The chassis-mounted charge air cooler, originated by Volvo and Mack, was a breakthrough in engine power and efficiency, paving the way for the diesel engine’s ability to meet extremely tight particulate and NOx emissions regulations. By increasing the density of the air entering the engine, ...

Today’s trucks have more electronics than ever, and they cruise at lower rpms, so more careful alternator spec’ing likely is in order. Fleets should use the appropriately rated alternator for their applications to ensure the longest possible life for the device, says ...

For radiators, paying attention to basics pays dividends Most fleet managers probably know that initial exhaust gas recirculation designs produced a drastic increase in engine heat rejection, and that 2007 brought a further significant increase. Re-breathing warm exhaust increases engine compression temperature, which means significantly ...

Even the best drivers can be caught offguard. Electronic stability control and roll stability control systems can help them recover. Certain dangerous driving situations unfold quickly, and drivers may need all the help they can get to stabilize the vehicle. That is the goal of roll ...

Collision warning systems offer immediate feedback Ryder System's Bob Prim has seen even the best and most experienced drivers get into trouble. "Often, a driver with a great safety record can still get into trouble because a good driver operates without a lot of feedback," says ...

Future engines someday could supplant 2010 technology -by John Baxter The 2010 engines with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) featuring reduced engine stress and fuel consumption look like a slam-dunk. But in spite of the coming wave of vehicles with SCR, chances are that the technology eventually ...

Tighter emissions rules lead OEMs to an old idea- by John Baxter Diesel engineers know increased pressure cuts particulate matter. Now, as engine manufacturers cope with the need to use high levels of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for NOx control, having the best possible injection system ...

15-liter engine will use Caterpillar C15 block, crank Navistar last month introduced a new 15-liter version of the MaxxForce engine for its International truck brand. The engine "was developed using a proven formula of collaboration," said Eric Tech, president of Navistar's engine division. The company worked with ...

ConocoPhillips Lubricants has introduced new versions of its Guardol ECT and Kendall Super-D XA premium diesel engine oils, which now include a new "Liquid Titanium" additive system. Developed in conjunction with a major additive manufacturer over a period of 18 months, the additive offers enhanced ...

Tractor, APU maintenance are not necessarily related Most auxiliary power units (APUs) have lubrication and other systems that are separate from the rest of the vehicle. That means oil changes and other services may occur at intervals unrelated to regular tractor maintenance intervals. What is the ...