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Something's in the air
If the chassis has an air compressor (air brakes), then a dryer should be specified. FMVSS 136 Phase 1 mandated ESP/ESC starting Aug 2017...

Z-factor Consultation
Jun 19, 20212 min read
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Avoid sticker shock
It is important to have a sicker in the cab door jamb that indicates this vehicle complies with California and U.S. emissions as opposed...

Z-factor Consultation
Apr 16, 20211 min read
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It's in the mix….
Have you always wondered if buying premix 50/50 antifreeze is a good idea as compared to purchasing concentrate and mixing yourself? The...

Z-factor Consultation
Apr 8, 20211 min read
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Striking a balance
Most all systems include a pickup tube which pulls fuel from near the bottom of the tank, using a ½” to ¾” line connected through the top...

Z-factor Consultation
Mar 25, 20213 min read
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Dirty is a good thing
Ever dust an engine? Can you over change the element? When is the proper time to replace? Many maintenance facilities change air...

Z-factor Consultation
Mar 21, 20212 min read
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Closing the gap
Trailer gap is measured from the nose of the trailer to the back panel of the sleeper. Sleeper extenders are not a consideration for the...

Z-factor Consultation
Mar 15, 20212 min read
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Brake on through
Most tractors today come equipped with an Automatic Traction Control (ATC) system and the functionality is optional on most all of...

Z-factor Consultation
Mar 6, 20212 min read
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BRAKE IT DOWN…
The Federal Government has required most tractors to have an Antilock Brake System (ABS) since March of 1997. The legislation extended...

Z-factor Consultation
Mar 1, 20212 min read
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Turn! Turn! Turn!
What is the purpose of a lubrication pump in a tandem drive axle set? There is a theory that this pump sends lube to the outer ends, this...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 25, 20212 min read
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Drop da tank
FMCSA 49 CFR § 393.67 - Liquid fuel tanks. Fuel tanks, 25 gallons or more, are required to meet FMCSS standards and indicate so on the...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 22, 20212 min read
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Creepin'.....
These terms refer to the acceptable overload value of the steer, drive axles and respective suspensions temporarily encountered when lift...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 18, 20212 min read
20
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Rockin' but not rollin'
ESC/ESP (Electronic Stability Control/Electronic Stability Program) are essentially the same product, the particular name depends on the...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 15, 20211 min read
6
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Here's a plug for…
The SAE J560 (black or green) plug has been used since 1951 to power the trailer functions: Ground, Side Marker Lights, Left Turn, Brake,...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 11, 20212 min read
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Defeating the design
Winter fronts can increase the aerodynamic characteristics by directing ram air around the hood. Additionally, some of them look great,...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 8, 20211 min read
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You mean I need to maintain this?
Fuel filter maintenance is more important today, than any time in the past given the common rail design and tight tolerances. See below...

Z-factor Consultation
Feb 1, 20212 min read
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BRRRR.. Truck won't start
In cold weather, there are a number of methods to warm the fuel to help eliminate clouding/gelling. Cloud point refers to the tendency...

Z-factor Consultation
Jan 28, 20212 min read
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Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Trailer gap was never even a consideration back in the 90’s. As a matter of fact, it was another 10 years beyond that decade when things...

Z-factor Consultation
Jan 25, 20212 min read
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Red is for parking...
Red and Blue airlines connect the tractor air brake system to the trailer. Red is emergency brakes and applies system air pressure to the...

Z-factor Consultation
Jan 21, 20211 min read
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Are you gettin' rusty…
Republished due to content error - rail treatments are applied AFTER the holes are punched or drilled to ensure protection inside the...

Z-factor Consultation
Jan 18, 20212 min read
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Where's the torque….
Today’s engines are designed to deliver maximum torque at low RPM. This provides for good fuel economy with proper gearing Torque curves...

Z-factor Consultation
Jan 14, 20211 min read
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