12/29/21

The 2022 Ford Maverick Pickup: EcoBoost Capability | Maverick | Ford


The available 2.0L EcoBoost® engine in the Ford Maverick™ Pickup delivers 260 horsepower, 277 lb.-ft. of torque* and much more. *Horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary. 

Learn more about the all-new Ford Maverick here: https://ford.to/30o1aP6

12/27/21

10 Things Everyone Should Know About Tires

 By Eric Peters, Automotive Columnist

You probably know tires are made of rubber — but how much more do you know? Here’s a run-through of some important tire-related terminology:

1) Aspect ratio

This technical-sounding term refers to the relationship between the width of a tire and the height of the tire’s sidewall. High-performance “low profile” tires have “low aspect ratios” — meaning their sidewalls are short relative to their width. This provides extra stiffness and thus better high-speed handling and grip — but also tends to result in a firmer (and sometimes, harsh) ride. “Taller” tires tend to provide a smoother ride and better traction in snow.

2) Contact Patch

As your tires rotate, only a portion of the total tread is actually in contact with the ground at any given moment.  This is known as the contact patch.  Think of it as your tire’s “footprint.” Sport/performance-type tires are characterized by their wider footprint — more tread is in contact with the ground — which provides extra grip, especially during hard acceleration on dry pavement and during high-speed cornering.

3) Treadwear indicators

These are narrow bands built into the tread during manufacturing that begin to show when only 1/16 of the tire’s tread remains. Also called wear bars, treadwear indicators are there to provide an obvious visual warning that it’s time to shop for new tires.

4) Speed ratings

An alpha-numeric symbol you’ll find on your tire’s sidewall that tells you the maximum sustained speed the tire is capable of safely handling. An H-rated tire, for example, is built to be safe for continuous operation at speeds up to 130 mph. Most current model year family-type cars have S (112 mph) or T (118 mph) speed ratings. High performance cars often have tires with a V (149 mph) or  ZR (in excess of 149 mph) speed rating. A few ultra-performance cars have W (168 mph) and even Y (186 mph) speed-rated tires.

5) Maximum cold inflation load limit

This refers to the maximum load that can be carried in a given vehicle with a given type of tires — and the maximum air pressure needed to support that load. In your vehicle’s owner’s manual, you should be able to find the recommended cold inflation load limit. It’s important not to exceed the load limit (or over or under-inflate the tires) as this can lead to stability/handling problems and even tire failure. Always check tire pressure “cold.” Driving creates friction which creates heat; as the tires warm up, the air inside expands, increasing the pressure. Measuring air pressure after driving can give a false reading; you may actually be driving around on under-inflated tires.

6) Load index

This number corresponds to the load carrying capacity of the tire. The higher the number, the higher the load it can safely handle. As an example, a tire with a load index of 89 can safely handle 1,279 pounds — while a tire with a load rating of 100 can safely handle as much as 1,764 pounds. It’s important to stick with tires that have at least the same load rating as the tires that came originally with the vehicle — especially if it’s a truck used to haul heavy loads or pull a trailer. It’s ok to go with a tire that has a higher load rating than the original tires; just be careful to avoid tires with a lower load rating than specified for your vehicle, even if they are less expensive. Saving a few bucks on tires is not worth risking an accident caused by tire failure.

7) Radial vs. bias-ply tire

Bias-ply tires have their underlying plies laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread; radials have their plies laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. That’s the technical difference. The reason radial tires are dominant today is that they help improve fuel efficiency and handling; they also tend to dissipate heat better than bias-ply tires. No modern passenger cars come with bias-ply tires these days and their use is generally not recommended. (Exceptions might include older/antique vehicles that originally came equipped with bias-ply tires. Some RVs also used bias-ply tires, etc.) It is very important never to mix radial and bias-ply tires; dangerously erratic handling may result.

8) LT and MS tires

These designations indicate “Light Truck” and “Mud/Snow” — and are commonly found on tires fitted to SUVs and pick-ups. LT-rated tires are more general purpose, built primarily for on-road use — while MS-rated tires typically have more aggressive “knobby” tread patterns designed for better off-road traction.

9) Temporary Use Only

Many modern cars come with so-called “space-saver” tires which are smaller and lighter than a standard or full-size spare tire. They are designed to leave more room in the trunk and be easier for the average person to handle when a roadside tire change becomes necessary. However, they are not designed to be used for extended (or high-speed) driving. Your car will probably not handle (or stop) as well while the Space Saver tire is on – and you should keep your speed under 55 mph and avoid driving on the tire beyond what’s absolutely necessary to find a tire repair shop where you can have your damaged tire repaired or replaced.

10) Treadwear, Traction and Temperature ratings

Each tire has three separate ratings for Treadwear, Traction and Temperature.

Traction ratings run from AA to A to B and C — with C being the lowest on the scale. The ratings represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement under controlled testing conducted by the government. C-rated tires are marginal and should be avoided. Never buy a tire with a Traction rating that isn’t at least equal to the minimum rating specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle.

Temperature ratings from A to B to C — with C being the minimum allowable for any passenger car tire. The ratings correspond to a given tire’s ability to dissipate heat under load; tires with lower ratings are more prone to heat-induced failure, especially if driven at high speeds (or when overloaded). As with Traction ratings, never buy a tire with a Temperature rating that’s less than specified for your vehicle.

Treadwear ratings differ from Traction and Temperature ratings in that they aren’t a measure of a tire’s built-in safety margin. Instead, these ratings — represented by a three digit number — give you an idea of the expected useful life of the tire according to government testing. A tire with a Treadwear rating of 150, for example, can be expected to last about 1.5 times as long as a tire with a Treadwear rating of 100. These are just guides, however. Your tires may last longer (or not) depending on such factors as how you drive, whether you maintain proper inflation pressure and rotate the tires per recommendations — and so on.

Comments?

www.ericpetersautos.com


12/23/21

Curt BetterWeigh™ Mobile Towing Scale Smartphone Ready


This video is about the BetterWeigh™ mobile towing scale – a Bluetooth-enabled, smartphone-compatible device that plugs into any OBD-II port and weighs the vehicle, trailer, cargo, tongue weight, pin weight, weight distribution and trailer brake gain.

Equipped with TowSense™ technology, BetterWeigh™ provides real-time, live measurements to take the guesswork out of towing and hauling. With it, you can know exactly how much weight you’re towing, and whether it’s safe to tow with your vehicle.

It has virtually no installation requirements. BetterWeigh™ simply plugs into the OBD-II vehicle diagnostic port below the steering wheel, wirelessly links with your smartphone and comes with a free, downloadable app.

Unlike physical towing scales and tongue weight scales, BetterWeigh™ gives you a digital readout, sent right to your smartphone -- no more walking to the back of the vehicle to check the weight.

BetterWeigh™ also makes brake controller setup fast, easy and accurate by calculating the exact trailer brake gain needed for your particular load size.

The CURT BetterWeigh™ mobile towing scale is compatible with Apple iOS and Android OS. The downloadable app is intuitive, easy to use and completely free.

BetterWeigh™ Features & Benefits

  • Measures real-time vehicle-trailer weights for safer, easier towing and hauling
  • Bluetooth connection provides active readouts on the driver’s smartphone
  • No-install, plug-and-play setup into vehicle diagnostic port (OBD-II) below the dash
  • Weighs vehicle, trailer, cargo, tongue and pin weight and weight distribution
  • Provides easy brake controller setup by measuring exact trailer brake gain needed
  • Wireless, compact, portable design
  • Downloadable app available for Apple iOS and Android OS
  • Limited lifetime warranty

12/21/21

Diesel Engine Exhaust Braking | Ford How-To | Ford


Learn about available diesel engine exhaust braking* and how to use it in your Super Duty® truck. *Available on Super Duty 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel engine.

12/19/21

Strike Anywhere | F-150 Lightning | Ford



Explore the all-new all-electric F-150 Lightning™ in immersive AR / 3D.


Check out the the immersive AR / 3D experience here: https://ford.to/3BTNaJC
Discover more All-Electric F-150 Lightning videos here: https://ford.to/3bMuukg

12/17/21

Link Ramps LB20 Bifold Aluminum Ramp


Link has put a new twist on aluminum ramps. Our swivel ramp offers unmatched flexibility for loading and unloading any sized cargo, with 180-degree rotation and two storage locations. Order one today: www.linkmfg.com/products/ramps/​

12/15/21

Tips For Safe Winter Driving


Severe winter weather can be both frightening and dangerous when driving.Here are AAA's tips to prepare your vehicle and keep you cautious while driving in adverse weather.

12/13/21

The Harbor WeldMaster Truck Body - For the Jack of All Trades!


The urban welder is a jack of all trades. A little of this, and a little of that. And, of course, his or her work always includes some welding. Harbor created a jack of all trades truck just for her or him.  A service body with a welders edge!
  • 63-inch raised and vented front compartment with bottle brackets and rings inside to hold standard sized oxygen and acetylene tanks
  • Stainless Steel self-opening pop-top lids w/ body length compartment bins & 4" dividers
  • Push Button locking system with red band locking indicator
  • Modern gas shocks on each side opening door to keep them open during loading and unloading
  • 8" deep recessed bumper for sure footing when entering bed
  • Armless and self supporting tailgate work table
  • Adjustable, but lockable, shelving system
  • Weather shield system around locks, doors, and hingles, preventing leaks and securing the tools of your trade. Neoprene door seals, water-proof gaskets, self-sealing stainless steel rivets, and silky smooth three-point door latches with Teflon glides.

12/10/21

Beginning as a Cardboard Prototype, the 2022 F-150 Lightning Pickup’s Mega Power Frunk Now Boasts the Largest Front Trunk in the Truck Industry



• Ford truck and fleet owners and customers guided decision-making for the innovative design of the F-150 Lightning pickup’s Mega Power Frunk, leading to multiple power sources and enough space to house two golf bags

• Ford user experience team uncovered important customer wants with cardboard prototype made in a few hours with scissors, a razor blade and a hot glue gun

• Mega Power Frunk design and engineering teams faced lofty challenges, including an asymmetrical frunk, drainable floor and waterfall hood design to meet customer expectations

DEARBORN, Mich.– A cardboard box found a new lease on life after being recruited by Ford to help develop a new feature known as the Mega Power Frunk. The all-electric 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup’s new front trunk or, as it’s known in industry speak “frunk” is the largest in the truck industry – with 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet) of cargo space and  maximum payload capacity of 400 pound

“The F-150 Lightning pickup’s Mega Power Frunk is one of those features that reshape what vehicles can provide for customers. It’s sheer size, ample power supply, drainable floor and open and close system that opens with the touch of a button make it frunking awesome!” said Linda Zhang, F-150 Lightning Chief Program Engineer.

What many don’t know is this spacious and dynamic space began life as a simple cardboard box with a cutout front door and a liftable hood.

Understanding the Customer’s Needs

It began back in February 2018 with Team Edison – Ford’s dedicated battery electric vehicles incubator that incorporates close collaboration between different teams to find solutions to customer needs. A small group of young user experience designers set out to California, where they sat down with actual Ford truck and fleet customers to talk about how they might use such a feature. The prototype, made of cardboard for simplicity and cost and built in about a day using scissors and hot glue, was brought to every meeting to help customers visualize the opportunity.

In the studio, Greg Ardisana, design strategy director, passenger vehicles, and other Team Edison research members worked as consultants alongside engineering and design whenever they had customer use questions, which led to a close-knit collaboration between groups.

Once the frunk is open, customers can fill it with ice and drinks to “frunkgate” it, since it’s water-resistant, cleanable and has a drainable floor.

Steve McInally, frunk feature supervisor, said the team explored every detail as an opportunity. “We put the customer first in every decision we made and were able to deliver on a Mega Power Frunk,” he said. “And it’s going to blow people’s minds.” The 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup will be available starting Spring 2022.

# # #

1 - Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.

2 - FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply. 

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.  The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers.  Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of connected, increasingly electrified passenger and commercial vehicles:  Ford trucks, utility vehicles, vans and cars, and Lincoln luxury vehicles.  The company is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, connected vehicle services and mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  Ford employs about 184,000 people worldwide.  More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.


12/08/21

Compare the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado With the 2021 Ford F-150 | Head to Head | Ford


If you're looking for the right truck to take on challenges of the day-to-day, check out the Ford F-150. The F-150 has a higher available towing capacity than Chevy Silverado.* It has available technology Chevy Silverado doesn't have to help you know where you're going.** Now, for the first time ever, you can get a hybrid version of the F-150 that doubles as an available 7.2 kW mobile generator. Let's see Silverado do that. *Max towing on F-150 SuperCab 8' box and SuperCrew® 4x2 with available 3.5L EcoBoost,® Max Trailer Tow Pkg. Class is Full-Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs. GVWR. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number or passengers. Towing and payload are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously. ** Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver's attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See owner's manual for details and limitations. Learn more about the 2021 Ford F-150 here: https://ford.to/3reJwEJ

12/06/21

A GUIDE TO DIESEL ROTARY SCREW AIR COMPRESSORS



WHAT IS A DIESEL ROTARY SCREW AIR COMPRESSOR?

A diesel rotary screw air compressor is an air compressor fueled by diesel that uses rotors to compress air. Diesel air compressors allow operators to generate compressed air on demand for powering tools and equipment.

Learn more at: https://www.vmacair.com/product/diesel-driven-air-compressors/


12/05/21

The All-New Ford Maverick in 3 Minutes | Ford


The all-new 2022 Ford Maverick is a new kind of pickup that is versatile and capable. Here is everything you need to know about the Maverick in just 3 minutes.

12/03/21

Custom Designed Welders Bodies by Harbor Truck Bodies

Harbor can custom build a Welders Body 
for each customers unique needs



It seems that there's no such thing as a standard Welder Body because every welder want something different. Harbor can custom build a Welders Body for each customers unique needs. Here's a 9' Low Pro 34" Open Top Service Body with Stainless Steel lids and with slightly raised front compartments to the standard height of 40" closed compartment style.








This also has a small sized transverse compartment with two compartments for tall gas bottles in storage, while in the main front compartment are bottle brackets and rings for short gas bottles. This also has the rear compartment cut off and an 18" work platform with V-groove on the back plus the standard 8" step bumper.

This is all mounted on a new Dodge 3500 regular cab chassis and makes for a very clean looking rig.

Let Harbor create a unique body for you! Call 800-433-9452.

Visit us at http://www.harbortruckandvan.com/

12/01/21

Ranger Design Lockers & Workbenches for Commercial Vans


The Ranger Design locker for secure cargo van storage has the space needed to store your tools and your valuables. The lockers can be mounted inside the rear of the van to provide easy access to your most valuable supplies. The lockable storage units have a hook inside that gives a tidy place to hang work clothes while providing a private compartement to store personnal belongings. It comes with a 10 year limited warranty. The Ranger Design heavy duty van workbench with a high quality wood surface is great for tradesmen who work in their van. It is perfect for filling out paperwork, counting parts or doing any other task that requires a flat surface. Options include built-in shelves and drawer cabinets, and lockable storage. Comes with a 10 year warranty. https://rangerdesign.com/

11/29/21

Ford Bronco Builds of SEMA 2021


This year there has been a lot of buzz about the brand new Ford Bronco and at SEMA in Las Vegas, I take you around and show you many of the new modifications for the Bronco that are now available. Visit our online store: https://trailrecon.com

11/26/21

Commercial Van Equipment & Upfits by Ranger Design


Video demonstrating commercial van equipment manufactured by Ranger Design: See our website for more info http://rangerdesign.com/ - Tradesman Packages - Van Tool Drawers - Axess Tray Cargo Slides - Van Ladder Racks - Revolutionary Max Rack Drop Down Ladder Rack - Van Partitions: Crash Tested for Your Maximum Safety - Contoured Van Bulkheads for Maximum Cabin Comfort - Van Bin Storage Units - Partskeepers Storage Units - Van Shelving - "Fold-Away" Foldable Van Shelving - Sliding Door Van Safety Partition Visit our website http://rangerdesign.com/ or call our friendly staff at 1-800-565-5321 for your next upfit.

11/23/21

Ford Transit AWD Overland Review


We test the Ford Transit AWD on our test track, including steep climbs and descents, cross-axle terrain, and embedded rock. This vehicle relies heavily on the traction control system for forward progress. While not an off-roader, it is certainly ready for vanlife travel around the world!

11/21/21

Ford F-150: Rocket League Edition | Ford


Ford teamed up with Rocket League to create a unique vehicle* for their collaboration. Watch to see how the process of creating a real-life F-150 Rocket League Edition** happens. *The driving in this video game reflects fantasy. May not be realistic and is potentially dangerous in real life. Do not attempt these maneuvers while driving. **Concept vehicle shown. Not for sale. Learn more about the 2021 F-150 here: https://ford.to/2UaKtn0

11/18/21

The All-Electric F-150 Lightning | The Only EV That’s An F-150 | Ford


Introducing the all-electric F-150 Lightning. The most innovative, thrilling and revolutionary F-150 ever built. Learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning here: https://ford.to/3fA48n0

11/17/21

Norstar's SD Truck Bed


Our SD truck bed is our best selling model and in this video we show you exactly why. The Norstar SD Service bed is perfect for the tradesman. Our Service Bed offers multiple standard tool boxes and many options for your on the go needs. This bed comes with 2 vertical cabinets, 2 angled boxes, 2 top boxes, and 2 rear underbody boxes plus a bonus locking rear shovel compartment for tons of storage. Multiple option choices allow you to build this bed to your industry. All doors are gas shock equipped and locking paddle latches are standard as well as a serviceable, tamper-resistant integrated door hinge system – new for 2020. Our 2.5” receiver allows you to add a hitch for bumper pull cargo and a 2 5/16” gooseneck ball is standard in case you are hauling a heavyweight. Our receivers are lab tested and certified for 18,500 lbs bumper capacity and 30,000 lbs gooseneck capacity. Standard adjustable galvanized tool trays with available cabinet tool drawers can add the finishing touch if you have a lot of parts or tools for your work load. Dual LED rear work lights and cast aluminum light housings as well as tail gate are standard features on the SD. These beds are a perfect complement for any single or dual wheel work truck with smooth 12 gauge sides, 11 gauge bumper and gloss black powder coating.

11/14/21

Lane Keeping System: Programming │Ford How-To | Ford


This video will assist you in programming the Lane-Keep System on your 2013 Ford vehicle. Learn more about being a Ford Owner here: http://ford.to/FordOwner Discover more Ford How-To videos here: http://ford.to/2jrAGSj SUBSCRIBE: http://ford.to/SubscribeFordMotorCompany #Ford Connect with Ford: http://ford.to/FordMotorCompany Facebook: http://ford.to/FordCarsFB Twitter: http://ford.to/FordMotorCompanyTW Instagram: http://ford.to/FordMotorCompanyIG Ford Social: http://ford.to/FordMotorCompanySocial About Ford: The official YouTube channel for Ford Motor Company. Subscribe for weekly videos showcasing our vehicles, innovation and stories that inspire you to go further. Our videos are here for your entertainment, and you are welcome to use the share and embed links for all our videos, but the videos themselves are property of Ford Motor Company. You are not permitted to download any video and re-upload under any circumstances without written consent from Ford Motor Company. Lane Keeping System: Programming │Ford How-To | Ford https://www.youtube.com/user/Ford

11/13/21

Work Truck Week 2022



For more than 20 years, the people who design, build, use and maintain the work trucks and equipment the world relies on have gathered every March to see the industry’s latest products and technology, learn from one another and discuss how to improve the future. 

What started as a trade show has evolved to meet the changing needs of the industry. The event has expanded beyond the walls of Indiana Convention Center to encompass hotels, restaurants, sports arenas, concert venues and the streets that connect them. From Monday to Friday, its energy, scale and intensity encompass the city — making Work Truck Week a one-of-a-kind industry experience. View press release.

  • Get up close to new equipment offerings from 500 exhibitors
  • Hear truck OEM plans and upfitter solutions
  • Identify operational improvement strategies
  • Optimize commercial vehicle design and specification
  • Evaluate vendors’ latest offerings
  • Meet with current and prospective customers
  • Find new business opportunities and ways to stay competitive
  • Collaborate with management, product and engineering teams
Learn more and sign up here

11/11/21

Venco Venturo Industries, LLC Electric-Hydraulic Cranes - Work Truck Show


ET6K ELECTRIC-HYDRAULIC CRANE Max. Capacity 2,000 lb - Crane Rating 6,000 ft-lb - Max. Reach 10 ft Min. Truck Size Needed (GVWR) Class 2 (8,000 lb) The Venturo ET6K service crane is a 6,000 ft.-lbs. crane with 2,000 lb. lifting capacity featuring electric winch, power rotation and hydraulic boom elevation with a single, manual extension up to 10 ft. ET12KXP ELECTRIC-HYDRAULIC CRANE Max. Capacity 3,500 lb, Crane Rating 12,000 ft-lb, Max. Reach 16 ft Min. Truck Size Needed (GVWR) Class 2 (8,800 lbs GVWR) With a 12,000 FT-LB rating and a 3,500 LB maximum capacity, the ET12KXP can be installed on trucks with a minimum Class 2 (8,800 lbs GVWR). The ET12KXP features proportional control, single-stage full-hydraulic extension and a one-piece hexagonal boom for increased strength. This new crane features a 9′ – 16′ reach. ET12K(X) ELECTRIC-HYDRAULIC CRANE Max. Capacity 3,500 lb - Crane Rating 12,000 ft-lb - Max. Reach 15 ft Min. Truck Size Needed (GVWR) Class 2 (8,800 lb) The Venturo ET12KX service crane is a versatile application that is neither too large or too small for a majority of lifting jobs. This crane has been utilized heavily in municipal/public works industry lifting anything from service equipment to fire hydrants throughout the United States. With a 12,000 FT-LB rating and a 3,500 LB maximum capacity, the ET12KX can be installed on trucks with a minimum 8,800 GVWR. The ET12K(X) comes in two configurations; the ET12K offers two-stage manual boom extension, and the ET12KX offers single-stage hydraulic extension with a secondary manual boom extension.

11/09/21

How Cars Communicate With One Another | Consumer Reports


Technology is allowing more and more vehicles to communicate with each other on the roadways. Consumer Reports’ expert explains what V2X is and how it works.

11/05/21

Why Ford Dominates The Market For Police Vehicles


There are about 12,000 police departments patrolling jurisdictions across the United States. More than half of police vehicles driving through neighborhoods and cities are Fords. The second-largest U.S. automaker in terms of sales is also the biggest purveyor of police vehicles. In 2018, Ford's share of police vehicle sales in the U.S. was 63 percent thanks to its immensely successful Police Interceptor lineup.

11/03/21

The All-New 2021 F-150 | Cabin | Ford


Whatever you want to do out there, we’ve got the truck to get it done. Introducing the all-new 2021 Ford F-150.

10/31/21

Equipping a Truck for All Seasons

 

Derek Broderick (center) stands in front of BlackHawk Works' office with his wife and daughter. The company has equipped a F-250 with a snow plow and a F-450 with a chip box. Photo courtesy of BlackHawk Works.

The bitter cold of winter is an excuse for many businesses to shut down. In Alaska, it’s merely the time to switch gears. To continue working through winter, Derek Broderick’s tree removal company added snow plows to two of its trucks.

“The weather here in Alaska dictates a lot of your working season,” says Broderick, owner of BlackHawk Works in North Pole, Alaska. “Everyone is frozen in time in the winter and then everyone comes out in the construction season during the summer.”

After retiring from the military, Broderick started his company with a Ford F-450 used for stump grinding and tree removal during the summer and snow plowing in the winter. Currently, he uses an F-250 and F-450 for snow plowing.

“I use Boss snow plows,” says Broderick. “I can use both plows on either truck since they have the same mount. If one plow goes down, I can flip-flop the plows and use the other one.”

As of last year, he had hired three full-time employees for the summer season. “As I was growing my business, I was working at another company. After about three years, we had such good growth that I decided to focus solely on my business. From 2014 to 2015, we grew by 52%.”

In addition to covering jobs in North Pole, Broderick’s trucks travel to Fairbanks, about 12 miles south, and as far as Delta Junction, about an hour away.
Multi-Use Trucks

Based on its motto “We Grind, We Plow, We Clear,” BlackHawk Works can complete all of these services with its small truck fleet.

After purchasing an F-250 for snow plowing, Broderick added an F-450 with a dump box on the back; it became the company’s chip truck. When he bought a second F-450, Broderick added a custom-made chip box.

“The chip box sits on top of the F-450 flat bed,” says Broderick. “We designed it and the auto body shop built it. It also contains shelving units to store chainsaws and blowers.”

For big jobs requiring two trucks, the F-450 with the dump box can also be used with a temporary chip box. When not used as the second chip truck, this F-450 pulls the stump grinder and stores other equipment for tree removal. The stump grinder is transported by the truck and then self-propelled on wheels, he says.

In addition to trucks, BlackHawk operates several pieces of equipment including two chippers, two stump grinders, and a Caterpillar 299d used for land clearing.
Seasonal Schedule

BlackHawk uses the off-season to maintain its vehicles and equipment. Broderick takes his trucks to his local Ford dealership for routine maintenance checks. Although the vehicles and equipment are still fairly new, there is some wear and tear, he says.

The off-season also gives Broderick and his employees time to rest. The summer season is prime construction time, and Broderick and his team work long hours to take advantage of the longer sunlight hours and warmer weather.

“We go and go since we have so much daylight in the summer,” says Broderick. “On summer solstice, we have 22 hours of sunlight. After summer solstice, you start losing daylight each day up to winter solstice. The prime construction season is usually May through September.”

Source: http://www.worktruckonline.com/channel/operations/article/story/2016/05/equipping-a-truck-for-all-seasons.aspx

10/29/21

Tire Blow Out Reaction Tips


Tires are the most important part of your vehicle and unexpected blows outs happen almost everyday! Watch this video to find out the two key steps to keep you safe in the event of a tire blow out.

10/27/21

A.R.E. DoubleCover - Unique Truck Bed Cover That Lifts And Retracts - Quick Overview


The A.R.E. DoubleCover truck bed cover. The Industry's first and only truck bed cover that lifts up for quick access and retracts for full bed access. Learn more at: https://www.4are.com/#

10/25/21

How to use SYNC® Radio | Ford How-To | Ford



This informative video explains how to use the available SYNC® radio in your vehicle for entertainment on every drive. Learn more about being a Ford owner here:
http://ford.to/FordOwner

10/23/21

How to use SYNC® Radio | Ford How-To | Ford



This informative video explains how to use the available SYNC® radio in your vehicle for entertainment on every drive. Learn more about being a Ford owner here:
http://ford.to/FordOwner

10/21/21

Leading The Electric Revolution and Sustainability | Ford


We’re leaping off the line in the race to bring dependable and affordable electric vehicles to every American – and building a better future for American workers, American manufacturing, and the world we leave to our children.

10/18/21

WARN VR EVO Winches


We take a closer look at the complete lineup of WARN VR EVO winches, the new standard in standard-duty.

• Available in 8,000, 10,000, and 12,000 lb. capacities with synthetic or steel rope.
• IP68 waterproof.
• Two-in-one wired/wireless controller. Best-in-class performance.
• Limited lifetime (mechanical), 7 year (electrical) warranty (North America)

10/16/21

Get Ready For The Next-Gen Ford Ranger!


Today Ford have released the first official glimpse of the #NextGenRanger, which will be revealed later this year and launch in 2022. Embracing superior off-road credentials and Ford’s dynamic driving DNA, the toughest, most capable and connected Ranger pickup yet has been developed by Ford with the customer front of mind.

10/15/21

What Innovation Looks Like | Built for America | Ford


It looks like taking the revolutionary and making it familiar for everybody, with Ford technology that just works. #F150Lightning #MustangMachE #FordBronco #ETransit

Learn more about Built for America here: https://ford.to/3yCa86l

10/13/21

Hellwig Suspension - How Helper Springs Work


How Helper Springs Work - Dealers for more info and to order, log on to priceguidepro.com or contact your sales rep today! 800.772.2678

10/11/21

Pro Power Onboard | Ford How-To | Ford


This easy-to-follow video will show you how to use Pro Power Onboard,* which you may have on your Ford vehicle, to provide electrical power to certain power tools and electronic devices. *See Owner’s Manual for important operating instructions. Learn more about being a Ford owner here: https://ford.to/3juU0Q8

10/09/21

12,000-POUND FORD PERFORMANCE PARTS WINCH BY WARN NOW AVAILABLE FOR SUPER DUTY PICKUPS BEYOND THE TREMOR


Building on the success of the Ford Performance Parts Winch by Warn offered on the Ford Super Duty Tremor,12,000 pounds of winching power will soon be available for any properly equipped 2020 or newer Super Duty pickup.

“We have Super Duty customers who saw the Tremor winch calling to say they want that same choice,” said Ron Meredith, Ford truck vehicle personalization planning manager. “So we’ve expanded its availability to every new Super Duty pickup and made sure it meets the needs of all of our hardworking Super Duty customers.”

Available as a factory-orderable option or dealer-installed accessory, the winch can be added to optional 7.3-liter gas V8 or 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 diesel-powered 2020 or newer 4x4-equipped F-250 and F-350* Super Duty pickups with available dual batteries and dual 397-amp alternators.

Developed with crash safety and capability top of mind, the fully integrated winch is mounted behind the steel bumper and features optimized airflow and clearance regardless of engine choice. The winch features high-tensile strength, abrasion-resistant synthetic cable is ideal for helping stranded motorists or as an indispensable tool on the job site. The winch includes the only wireless remote control in its class**, along with a wired remote control.

The Ford Performance Parts winch by Warn will be available to order beginning April 8 as a $3,000 factory option, or it can be added after purchase at a local Ford dealership for $3,000 MSRP plus labor.

The Ford F-Series Super Duty is proudly assembled at Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, Ohio.


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*Not available with F-350 DRW equipped with 4.10 rear gearing

**Class is full-size pickups over 8,500 pounds GVWR

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford trucks, utility vehicles, and cars – increasingly including electrified versions – and Lincoln luxury vehicles; provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company; and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected vehicle services.  Ford employs approximately 186,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com.