Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/407095
All of the OEMs say they go to great lengths to ensure that aftermarket com- panies have access points to electri- cal systems and the information they need to safely add bodies and systems. Each has staff to assist with spec'ing trucks with bodies and upfi ts in mind from the start. Some offer software so suppliers can confi gure their products; other have online tools to accomplish the same thing. Regardless of the ap- proach, says Felder, "it's always best for customers to communicate their exact requirements when ordering a new vehicle." Owners wishing to modify used trucks should consult the OEM's resources. Telematics Acceptance of telematics is spotty in construction despite fervent attempts by OEMs to sell the feature. What value do telematics offer on trucks, where they are long established? "Before remote diagnostics," says Aufdemberg, "many drivers would simply park the truck in order to avoid a potentially catastrophic engine failure when they saw a fault lamp illuminate in the dash. Telematics such as our Detroit Vir- tual Technician instantly identify the severity of a fault event and eight out of ten times the vehicle can con- tinue until service can be scheduled. Insight into the severity of the fault and detailed diagnosis can prevent downtime and tow charges and fa- cilitate timely, educated repair deci- sions. Avoiding even a single down- time event saves a typical fl eet more than three times the annual cost of the service. And, since the major- ity of fault events do not require immediate attention, the customer can combine multiple non-urgent issues into one arranged service visit, further minimizing unnecessary downtime for the user." Felder summarized the benefi ts by saying, "Telematics, such as Volvo's Remote Diagnostics, have the abil- ity to turn unplanned events into planned events." EquipmentWorld.com | November 2014 29 © Terex Trucks 2014. Terex Trucks Americas, 8800 Rostin Rd, Southaven, MS 38671 Tel: 662-393-1800 Terex ® Trucks off-highway articulated and rigid trucks Terex Trucks has been designing and manufacturing off-highway trucks since 1950, delivering to customers all over the globe. Fully supported by a solid distributor network, Terex Trucks provides a range of tough, reliable trucks that deliver the lowest cost per ton in the most extreme environments. Full range of articulated and rigid off-highway trucks Backed by a Terex Trucks distributor network Focused team dedicated to developing and supporting Terex Trucks Western Star 4900 truck models now have available Meritor's WABCO Electronic Stability Control, which assists the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle. If a loss of stability is detected, vehicle speed is automati- cally controlled by applying tractor and trailer brakes. Normal vehicle operation resumes after potential rollover conditions cease. ADZ Series heavy-duty drive axle air suspensions also are now an option.