3/19/16

Trailering Camera System Available for Silverado

Innovative system with up to four cameras adds 
to Silverado’s leading suite of towing technologies



DALLAS – Chevrolet announced today that a new trailering camera system will be available for 2014-2016 model year Silverados.

It joins a new factory-installed, fifth-wheel prep package, compatible with either gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitches available from Chevrolet Accessories.

“These are great examples of our commitment to provide truck customers with the most confident towing experience in the industry,” said Jeff Luke, Chevrolet truck executive chief engineer. “The fifth-wheel prep package has been designed by our structural engineers, to make the most of Silverado’s fully-boxed, high-strength steel frame. The trailering camera system was designed in partnership with our Chevrolet MyLink team to seamlessly integrate views from trailering cameras into the existing radio display.”

As with all offerings from Chevrolet Accessories, these packages are warranted and integrated to work with the customer’s vehicle and are available through Chevrolet dealers.

Trailering Camera System by Echomaster

Chevrolet partnered with Echomaster to develop the blind-spot-assist towing package system, which includes three cameras: two side view cameras, and one for mounting on the rear of the customer’s trailer. It is compatible with all 2014-2016 model year Silverado HD trucks, and Silverado 1500 trucks with the available trailer-towing mirrors.

The two side cameras are seamlessly integrated into the housing for the side-view mirrors, for improved vision along the sides of the truck and trailer. When the driver activates the turn signal, the system automatically displays the correlating side view in the center screen.

The rear camera is designed to be mounted to the top, rearmost edge of the trailer, providing a view of what’s behind the trailer when reversing. This camera is hardwired to the trailer lights for electrical power, and wirelessly transmits images to the display using a closed wireless network. It also features infrared lighting, enabling enhanced images in low-light settings. 

The Silverado’s rear backup camera is activated when reverse is selected. Pressing and holding the radio Home button for five seconds brings up the camera menu screen to select the trailer camera image.

The system also supports the use of an optional fourth camera. This can include    an additional camera installed inside the trailer, transmitting video to monitor horses, cattle, other livestock, or content during transport. Later this summer, Chevrolet will introduce a camera integrated into the center brake light, to show the contents of the bed or to assist with connecting a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer.

Any of the four camera views can be activated at any time on the radio screen to bring up the camera menu screen.

The trailering camera system will be available for purchase through Chevrolet dealers in April, and is warranted by Echomaster (a division of AAMP Global). Prices start at $999 (not including tax, labor and installation). More information will be available at www.chevrolet.com/accessories.

Factory-installed fifth-wheel prep package
Also new is a factory-installed, fully-integrated fifth-wheel package, available on all 2016 model Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD trucks for $350. It features a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray, concealed under the truck bed.  A factory-installed 7-way trailer wiring connection in the pickup box is also available.

With a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch installed, the tray takes full advantage of the fully-boxed, high-strength steel frame. With the hitch removed, the frame is completely concealed, with caps over the bed openings, preserving the flat bed floor for unencumbered cargo carrying. 

The hitch platform is compatible with the Chevrolet Accessories Gooseneck Completion Kit, including a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs, for $315.

Chevrolet also offers a CURT Manufacturing hitch that is compatible with the factory-installed hitch platform. The fifth-wheel packages from CURT Manufacturing are currently available for purchase through Chevrolet dealers at $939 for the 20,000 lbs. hitch and $999 for the 25,000 lbs. hitch (both not including tax, labor and installation.)

More information on available gooseneck and fifth-wheel hitches will be available at www.chevrolet.com/accessories.

Silverado HD towing technologies

With the new trailer towing camera system and factory-installed fifth-wheel prep package, Chevy Truck offers a comprehensive suite of technologies and features to provide the most confident towing experience in the industry.  Other advanced towing technologies on Silverado HD trucks include:
•    Standard StabiliTrak with Trailer Sway Control on all models
•    Integrated cruise control, auto grade braking and diesel exhaust braking, for greater driving control and reduced brake wear on grades
•    Available Digital Steering Assist, which enables easier handling and maneuverability, greater steering response, greater road-holding capability and greater stability control assistance.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 115 countries and selling around 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

3/13/16

NTEA reports on Work Truck Show 2016



Truck premieres, exclusive ride-and-drive opportunities, and unmatched training drew a record-setting 11,905 industry professionals to The Work Truck Show 2016, North America’s largest work truck event.

This breaks the event’s previous attendance record of 11,005, set in 2015. Attendees came from all 50 states, eight Canadian provinces and 19 countries.

The Work Truck Show 2016 was held March 1 to 4 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is produced annually by NTEA, The Association for the Work Truck Industry.

“It was a great week,” says Steve Carey, NTEA executive director. “The Work Truck Show is the one event where everyone involved with vocational vehicles in North America comes together to share ideas, see what’s new and find opportunities for their business operations.”

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. used the Show to unveil its 2018 FTR Class 6 medium-duty truck to a huge crowd. Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America Inc. debuted its prototype Fuso E-Cell all-electric truck and gave attendees the first opportunity to drive it in North America as part of The Work Truck Show Ride-and-Drive March 2 to 3.

Other truck OEMs making news at the Show included Ford Commercial Vehicles, International Truck, Kenworth Truck Company, Mack Trucks and Ram Commercial.

There were significant powertrain announcements made as well. Cummins Inc. introduced its 2017 B6.7 and L9 medium-duty engines, and Daimler Trucks North America gave the public its first glimpse of the new Detroit DD5 medium-duty engine.

During his keynote address at the Green Truck Summit general sessions on March 1, Reuben Sarkar, deputy assistant secretary for transportation at the U.S. Department of Energy, announced SuperTruck II, an $80 million funding opportunity for research, development and demonstration of long-haul trailer truck technology. He also announced more than $12 million in selections for three new projects focused on plug-in electric powertrain technologies for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. In other “green” news, Work Truck Show exhibitors highlighted significant propane fleet adoptions and even converted a pickup truck to run on propane right on the Show floor.

The Work Truck Show 2016 was the largest event in NTEA history. Over the last five years, NTEA expanded the exhibit floor by more than 40 percent, but still had a sizable waiting list of potential exhibitors. In response to this demand, NTEA has maxed out all available room at the Indiana Convention Center for The Work Truck Show 2017 and exhibit space has already sold out.

The Work Truck Show 2017 runs March 14–17, 2017. Registration opens in October 2016 at worktruckshow.com.

Source: http://www.hardworkingtrucks.com/ntea-reports-on-work-truck-show-2016/

1/30/16

Ford Motor Company Issues Safety Recall for Certain 2016 E-Series Cutaway and Chassis Cab Vehicles in North America

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 27, 2016 – Ford Motor Company is issuing a safety recall for 83 2016 Ford E-Series cutaway and chassis cab vehicles in North America for a potential issue with the trailer brake controller. Under certain conditions, a driver may lose trailer braking function at a stop, which could result in extended braking distance, increasing the risk of a crash. Vehicle braking is not affected.

There are 75 vehicles in the United States and federalized territories and eight in Canada.

Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.

Dealers will update the powertrain control module software at no cost to the customer.
About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive and mobility company based in Dearborn, Mich. With about 199,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s core business includes designing, manufacturing, marketing, financing and servicing a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs and electrified vehicles, as well as Lincoln luxury vehicles. At the same time, Ford is aggressively pursuing emerging opportunities through Ford Smart Mobility, the company’s plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and data and analytics. For more information regarding Ford, its products worldwide or Ford Motor Credit Company, visit www.corporate.ford.com.

12/09/15

NHTSA Recalls 11.30.15

NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V732
Manufacturer : Collins Bus Corporation
Make / Model Years : COLLINS / 2006-2014
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V735
Manufacturer : Nova Bus
Make / Model Years : NOVA BUS / 2010-2015
Subject : Passenger Counter Location Causing Pinch Hazard


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V761
Manufacturer : Airstream, Inc.
Make / Model Years : AIRSTREAM / 2016
Subject : Propane may Leak from Cracked Regulator Window


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V786
Manufacturer : Volvo Trucks North America
Make / Model Years : VOLVO / 2016
Subject : Bolt that Connects Steering Shafts may be Loose

NHTSA Recalls 12.7.15

NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V729
Manufacturer : Mobility Works (WMK Inc.)
Make / Model Years : FORD / 2006-2014
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V738
Manufacturer : BMW of North America, LLC
Make / Model Years : BMW / 2013-2015
Subject : Brake Hose May Kink may cause Brake Fluid Leak


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V739
Manufacturer : BMW of North America, LLC
Make / Model Years : MINI / 2014-2015
Subject : Replacement Passenger Seat Cushions/Air Bag Coding


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V740
Manufacturer : PACCAR Incorporated
Make / Model Years : PETERBILT / 2009-2016
Subject : Trucks can Exceed Speed Rating of Front Tires


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V741
Manufacturer : Forest River, Inc.
Make / Model Years : FOREST RIVER / 2010-2016
Subject : Incorrect Tire Size on Federal Placard/Part 567


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V742
Manufacturer : Forest River, Inc.
Make / Model Years : COACHMEN / 2016
Subject : Parking Brake may not Function Properly


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V744
Manufacturer : Maserati North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years : MASERATI / 2016
Subject : Passenger Side Door Latch Not Heat Treated


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V745
Manufacturer : Thor Motor Coach
Make / Model Years : DAMON / 2008-2012
FOUR WINDS / 2009-2011
THOR / 2011-2016
THOR MOTOR COACH / 2011-2016
Subject : Electric Entry Steps may be Unstable


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V746
Manufacturer : Spartan Motors USA
Make / Model Years : SPARTAN / 2014-2015
Subject : Driveshaft may Disconnect


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V747
Manufacturer : Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years : NEWMAR / 2014-2016
Subject : Water Heater May Scald Operator


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V748
Manufacturer : Goshen Coach
Make / Model Years : GOSHEN / 2006-2015
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V749
Manufacturer : Winnebago Industries, Inc
Make / Model Years : WINNEBAGO / 2008,2010,2012
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V752
Manufacturer : Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years : NEWMAR / 2004-2008
Subject : Engine Cooling Fan May Separate from Fan Drive


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V757
Manufacturer : Champion Bus, Inc.
Make / Model Years : CHAMPION / 2006-2015
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V777
Manufacturer : Polaris Industries, Inc.
Make / Model Years : POLARIS / 2015-2016
Subject : Headlights May Shut Off While Riding


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V780
Manufacturer : Tesla Motors, Inc.
Make / Model Years : TESLA / 2012-2015
Subject : Front Seat Belts may be Incorrectly Secured


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V793
Manufacturer : Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years : FORD / 2010-2011
MERCURY / 2010-2011
Subject : Fuel Tank May Crack


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V797
Manufacturer : Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years : NEWMAR / 2016
Subject : Egress Window Not Installed Over DINETTE


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V800
Manufacturer : Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years : DODGE / 2013-2014
Subject : Power Brake Booster Contamination

12/08/15

NHTSA Recall Notice 11.23.15

NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V615
Manufacturer : Pierce Manufacturing
Make / Model Years : PIERCE / 2006-2007
Subject : Ball Joint Contamination Causing Premature Wear


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V708
Manufacturer : Fontaine Trailer Company
Make / Model Years : FONTAINE / 2014-2016
Subject : Welds for Structural Member may Crack


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V710
Manufacturer : Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years : FORD / 2016
Subject : Brake Controller may not Activate Trailer Brakes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V715
Manufacturer : Eldorado National- California, Inc.
Make / Model Years : ELDORADO / 2006-2007
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V716
Manufacturer : Eldorado National- California, Inc.
Make / Model Years : ELDORADO / 2009-2010
Subject : Electrical Door Actuator May Catch Fire


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V718
Manufacturer : BMW of North America, LLC
Make / Model Years : BMW / 2016
Subject : Bent Left Rear Seat Inboard Anchor/FMVSS 225


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V719
Manufacturer : Thor Motor Coach
Make / Model Years : THOR / 2016
Subject : Transmission can Shift Without Pressing Brake


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V720
Manufacturer : McNeilus Truck & Manufacturing, Inc.
Make / Model Years : MCNEILUS / 2012-2015
Subject : Hydraulic Test Port Tube Failure Causing Fire


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V722
Manufacturer : Transportation Collaborative, Inc.
Make / Model Years : TRANS TECH BUS / 2006-2015
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V723
Manufacturer : Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp.
Make / Model Years : KME / 2016
Subject : Driveshaft may Disconnect


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V724
Manufacturer : Diamond Coach Corporation
Make / Model Years : DIAMOND COACH / 2006-2011
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V725
Manufacturer : Prevost Cars, Inc.
Make / Model Years : PREVOST / 2016
Subject : Front Suspension Mounting Studs may Break


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V726
Manufacturer : Forest River, Inc.
Make / Model Years : COACHMEN / 2016
FOREST RIVER / 2016
Subject : Transmission can Shift Without Pressing Brake


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V727
Manufacturer : Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years : NEWMAR / 2012-2013
Subject : ABS Modulator Valve may Fracture due to Contact


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V728
Manufacturer : Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Make / Model Years : LEXUS / 2013-2015
TOYOTA / 2013-2015
Subject : Unexpected Braking due to Pre-Collision System


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V730
Manufacturer : Blue Bird Body Company
Make / Model Years : BLUE BIRD / 2007-2015
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V731
Manufacturer : Blue Bird Body Company
Make / Model Years : BLUE BIRD / 2007-2015
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V733
Manufacturer : Nissan North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years : NISSAN / 2015-2016
Subject : Front Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts may be Loose


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V734
Manufacturer : Dodgen Industries, Inc.
Make / Model Years : DODGEN / 2006-2014
Subject : Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V737
Manufacturer : Outdoors RV Manufacturing
Make / Model Years : OUTDOORS RV / 2015-2016
Subject : Electrical Wires and LP Hoses may be Pinched


NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 15V759
Manufacturer : Hyundai Motor America
Make / Model Years : HYUNDAI / 2011-2012
Subject : Brake Pedal Stopper Pad Deterioration

12/07/15

The Versatran Retriever - Another 4,000 lbs., No Problem


As someone who does business in the real world I'm sure you understand the value of simplicity.  If you've been involved in the product design process you also know that very often making something simple isn't easy.  Most of the time the first version is quite complicated, from that experience ways to simplify are developed, (if you have time).

Introduced in 2012 the 4th Generation (G4 Series) Retriever is the simplest, strongest, most efficient and easiest to use Retriever yet.  Among the many benefits of the 15-ton and 20-ton Retriever's simplicity is strength.  Retrievers are at least as strong as anything on the market in their respective class's and, at the same time, weigh 2,000 to 4,000 lbs less than conventionally designed products.  To you that means 2,000 to 4,000 lbs. more legal payload and that's what really matters.  Add to that near zero maintenance, never a hydraulic leak or spill, efficient operation no matter how cold it gets and the list goes on, what's not to like?

Give me a call, I'd love to talk with you about all of the advantages of Retrievers.
All the Best         
Joe                
Office:  920-262-1800
Mobile 262-366-2537

Available in January 2016
Links To More Information

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See The Retriever in Action
See The Retriever in Action