler, and ultra-light composite air cylinders. It also has an infinitely adjustable electronic gate control valve equipped with dryer and oiler. Travis plans to offer the unit in doubles and other common configurations. Options include different lengths, suspensions, tire and wheel, hub and drum, and several tarp choices.

For more information, contact Travis, 13955 FM 529, Houston TX 77041.

HammerBlow Coupler Helps Keep Trailer Level

Distributed by Redneck Trailer Supplies, The HammerBlow Corp's Bulldog 4B6M coupler is designed for use with channel mounts commonly seen on tagalong-style trailers. This system allows the height of the trailer tongue to be adjusted when being pulled by vehicles, keeping the trailer level when under tow.

Thorough testing has proven the 4B6M to be strong under both static and dynamic loading conditions. The automatic and continuously tight ball fit, and inclusion of attaching hardware, enhance safety. As with other Bulldog couplers, the hinged ball sockets simplify hooking up and detaching the trailer while providing a visual indication whether the coupler is open or closed properly.

The 4B6M is rated up to 12,500 pounds gross weight. It fits inside a 2⅞"-wide channel and is designed for a 25/16" ball. For full information, contact Redneck, 2100 N West-By-Pass, Springfield MO 65803; or HammerBlow, 2716 Chico St, El Paso TX 79903.

LugLock Guards Against Loss of Wheel

Normark Industries Inc has introduced its new LugLock wheel nut security ring. The LugLock is designed to protect against loose or missing wheel nuts, wheel and component damage, and wheel loss while a vehicle is moving.

The lock is a ring that is press-fit to the wheel nuts by hammer blows to the caps. Splined internal cap cavities conform to the nuts and grip them like a socket, regardless of position. The ring is removed by a special pry tool and can be used again and again.

Available in standard and custom colors, the LugLock also deters wheel and accessory theft in vulnerable settings, and protects the nuts and threads from corrosive elements.

For more information, contact Normark, 835-F Williamson Rd #102, Mooresville NC 28117; or access the company's web site at www.normarkindustries.com.

Double-Seal Plugs, Pigtails Form Snug Seal

Grote Industries' double-seal plugs and pigtails are designed to form a superior seal for lamp-to-harness interface. Grote uses two seals on its plugs and pigtails. This patented design includes an O-ring that goes inside the lamp connection and a “dustskirt” that fits snugly along the outside of the lamp connection. The two seals combine to offer twice the protection, making a moisture-proof connection. All plugs and pigtails for male pin lamps feature a grease groove. This cutout in the middle of the plug relieves pressure from grease in the connection that could otherwise push the plug away from the lamp over time.

Double-seal plugs and pigtails are an integral part of Grote's “Plug and Go” technology. Because incandescent and LED lamps both use the same connections, retrofitting from incandescent to LED lamps is easy. For more details, contact Grote, 2600 Lanier Dr, Madison IN 47250.

Machine Can Be Programmed to Run Shapes

Bug-O Systems' two-axis Programmable Shape Machine can be programmed to run any contour or pattern for both welding or cutting applications. A handheld terminal supplied with the machine is used to program the required shape and operation sequence. Other functions besides moves can be programmed, such as repeats, starts, stops, delays, and rapid traverse. Ten programs can be stored in machine memory at any one time.

An optional computer software program is available for any IBM-compatible computer. With this program, the user can select pre-programmed shapes or create custom shapes and store any number of them on disk. Selected shapes then can be downloaded to the machine as needed.

Compact and lightweight, the Programmable Shape Machine is held in position with either permanent magnets or vacuum cups, depending on the work material. For more information, contact Bug-O, 3001 W Carson St, Pittsburgh PA 15204-1899.

DEL Publishes New GB Series Catalog

DEL Liftgates offers a new catalog featuring its full line of GB Series gas cylinder handler liftgates. GB Series rail-style liftgates are available in 1,250-, 1,600-, 2,000-, 3,000-, and 4,000-lb capacities. They have an enclosed and weather-sealed hydraulic power unit for hands-free operation, with a dual marine-style toggle control for open/close and up/down functions. A pressure compensation valve also provides a constant rate of descent regardless of the load on the platform.

A standard folding fence provides an area to secure gas cylinders during platform operation. The fence collapses with the platform to allow convenient truck bed access, and automatically folds to a stored position when closing.

Additional features of the GB Series liftgates include heavy-duty steel sliders and tracks, a built-in toe deflector, adjustable U-bolt, safety placards, and a low-incline aluminum ramp. For additional information, contact DEL, PO Box 6126, Buffalo NY 14240-6126.

Literature Details Hubodometer Hubcaps

Dual Dynamics has released new literature that describes the Dual-Guard hubodometer hubcaps that measure mileage on each wheel to help determine when service is due. Available as screw-on or bolt-on versions and as oil or grease models, these hubodometer hub caps feature one-piece aluminum construction guaranteed against breaking. A patented venting system allows for two-way air movement while protecting the wheel end from outside contaminants. Designed to relieve wheel-end pressure and vacuum buildup, the hubcaps also protect against water-filled loading docks and high-pressure sprayers. A patented cover protects the vent from becoming contaminated with grease from inside the wheel end.

For more information, contact Dual Dynamics, Box 80436, Lincoln NE 68501.

Dynaweld Trailer Handles Wide, Heavy Loads

Dynaweld's Special Edition 70XHD-SE 35-ton hydraulic detachable trailer is engineered for heavy, wide loads like hydraulic excavators. Dynaweld fabricates the four main beams with T-1 steel. Inside main beams are 16"; outside beams are 13" all along the trailer body to afford 11" ground clearance on the sides. Outer beams widen to 16" at the neck so strength or stability are not sacrificed. The SE clear deck measures 24' × 8.5'. Air-ride suspension, ABS on both axles, hub-piloted wheels, and excavator boomwell tray are standard. Decking is full 2" solid oak, and the lower structure is Ziebart-rustproofed. Paintable steel is shot-blasted, alkaline-cleaned, printed, and finished with name-brand acrylic enamels. The waterproof modular wiring system has a five-year warranty.

For more details, contact Dynaweld, 406 N Highland Ave, Aurora IL 60506.

Parker Hannifin Unveils Series D3 Valves

Parker Hannifin Corp's Hydraulic Valve Division has introduced the Series D3, a new line of 40-gpm D05-size “high flow” directional control valves for hydraulic applications.

Series D3 valves are direct-operated four-way valves, available in two- or three-position configurations. They are designed for manifold mounting and conform to NFPA's D05 pattern. These valves are designed for industrial and mobile hydraulic applications requiring high cycle rates, long life, and high efficiency. The valves offer many new features, including a choice of four operator types and 22 different spool styles. One model incorporates a mechanically tunable soft shift that can be adjusted to fit user applications.

Valve flows up to 150 lpm (40 gpm) and pressure ratings up to 345 Bar (5000 psi) are available. Solenoid-operated models feature AC or DC coils, as well as monitor switch and surge suppression options. For more details, contact Parker Hannifin, 8940 Tyler Blvd, Mentor OH 44060-2186.

Bee Line Company Revamps Dual Air Jack

The Bee Line Co has introduced its redesigned Dual Air Jack, with a lifting capacity of 3,500 pounds/25 psi compared with 2,800 pounds/25 psi for the original Dual Air Jack. This 25% increase in power will handle any Class 8 trucks. Dual cylinders and wider safety stand width create a more stable unit for electronic wheel alignments. For additional information, contact Bee Line, 2700 62nd St Ct, PO Box 130, Bettendorf IA 52722.

Ravens Expands Steel Dump Trailer Line

Ravens Inc has expanded its steel dump line by adding two new trailers, the Michigan and Materializer. These trailers are similar to the Terminator, production of which Ravens took over when it acquired Galbreath's trailer line. Both trailers are built on the Terminator platform with modifications that make them more suitable for specific markets.

The Michigan is a heavy-duty trailer with multiple axles. It is designed for markets where laws permit heavy concentrated loads as long as the trailer has the axle capacity for the weight.

The Materializer is designed for volume loads such as fertilizer or lime. Its sides are constructed with a lighter-gauge steel than the Terminator's, but keeps the AR400 floor. A 22-ft trailer weighs about 2,500 pounds less than the Terminator.

All the trailers are available in 22-, 24-, and 26-ft lengths as a quarter-frame and up to 39 feet as a frameless or frame-type. For more information, contact Ravens, 1400 Fairchild Ave, Kent OH 44240-1818.

Adhesive Designed for Transit Vehicles, Buses

Bostik Inc has a new, one-component elastomeric adhesive formulated for construction of transit vehicle bodies and bus manufacturing. Bostik 1000 urethane adhesive is suited for bonding applications where high green strength and ultimate strength are needed. It is recommended for bus and coach manufacturing; railcar side paneling; recreational vehicle side wall lamination; assembly of truck superstructures; and other metal, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, or plywood applications.

This adhesive offers unprimed adhesion to electrocoated steel, most paint formulas, and fiberglass-reinforced plastic. Bostik AutoSeal Cleaner may be used as a cleaner/primer for bonding aluminum, anodized aluminum, galvanized steel, sanded stainless steel, or other difficult-to-bond substrates requiring a binder or adhesion promoter.

Bostik 1000 elastomeric adhesive cures by reacting with atmospheric moisture to form a tough, flexible seal. At 77° F, the product is tack-free in 40 minutes and cures fully within three days. Bostik 1000 is available in 300-ml gun-grade cartridges in white, gray, and black. For more details, contact Bostik, 211 Boston St, Middleton MA 01949-2128.