Archive for September, 2008
Tuesday, September 9th, 2008
The world’s most famous truck manufacturer in terms of safety recently announced that they have recalled a number of their vehicles. The recall covers different models in Volvo’s lineup. The reason behind the recall is the discovered defect on the vehicles’ cooling unit which can cause fire in the engine bay. This development brings to mind the recall announced by Volvo’s parent, Ford, due to reported fires in their Super Duty pickup trucks.
The vehicles found with the fault in the cooling unit is composed of different Volvo models which includes the award-winning VN 610, the mid-size station wagon WG42, the VN64T, and the VNL64T770 models. These vehicles are known for providing good number of safety features and good performance level. While the fault may have posed a risk to consumers, Volvo truck has acted swiftly to prevent any untoward accidents which may happen due to the faulty cooling units. In that case, not even a Volvo vent visor would be of any use to its owner.
The problem was discovered to be a fault in the cooling system with the help of German corporation Robert Bosch which is more simply known as Bosch. It was found out that the cooling unit’s metal cover has inadequate corrosion protection. It was inferred that moisture could eventually find its way to the unit’s electrical components which would then cause severe damage or even the risk of an electrical fire.With regards to the expected reaction of Volvo vehicle owners, a spokesman for Volvo said that “it only relates to a small number of cars and we have contacted all the owners.” The spokesman also added that “if anyone is concerned they should contact their dealer.”`
While for Ford, the problem is in the particulate filter found near the tailpipe, Volvo’s problem is more threatening since fire can start in the engine bay area.The recall was announced after the fault was discovered by Volvo’s technicians following a test conducted on their vehicles. The said test was performed at Volvo’s headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden. The discovery of the problem means that there have been no reported incident of fire caused by the fault in some of Volvo’s vehicle’s cooling units. The Classic trucks manufacturer announced that vehicles are currently being recalled in Britain.
Volvo’s immediate response to the discovered fault shows that they are indeed focused on providing safe trucks for their consumers. Volvo is the producer of the world’s safest trucks. The company is the leading truck manufacturer in terms of developing safety features for their vehicles. Some of the more notable safety features of Volvo vehicles are the BLIS and the ROPS. BLIS stands for Blind Spot Information System. It is essentially composed of onboard cameras which monitors the blind spot of a vehicle. The system warns the driver if any vehicle has entered his or her blind spot. ROPS on the other hand stands for Roll Over Protection System. This safety system uses sensors to maintain the car’s balance therefore reducing the risk of rollovers.
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Monday, September 8th, 2008
Offered in three trim levels which comprise of the base, the LS, and the LT, the Chevy Astro is a Classic truck based minivan however it is not as flashy as the rest of the brands in its own segment. Yes, it does not boast of flashy gadgets and high technology features. However, amidst everything, the Chevy Astro comes to basically serve its purpose, and that is to transport and delivery cargo and passengers. This function is done with the utmost care and safety and also provides total and great convenience. In a nutshell, this vehicle offers stability, safety and durability since its introduction back in the late 1980s.
Taking a look at the Chevy Astro’s interior, this vehicle boasts a cabin that can take a maximum of eight passengers. It has two front buckets seats. The rear part of the vehicle has two rear benches that could seat three people. The second row buckets seats are optional, though. Just like most vehicles nowadays, the rear seats could be removed or folded down. By doing such, the cargo space is enhanced and enlarged to come up to 170 cubic feet.
For the latest model of the Chevy Astro, the vehicle sports 16 inch wheels and tires. As for people looking from the outside, the Chevy Astro sports a sliding door in its passenger side.The power of this vehicle comes from its 4.3 liter V6 engine that can produce some 190 units of horsepower at 4400 rpm and 250 pound feet of torque. This engine uses a multi-port fuel injection and gets some help from a four speed automatic transmission system with overdrive. The Chevy Astro also comes available with either a rear wheel drive or all wheel drive. This vehicle also has been equipped with anti lock four wheel brakes that work greatly with a highly responsive Hydroboost hydraulic assist power brake booster as well as GM’s Dynamic Rear Proportioning.
This vehicle comes with features and options that include air conditioning, an all wheel drive, an AM/FM stereo, a cassette player, a CD player, rear audio controls, a digital clock,daytime running lamps with automatic exterior lamp control, driver and right front passenger frontal air bags, special cloth seating, a six way power driver seat, a HomeLink transmitter, an independent front suspension system, the LATCH system, a luggage rack, an overhead console with storage compartments, power door locks, power windows, power outside rearview mirrors, a rear Dutch door, a remote keyless entry system, a Vortec 4300 V6 engine, a cruise control system, and a tilt wheel steering column.
For the original and best minivan on the market, nothing is befitting than the excellently crafted Chevy replacement parts and accessories at Auto Parts Online. It has in its stock the highest quality Chevy truck parts that will retain the Chevy’s driving dynamics as well as technology and design. Auto Parts Online has a task on its hands when renewing the object of such affection and loyalty. Product excellence and unequalled customer service go hand in hand for every Chevy parts you purchase.
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Monday, September 8th, 2008
The company is based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company was first established in June 16, 1903 by Henry Ford. It has been controlled by Ford’s descendants for over a century since its founding.
Early Years
Ford began his venture into the automotive industry with only US$28,000 as capital, which he gleaned from several investors. Interestingly, the founders of the Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicle Co. — John and Horace Dodge — contributed to Ford’s capital. Ford gave his products a designation of letters, with the first one designed Model A. Ford’s first six-cylinder car was designated as Model K, which had a price of US$2800. The Ford model was the most expensive automobile at that time, as its rivals sold for prices significantly lower than that. Ford did not have his own factory when he produced his first automobiles. He soon acquired his own factory in Piquette Avenue in Michigan, from which he produced about 18,000 units of Model T automobiles in 1909. High demand for the Model T prompted Ford to move his operations to a larger plant in Highland Park, from which over 69,000 units of the Model T were made and sold to buyers. Ford also came up with a moving assembly line, the first of its kind in the whole world. Ford had his engineers build up on the basic techniques of assembly line and mass production in a bid to increase production and make improvements to assembly processes. Because it now only took 2 hours and 40 minutes to assemble a chassis, the company was able to output more than 200,000 units of the Model T in 1913.
Workforce Problems and Rise to Fame
Ford’s improvements to the assembly line caused high turnovers within his factory workforce, because it became strenuous to the employees who were used to the earlier processes to adjust to the faster-paced assembly line processes. However, Ford found a way by increasing the workers’ pay to twice the original sum, and cutting down on work hours by an hour. Ford’s tactics worked. Employee turnover significantly dropped, and production increased significantly. Sales also increased, which meant Ford can now sell more units at lower prices. Ford truck parts also established the Ford brand name more by coming up with a system of dealers that franchised the Ford name. The Ford Motor Co. officially expanded internationally when it established Ford of Canada in 1904. Seven years later, Ford opened several plants in Europe and in Australia. By 1920, Henry Ford’s firm controlled 50% of the market share with its Model T cars. Henry Ford himself contributed to the rising fame of his brand name by joining other pacifists when they tried to stop the First World War in Europe.
Developments During and After World War I and World War II
Although he had earlier stated that he did not want to make profits from war, the Ford Motor Co. eventually handled production of the B-24 Liberator bomber for the war effort, prompting it to build the Willow Run plant. Beginning, Ford’s assembly lines worked 24 hours a day to roll off one complete and functional B-24 in just an hour, with pilots waiting for takeoff in costs while the bombers were rolled off the production line. The stress of the situation would ultimately lead to the death of Edsel Ford, who was named as Henry Ford’s successor, in the spring of 1943. Henry once again assumed control of the company during these trying times.In 1956, Ford went public under the leadership of Henry Ford II, the son of Edsel and Eleanor Ford, who was appointed president in 1945 by Henry Ford himself. Despite being public, the Ford family acquired enough Special B preferred stocks to keep a controlling interest of 40% in the company.
Current Years
The Ford family still controls 40% of the company through the preferred stocks, and about 5% of the ordinary shares of the company. The company is currently under restructuring. In fact, the company had announced the mortgaging of all of its assets in 2006 in order to earn about US$23.4 billion to refinance the rehabilitation until 2009.
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Sunday, September 7th, 2008
Getting finance for a dump truck is similar to getting finance for anything else. You have to undergo the same steps to find the right program to suit your needs. Whichever type of truck, dump truck, semi truck or heavy duty truck you want to buy there is a loan program for each. There are many other options available for financing.
The first place one would normally checkout is the local bank. Mostly the criteria would be to have a good credit score at the personal level and other documentation required. The previous year’ s income tax returns may be needed along with the current financial statements. If it is a new business just starting off, it also should have a credit score of 680 or higher. Such businesses are considered high risk areas and the companies should be able to meet the higher lending standards. Most of these banks as well as the financial organizations offer loan programs for the purchase of or lease of dump trucks.
When the company that requires finance for the purchase of dump truck takes up a loan program, the ownership title is transferred at the end of the loan repayment period. However, the documentation required initially to acquire a loan is a lot and hence, many companies drop the idea. When opting for the loan option, the organization has to be careful and enquire whether the loans extended are only for new trucks or also converted trucks. Most often there is lot of paperwork involved in this. However, now such companies are trying to design a system which would involve only using the applications to provide loans. The dump truck would be the collateral in this case for the loan. In most cases the credit score required is 575.
One alternative is opting for the partial finance, where part of the amount is given as loan and you put down part of the amount and finance it accordingly. These loans are easier to avail of and you may get better rates and terms of payments.Another option that these companies have is the dealer’s financing and inventory program. The lending company displays an inventory he has and the financing agreements. This kind of financing is useful for the large as well as the new start up companies. This provides an excellent opportunity to the companies to access great deals to the buy the appropriate dump trucks, as per their specific requirements.
One can also opt for the equipment leasing option. It is a contract for a longer period with a take-over option. The dump truck is owned by the leasing company till the period of rent, while the company uses the dump truck. The classic truck is the security itself. In leasing, the first and last payments are usually about 20% of the truck cost amount as down payment. This is preferred than the loan method as the initial expenditure is lower. Generally, credit history of larger periods like 2 to 3 years is not required as is the case with the loan method. The advantage of leasing is also the tax benefit.
When you are on the lookout for financing your dump truck purchase you need to consider things like the initial payment, the monthly payments, collateral required and any buyout clauses. You may even consult a broker regarding the benefits of dump truck financing. Each type will have its own pros and cons and you need to consider all these factors before selecting the correct one.
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Friday, September 5th, 2008
Published reports are indicating that General Motors will move up the production of their updated line of Classic GMC and Chevrolet pick up trucks by three months with the new models making their debut Some are calling this move an act of desperation on the part of GM which has been socked by extensive criticism over its product line, while others are hailing it as a bold, strategic initiative. Regardless, this is an unusual move for the world’s number one automaker, one that could help the company get back on its feet. Let’s take a look at the new Classic trucks and what they will offer to you, the consumer.
High gas prices, quality problems, and a perception that the company offers products that no one wants has been plaguing General Motors for much of the past year. With plant closures coming, layoffs pending, and market share decreasing, little good news has been focused on “the general” by the automobile press. Fortunately, GMC is battling back with fresh models set to be released including SUVs and trucks, which are th “bread and butter” vehicles of the company. Here is what you can expect to see when the new Classic Trucks enter the market.
1. Fresh sheetmetal. All new exteriors with a modified and sportier front end.
2. Modified engines. Traditional work horse engines which have powered Classic GMC trucks for much of the past decade are expected to return. However, displacement on demand technology, which shuts down unneeded cylinders at certain times [city traffic being one example] is expected to be incorporated on some motors. This technology effectively increases gas mileage without sacrificing performance.
3. New steering. Just as the SUVs will receive new rack and pinion steering when they make their debut in Spring 2006, the large Classic pick up trucks should receive similar enhancements.
4. Interior upgrades. Changes to the trucks interior as well as to packages offered will be some of the “inside” changes noticed by consumers.
General Motors has its work cut out for itself as an eroding market share is threatening the very viability of the company. Part of the reason for the move up of production is to thwart the new models expected from Nissan and Toyota that compete directly against the GMC pick ups. Both Japanese automakers have stated that they, too, are moving up the production of their popular full sized pick ups, therefore General Motors is reacting in part to their anticipated moves.
Beyond GMC trucks, the automaker will be releasing the Saturn Sky convertible, revamping its entire line of full sized SUVs, and overhauling several other lines of vehicles in a bid to win over customers.
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Thursday, September 4th, 2008
A few years ago, people would scoff at you if you told them that you were looking for Classic Trucks with the best gas mileage. But, as truck sales began to slip downwards,manufacturers started giving due importance to this factor. Today, there has been a dramatic change in the scenario.The rising costs of gas, has propelled potential Classic truck buyers to go for trucks that can meet their gas mileage demands. Truck makers have now taken firm steps to improve the fuel economy of their makes at all levels.
Usually the ranking of the Classic trucks based on gas mileage is founded on a combination factors. The prime parameters are the fuel economy rating given by EPA, the transmission of the vehicle, and its inherent popularity amongst car buyers. The formula for calculation for most gas mileage rankings is a combination of the city mpg rating, which forms 55 percent of criterion, and the highway mpg rating that completes the remaining criteria.It is really very difficult to bring forth a list that enumerates the trucks on the basis of fuel efficiency. This spot is shared by the Ford Ranger one of the premier trucks that are out in the market today. Classic Ford has made it a point to come out with trucks that offer the best gas mileage. This is why most of their newer models find a place on the best gas mileage list year after year.
However, all the used classic trucks, which feature in the list, have the same engine; the Ford Ranger is a supremely refined version of its older model that came out. It has the better off-road capability then other Classic trucks in the rankings and is one of the best alternatives in your search for a truck giving you the best gas mileage.The completely redesigned Toyota Tacoma comes next in the list. The Toyota Tacoma is one of the roomier trucks available in the market and its looks are an epitome of sophistication. The only disadvantage of the Toyota Tacoma is its price tag. It is more expensive then the others.
If you are looking for something on the cheaper side then the Mazda B-series is the truck that you must go for. A fuel-efficient truck delivers on its promise. It is called in some circles as the bargain Classic Pickup trucks. Don’t expect styling and comfort but you do get an unashamed practicality with this vehicle.The truck gives you a mileage of 20 /mpg on the highway and a 16/mpg when you drive in the city.The Chevrolet Silverado comes a close in the rankings. It comes with a mild hybrid engine that enables the electric motor to keep the vehicles running when idle so the gas engine can be shut off.
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Monday, September 1st, 2008
No matter what make of Classic pickup truck you own, chances are you want to change it from the way the factory supplied it. Whether you use your vehicle for work, off-road play or some of both, you can find performance parts, accessories and customization products to make your Classic pickup truck unique. When you want your classic pickup truck to look and perform better, accessories will help you customize it.
While it’s possible to get some accessories from the Classic Chevy, Classic GMC, Classic Dodge, Classic Ford, Jeep, Mazda, Nissan or Toyota dealer where you bought your truck,you will find a much bigger selection of items online. You may also get better bargains shopping this way. Some popular makers of Classic pickup truck accessories include Westin, Dee Zee, Outland, Auto Ventshade, Warn, etc.
Exterior accessories
There are many types of exterior Classic pickup truck accessories to enhance the appearance of the outside of your Classic truck. They include air dams, bras and masks, bug shields, bumpers, fender flares, graphics and emblems, grille guards, hood ornaments, hoods and scoops, mirrors, racks and cargo accessories, roll pans, running boards, splash guards, tool boxes, truck steps, tire covers, visors, wings and spoilers and wiper cowls. Select items that will complement your Classic truck’s basic lines and that will work well together instead of looking cluttered.
Interior accessories
Installing interior accessories is all about improving the comfort level when riding in your Classic truck. Some examples are volt accessories, cargo trays and liners, consoles and racks, dash covers and trim, door accessories, floor mats, horns, instrument panel covers, pet accessories, seat covers, seats and steering wheel covers.How about adding some electronics to enhance your ride? Choices include CBs and scanners, cruise controls, GMRS radio, GPS and navigation systems, power inverters, radar and laser detectors, remote starters, security systems and antennas. You might also want to upgrade the standard radio that came with your truck to a stereo CD or satellite radio system.
Accessories cushion the load and improve the ride
Trucks are all about hauling things, so why not do it in style? Classic Pickup truck accessories for your truck bed include cargo control, bed mats, bed liners, bed protection, bed rails,tailgate accessories and tonneau covers. You might also want towing accessories like hitch balls, hitch mounts, hitch covers, hitch steps, hitch wiring, hitches, tow hooks and straps,towing mirrors, winch accessories, winches and winch mounting systems.By improving your Classic pickup’s suspension and brakes you make the ride both smoother and safer. To do this, you might need anti-sway bars, bars and arms, bushings and shackles, hubs, lift kits, lowering kits, shocks and struts, skit plates and trusses and springs. Adding more lighting not only improves the truck’s appearance, it also improves safety. Some typical lighting pickup truck accessories are accent lighting, auxiliary lighting, back-up lights, bulbs and lamps,driving and fog lights, headlights, interior lights, light bars, light covers, light guards, marker lights, neon lighting, spotlights, taillights, tow lighting and wiring, turn signal lights and warning lights.
Electrical and exhaust systems are essential
If your classic pickup won’t start, it doesn’t matter how good it looks. If you’ve got this problem or fear it might happen, try buying alternator accessories, battery accessories, battery chargers, chassis wiring or jump start systems. If the problem is on the exhaust end, you might need catalytic converters, exhaust systems, exhaust tips and extensions, headers or mufflers.To do all this work yourself, you’ll need some tools and equipment. Useful items include tire pressure gauges, car care products, computer software, creepers and seats, diagnostic equipment, engine hoists and stands, garage and parking accessories, jacks, stands, ramps, paint, sanding materials and abrasives.
And once your classic truck is tricked out to your heart’s desire, get out your camera. You’re going to want to showoff your new, improved Classic truck to all of your friends.
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