Tips for First Time Lorry Drivers

Tips to keep in mind when you first make the jump from car to your first haulage job…Break Early and Break Often,You Need to Make Wider Turns,Indicate Early to Warn off Cars and Bikes....

Tips for First Time Lorry Drivers

Make no mistake about it; being behind the wheel of a lorry for the first time is hugely intimidating. No matter how many years you have been driving a car for, nothing can prepare you for the sheer number of controls, the view and the responsibility you need to get a handle on when you first climb into your haulage vehicle’s cab. There’s a reason the licensing process is tougher than getting a licence to drive a car – it’s very hard.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you first make the jump from car to your first haulage job…

Break Early and Break Often

You’re now driving a far heavier vehicle, and your stopping distances are longer than you’d expect if you’re used to driving a car. Remember your stopping distance will be longer when carrying loads too, so be sure to adjust.

You Need to Make Wider Turns

Because you are now carrying a trailer behind you, you need to adjust your turning times to compensate and avoid clipping the curb.

Your Acceleration is Far Worse, so Join Lanes with Caution

With a car, you can be comparatively daring at joining a lane of fast moving traffic, because the acceleration is good. Lorry drivers have to be extra careful, as it will take them a good while to gain enough speed to pull away from the traffic immediately behind.

Indicate Early to Warn off Cars and Bikes

Many other motorists don’t realise exactly how slowly lorry drivers have to do things, and are notoriously impatient. You should be signalling turns in a lorry long before you would in a car to prevent the smaller vehicles – especially motorbikes – pulling up on your inside and forcing you to practice your emergency stops!

Know the Height and Weight of Your Lorry

The reason for knowing the height and weight of your lorry should be obvious: there are certain bridges and tunnels that will only allow vehicles below a certain height and weight to use them. If you don’t know, you could risk an accident – and if you’re aware of height restricted bridges in advance, you can plan your route to avoid them.

Be Aware of Your Lorry’s Dimensions and What it Means to You

Most lorries have a trailer that’s wider than the cab. This means that you should aim to drive more towards the centre of the lane than you would in a car, to make sure your trailer is in a good position.

Make Sure Your Load is Always Properly Placed and Secured

The reason for ensuring your load is secure is obvious – the last thing you want is for the load you’ve been carrying to fall into the road and cause an accident. Make sure it’s secure and check every time you stop for a break.

And finally a quick word of warning for when you return to a normal sized car after a long haulage job: it will feel terrifyingly small and fast! Don’t worry though – once you’ve made the switch a few times it becomes second nature!

By: Lyall Cresswell
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

5 Biggest Haulage Heists

5 Biggest Haulage Heists**Hi Def Hijack,Game Over,4 Million Up In Smoke-Hard Goods,Big Withdrawal,...

5 Biggest Haulage Heists

Every lorry driver knows that theft is one of risks of their profession. Lorry trailers, often filled with valuable goods, have long been tempting targets for haulage thieves, and this kind of crime is believed to cost the haulage and groupage industry over ?100 million every year. Each lorry load is worth at least several thousand pounds – sometimes, though, the cost is much, much higher, as a truly valuable cargo is stolen from a lorry or taken from a depot. Take a look at some of the highest value haulage heists in recent years.

Hi Def Hijack

The lorry drivers who were the victims of this heist in 2006 underwent a terrifying ordeal. After they had parked their lorry for the night in a lay-by, the two drivers were attacked by four men who threatened them at gun point then bound and gagged them. They were driven for over 400 miles to an unknown location, where their cargo was unloaded and they were finally released. They were transporting a shipment of expensive plasma screen televisions, believed to have been worth over ?250,000.

Game Over

Computer game fans are invariably plagued by the same problem each year – a shortage of consoles in the shops. This theft undoubtedly contributed to the problem in 2006, when over ?1 million of Xbox consoles were stolen from a lorry near Hillards Cross. The lorry driver who was transporting the consoles was flagged down on the A38 by several men in reflective jackets, who then overpowered him and drove off with his lorry. The vehicle was found abandoned – and empty – further up the A38, and the consoles presumably found their way on to the black market.

4 Million Up In Smoke

In 2001, a seven man gang broke into a depot in Belfast and forced a crane driver to load four freight containers full of cigarettes on to lorries. There has always been a black market appetite for cheap cigarettes sold with no questions asked – each lorry trailer contained cigarettes worth approximately ?1 million, with the heist as a whole bringing in a cool ?4 million.

Hard Goods

In 1998, thieves made off with a shipment of Viagra in Netherlands, breaking into the yard of the haulage company at night and making off with the contents of a trailer filled with the popular anti-impotence drug. The lorry driver returned in the morning to find the customs seal on his trailer broken and the contents gone. Viagra theft sounds like a joke, but the cost is no laughing matter – the consignment of pills is believed to have been worth a jaw-dropping ?15 million to the haulage and groupage industry. The pills are believed to have been sold on in night clubs, where it is rapidly becoming as popular a recreational drug as Ecstasy.

Big Withdrawal

Not technically a theft from a lorry; rather it is a theft using a lorry, but the sheer scale of the heist makes it worthy of inclusion here. The Securitas Security Depot heist in 2006 is to date the largest cash robbery in UK history. After abducting the site manager and his family, breaking onto the depot premises and locking up the night staff working at the depot, a gang of criminals proceeded to load over ?53 million in cash into the back of their white Renault lorry, which they then used as a getaway vehicle. The empty lorry was found one week later, and the crew were rounded up and arrested shortly thereafter.

By: Lyall Cresswell
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Innovative Snowplow Feature Provides Cutting-Edge Safety During Dangerous Winter Weather

Innovative Snowplow Feature Provides Cutting
-Edge Safety During Dangerous Winter Weather

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Sept. 9 -- Acela, LLC, a company with a mission to keep people safer on the roads, is on the cutting Edge with an innovative safety product - the Edge-O-Lite(TM) - a snowplow reflector designed so drivers can easily identify blade edges and avoid accidents.

Auto collisions with snowplows account for large insurance payouts and are costly to states, cities and towns. More importantly, injuries, property damage and even fatalities may occur.

When vehicles attempt to pass a snowplow, a common accident caused by catching the outer edge of the blade, may result. Or, the car is forced to veer off the road at the last minute, often ending up in an injurious or fatal crash.

"The Edge-O-Lite is made to increase the efficiency and safety of snowplow clearance operations," Antoinette Donofrio, company spokesperson, said. "Lives and money can be saved."

State, government and transportation safety agencies are continually searching for ways to make roads safer. Many have invested in comprehensive safety research programs, analysis projects, and collision avoidance studies to discover and implement new ways to make roads and people safer.

The Edge-O-Lite (www.edgeolite.com) is designed to increase the visibility of oncoming drivers and to decrease collisions. Highly visible reflectors illuminate the outer edge of the snowplow blades to allow for safe passage in hazardous winter driving conditions and to reduce deadly crashes.

The reflectors allow drivers to evaluate, in a timely manner, how far away they are or need to be for proper blade clearance.

When installed on the edge of a snowplow's blade, the innovatively-designed Edge-O-Lite (TM) attracts the oncoming car's headlights and reflects the light back to the driver, clearly lighting the blade's edge.

The product is highly visible and durable. It is designed to withstand harsh winter weather, is salt resistant, and easily installed.

"It's a low-cost solution for a serious problem," Donofrio said. "It also could reduce the stress of the snowplow driver by providing a higher level of safety."

By: Toni Dono
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Buying a Triumph Spitfire

Buying a Triumph Spitfire

I suppose the first point to take into consideration before buying a Triumph Spitfire is that you are buying a hobby and not a car! You have to realise that the technology used to design and build a Triumph Spitfire is old just like the cars themselves and they do not have the reliability of today's hi-tech cars built by robots. Triumph Spitfires do and will break down so be prepared for this eventuality.

Once you understand the above you can have peace of mind that almost everything that can go wrong with a Triumph Spitfire can be easily fixed - with the exception of some aspects of the body work! An otherwise decent car can turn into a costly mess or even a death trap. A shiny paint job can hide major rust, it is wise to take a magnet when looking to buy a Triumph Spitfire (preferably from a refrigerator door seal) and use this on key areas of the bodywork such as the nose, under the doors (sills) and behind the wheels. If you find the magnet does not stick to the bodywork there could be body filler under the paint. This does not mean the car is a total wreck, it maybe the odd repair but at least you have highlighted it and you can discuss with the seller.

If you go through with buying a Triumph Spitfire then it's a good idea to give your new hobby a complete going over. Everything on the car that can wear out needs replacing to ensure your car starts with a new lease of life. Start by replacing the fluids including oil, brake fluid, gearbox fluid and coolant. Next oil/grease hinges, u-joints and trunnions. Give it a complete tune up and replace plugs, ignition wires, distribution cap and points and follow this by checking the timing etc. Replace all hoses, belts and brake pads and you could even consider rebuilding the carb. There is obviously a cost involved if you do this yourself or if you have someone do this for you - remember though that the difference in performance of the car will be huge.

If the car has not moved for sometime then the brakes and clutch will most probably have problems. Whilst these repairs are quite simple and straight forward they must be fixed as yours and other road users safety is critical.

By: Andrew Whitehead
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Best Gas Mileage Pickup Truck - Top 5 By Ranking Revealed

Best Gas Mileage Pickup Truck - Top 5 By Ranking Revealed

Not only is the economy severely faltering right now but gas prices are through the roof and there seems to be no end in site. An increasing number of states are already seeing prices that are in danger of skyrocketing right past five dollars per gallon. As such, it is vitally important to find the best gas mileage pickup truck; our wallets practically demand it. Truthfully, whether you want to buy a car, a truck, or a sports utility vehicle, getting the best gas mileage for your money is crucial. This is especially true for pickup trucks and sports utility vehicles, however, because they generally haul heavier loads. Trying to haul anything heavy with a truck that gets poor gas mileage is financially disastrous, so you simply have to take the time to find a vehicle with good mileage.

In the world of pickup trucks, there are small ones and standard ones. In both cases, gas mileage is determined in large part by standards and guidelines imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as how many miles they get per gallon of gas for highway driving and city driving. If you are trying to find the best gas mileage pickup truck for a small truck, the top five are as follows: Ford Ranger, for a variety of years, is usually ranked as the highest, it is a two wheel drive truck with a 4 cyl, 2.3 liter engine. Next up is the Mazda B2300, followed by the Toyota Tacoma with a 4 cyl, 2.7 liter engine. The fourth ranked small pickup truck with the best gas mileage is the Chevrolet Colorado with a 2.9 liter engine, followed by the GMC Canyon, which has similar specs.

For standard pickups, a lot of the top ranked manufacturers are decidedly different. In the top spot is the Dodge Dakota with a 6 cylinder, 3.7 liter engine, followed by the Mitsubishi Raider, also a 6 cylinder with a 3.7 liter engine. In third place is the Chevrolet Silverado; it has an 8 cyl, 5.3 liter engine. Following that is the GMC Sierra, which has a 4.3 liter engine, and last, there is the Honda Ridgeline, which is a four wheel drive truck with a 6 cylinder, 3.5 liter engine.

Basically, in order to find the best gas mileage pickup truck, you simply have to be informed. Do some research on the Internet and practice comparison shopping, and always make sure to tally up how much you can expect to pay for gas for the entire year, even if it is only a loose estimate.

By: Dean Forster
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Dodge Truck 4x4 Dakota For Superior Handling and Braking Capabilities

Dodge Truck 4x4 Dakota For
Superior Handling and Braking Capabilities

By all available indications, the best Dodge truck 4x4 is the Dakota in all of its incarnations. The Dodge Dakota has been a favorite since its inception. For purposes of this article, we are going to discuss the specifications of the 2007 Dodge Dakota, which is a favorite because it is the only pickup truck in its class which offers a V8 engine. Those who drive and rely on pickup trucks appreciate this because, in general, especially for people who have to use a truck for their jobs, they are hauling and towing a lot of heavy loads. A powerful engine comes in handy for this, but according to numerous reviews of the 2007 Dakota, this vehicle is advantageous for many more reasons.

The 2007 Dakota is considered a high quality Dodge truck 4x4 in part because of its engine; even standard, it comes with a 3.7 liter Magnum V6 engine which features two hundred and ten horsepower at 5200 rpm, with two hundred and thirty five pounds per feet of torque at 4000 rpm. There is also the option for the High Output 4.7 liter V8 engine, which is considered one of the best engines currently on the market. It creates two hundred and sixty horsepower and three hundred and ten pounds per feet of torque. Given the fact that most truck fans utilize their trucks to haul heavy loads and to tow strenuous items, this kind of engine power is not only required but thought to be the highest possible standard. It offers fifteen miles per gallon for city driving and nineteen miles per gallon for highway driving.

The 2007 Dodge Dakota is also praised for the way it handles and its braking capabilities. It comes with rack and pinion steering as well as highly developed hydroformed rails on the chassis. This allows for a solid driving experience and maneuverability, which again, makes it a good choice of Dodge truck 4x4 for those drivers who rely on their trucks to tow or haul extremely heavy loads and cargo. It has also been ranked on several lists as producing the best gas mileage for a mid sized pickup truck. In general, it is always in the ranking on top five lists, usually falling somewhere between the number two position and the number four positions. The Environmental Protection Agency plays an important role in determining gas mileage, as does the amount of miles per gallon a truck gets for city and highway driving.

By: Dean Forster
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

10 Lorries in Harmony

10 Lorries in Harmony

To some, trucks and lorries may seem functional, but not exactly prime inspiration for songwriting. But maybe that’s why you’re not a multi-platinum selling artist, because all of these artists have managed to find their muse in the form of the humble HGV or the owner operator’s job…

69 Eyes – Truck On

While some have used the lorry as a metaphor for life, Finnish gothic metalers 69 Eyes talk no uncertain terms about the lorry as means to deliver loads from one place to another. Things do get a bit weird at one point though – perhaps the lead singer is getting stir crazy from being in his cab all night:

"Well I’m drivin’ amok Doggone’s my luck But I don’t give a **** And I’m feelin’ mean Bleedin’ gasoline Would you lick it clean?"

Despite the theme of the song and the obvious rhyme, the censored word is definitely not "Truck"…

Pavement – Heaven is a Truck

The song title makes it look like Stephen Malkmus is going to create a stunning ode to the truck as paradise… though the lyrics give the impression that Pavement’s idea of heaven is slightly more down to earth than most of us:

"Heaven is a truck It got stuck On a breeze Asked the driver nicely, I need a lift? I need release The sands in the boats On the rose-covered floats"

Yello – The Lorry

Swiss electronica act Yello played up the lonely elements of long distance haulage in their ode to lorries.

"Inside my lorry I am driving through the night Inside my lorry The world does look all right Five to five I’ve got to drive And if you ask me where I go I tell you coast to coast is what I do"

As they’re Swiss, we’ll forgive them not knowing that "go" and "do" don’t rhyme.

Bobby Bare – Truck Driver, Truck Driver

Bobby Bare’s truck driving song is taken slightly differently, all sung from the perspective of "a highway bum" hitching a ride, making increasingly bold requests. Starting of with "Don’t suppose you could sorta scoot over a little bit and give me a little more room cause I got long legs" via asking for cigarettes and the truckers jacket all the way up to "I see in that plastic frame a picture of a sexy blonde and you know that’s my kind of dame, man I’d really like to grab onto your wife huh." Eventually the patience of the truck driver is worn out, and the hitcher says "Now if you lend me a dollar and half I’ll move on down the line."

James Coffey – Hard Workin’ Truck

We’ve seen truck songs from the perspective of the driver and the passenger, but this one sets a new trend by being sung by the vehicle itself! The song outlines all the tasks that lorries can comfortably accomplish including picking up rubbish, digging ditches, construction work and haulage. The vehicle is evidently boastful about its talents: "No load is too heavy for my rig, no hill too high, no job too big…"

Bill Monroe – Lonesome Truck Driver Blues

As the title of this truck driving song suggests… this is another song highlighting the loneliness of the open road. The song describes the entire journey all the way down to the truckstops, but the drivers’ concerns about the road laws certainly ring true with our current fears about government interference: "If you load too light you can’t make a dime, if you load too heavy then you get a fine." The song does have an upbeat ending however, highlighting the best part of many a long distance haulier’s day:

"Oh the motor’s purrin’ I’m makin’ time Takin’ me back to that baby of mine She’ll be purrin’ like a kitten When I walk in the door The truck driver blues I won’t sing anymore"

David Lynn Jones – Bonnie Jean (Little Sister)

A country ballad about a woman left by her husband with 3 young children to look after who takes up long distance lorry work to make ends meet. It’s a sad tale, but some of the details will sound familiar to all truckers:

"She’s a runnin’ down the road from coast to coast, It’s the little things she misses the most She’s a mother all day and a trucker all night Livin’ on coffee and mini-whites"

Weird Al Yankovic – Truck Drivin’ Song

Comedy songwriter Weird Al Yankovic’s Truck Driving Song starts off in much the same style as the other truck songs: "I’m driving a truck Drivin’ a big ol’ truck Pedal to the metal, hope I don’t run out of luck"

But quickly goes a little strange:

"Rollin’ down the highway until the break of dawn Drivin’ a truck with my high heels on"

The song continues this theme to reverse the macho stereotype of the industry, probably angering a few truckers in the process:

"Oh, I don’t mind when my crotchless panties creep right up on me And my nipple rings don’t bother me too much But when I hit those big speed bumps My darling little rhinestone pumps Keep slippin’ off the mother-lovin’ clutch"

Of course, lorries aren’t the only bigger industrial vehicles that have inspired songwriters – here’s two more which move slightly further away from the trucking remit.

The Wurzels – Combine Harvester

The number one single – a reworking of "Brand New Key" by Melanie was a change of direction for the band, after the death of songwriter Adge Cutler – at this point, the band moved away from original composition and in to altering other people’s work. The West Country band moved away from farms and cider to pen another trucking themed song "I Want to be an Eddie Stobart Driver"

Nizlopi – JCB Song

Alt-folk act Nizlopi made it big by having the Christmas number one in 2005 – a song about a boy escaping into a fantasy world on his Dad’s JCB away from the bullies at school. Aside from having a delightful video, the song is notable for its sudden change of fortune – the Christmas single was a re-release of a song which had made #160 in the charts on its first go 6 months earlier.

So if you spot a lorry heading past you on the motorway, or take on an owner operator job, perhaps its time to pull out the guitar and start strumming!

By: Lyall Cresswell
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Front disk brakes for your old truck.

Front disk brakes for your old truck.

Disc Brakes: a great way to improve the safety of your old truck. Disc brakes were invented in England in the 1890s and the first system for use in automobiles was patented in Birmingham by Frederick W. Lanchester in 1902. But the first car to make use of this type of brake system was the 1949 Crosley Hotshot, a limited production model that is considered to be one of the worst cars of all time.

At first only race cars and very expensive models were equipped with front discs. They were installed in cars like the 1953 Jaguar C-Type, the 1955 Citro?n DS, ther 1954 Austin-Healey 100S. In America disc brakes appeared in the 1963 Studebaker Avanti, the 1965 Rambler Marlin and the 1965 Corvette Stingray. During the late 1960s and 1970s discs became an option in most cars. Today, even the least expensive automobiles comes with this system already built in. Motorcycles, buses, trucks and even bicycles have disc brakes today.

I got rid of the problem when I replaced the drums with a disc kit. As you can see on the image at left, the kit comes with everything you need and you don't have to fabricate anything, since the disc kit fits exactly where the original drum system is installed. To install a disc kit you just unbolt the drums and bolt on the discs. It's so easy that I did it by myself on my truck in one afternoon, with regular tools. Front disc brake kits are available from several suppliers for old Ford, Chevrolet, GMC and Dodge trucks. They may come with a power booster or not. In any case, you will have to install a brake booster to get the performance you want out of your new disc brake system. Cost may vary from about US$ 550 to over US$ 1,000 and this does not include installation. But as I said before you don't have to be a genious to replace your old brakes with a modern disc system.

Even if you want to keep your truck in its original condition I would advise that you install disc brakes on it. Your truck will brake much better and you will be a lot safer.

By: Joseph Ceschin
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Truck Finance

Truck Finance

Truck finance. Buying and owning a vehicle is every man's dream in Australia. But if you are a farmer or an owner driver who wants to buy a truck then things can be more difficult than buying a car. Why? The investment involved here is greater so is the risk.

Truck finance in Australia is supported by many banks and financiers. For big truck finance there can be a commercial truck loan application needed.

Usually people choose to buy a new truck through financing, which can be a sensible option especially if you are hard on cash. This process involves payment via installments making it more feasible for middle class individuals. Truck financing is available at a bank or a private individual can also lend you money. You can choose which lender, after weighing the pros and cons of both and decide which one to go for.

People normally can think of only two ways of buying a vehicle, either pay in cash or obtain a loan. The former one is not a likely choice for most of us involved since it is can tie up valuable working capital or funds that you can invest elsewhere for better value.

Truck lease companies generally require three main fundamentals when approving a large truck loan. These are:

That you own a property, cash, shares or assets of real value. This is known as fallback position which means you have something to fall back on if the unforeseen bad time happens.

Working capital. Most trucking contracts don't see income until after the first month, sometimes longer. Finance companies want to see sufficient funds available that you have at your disposal to cover expenses and if there is an unexpected expense like engine trouble. This amount can be anywhere between $10-$30,000, which can depend on the age of the truck and can be what you can arrange through a type of loan but not included with your truck finance.

Work source. For startup truck finance applications it is important that you have sufficient arrangements for where the work will come from. This normally has to be in writing and confirming in what way will they will pay you (ie by weight, km's, load). This should also state what work would be made available to you.

Existing operations may not require this as their current financials may show affordability. Banks and finance companies can ask you for your last financials.

Truck finance can require a tailored finance application. This can require but may not require cash flows, financials and details account of your business. A commercial loans broker can be useful to do this and assuring you get your truck finance at better interest rates.

A good commercial loans broker will be able to assess your application before submitting it to a finance company assuring that it is going to the correct lender and it will have a good chance of finance approval. They should be able to assist with any cash flows, financial information and presenting your application correctly.

By: Richard Jefferies
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Looking at Antique Tractors

Looking at Antique Tractors

Although it seems that modern tractors have been a part of our landscape forever, the truth is, there are still plenty of antique tractors, that can be found everywhere, and you don' need to look in museums, either!

Antique tractors represent a beloved past time of restoration and even of use to the people who enjoy them, and you'll soon see that there are a wide variety of tractors that you can see on a fairly regular basis. You'll find that there are plenty of antique tractors, including those from Farmall, Allis Chalmers, Ford and of course John Deere, that are still in service. If you have ever been curious about antique tractors, there is a lot of good information out there.

When thinking about antique tractors, it is very important to think about the first engine-powered farm tractors, which used steam and were in use during the 1870s. These antique tractors were the agricultural marvels of their day, and they were built in much the same fashion as the small road locomotives. If the engine weighed less than five tons, it could be operated by a single man, though today we often associate tractors with farm work, these tractors were mostly confined to work hauling lumber and for general road hauling.

Antique tractors reached a new height when a gasoline fueled engine was developed in 1887. This important invention led to the invention of the earl gasoline traction engines, which was eventually abbreviated to tractors. 1889 saw the production of six of the first working gasoline traction engines, and these antique tractors started a long and impressive history that continues to this day. The first truly successful gasoline tractor was the Frolich tractor, to which the work horse, the famous John Deere two cylinder tractor can be traced.

Of course, as everyone knows, it doesn't matter how useful a machine is unless you can get your hands on it, and you'll find that these antique tractors were no exception. Charles W. Hart and Charles H. Parr began the Hart-Parr Gasoline Engine Company of Madison at the end of the 1800's. Later on, the would move to Iowa, where they put together enough cash to make gas traction engines. This lead to them creating the first factory in the United States that was completely given over to the production of the antique tractor. They were also credited with making the word "tractor" so popular.

As you can see, there is a lot of interesting information out there for people who are hoping to learn more about antique tractors.

By: Fred Roaldset
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Your Antique John Deere Tractor

Your Antique John Deere Tractor

Although it seems that modern tractors have been a part of our landscape forever, the truth is, there are still plenty of antique tractors, that can be found everywhere, and you don' need to look in museums, either!

Antique tractors represent a beloved past time of restoration and even of use to the people who enjoy them, and you'll soon see that there are a wide variety of tractors that you can see on a fairly regular basis.

You'll find that there are plenty of antique tractors, including those from Farmall, Allis Chalmers, Ford and of course John Deere, that are still in service. If you have ever been curious about antique tractors, there is a lot of good information out there.

There are many different types of used John Deere tractors for sale. The different types include the compact utility, row-crop, specialty, utility, four-wheel drive, and track tractors. If you cannot afford a new tractor you might consider looking through antique tractors to find what you are looking for. You can get an old John Deere up and running for a very low start up costs.

The compact utility used John Deere tractors can be driven by anyone. They are really easy to use. You can mow up to 7 acres with these, till almost 4 acres, and lift up to almost 1300 pounds. You can even dig with the 16-inch bucket attached to it down to a little over 6 feet deep in the ground.

There are many antique farm tractors for sale you might consider for rowing crops. It is important you think about horsepower when you think about this type of a tractor. If you are going to use it you need to be sure it is for the type of farm for you. You should be sure it is fuel efficient for your farm size also.

A four-wheel drive John Deere tractors for sale are for the rougher terrain and the extra wet and muddy irrigating you might need to do on your farm. You cannot afford to get stuck in the middle of the farm. This will take time away from getting the crops going. Time is money and a four wheel drive tractor may be your best option for rainy days or soil that is often real moist and difficult to maneuver through.

If you are looking for smaller antique tractors for sale or small John Deere tractors for sale you might consider the specialty tractors. Usually a specialty tractor is used for things like a nursery and a greenhouse. They are not designed to be used out on the farm and you would run out of gas before you got very far if you tried.

The antique specialty tractors are designed with an excellent turning radius, an oscillating front axle, and a diesel engine. These can also run on the biodiesel fuels. You can take advantage of four-wheel drive with these smaller tractors also. They can lift over 1000 pounds and you have perfect visibility without a blind spot anywhere.

The utility antique farm tractors are the tractors that allow you to get the most work done on your farm the fastest. This can include mowing up to 40 acres, tilling approximately 15 acres, lifting over 4,000 pounds, and digging almost 10 feet deep with a 40 inch bucket. You can even bale up to 60 acres with the utility used John Deere tractors for sale. Another excellent feature of these tractors is that they include a cab if you want one. This allows you to continue working when the weather conditions are bad. You can take advantage of tinted windows in the cab so you don’t get sunburned or just to stay out of the rain but keep the work going. The cabs can be removed if you want to work with it off.

If you are looking for old John Deere tractors for sale for your farm it is a good choice. You can take advantage of saving on the high gas prices by switching over to biodiesel. Be sure the vintage tractors for sale you consider at least have a John Deere engine in them. There are many different types of tractors you can take advantage of for use on your farm.

By: Fred Roaldset
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Lincoln: Entering the new Levels of Luxury

Lincoln: Entering the new Levels of Luxury

Lincoln was known for the luxurious automobiles and the fame of the company was even more increased when the name of the Zephyr was added to the list of the Lincoln fold. The main design of the Zephyr was based on the Mazda 6 and some of the components of the car are same with the Ford Fusion. Besides this, the car is designed to do mainly 2 things: one is to attract the young generation to the showrooms of the Lincoln and other is to invoke the people to note the aging Town car.

Specification of the engine and other features of the Lincoln: -

When the new models of the Lincoln were launched in the market, it was released with the single transmission/engine which was combined and the horsepower of the engine was measured as the 210 horsepower. The capacity of the engine was 3 liter and was named as V6 which can provide automatic transmission up to six speeds. Besides this, with the upcoming the new models of Lincoln the all the versions of the wheel drive were also available to the customers.

Some of the other features of the Lincoln models are: - - Leather seating with the availability of the 5 passengers. - Air conditioning facility with dual zone air. - Heated seats at front. - Front passenger seats and also the adjustable driver seat in 10 ways. - Advance ABS system which constitutes the 4 wheel disc brakes. - Door trims and also the wood instrument panel. - Air bags on both the sides of Passengers and the drivers. - Facility of the traction control.

History of the models of the Lincoln: -

The naming of the model of the Lincoln of Zephyr was taken from the name of the Mercury Zephyr which was in the time period of 1980. The main reason behind this was that the Mercury Zephyr was known as the most unforgettable car of the Ford Motor Company at that time of the era. Now when it came back to the history, the models of the Lincoln were mainly sold from 1936 to 1942.

The initial model was introduced in the market with the V12 engine model with sleek line along with the tail and long shaper trunk. This made the models of the Lincoln even more attractive and effective and the sales of the successive models of the Lincoln was never stopped from that time. This helps the company in recapturing the whole auto market.

With its huge success and selling and manufacturing of the Lincoln models, Lincoln is providing a tough competition to the big brands like Mercedes and BMW and making is setting its place in the level of the luxury vehicles.

By: Brian Hamsen
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Study Finds Logger Truck Accidents Decline

Study Finds Logger Truck Accidents Decline

Study Finds Logger Truck Accidents Decline

A recent study conducted by the state of Washington found that the number of truck accidents involving log trucks has declined by 11 percent even as the number of accidents involving all commercial trucks increased by 15 percent over a two-year period. Commercial truck accidents are considered the most expensive and fatal vehicular accidents that can occur throughout the country. The ripple effects of a commercial truck accident can often be vast and devastating to victims, family members and friends.

What are Commercial Trucks, Log Trucks?

In the United States, commercial trucks, also commonly referred to as heavy trucks, are those vehicles used to transport cargo and weighing more than 26,001 pounds in which case a commercial truck driver's license is also needed. Commercial trucks transport a number of goods and products across state lines and throughout the country including food supplies and logs and some are specifically designed for tasks such as mixing and moving concrete as well as transporting light trucks for military use.

Researchers have reported that while the construction of commercial trucks continues to improve, the level of quality still remains well below the quality level of automobiles and it has been said that commercial trucks remain well below automobiles in quality due mainly to the fact that nearly 3/4 of all commercial trucks are custom built, causing inefficiencies in steamlining a commercial truck assembly line. However, a lengthy list of popular commercial truck manufacturers remains both worldwide and in America.

The list of top manufacturers includes:

* American LaFrance
* Autocar Company USA
* Crane Carrier Corporation
* Chevrolet
* Colet
* Dodge
* E-One
* Freightliner
* Ford
* GMC
* Hino
* Isuzu
* Kenworth
* Mack Trucks
* International
* Nissan
* Oshkosh
* Ottawa Truck
* Peterbilt
* Pierce
* Sterling Trucks
* UD Nissan Diesel
* Volvo Trucks
* Western Star

Logging trucks and log truck drivers are no different from commercial trucks or commercial truck drivers, however, the Washington study conducted by the Washington State University found that a small group of log truck drivers are often considered seasoned and experienced drivers of the dangerous profession, which may be attributing to the total decrease of log truck accidents. However, the study also noted that as these individuals begin to retire, not only will the logging industry suffer, but accidents may begin to increase instead of decrease. The study noted that, "rising costs, aging drivers and long hours of service" as well as "other factors that could affect safety and economic viability include the ongoing effects of deregulation, poor driver recruitment" could all become factors responsible for a potential increase of log truck accidents.

Protecting Yourself from a Truck Accident

Individuals who have been involved in a commercial truck accident are advised to seek medical assistance even if no signs or symptoms of an injury are present. Often, injuries sustained in a vehicular or commercial truck accident can remain unseen and may include internal bleeding or bruising, which could have fatal consequences on a victim if injuries are not immediately assessed and treated. In addition to consulting a medical professional and ensuring injuries are properly treated, it may also be advisable to contact an experienced commercial truck collision law firm. Receiving a free legal consultation on injuries derived from a truck accident can provide relief from stress or worry over medical bills or automotive debts associated with a commercial truck collision or a log truck wreck.

By: Peter Kent
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

A Brief History of Forklifts in America

A Brief History of Forklifts in America

Our modern economy has a tendency to take forklifts and forklift truck technology for granted. These industrial machines were created in the beginning of the 20th century as American was still going through a rapid industrialization post World War 1. Many companies were moving from other industries into the material handling industry. Hyster, for example, started out in the logging industry, but by the 1930s started to shift its focus to the burgeoning materials handling industry and began developing forklifts.

During and after World War 2, the forklift became a staple of industrialization. They were used during the war to bring supplies to the front lines and were also used to transport military goods from American factories to foreign ports. American warehouses used forklifts and lift trucks to increase productivity and efficiency in their materials handling.

As the decades progressed, so did technology, and increasingly forklifts were going electric. Electric forklifts often provide lower operating costs and tend to be more ecofriendly than gas powered forklift trucks. Electric forklifts have become a standard for businesses that want to compete in today's international economy.

Forklifts have come a long way from their humble origins. They were originally created by modifying tractors by applying lifts to them, but soon enough they become an entire industry of their own. The advent of electric forklifts is a testament to the ongoing evolution of forklift technology. Many industrial forklifts now utilize rear-wheel steering, increasing the ability of the forklift driver to maneuver in narrow environments.

Since forklifts are so prevalent today, there is a great market for used forklifts. Used forklifts provide a business the opportunity to minimize their costs and increase productivity by buying a quality used forklift, rather than paying thousands of dollars more for a new forklift. More and more businesses are turning toward buying used forklifts because buying new forklifts is considerably more expensive.

Hopefully this brief introduction to the history of forklifts and the continuing evolution of forklift technology has taught you a few things and increased your appreciation for this often overlooked tool of modernity. Forklifts will continue to be used by business all over the world and will continue to be an integral part of running a successful business and staying competitive in the increasingly international 21st century.

By: Robert Whitley
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Buying an MG Midget

The only difference between the MG Midget and its stable mate the MK2 Sprite are its MG badges, What Should I Be Looking For?**Front Apron & Front Wings,Doors and A Post,Sills,Bonnet/Hood,Floor Pan,Engine Bay Inspection...

Buying an MG Midget

The MG Midget developed from the Austin Healey Sprite MK I launched in May 1958, with the MG Midget MK1 launched in June 1961. The only difference between the MG Midget and its stable mate the MK2 Sprite are its MG badges, additional chrome trim strips, slatted chrome grill and slightly better interior.

What Should I Be Looking For?

Your first consideration when you are buying an MG Midget is the state of the body-work. The size of the MG Midget makes any restoration a hard task due to the tight dimensions. The easily available repair panels at reasonable prices make restorations for the professional and amateur alike a boon, however with this in mind check any potential purchase carefully.

Make sure you check all areas of the car, ensure all panels line up, that gaps between panels are even, no dents or ripples or any creases in the body-work. Look out for any panels or areas of the body-work that have different shades of paint they maybe covering repairs made with filler. A soft top in less than average condition should be noted and the condition of the floor checked for corrosion.

Front Apron & Front Wings

The front valance is often the first casualty in even a minor accident along with stone damage and it is important to check the seam where the front wing joins the apron. Check behind the bumper mounting for signs of accident damage and also check the condition of the bumpers, especially rubber bumpers as they are costly to replace.

The front wings have a tendency to rust along the lower seam where the wing meets the top of the sill panel. The area around the headlamp attracts corrosion and there is also a drain hole at the bottom of the lip on the front wings and if blocked dirt and sludge builds and rots the panel.

Doors and A Post

Make sure that the doors have even gaps all round and are fitted correctly. A tight fitting door that sticks at the top could be the sign of a folding body tub or a tub that has been repaired without support. Check that the door seals are in good order and ensure the window winders are working, it's especially important to check the drain holes in the door bottoms are clear and look for rust along the door bottoms. Check the A post area very carefully for any rust here, any problem here is difficult to repair.

Sills

The sills are the most common area for rust and the only repair is replacement of the panel. To examine a sill lay down along the side of the car and shine a torch along the underside checking for corrosion holes, drainage holes maybe present but not always. Surface rust on a sill may hide severe damage underneath.

Bonnet/Hood

Repair sections are available for the bonnet but some skill is needed to fit, any dents in the bonnet are also difficult to repair and you would probably be better off buying a complete panel.

Rear Wing

The top of the wheel arch inner and outer panels can corrode; the square wheel arch models seem particularly prone to this. The lower rear wing immediately behind the door where it joins the sill is another area liable to rust. Check these areas and rear quarter wing for corrosion or body filler.

Boot/Trunk

Open the boot and examine the spare wheel area for signs of dampness or rust, check the spare wheel and jack are present too. Before closing again check the lip of the boot lid for signs of corrosion.

Floor Pan

Thoroughly check this area by lifting the carpets and checking the floor underneath, the area behind the seats is prone to the buildup of road dirt and salt.

Engine Bay Inspection

Finally, when buying an MG Midget the last area for review is the engine bay. Check the engine for oil leaks in particular around the filter housing and gaskets. Any trace of anti-freeze or rust stains on the engine block could indicate water leaks. Listen to the engine running, check for blowing around manifolds and between the manifold and down pipe. Examine the clutch and brake master cylinder and surrounding paint-work for signs of fluid leaks or spillage. The battery can be found at the back of the engine bay and it should be correctly secured as any spillage from the battery can lead to corrosion of the surrounding body-work.

By: Andrew Whitehead
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Avoiding an Accident: The Overworked Lorry Driver’s Guide

The Overworked Lorry Driver’s Guide,report revealed that of all the accidents that involved injuries or deaths on British roads over the last 5 years, 31% of them involved lorry drivers – a figure far worse on the M20 in Kent, where the figure hit 40%. The fact that lorries only make up around 8% of the traffic on A roads and motorways just goes to show that this is a very real problem...

Avoiding an Accident:
The Overworked Lorry Driver’s Guide

Everybody knows that tiredness is a major cause of traffic accidents, and everybody knows that lorry drivers work a huge amount of hours. Unsurprisingly, the two often combine with catastrophic results – indeed, a recent report revealed that of all the accidents that involved injuries or deaths on British roads over the last 5 years, 31% of them involved lorry drivers – a figure far worse on the M20 in Kent, where the figure hit 40%. The fact that lorries only make up around 8% of the traffic on A roads and motorways just goes to show that this is a very real problem. But if the hours are long and tiredness is a factor (and the DVLA think that up to one fifth of all accidents fall into this bracket), then what can the poor overworked haulier do to avoid disaster? Here’s a list of some tips that may help you stay in control on your next haulage job:

Avoiding Sleepiness

Of course the best thing to do to avoid feeling drowsy behind the wheel of your haulage vehicle is to be sure you’ve had a good night’s sleep. This is easier said than done for those with haulage jobs. Early morning starts and shift work don’t help either (which again can’t be avoided in our industry). If you know that you’re going to be pushing a deadline, and breaks will not be as readily available, try to get as much sleep as possible before heading off.

There are other factors involved in sleepiness of course – you may feel a lot more drowsy immediately after eating a large meal, or if you have to break up your routine. Indeed, such changes mean you may find yourself feeling especially drowsy between the hours of midnight and 6am, and 2pm and 4pm. If you can avoid taking haulage jobs around these times, you’ll feel all the better for it. Finally, medication can have an impact – if you’re working, be sure to read the label carefully and ideally find one which doesn’t list drowsiness as a possible side effect. Taking regular breaks from driving is good advice to prevent the overwhelming urge to sleep.

If you feel sleepy…

But it’s human to feel tired sometimes, no matter how well you prepare, so what should you do if you find yourself feeling sleepy on a haulage job? Well the first thing to note is that the common wisdom of playing the radio loudly or opening a window is only a temporary solution and won’t keep you awake for long! Instead of relying on these as the solution, use them as temporary means get you to a lorry stop for some rest. The first signs of tiredness should not be ignored, and taking a break as soon as you feel tiredness coming in can actually be more productive in the long run. A 20 minute break when you feel tired is often remarkably effective, and can leave you feeling completely refreshed and ready to finish the haulage job! Combining a quick nap in a lorry stop with a couple of cups of coffee can be just the pick me up to ensure you stay safe on the road. As for coffee, remember that it will take 20-30 minutes for caffeine to make you feel more alert, so it’s best to have a cup the second you feel the first tell-tale signs of drowsiness, not when you’re struggling to keep your eyes open!

Being a lorry driver is a tiring job – there are long and unsociable hours, combined with repetitive work, it’s inevitable that you will feel sleepy at points. Thankfully, if you follow the advice in this guide, you should avoid causing unnecessary risk to yourself and others.

By: Lyall Cresswell
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Rolling Along In A Retractable Tonneau Cover

Rolling Along In A Retractable Tonneau Cover

Retractable tonneau covers have become an extremely coveted accessory in today's pick-up popular climate. A retractable tonneau's price is among the highest within the truck bed cover genre, but for good reason.

This style cover is typically comprised of aluminum panels or slats that run from side-to-side between the truck's bed rails. And, commonly, those panels feature a black powder coat finish, an extremely enduring paint system formulated to protect the tonneau from the harshest of elements. Others sport a powder coated frame and hardware while the aluminum slats or panels are laminated to weather resistant padded polymer to soften the cover with a leather-like look.

All such retractable tonneau covers glide along a guide system which is normally clamped along the inside face of the truck box rails. The flexible cover rolls into a canister mounted at the front of the truck bed directly below the rear windshield. Any retractable truck cover worth its salt usually has a heavy-duty tension spring, maintaining just enouth tension for both easy closing and minimal rattling.

Constructed to withstand a two-hundred pound, evenly distributed snow-load, the cover's design also channels excess rainwater to the side-rails and then to the canister where it's then eliminated from your truck bed via drain hoses. And, again, most manufacturers mirror this same basic design.

Never underestimate truck accessory fashion: retractable tonneau covers provide a sharp look to the back of any pickup truck while saving on gas at the same time. And eventhough they're fairly lightweight, they're rugged enough to force howling winds to pass over them versus butting against the tailgate causing a drag and reduced fuel economy.

Also, this accessory serves to protect your cargo from theft in a couple of ways: via heavy-duty key locks and the much simpler "out of sight, out of mind". This factor alone is enough to deter most thieves.

A retractable tonneau cover also shields your bed's cargo from inclement weather conditions such as rain and snow. Your freight is also secure from the effects of ripping winds caused by traveling at higher speeds. This can be especially useful should you be carting fragile cargo like flowers or other plant life. And when you must cart taller loads, loads taller than your truck bed walls, simply retract the cover completely and let the "flora" set unfettered.

If you're searching for a tonneau cover that opens and closes with ease, looks good, is fuel efficient, locks, opens for complete truck bed access, perhaps you should consider one of today's retractable tonneau covers.

By: Eric Weeks
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

The History of The Datsun 240Z

The history of the Datsun 240z begins in 1969 when launched as a 1970 model to the motoring world. The Datsun 240z was not a new concept as many manufacturers had achieved sports cars with excellent performance, strong engineering,

The History of The Datsun 240Z

The history of the Datsun 240z begins in 1969 when launched as a 1970 model to the motoring world. The Datsun 240z was not a new concept as many manufacturers had achieved sports cars with excellent performance, strong engineering, and attractive styling with mediocre interiors at a low cost. The success of the 240z was down to the fact that the car perfected the idea of a low cost, reliable sports car. The man responsible for the design and creation of the Datsun 240z was Yutaka Katayama and in recognition of his involvement of this legendary vehicle he was inducted into the Automobile Hall of Fame in 1998.

The history of the Datsun 240z engine is quite interesting as it is a deviant of the Datsun 1600 engine which in itself was a replica of the 1960's Mercedes Benz six cylinder with two less cylinders. Add two extra cylinders back to the Datsun 1600 engine and you have the 240z engine with 151 brake horsepower. With 146 pound-feet of torque you have a vehicle that could reach 0-sixty in eight seconds add to this the rack and pinion steering and independent suspension and you have a car with quick response, great performance and handling. Bringing all this to a halt in just seconds you had front disc brakes. With its launch price tag of $3500 it was much less than its rivals on the market at that time.

There is a strong history of the Datsun 240z with the Sports Car Club of America as it dominated the c-class production category for 10 years from 1970-1979. John Morton driving for Brock Enterprises in 1970 and 1971 claimed the first victory in the SCCA c-class production racing using a 240z. In 1972, 1973 and again in 1975 Bob Sharp was victorious in a 240z with Walt Mass continuing the winning run in 1974.

1974 saw an increase in the engine size to 2.6 litres and the vehicle renamed as the 260z effectively bringing to the end the 240z series having sold just under 117,000 models during its lifetime. The 260z engine had a lower brake horsepower of 139 as a result of the increasing emissions regulations in the United States as each year passed.

The Datsun 260z proved to be a far more practical car than its predecessor and during its first and only year of production it sold 63,963 units giving it the Z-series all time sales record.

By: Andrew Whitehead
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Buying a VW Thing - Model Variants

Buying a VW Thing,Originally built for the German Federal Army,TYPE 181,In 1973 and 1974 28,930 units of the VW Thing were exported to the United States.,Available in 1974, the VW Thing "Acapulco",SAFARI,TYPE 182 (Trekker)...

Buying a VW Thing - Model Variants

Originally built for the German Federal Army (Bundeswehr) as a stop gap the VW Thing is available in four variants as described below:

TYPE 181

This is the Official Volkswagen factory designation for the left hand drive VW Thing. Originally built for the German Federal Army (Bundeswehr) as a designated multi-purpose vehicle. In the German market it is known as the Kubel or Kubelwagen, the same as its predecessor from World War 2.

THING

In 1973 and 1974 28,930 units of the VW Thing were exported to the United States. These models were basically the standard Type 181 Thing. There were however differences from the Safari model. This included full emissions equipment on the engine, following the chassis number was the letter X for export and on the left centre door pillar a U.S. DOT sticker. Originally they were to carry the title of Type 181 however VW wanted the model to be known as the Safari. Unfortunately General Motors "owned" the use of "The Safari" in the US market, having used it on Pontiac Station Wagons from 1955.

With this situation Volkswagen of America therefore settled on calling the Type 181 as "The Thing". This official title was supported in VW literature and in 42 states DMV registrations. The VW Thing was on sale in Canada and several other markets, they were trans-shipped from the United States after delivery.

ACAPULCO

Available in 1974, the VW Thing "Acapulco" model was a stock VW Thing with a few minor trim changes. The body work was painted blue & white with a matching interior & running boards were also fitted, they came with either a hardtop or soft top and usually a surry top.

SAFARI

Produced for the Mexican domestic market the Safari was also exported to countries to the south of Mexico. So that the Safari could run on lower grade Premex gasolines the Mexican domestic engines all had low compression pistons installed.

TYPE 182 (Trekker)

The VW Thing in right hand drive format was produced for the UK market, as demonstrators, made to specific order or for military use in countries where right hand drive was the standard and was designated the Type 182. Only relatively small numbers of type 182s were produced and the type 182 was officially sold in Britain by VW dealers in 1974-75, under the name "Trekker". This followed a competition held by Volkswagen UK to "name the car" due to dealers objecting to the "VW Thing" name. Press reports at the time that 300 were being imported are contradicted by records of surviving chassis numbers showing less than 100. This was probably due to overpricing and therefore did not sell very well. Made in Mexico (not Germany), generally to 1974 THING specification, but with European rear-lights and front flashers.

By: Andrew Whitehead
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com