5/29/23

Ford Step Bars | Accessories | Ford


Ford step bars offer both form and function, so they not only help make getting in and out easy, they’re also easy on the eyes. Ford Original Accessories will be warranted for whichever provides you the greater benefit: 24 months/unlimited mileage or the remainder of your bumper-to-bumper 3-year/36,000-mile New-Vehicle Limited Warranty. See your dealer for warranty details. Learn more about Ford Accessories here: https://ford.to/3hSnKoK

5/27/23

The All-New 2024 Ford Ranger® is Almost Here | Ford


Start preparing. The all-new 2024 Ford Ranger® is coming. See it yourself on May 10th at https://ford.com/RANGERready Learn more about the 2023 Ford Ranger here: https://ford.to/41gc56

5/25/23

Highway Products | TruckSlides


Johnny Burke of Kanopy Kountry, is a 3rd generation locally owned and operated truck accessory shop, located in Medford Southern Oregon, and with over 30 years of business experience deals with many different brands of truck accessories. But when it came to choosing what truck slide was going to be installed on his personal truck, he trusted the family with over 40 years experience at Highway Products TruckSlides. Johnny loves its ease of use and versatile functionality, extreme weight handling and overall build quality, and lets not forget the exclusive Highway Products lifetime warranty. Add all that up and Johnny feels confident in recommending Highway Products TruckSlides to his customers. To learn more about Highway Product TruckSlides visit https://highwayproducts.com/truck-acc... To learn more, call 1-800-TOOL-BOX (1-800-866-5269) or visit us online at www.highwayproducts.com

5/21/23

Ford Truck Production 2022 in the United States of America


Michigan: $2 billion investment and 3,200 union jobs including the creation of nearly 2,000 jobs throughout three assembly plants in Michigan to increase production of the all-new F-150 Lightning electric truck to 150,000 per year at Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, produce an all-new Ranger pickup at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne and an all-new Mustang coupe at Flat Rock Assembly Plant. The investment also includes $35 million to build an all-new Ford Customer Service Division packaging facility in Monroe that will create more than 600 union jobs, with operations expected to begin in 2024 to help accelerate parts shipments for Ford customers. Ohio has held a key role in Ford’s history for 70 years. Ford currently has 7,000 employees in the state. Ohio Assembly Plant, where the new commercial electric vehicle will be assembled, currently produces E-Series vans, medium duty trucks and Super Duty chassis cabs.

5/19/23

TopperEZLift by A.R.E. Truck Company

                                 REBATES Available until June 30, 2023

 

The TopperEZLift by EZLift Systems is a self-install topper lifting system. This all electric system is powered directly from your vehicle's 12 volt battery. Which means no messy fluids or air to worry about. While holding the safety switch select up or down on the control box. Operation is that easy! The linear actuators are capable of lifting around 900 lbs combined with a lifting height of approximately 17.5 inches and seals firmly back down onto your truck bed. No more headaches from removing your topper for those larger loads and no more crawling on your hands and knees to reach your cargo. Simply lift the topper up to solve your problems. Add the camper package and you have an easy home on the road in just seconds! Don't miss out on the exciting benefits of owning the innovative TopperEZLift System. Get Yours Today!

5/17/23

SAFE STEPS Road Safety: Pedestrians


We all have a role in road safety! So follow these SAFE STEPS to play your part and help save lives. - Stay alert and avoid distractions - - Walk in safe places - - Stop, Look, Listen, Cross - SAFE STEPS Road Safety is a pan-Asian public service initiatives aimed to raise awareness and provide clear and simple life-saving educational messages on road safety. Acclaimed actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh is the SAFE STEPS Road Safety Ambassador. This program is created and developed by Prudence Foundation, in partnership with National Geographic Channel and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). All SAFE STEPS Road Safety tips have been approved by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). For more information please visit: www.safesteps.com


5/15/23

Ford’s F-150 Lightning Comes to Norway


The F-150 Lightning is on the move… The award-winning, electric version of America’s best-selling pickup truck is coming in limited numbers to the world’s most advanced EV market – Norway! F-150 Lightning offers nearly 3.5-tonnes of towing power, sub-5 second 0-100 km/h acceleration, and a targeted range of 386 km. With a host of life-simplifying features and storage space, in addition to unmatched on- and off-road performance, the electric pickup is the perfect companion for both work and play.

5/13/23

Knapheide Aluminum 11 Utility Van - AKUV129SL FT TP


Check out the game-changing Knapheide KUV utility van, now available in lightweight aluminum! Say goodbye to heavy steel bodies and hello to improved mileage and increased payload capacity. With aluminum, you'll save money at the pump and be able to haul more equipment and materials than ever before. Plus, aluminum's natural resistance to rust and corrosion means your van will maintain its sleek appearance no matter the weather or jobsite conditions. Upgrade to the new Knapheide KUV aluminum van and experience the advantages for yourself! For more information about our products visit https://www.knapheide.com/
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5/11/23

F-150 Lightning: At the Work Site | F-150 | Ford


The F-150 Lightning*—with features like Pro Power Onboard, available Tailgate Work Surface, available enhanced 360-degree Zone Lighting and targeted maximum available towing of 10,000 pounds,

** plus 400 pounds of payload in a secure, lockable, 400-liter, washable, drainable Mega Power Frunk,†—is a zero-emissions tool to help you get the job done. 

*Pre-production vehicle with available features shown. Available starting spring 2022. 
**Max towing on XLT and LARIAT models with available extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow Pkg. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers. †Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. 

 Learn more about the Ford F-150 Lightning here: https://ford.to/3wgnSD9

5/07/23

Towing Tips, Tools and Tech: A Ford Towing Video Guide | Ford


Towing Tips, Tools and Tech features over an hour of towing knowledge, plus advanced technology available on Ford trucks and SUVs that you can take advantage of. We cover everything you need to know from how to determine how much your vehicle can tow all the way up to the exciting features that add convenience to the towing experience, like Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Profiles, and more.

5/06/23

The Farmer Boy Who Invented Ford


In 1879, a 16-year-old boy left his father’s farm for Detroit. At the time when means of transportation were trains or horse carriages and the first automobiles were mostly seen as racing machines for the rich, he would later open a car company and change the course of the automobile industry to what we know today. 35 years later after his arrival to Detroit, half of all cars on Earth were carrying his name, and Henry Ford would become one of the wealthiest men in American history

5/04/23

Reading Truck Body // Aluminum Classic Service Van Body Walkaround


Walkaround video for Reading Truck Body's Aluminum Classic Service Van Body. Watch the recording of Reading Truck's Driving What's Next webinar which featured the Aluminum Classic Service Van Body to learn more. Watch here: http://webinar.readingbody.com/Alumin....

5/02/23

SpaceKap Diablo Fiberglass Slip-in Service Bodies


When it comes to working in tough environments, you need a truck that can keep up with you. That's where the SpaceKap Diablo comes in. Crafted from top-grade materials, SpaceKaps are built to withstand the most rugged conditions while still providing the functionality and flexibility you need to get the job done. Inside, you'll find ample storage space and organizational features that allow you to keep your tools and equipment in order, and easily accessible. With the Diablo model easily slipping into the back of your pickup truck, it's the ultimate solution for anyone who needs a versatile, rugged work truck. See the difference the Diablo SpaceKap can make in your work life, contact the Expertec team or visit our website today.

4/29/23

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


4/27/23

Ford Super Duty Winch Kit | Accessories | Ford


Onboard Scales and Smart Hitch are 2 great features that can help you properly load your Ford truck when towing. Learn more in this video.

4/26/23

CTECH Manufacturing Company Overview


CTECH Manufacturing is a Wisconsin based Manufacturing company specializing in Aluminum Carts, Cabinets and Drawers. We have been in business for over 20 years. We started with deep roots in the race market and have serviced every major sanctioned race organization since that time. We bring that enthusiasm and quality to all of our product lines which ranges all markets from NASCAR race teams to Law Enforcement and University Facilities with our aluminum storage solutions.

Learn more at: https://www.ctechmanufacturing.com/

4/24/23

From the Floor of the Dearborn Truck Plant | Love on the Line | Ford


In this video, we meet Ingrid and Walter Gibbs, proud employees of Ford’s Dearborn Truck plant. Hear their story of how they met and built their own family at Ford. They give their all each and every day and have been committed since day one. As Ford Motor Company undergoes the biggest transformation in its 120 year history, Ford CEO Jim Farley is visiting Ford factories and assembly plants around the world to meet with teams and discuss the opportunities for improvement and growth. “From the Floor” captures some of their unique stories. Learn more about Ford here: https://www.ford.com/

4/21/23

LEND A HAND – AND A FEW MILES – TO YOUR FRIENDS USING VEHICLE-TO-VEHICLE CHARGING ON F-150 LIGHTNING, F-150 HYBRID


  •  With innovative Pro Power Onboard, the all-electric  Ford F-150 Lightning™ truck and the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid have the ability to let customers “share” range with other electric vehicle owners, allowing them to charge a friend’s vehicle during an outage or top off an EV battery for a neighbor
  • Customers can use their F-150 Lightning or F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid to charge electric vehicles from Ford and other manufacturers; this is estimated to add an average range of 20 miles per charging hour to a Mustang Mach-E SUV with extended range battery and rear-wheel drive, or 13 miles of charge per hour on an F-150 Lightning
  • Ford is using electric vehicle technology to offer customers innovative new capabilities – from deploying their F-150 Lightning battery to power their home in an outage to freeing up even more space for storage in the Mega Power Frunk

Usually when someone asks you to top them off, they’re holding a cool beverage in hand looking for a refill. But with the all-electric F-150 Lightning™, customers can take service to another level by “sharing” miles with other electric vehicles – those built by Ford and other manufacturers – giving people additional range through vehicle-to-vehicle charging.

With available Pro Power Onboard, the 2022 F-150 Lightning and F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid trucks are high-energy power sources on wheels with multiple uses, thanks to their onboard generators and high-capacity battery systems. Now, Ford is offering another unique benefit to that list: vehicle-to-vehicle charging using the Ford-exclusive Pro Power Onboard 240-volt outlet.

“There are hundreds of benefits to Ford Pro Power Onboard – and we’ve added one more,” said Patrick Soderborg, Ford e-powertrain systems engineer. “Taking power on the road or having extra energy at home brings a lot of convenience and security, and using the F-150 Lightning or F-150 hybrid to top off a friend’s electric vehicle or help them during an outage is one of the many new benefits our customers gain from our Built Ford Tough electrified trucks.”

When connected to an F-150 Lightning or F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid with the optional 9.6 or 7.2 kilowatt Pro Power Onboard1, the Ford Mobile Power Cord charger can deliver Level-2 charging that’s estimated to add an average range of 20 miles per charging hour on a Mustang Mach-E with extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive2. It will add up to 13 miles of charge per hour on the upcoming F-150 Lightning, and will add an average range of 10 miles per charging hour to a Ford E-Transit low-roof cargo van2.

Customers can easily take advantage of this capability, using a widely available power adaptor to link the Ford Mobile Power Cord to their truck. Once connected to the 240-volt Pro Power Onboard outlet, customers can use the Mobile Power Cord to charge a range of all-electric vehicles that use the SAE J1772 charge port. This includes the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Ford E-Transit electric van and the all-new 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup, as well as vehicles from other manufacturers3.  

The 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid pickup has an available 7.2 kilowatt Pro Power Onboard generator that can be used to power tools, accessories and the Ford Mobile Power Cord. This spring, the all-new 2022 F-150 Lightning – the first full-size battery electric pickup from Ford – will debut with the available 9.6 kilowatt Pro Power Onboard power source.

Electric vehicles open doors to new customer benefits

Just as cell phones and the internet changed our way of life, electric vehicles are poised to do the same with a wide range of new services and features. Leveraging the electric power generation and storage available in the new F-150 Lightning and F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid, Ford is building in new features that give customers functionality, convenience and capability.

With F-150 Lightning, its power source can even be used to power a home using Ford Intelligent Backup Power. Instead of installing a home generator or battery backup, the truck can be used to power a typical-size home up to three days in the event if a power outage4. The compact electric powertrain also allowed Ford to create the first Mega Power Frunk – a front trunk that not only offers multiple power outlets but also provides up to 14 cu.-ft. of lockable storage.

“There are so many new opportunities to innovate with features and functions made possible only through electrification,” said Soderborg. “This really hit home during the Texas power crisis last February, which left millions in the cold. F-150 Hybrid helped many Texans keep warm and powered up during those difficult times thanks to Pro Power Onboard – and we’re trying to do even more with F-150 Lightning.”

To learn more about Ford electric vehicles, go to Ford.com/electric.

1See owner's Manual for important operating instructions.

2Range and charge time based on manufacturer computer engineering simulations and EPA-estimated range calculation methodology. The charging rate decreases as battery reaches full capacity. Your results may vary based on peak charging times and battery state of charge. Actual vehicle range varies with conditions such as external environment, vehicle use, vehicle maintenance, lithium-ion battery age, and state of health.

3See owners manual for important operating instructions.

4When home is properly equipped and home transfer switch disconnects home from the grid. Based on 30 kWh use per day using the F-150 Lightning with the extended-range battery.  Your results may vary depending on energy usage.

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.With innovative Pro Power Onboard, the all-electric 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning™ truck and the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid have the ability to let customers “share” range with other electric vehicle owners, allowing them to charge a friend’s vehicle during an outage or top off an EV battery for a neighbor


4/17/23

Knapheide Aluminum PGTB Gooseneck


4/16/23

Everything You Need to Know About the All-New 2023 Super Duty


This one is for the builders. The next-generation 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty® expands what can be done with a heavy-duty truck, with available features like Pro Power Onboard™ to run a jobsite, and the Ford Pro™suite of software and services to accelerate business productivity. A modern workhorse, this is the most upfit-friendly truck Ford has ever built, targeting unrivaled maximum payload and towing capacity, receives an all-new standard 6.8-liter V8 gas engine and new high-output 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 targeting unmatched horsepower and torque. Disclaimers: Max. torque and horsepower for diesel based on 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel; and Max. torque and horsepower for gasoline based on 7.3L V8 engine. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500lbs. GVWR. Payload, towing capacity, horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary. Horsepower and torque are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously. Max towing capacity rating achieve with gooseneck towing on F-450 Regular Cab with available 6.7L HO diesel engine and Max Tow Package. Max. towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500lbs. GVWR. Max payload on F350 DRW Regular Cab 4x2 XL trim with gas Heavy-Duty Payload Package. Maximum payload is delivered when no additional options or accessories are added to this configuration. See label on door jamb for carrying capacity of a specific vehicle. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500lbs. GVWR. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR. See owner’s manual for important operating instructions.

4/13/23

Boxlink™ | Ford How-To | Ford


Continuing the build up of my 2018 Ford F150, in this video, I show you how to install the Boxlink tie down system on your truck. This is a simple installation of the Boxlink plates and cleats, which will be a useful accessory to any Ford truck with that mounting option.

4/09/23

SAFE STEPS Road Safety: Motorcycles


We all have a role in road safety! So follow these SAFE STEPS to play your part and help save lives. - Stay alert and avoid distractions - - Walk in safe places - - Stop, Look, Listen, Cross - SAFE STEPS Road Safety is a pan-Asian public service initiatives aimed to raise awareness and provide clear and simple life-saving educational messages on road safety. Acclaimed actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh is the SAFE STEPS Road Safety Ambassador. This program is created and developed by Prudence Foundation, in partnership with National Geographic Channel and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). All SAFE STEPS Road Safety tips have been approved by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). For more information please visit: www.safesteps.com


4/06/23

4/04/23

Code Name: Project T3 | Coming 2025

BlueOval City, Ford’s all-new mega-campus in West Tennessee, is taking shape and preparing to build Ford’s next-gen electric truck, code named Project T3, in 2025. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to revolutionize America’s truck, Project T3 is short for “Trust The Truck” – a code name that stuck after the development team made it their rallying cry. Melding 100 years of Ford truck know-how with world-class electric vehicle, software and aerodynamics talent, Project T3 will be a platform for endless innovation and capability, a truck people can trust in the digital age – one that’s fully updatable, constantly improving, and supports towing, hauling, exportable power and endless new innovations owners will want. #BlueOvalCity #BlueOval_TN #BuiltFordProud

4/01/23