Product Innovations

Are Shocks the Same As Struts?

Struts and shocks are both integral components of a truck’s suspension system; and while the trucking terms may seem interchangeable, the two parts have completely different functions – even though they share the same end goal. It is important to note that not all commercial vehicles have both struts and shocks. Some vehicles only have shocks. Some may only have struts; but that does not mean that one component is better than the other. So, what is the real difference between struts and shocks? We’re going to put the confusion to rest once and for all. Keep reading to learn the functions of struts and shocks as well as when to replace them on your heavy-duty truck.

Meritor OE and Aftermarket Brands

Whether you’re out driving a truck or maintaining a fleet of them, chances are you’re familiar with Meritor. A powerhouse in both the OE and aftermarket, Meritor doesn’t just have one specialty — they are a global supplier of axle, brake, and suspension solutions for both the transportation and industrial sectors.

Meritor Genuine parts are well-known in the industry for being the same parts that are used on OEM equipment and installed on brand new trucks on the assembly line. This brand is renowned for its genuine performance on new vehicles and vehicles that are still under warranty, but what many fleet owners don’t realize is that Meritor has more brands in the aftermarket than you may realize.

Spring Into Action

Long-haul trips can be stressful. You will encounter your fair share of irritating drivers as well as unwelcomed weather elements and undesirable road conditions; and with all these challenges, there may be a time when you need to pump the brakes - and fast.Therefore, it is important that your heavy- duty truck is equipped with reliable spring brakes plus enough air pressure.

Keep reading to learn how spring brakes are applied; why air pressure matters; and what it could mean for your truck's air brakes. 

Do I Need to Replace My Water Pump?

Most seasoned truckers and fleet operators know that when your engine is working at peak performance, life is good. But when something is off, it’s not something that can be ignored. Your engine system is made up of multiple components that keep everything running smoothly, and the water pump is one of those parts.

If you’re not familiar with what the water pump does, don’t feel bad. Contrary to what the name suggests, this essential component is responsible for circulating coolant from the radiator throughout the engine. This keeps your vehicle at a consistent operating temperature. But although water pumps are built to last, they wear out just like any other part does, and knowing the early signs of water pump failure can help you avoid full engine failure.

Mud Flaps for Trucks 101

Did you know that 38 states have mud-guard regulations? No? Don’t feel bad. Mud flaps aren’t exactly discussed by truck drivers, or even heavy-duty truck companies. That is, until now.

Mud flaps are one of the most important truck accessories on the market for semis and dump trucks and really should be required in all states. Mud flaps are much needed during rainy months (increasingly important in hurricane season which is going on now) and offer additional safety measures for drivers. Keep reading to learn the basics of mud guards including what they are and why they matter.

What Does it Mean to Have Compliant Truck Lights?

Your headlights, taillights, and marker lights are all essential pieces of your truck’s safety system. If you can’t see the full scope of what’s in front of your 80,000-pound vehicle and other motorists can’t clearly see you, there’ll be trouble for everyone. When you look online, aftermarket headlights are a dime a dozen — a few clicks and you can choose the type of light you need at the right price. Because what’s one headlight or stop/turn/taillight from the other, right?

Not necessarily. While it is true that you can easily find replacement lights for your truck or vehicle, there’s one important thing you need to keep in mind along with making sure it’s an exact fit — whether it’s compliant. But what does that mean and how can you tell?

How To Prepare For Driving During Hurricane Season.

“Oh, it’s just a little rain and wind,” they say; but don’t let that Native Floridian way of thinking fool you. You may be driving a heavy-duty vehicle; but that doesn’t make you invincible on the road. In fact, as a semi-truck driver, you are most vulnerable during the rainy months of the year. Because September is the most active month for hurricanes and other tropical disturbances, it’s time to look at what you need to do to stay safe on the road during hurricane peak season. Wind speeds under 60mph are generally safe for truckers to drive; but as the storm moves, your plans may drastically change.

Before hopping in your cab, you will need to perform a series of tasks to help you safely navigate your freight - such as planning routes plus alternate paths - and doing a bit of pre-trip inspections on your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more.

Common Misconception: Price Matters Most

The ups and downs of the trucking industry have all fleet owners and managers thinking of cost and tightening up cashflow where possible. While it’s important to track your expenses and make sure your business isn’t leaking money like a sieve, it is a common misconception that when it comes to your trucks, price matters most.

Don’t get us wrong — price does matter. But it by no means should be the sole factor in making decisions for your truck or fleet. There’s a lot to be said about finding a great deal that’s going to save you some money, but what many trucking professionals don’t realize is that saving cost now doesn’t always equal the best value.

Getting to Know Your Charge Air Cooler

Whether you’re a fleet operator or a driver, there are a lot of truck parts that you’ve come to know over your years in the industry. Those of us who have experienced overheating or other engine issues have certainly become familiar with everything that could be related to engine failure, but the charge air cooler may be a lesser known part of the engine’s support system.

If you’ve got noticeable changes in your engine performance, the charge air cooler (CAC) and its components are worth looking into and can help save you from wanting to toss your engine into the dumpster.

We like to joke that some people have “eyes in the back of their heads” and while this would be a useful trick when it comes to successfully backing up a trailer, we all still need a little bit of help to make sure we don’t take out a light pole or another vehicle. Mirrors are helpful, but even fully optimized mirror systems leave out what’s directly behind your truck, and when it comes to huge trailers, that’s a lot of blind spots.

Even the most seasoned driver needs a little bit of backup, and a high-quality backup camera can be one of the most useful tools on the truck. We’ve all done it the old-fashioned way where a person stands behind the truck and guides the driver in while the driver sticks their head out the window, but the technology is now available to show you exactly where the rear of the truck is and how much space you have to work with. If your truck or fleet isn’t currently equipped with backup, then you might be due for an upgrade, and we have the perfect brand.