6/30/16

Own A Pickup? Watch Your Tailgate

 

If you own a pickup truck in Texas (and we know there are a lot of you), be sure to keep a close eye on your tailgate. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Texas is the riskiest state for thieves to steal your tailgate. But don't think if you live in another state you're safe; tailgate theft rates are climbing everywhere.

According to Cars.com and the NICB crime statistics the number of tailgate thefts likely is growing due to the extra technology truckmakers are packing into the drop-down (or swing-out) gate. Features such as cameras, hidden steps, exotic materials, and specialty locking mechanisms mean today's tailgates can cost as much as $1,500 to $2,000 to replace and that's making them a bigger target for theft.

Traditionally, taking a tailgate off a pickup bed has been as simple as unclipping the cables, unplugging a wire loom and pivoting the tailgate. Thankfully, many new-truck makers now are integrating an electronic tailgate locking system into the key fob so gear inside the bed -- or the tailgate itself - is more protected.

But if your truck isn't equipped with that kind of system, there are plenty of high- and low-dollar choices you can add to keep your tailgate more secure. Our advice is to play it safe and be prepared, especially if you don't want to have to purchase an expensive new tailgate for your unlucky pickup.

Image from YouTube.com

6/28/16

Knapheide. Never Settle



At Knapheide, we never settle when it comes to the work-ready vehicle solutions we build. Find out what that means and how it makes our customers’ jobs a whole lot easier.

6/26/16

GMC Introduces Yukon SLT Premium Edition



Unique chrome accents, 22-inch wheels offer upscale style

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. – GMC today announced the 2016 Yukon SLT Premium Edition – a chrome-trimmed special model offering a premium, personalized appearance on SLT models.

It goes on sale this summer, offered on Yukon and Yukon XL models. Features include:
•    Unique design 22-inch chrome-wheels
•    Unique design chrome grille
•    Bright chrome body-side moldings
•    Polished exhaust tip

“The new Yukon SLT Premium Edition adds distinction and personalized style to the already well-appointed Yukon SLT model,” said Stu Pierce, senior marketing manager, GMC Trucks & Full-size SUVs. “For discerning customers seeking uncompromising capability and unparalleled refinement in a full-size SUV, Yukon SLT Premium Edition delivers with the latest in technologies, amenities and a unique and premium style.”

Yukon and Yukon XL SLT models are powered by an advanced 5.3L V-8 engine that offers the segment’s best V-8 fuel economy: an EPA-estimated 23 highway mpg (2WD models).

Additional standard and available features on SLT models include:
•    Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience, including an available power-folding feature
•    Power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings and hands-free operation
•    Wireless phone charging
•    Standard 8-inch-diagonal color touch-screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
•    Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility
•    Keyless Open and Start
•    8,500-lb. max trailering for Yukon and 8,300-lb. max trailering for Yukon XL (2WD models)

The Yukon lineup also incorporates technologies that help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment’s only Front Center Air Bag (models with front bucket seats), which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side impacts.

Phone projection technology
Through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Yukon’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, allowing you to call up music, navigation apps and more.

Using either application is simple. A “Projection” icon on the IntelliLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected and changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected through a USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later models.

OnStar 4G LTE and available Wi-Fi hotspot complement IntelliLink to enhance Yukon’s connectivity.

Fast Fact: Yukon and Yukon XL sales were up more than 11 percent for the first four months of 2016.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

6/24/16

VMAC UNDERHOOD Lite - The Real User Experience



See the VMAC UNDERHOOD Lite 30 CFM Vehicle Mounted Air compressor performing standard service call tasks. Come along for the ride and watch this real user experience from a first person view. Learn More: http://vmacair.com/products/underhood...


6/22/16

VMAC RAPTAIR-G30 Gas Drive Air Compressor at work



Get all the power you need in this small air compressor. No air tank required. The G30 gas drive air compressor with 30 CFM rotary screw air power.

6/20/16

Adrian LoadsRite Ladder Rack: Easy to Load & Unload Ladders



Don't climb, stretch, or reach for your ladder: use Adrian Steel's LOADSRITE Ladder Racks to easily raise and lower your ladder on top of your van. The unique design of the LOADSRITE presents the ladder in a diagonal position bringing it to a comfortable working height in the right way. LOADSRITE: The Right Way to Load and Unload Ladders.

6/18/16

Spartan Cargo




The Spartan Cargo is a cutaway that’s an excellent solution for multi-stop deliveries in cities and other tight places. The low-profile design and exceptional maneuverability make for a smooth ride. Practical and comfortable, with room to stand up straight inside, the Spartan Cargo is all business.

Features

    Access your cargo with ease in our low-profile design that features low floor heights
    See better inside with bright, lightweight 3/8″ FiberPanel® PW  (FRP) white side wall panels
    Load large cargo – even sheets of plywood with the extra room of the true interior truck body lengths and 48-1/2″ double-swing rear doors
    Work comfortably in the cargo area with our stand-up truck body height interior (72″ and 78″ heights only)
    Gain better traction and prevent slips with a 3/4″ anti-skid black coated floor

Options

    Enjoy more cab room and stand up to move between cab and cargo area with a full-height cab-access door (availability based on chassis). Note: Shortens interior truck body length
    Access your cargo quickly and easily with an ultra-low, step-saver side door; great for multi-stop delivery
    Enjoy a bright interior work space by adding natural lighting with a translucent roof
    Organize and store cargo and equipment with custom interior fixed or adjustable shelves
    Save time by storing and accessing your ladder more efficiently with a ladder rack and rear access ladder
    Acquire additional towing capabilities with a hitch receiver
    Secure your cargo with several cargo control options best fit your business application

Find out more at: http://supremecorp.com/truck-bodies/spartan-cargo/


6/16/16

SmartSpace Van Storage Solutions by Masterack



See how different configurations offer storage solutions for different industries and contractors.

6/14/16

Navistar to produce GM cutaway vans

 


Navistar announced today that it will be manufacturing the cutaway model of GM’s G Van starting in 2017.

The multi-year contract with GM will add 300 jobs to Navistar’s Springfield, Ohio plant and free up factory space at GM’s Wentzville, Mo. plant where it plans on increasing pickup production.

“We’re very pleased to partner with GM on this important manufacturing opportunity,” said Persio Lisboa, president, Navistar operations. “Our Springfield plant is an important part of our manufacturing footprint, and we’ve been preparing it for a higher volume concentration of light and medium-duty products as part of our manufacturing strategy.

“This is an important step towards our goal to drive automotive quality into the commercial vehicle industry.”

GM produces cutaway vans for commercial customers. The company’s Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans, which are full-length on frame, are upfitted into utility or service vehicles, ambulance or rescue vehicles, shuttle buses or school buses.

“This partnership will provide our Wentzville, Mo., assembly plant more flexibility to keep up with continued demand for mid-size trucks and full size vans,” said Cathy Clegg, GM North America manufacturing and labor relations vice president.

Navistar and GM are not disclosing any further details of the agreement at this time.

Navistar primarily manufactures its DuraStar and WorkStar models at the Springfield plant. Last September, Navistar and GM announced a separate long-term agreement to develop and assemble a medium-duty, conventional cab Class 4/5 commercial vehicle at Navistar’s Springfield plant starting in 2018.

The future products will be jointly developed using Navistar’s expertise in rolling chassis configurations and manufacturing capabilities, and GM’s commercial components and engines. The trucks will be available under both the International and Chevrolet brands, and will mark Navistar’s reentry into the Class 4/5 market.

Source:  http://www.hardworkingtrucks.com/navistar-to-produce-gm-cutaway-vans/

6/12/16

GMC Sierra Pickup Truck | Advanced Cargo System



The advanced cargo system of the GMC Sierra pickup truck is equipped with technology like a lower tailgate, box lighting, and bumper corner steps, to help you work smart, not hard.

6/10/16

American Truck Historical Society’s National Convention & Truck Show 2016



Hosted in Salem, Oregon from May 26 to May 28, 2016, the annual American Truck Historical Society National Convention & Truck Show in Salem this past week attracted hundreds of trucks and plenty of spectators.

Special thanks to Hard Working Trucks reader Gow Litzenburger for passing along photos of the event which we’ve packaged in a slide show below.

Other antique truck shows are scheduled this summer. Shows generally feature class 1 to 8 trucks that are at least 25 years old. Visit the ATHS website for more information. For those interested in vintage truck restoration, membership in ATHS and networking at truck shows can prove invaluable.

“There’s actually quite a lot of parts out there that are stashed away. It’s just a matter of knowing who has them,” said ATHS member Scott Smith, who brought a 1957 Peterbilt to the show.


- See more at: http://www.hardworkingtrucks.com/slideshow-antique-truck-show-attracts-hundreds-of-trucks/#sthash.Qw86ZjYN.dpuf
The annual American Truck Historical Society’s National Convention & Truck Show in Salem this past week attracted hundreds of trucks and plenty of spectators.














Special thanks to Hard Working Trucks reader Gow Litzenburger for passing along photos of the event which we’ve packaged in a slide show below.
Other antique truck shows are scheduled this summer. Shows generally feature class 1 to 8 trucks that are at least 25 years old. Visit the ATHS website for more information. For those interested in vintage truck restoration, membership in ATHS and networking at truck shows can prove invaluable.
“There’s actually quite a lot of parts out there that are stashed away. It’s just a matter of knowing who has them,” said ATHS member Scott Smith, who brought a 1957 Peterbilt to the show.
- See more at: http://www.hardworkingtrucks.com/slideshow-antique-truck-show-attracts-hundreds-of-trucks/#sthash.Qw86ZjYN.dpuf
The annual American Truck Historical Society’s National Convention & Truck Show in Salem this past week attracted hundreds of trucks and plenty of spectators.



Special thanks to Hard Working Trucks reader Gow Litzenburger for passing along photos of the event which we’ve packaged in a slide show below.
Other antique truck shows are scheduled this summer. Shows generally feature class 1 to 8 trucks that are at least 25 years old. Visit the ATHS website for more information. For those interested in vintage truck restoration, membership in ATHS and networking at truck shows can prove invaluable.
“There’s actually quite a lot of parts out there that are stashed away. It’s just a matter of knowing who has them,” said ATHS member Scott Smith, who brought a 1957 Peterbilt to the show.
- See more at: http://www.hardworkingtrucks.com/slideshow-antique-truck-show-attracts-hundreds-of-trucks/#sthash.Qw86ZjYN.dpuf
.

6/08/16

2017 GMC Sierra Denali 2500HD: Bold Hood Design Hints at What Lies Beneath


DETROIT – GMC today released the first photos of the 2017 Sierra Denali 2500HD featuring a functional hood scoop design hinting at what is beneath its bold new appearance.
In May 2016, Sierra Denali HDs accounted for 48 percent of HD retail sales.

Additional details and information on the new model will be released in the coming months.
GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

6/06/16

GMC Offers Trailering Enhancements for 2016 Sierra

Factory- and dealer-installed features 
add convenience, confidence to towing duties


DETROIT – New available features including a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a trailering camera system complement built-in technologies to help make trailering with the 2016 GMC Sierra easier and more comfortable than ever. 

The gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is offered on Sierra HD models and makes them ready to tow larger trailers right from the factory, while the trailering camera system is available for Sierra 1500 and HD models. It was developed with Echomaster to help reduce blind spots on the highway and when reversing with a trailer.

“GMC’s reputation was forged on the ability to perform heavy work with a premium touch, and these new options do more to make that work comfortable and confident,” said Sierra Marketing Manager Stuart Pierce. “With a 112-year legacy of professional-grade trucks behind them, the entire Sierra lineup handles the toughest tasks with the utmost ease.”

Gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package
The new gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is a $350 option featuring a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray that accommodates a gooseneck ball hitch or fifth-wheel hitch mounting brackets.

The platform is concealed beneath the truck’s bed floor and when the hitch isn’t needed, it can be removed for full use of the bed’s cargo capacity. Caps for the openings in the floor are included and a bed-mounted seven-way trailer wiring connection comes with the prep package.

Additionally, a new gooseneck completion kit is available from GMC dealers that features a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs. It carries a retail price of $315. GMC dealers also offer CURT Manufacturing fifth-wheel hitches compatible with the factory-installed hitch platform. They are available in 20,000-lb. and 25,000-lb. versions for $939 and $999, respectively (not including tax, installation and labor charges). 

The 2016 Sierra HDs’ fifth-wheel trailering ratings are aligned with SAE J2807 standards, with maximum capacities including:
•    2500HD trailering rating of 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg)
•    3500HD single-rear-wheel trailering rating of 17,500 pounds (7,938 kg)
•    3500HD dual-rear-wheel trailering rating of 23,200 pounds (10,523 kg)




Trailering camera system
Developed with safety feature manufacturer Echomaster, GMC’s new dealer-available blind-spot-assist towing package system is compatible with 2014-16 Sierra 1500 and HD truck equipped with the DPN- or DQS-code trailer mirrors.

It features three cameras: two side-view cameras and one for the rear of the trailer. The side cameras are integrated with the trailer mirror housings, offering improved vision on the sides of the truck and trailer, displayed on the IntelliLink screen in the cab.

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. It is hardwired to the trailer lights for electrical power and wirelessly transmits images to the interior display. It also features infrared lighting for enhanced images in low-light settings. 

The Sierra’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, such as one inside the trailer, transmitting video to monitor horses, other livestock or additional content during transport.

Any of the camera views can be activated at any time on the IntelliLink display. Later this summer GMC will also offer a camera integrated in the center brake lamp housing that provides a view of the cargo bed contents or additional assistance when connecting a fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer.

The trailering camera system is available from dealers and starts at $999 (not including tax, installation and labor charges). It is warranted by Echomaster, a division of AAMP Global.

Built-in trailering technologies
Sierra 1500 and HD models are engineered to deliver great trailering capability with refinement and control – attributes that provide driving confidence when using that capability to the fullest.

All models feature standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with trailer sway control and hill start assist, as well as four-wheel disc brakes. An automatic locking rear axle is standard on HD models and included with the available NHT Max Trailering package on Sierra 1500.

Additional features include:
•    Integrated trailer brake controller is available on Sierra 1500 and 2500HD and standard on 3500HD
•    Available rear-vision camera system
•    Available integrated cruise control, auto grade braking and diesel exhaust braking offer greater driving control and reduced brake wear on grades

New Digital Steering Assist is offered on crew cab SLE, SLT, Denali and double cab diesel SLE and SLT Sierra HD models. It enhances driver control with a trailer by using technology similar to active rack-and-pinion systems to provide corrections that enhance stability on the highway.

FAST FACT: The GMC Sierra 1500 was named the 2016 Texas Truck Showdown Towing Champion in a head-to-head capability test conducted by editors from Cars.com, PickupTrucks.com and MrTruck.com.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

6/04/16

Harbor Workmaster Body 1 - Harbor Truck Bodies



Warren gives us a great presentation of the features of the Harbor Workmaster enclosed service utility body. Also know as a Plumber Body. See more at http://www.htbi.net

6/02/16

GMC Introduces Yukon SLT Premium Edition

Unique chrome accents, 22-inch wheels offer upscale style
  

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. – GMC today announced the 2016 Yukon SLT Premium Edition – a chrome-trimmed special model offering a premium, personalized appearance on SLT models.

It goes on sale this summer, offered on Yukon and Yukon XL models. Features include:
•    Unique design 22-inch chrome-wheels
•    Unique design chrome grille
•    Bright chrome body-side moldings
•    Polished exhaust tip

“The new Yukon SLT Premium Edition adds distinction and personalized style to the already well-appointed Yukon SLT model,” said Stu Pierce, senior marketing manager, GMC Trucks & Full-size SUVs. “For discerning customers seeking uncompromising capability and unparalleled refinement in a full-size SUV, Yukon SLT Premium Edition delivers with the latest in technologies, amenities and a unique and premium style.”

Yukon and Yukon XL SLT models are powered by an advanced 5.3L V-8 engine that offers the segment’s best V-8 fuel economy: an EPA-estimated 23 highway mpg (2WD models).

Additional standard and available features on SLT models include:
•    Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience, including an available power-folding feature
•    Power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings and hands-free operation
•    Wireless phone charging
•    Standard 8-inch-diagonal color touch-screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
•    Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility
•    Keyless Open and Start
•    8,500-lb. max trailering for Yukon and 8,300-lb. max trailering for Yukon XL (2WD models)

The Yukon lineup also incorporates technologies that help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment’s only Front Center Air Bag (models with front bucket seats), which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side impacts.

Phone projection technology
Through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Yukon’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, allowing you to call up music, navigation apps and more.

Using either application is simple. A “Projection” icon on the IntelliLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected and changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected through a USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later models.

OnStar 4G LTE and available Wi-Fi hotspot complement IntelliLink to enhance Yukon’s connectivity.

Fast Fact: Yukon and Yukon XL sales were up more than 11 percent for the first four months of 2016.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.