IPA says the system is equipped with two integrated high-capacity air regulators, and two high-resolution, glycerin- filled pressure gauges for consistent and precise tire pressure readings. The company says Mobile Tire Pressure Equalizer is engineered to save time and money with all the internal components optimized for the fastest possible inflation/deflation times.

The system is also optimized for adverse weather conditions with the recently upgraded design, IPA says. It is mounted on a powder-coated steel body with pneumatic tires and features wheel-specific,color-coded hoses with corresponding panel indicators and hose hangers.

For more information, click HERE , or call 888-786-7899.

For high-resolution images, click HERE

Reduce time, labor and resources costs.

High density storage is a sure way to reduce time, labor and resource costs in parts and service departments. It also improves profitability High density storage uses less space and makes keeping track of inventory easier by situating the highest volume parts for easier, faster access. Replacing existing storage shelves with high density storage units can reduce a parts department footprint by as much as 50 percent, while increasing the number of parts stored.
Here are nine tips to implement and get the most out of a high density storage system.

1. Determine the fastest moving parts. Run a business management system report for the last 12 months that shows parts sales by unit volume. Make note of the most parts sold in that time and store as close to the parts counter as possible.

2. Place a high density storage cabinet near the service counter. Stock the cabinet with the 100 to 200 fastest moving parts. Place it within easy reach of both the service department and walk-in customers for faster transactions. Keeping parts sold most frequently close to the counter also reduces foot traffic and time lost by going to the back room to find a part.  Storing parts in high density drawers allows better inventory control.

3. Duplicate the fastest moving parts. Consider two walk-up positions at each checkout point.

4. Organize high density storage cabinets by type. Organization of parts in the cabinet is key and storage by part type is the most efficient method. With labels affixed to the drawers and bins, anyone can easily locate a part. This lowers retrieval time significantly because 75 to 80 percent of all the fast-moving parts can be stored in this manner at parts counter. For easier cross referencing, group similar parts from multiple manufacturers.

5. Select shelving for high density storage. A 5-inch cube or smaller is the optimum size to really take advantage of the power of high density storage. Do not store larger, bulkier items in a cabinet. Shelving is the best option.

6. Use a drawer organization system. After determining what parts are a good fit, organize them into their exact location using an alpha-numeric system, i.e. Cabinet A, Drawer 1, Row A.

7. Use high density storage to conduct inventories.  Similar to balancing the cash drawer at the end of each day, it is important to personally inventory fast moving parts against the business management system at least three times per year. A “rolling inventory” based upon the number of times a part turns each year can reduce the total time for an annual inventory and provide a more accurate account of what you really have on hand.

8. Store the correct size parts in the correct sized drawers. The cabinet vendor takes a physical inventory of the available space and prepares a layout for placement. This shows the existing storage and how much more can be gained with a new storage system.

A rule of thumb says three to five sections of shelving at about 9 to-15 linear feet can be condensed down to a single eye-level cabinet measuring about 28 inches by 28 inches.

Shelving 18 inches deep and 84 inches tall uses no more than 50 percent of its capacity and sometimes as low as 30 percent. Some shelving or a bulk rack is still necessary for parts that simply aren’t conducive to storing in drawers, such as items that turn over too fast or are big and bulky. Setting up a counter with the most popular parts stored in counter level cabinets will free up a significant amount of space. Parts sold infrequently can be stored away from high traffic areas.

9. Use the extra space for something productive. A successfully implemented high density storage solution affords the advantage of additional space, which can be transformed into square footage for displays on the selling floor or adding new product lines without requiring additional storage space.

The safest fall protection systems surpass normal standards

Fall protection systems resolve the challenges and danger most maintenance facilities encounter for technicians who must perform repairs and replacements atop the vehicle. The tasks workers engage in at this height typically put them at high risk for slips, trips and falls.

While bus and coach companies must unquestionably be concerned for worker safety in these situations and take extra precautions, fall protection specialists tell us that regulated fall protection with advanced equipment has been slow to evolve. There was a time when technicians on the roof did their work with little more than ropes tied around the waist.  Fall protection is law in the modern age.

The OSHA Fall Protection Code stipulates that fall protection equipment be provided for workers engage in elevated activity at a minimum of four feet above the floor. OSHA also requires some sort of self-rescue capability or a way to promptly rescue a worker who has fallen.

Rigid Lifelines, Morgantown, PA, a division of SPANCO, takes the issue of compliance a step further.

“OSHA allows a number of fall protection options that are legal within the law,” says Rigid Lifelines Marketing Manager Michael Evanko. “However, OSHA law is a bit vague and not truly up to date with recent developments in equipment and technology. A system may be compliant under the law, but not necessarily protecting workers as best it should.”

The company says maintenance directors responsible for implementing a fall protection program within their company will find the ANSI Minimum Requirements for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Program more beneficial.

“The ANSI standard clearly defines all the duties and responsibilities that OSHA will require from an organization using fall protection,” says Evanko.  “Additionally, it covers issues that OSHA does not address, such as hazard analysis, rescue plans and anchorage requirements for fall restraint systems.”

Fall Protection Systems (FPS), Florissant, MO, and Rigid Lifelines both provide rigid rail systems for bus and coach maintenance applications that attach to the ceiling of an existing facility.

Though each have their proprietary features, the systems basically feature a path of rigid track running the length of the maintenance area. Multiple tracks may be installed to support more workers. Each worker, wearing a harness and retractable lanyard to a rolling trolley, moves back and forth. This allows them to move freely across the roof of the bus, as opposed workers harnessed to a cable stretched between two points.

“The difference in the length of a free fall between these two types of systems is significant,” says Evanko. “The chance for serious injury increases with the length of free fall. Working from a rigid rail and retractable lanyard, if a worker were to fall, the system immediately engages fall arrest quicker.”

With a maximum fall distance of two feet, this type of system clearly minimizes injury by allowing the worker to easily step back to the roof of the vehicle, and not be left hanging and dangling.

No welding with Rigid Lifelines
Rigid Lifelines says, assuming the building has been approved, and most large transit maintenance facilities have, facilities will support the installation of its fall protection systems without any welding.

“This can be a big deal, because many bus maintenance facilities have rules in place that prohibit  welding indoors because of the many flammable liquids and materials  in use under roof,” says Evanko. “This is never an issue with our systems. Where rope or cable systems often require welding reinforcements to the structure to support the weight forces applied during a fall, our installation only uses bolts to secure all the components.”

He says if a worker was to fall and not be deflected toward the ground before the system activates, the retractable lanyard would engage immediately. With a rope or cable system that is typically a little looser, a person would actually fall a longer distance before fall rescue.

FPS offers turnkey solutions
FPS, a 20-year-old company, has installed fall protection solutions for maintenance bays servicing a variety of transportation vehicles. The company says it is the only fall protection provider to provide a turnkey system.

“Every necessary component and service is included in our turnkey solutions,” says FPS Senior Sales Manager Matthew Proctor. “Our process begins with an onsite visit to the facility where we conduct a site analysis and diagnose the client’s fall protection needs, such as number of vehicles and the size of the maintenance staff. Our engineers then work in-house using videos, photos and drawings to generate a 3D model of the proposed system.”

FPS says its custom trolley-rail system fits into and around all features within the existing structure, leaving previously installed heaters, condensation pipes, ductwork and sprinkler systems in place.

“FPS can install its system as one continuous piece of rail, offering an uninterrupted path to work along,” he says.

Proctor says it also permits additional workers on the same system without putting them in harm’s way. If one worker falls, the enclosed rigid track will not bend or deflect.

ADA maintenance requirements require attention to all accessibility components

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) requires public transportation agencies and private operators to maintain all equipment related to accessibility and mobility for the disabled in a state of good repair. The process entails ADA training, routine inspections, maintenance, monitoring and investigating complaints.

Keep equipment in operative condition
The components ADA mandates maintenance and upkeep on are wheelchair lifts, ramps, kneeling mechanisms, automatic stop announcement annunciators, wheelchair securements and tie-down devices, fare payment equipment and  public address systems, as well as technology to facilitate communication with passengers with impaired vision or hearing.

ADA mandates prompt repairs
Any breakdown or maintenance issue associated with accessibility features requires immediate attention and prompt repair. When an accessibility feature is out of order, the operator must take reasonable steps to accommodate individuals with disabilities who would otherwise use the feature.

Occasional isolated temporary interruptions in service or access due to maintenance and repairs do not constitute illegal discrimination. However, a continuing pattern or an overly long interruption in service could be discriminatory. It is a failure by operators to make diligent efforts to keep accessibility equipment in working order.

Perform regular and frequent maintenance
Transit agencies must be able to provide a verifiable record of frequent inspections and maintenance of bus lifts and ramps tested with a full load. Tested empty, lifts might appear in working order but may incur problems during testing with weight comparable to that of a passenger using a wheelchair.

Drivers should fully cycle lifts and ramps before beginning their shift, and be certain all necessary securement and restraint components are functioning. Such pre-trip inspections by drivers also ensure they know how to work each piece of equipment before leaving the garage.

Put inoperative vehicles out of service
ADA states a transit agency must take a vehicle out of service the moment a lift or ramp becomes inoperative, and returned to service only after all repairs or replacements are complete. Under no circumstance can an operator put a bus with a broken lift or ramp into service on any route. There are exceptions for communities with a population of 50,000 or fewer. If no other vehicle is available, and if taking the vehicle out of service would reduce the transportation service available to the general public, the transit agency may keep the vehicle in service for no more than five days; three days in areas with a population larger than 50,000.

Post-trip inspect problem equipment
When failures of accessibility equipment occur on a bus run or shift, conduct an immediate maintenance check when the vehicle returns to the yard. Records must also include instances in which no apparent problems were found for the reported failures. If this becomes a pattern for a particular bus, conduct more extensive diagnostics on the components in question.

Policies and training ensure compliance
ADA makes compliance imperative. Operating without detailed, written policies and procedures that address each ADA maintenance requirement invites serious inconsistencies in compliancy. These policies must be the focus of all training.

Preventive maintenance rules
Using the recommended OEM preventive maintenance information, transit agencies should develop detailed inspection and maintenance checklists for fall accessibility-related items. Mechanics are to completely attach these checklists to the primary inspection form to verify all recommended inspections and preventive maintenance.

Adhere to a schedule to clean and lubricate lift and ramp mechanisms frequently to protect the lift and improve its reliability.

Maintain a parts inventory
The manufacturers of accessibility equipment can supply a list of parts to purchase and keep in stock, as well as the quantity of each part. A review of maintenance and repair records can serve as the base to determine the needed parts.

Investigate all complaints
Thorough investigation of all complaints from disabled and impaired customers is critical to ADA compliance. The upshot is that transit officials can then use information obtained from investigations to address any performance issues and improve service.

Progressive discipline for the more serious infractions is important to a consistent ADA program. Transit and paratransit vehicle operators and maintenance employees need to know their performance and work is monitored, and to be mindful of the consequences to the agency and to themselves for violating established policies.

MAHA USA stresses safety training and routine inspections for all ALI certified lifts.

MAHA USA, Pinckard, AL, unites German engineering with quality American craftsmanship to produce the only wireless mobile column lift powered by ball-screw technology. The ball-screw is splash-proof and dirt repellent and promises minimal mechanical wear. This technology is trusted in high-precision market segments and has proven to be the most reliable for high mechanical efficiency.

Safety is the primary factor to consider in selecting a vehicle lift, which means investing in a quality lift that is certified. A nationally recognized independent testing laboratory, such as the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI), guarantees manufactures have met specific safety standards and that the lift is worthy of its golden certification label.

Not all lift manufactures are capable of meeting the safety standards for certification. More than a few lifts are sold “uncertified,” often at a lower cost, compromising safety for the technicians. Technicians should ask, “Will I trust myself to stand under a vehicle when the supporting lifting device has not undergone rigorous testing?”  The answer has to be no.

Once the company has selected the appropriate certified lift for the shop, proper use and safety training is next. No matter how advanced the lift is, its use defines its operation. Like most manufacturers, MAHA USA offers a strong and efficient support network of factory trained technicians and a large distributor base to provide a comprehensive selection of training sessions with the ability to competently convey technical knowledge to users of all levels.

Do not disregard the operator’s manual. Many operators tend to start using the equipment without making themselves fully aware of proper safety procedures. As operator error is the cause of most accidents, only proper training can ensure a safer, more efficient operation and prepare the user for emergencies.

Proper maintenance and routine lift inspections are the best ways to ensure safety awareness remains the number one priority. Most manuals have a periodical maintenance procedure. The company can also contact the manufacturer or representatives in the field for information and correct service instructions.

A greased lift is a happy lift. Keeping the equipment clean and lubricated ensures a long service life. As time goes on, check for signs of wear and mechanical failure associated with aging. Lifts get old too, so routinely inspect any items like cables and rollers and replace when necessary.
ALI recently introduced a program for Certified Lift Inspectors, which makes it easier and more convenient to connect with a certified technician to take care of and inspect ALI-certified lifts.

Stertil-Koni, Stevensenville, MD, a manufacturer of heavy-duty vehicle lifts, recently announced a major capital investment at its U.S. manufacturing facility, Stertil ALM, Streator, IL. The enhancements represent completion of the first phase of a substantial, ongoing commitment to plant modernization and efficiency.  For example, the company installed a state-of-the-art computerized cutting machine that utilizes a combination of plasma and oxy-fuel torches for extremely fast, high-precision manufacturing. Allan Pavlick, vice president, Stertil ALM, says as  a result, the company now has the ability to cut virtually all components required in-house.  Stertil-ALM also added two new, high capacity overhead cranes to its facility.

“These new innovations permit us to save time and money, while simultaneously enabling Stertil ALM to expand its commitment to hiring local workers,” says Dr. Jean DellAmore, president of Stertil-Koni USA, in a statement. “From a broader perspective, our investment in the latest technology also enables Stertil-Koni to bring product to market even more quickly and expand the company’s leadership in the design and production of top-rated heavy duty vehicle lifts.”

The Streator facility focuses on the production of a broad range of Stertil-Koni heavy duty vehicle lifts.  The product line ranges from mobile column lifts and platform lifts to the Ecolift — the industry’s first US patented, ultra-shallow, fill-rise, in-ground scissor lifting system.

The  breadth of products meets all ranges of lifting needs and includes mobile lifts, two-post, four-post, in-ground lifts, parallelogram lifts, half-scissors lifts and the  axle-engaging, in-ground, scissor-style heavy duty hydraulic lift configuration.

The company says its lifts are ideally suited to a full range of heavy duty vehicles such as buses and motorcoaches, as well as articulated buses, fire and rescue vehicles and multiple axle trucks.

Stertil-Koni says it differentiates its technology on a number of additional performance fronts.

1. The hydraulic cylinder is designed and installed in the mobile lifting column to protect the seals.  Only the piston rod is exposed during lifting.
2. In the case of power failure a Stertil-Koni mobile lifting column has provisions to allow manual lowering.
3. The unique synchronization system starts at a height difference of just 9/16 of an inch, ensuring safe and smooth lifting and lowering cycles regardless of weight distribution.
4. As an added safety feature, the Stertil-Koni mobile lifting column is designed with ample clearance between the column and the vehicle.
5. The standard length of the lifting fork is 14 inches, thereby accommodating proper and safe lifting of vehicles with super single tires.
6. Stertil-Koni hydraulic mobile lifts are equipped with self-lubricating synthetic wheels and a hydraulic pallet jack mechanism that incorporates a patented gas spring, making the column particularly easy to relocate.

The company unveiled three new services that it will provide:

1. Tire Maintenance Facility Evaluation – TireStamp experts will evaluate a fleets’ or a fleet’s outside service provider’s maintenance facility to determine if it is correctly equipped for proper tire maintenance.  This includes evaluating the building’s air system for adequate capacity, plumbing requirements to ensure moisture free air and lubrication to pneumatic tools, proper care and storage of impact and torque wrenches, federally required safety equipment, inventory of proper tools and materials for work performed, and proper maintenance of all tire-related service equipment. Evaluation of the fleet’s retread shop and wheel refinishing supplier is also included. Recommendations will also be made to increase productivity and efficiency.
2. Tire Maintenance Processes and Procedures Evaluation – TireStamp truck tire maintenance experts will evaluate the processes and procedures used within the facility and/or by the fleet’s tire service providers to ensure the proper tire maintenance procedures are being followed for tire mounting/demounting, tire inflation, tire repair, wheel maintenance, retreading, tire/wheel assembly installation on vehicles, scrap tire analysis, etc. and that all safety procedures are followed. Recommendations will also be made to eliminate tire/wheel-related problems and increase productivity and efficiency.
3. Tire and Wheel Maintenance/Servicing Training – According to OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.177, any employee that handles truck tries and wheels must receive safety training and demonstrate their ability to perform the necessary tasks prior to performing tire service work.  TireStamp’s certified Tire Industry Association (TIA) Instructor will train tire technicians and mechanics in the required procedures for servicing tire/wheel assemblies as required by OSHA. Training includes the use of TIA videos, hands-on as well as written tests, and provides the fleet with written proof that each person has been trained.

“There are many tire manufacturer and tire dealer representatives that can provide fleets with scrap tire analysis services,” says Peggy Fisher, president of TireStamp. ”But very few know and really understand the maintenance facility equipment requirements and correct processes that fleets should employ to get the optimum performance from their tire and wheels while working under the demands of the fleet’s operations. Our staff has over 60 years experience working in fleet environments and we are not afraid to advise fleets that are missing out on opportunities to improve their tire maintenance programs and reduce their costs.”

TireStamp says TireVigil TPMS can go a long way toward helping fleets reduce their tire problems by providing them with visibility of issues long before they become problems.

For more information about TireStamp Consulting Services see www.tirestamp.com or call TireStamp directly at (248) 373-0312.

Dana says the free iPhone app was developed to provide aftermarket customers with a way to access interactive calculators that help compute key product data to meet target performance and safety. Dana created the fuel-savings calculator, complete with a four-step process that offers an imperial and metric option. The calculator provides customers with data about the cost and fuel savings that can be obtained by using Spicer fuel-efficient synthetic gear lubricant. By entering the number of fleet trucks, average distance driven per year per truck, average fuel cost, and average MPG/KPL, customers can accurately predict fuel costs and fuel savings.

“Dana is committed to delivering reliable and quality products to our global customers, as well as providing accessible tools – such as these applications – that guide people toward efficient, effective, and safe vehicle operation,” said Bill Gryzenia, vice president and general manager for the Dana Aftermarket Group. “We are continually expanding our digital presence to create a strong network for our aftermarket customers to utilize.”

In addition to the fuel-savings calculator, two other calculators – an interactive driveshaft RPM calculator and driveline angle calculator – were built into the app. The company says the interactive driveshaft RPM calculator aids customers in determining the safe operating speed for their driveshaft. The driveline angle calculator aids in determining the correct universal joint operating angle to help eliminate vibrations and secure safety and functionality. Consumers can determine operating angles for both two-joint and three-joint shafts.

While launching its first iPhone application, Dana also has upgraded its existing Spicer for iPad app by adding the fuel-savings calculator, updating its current calculators, and incorporating additional literature to its digital platform. Dana is developing and planning to unveil additional innovative applications in the future.

The Spicer for iPad and Spicer tool kit apps are available from the iTunes App Store and can be downloaded for free by searching “Spicer.” For more information about Spicerparts, visit www.spicerparts.com.

“Challenger is an important addition to our Repair Systems & Information Group,” said Nick Pinchuk, Snap-on chairman and chief executive officer. “The Challenger vehicle lift product line complements and increases Snap-on’s existing undercar equipment offering, broadening our established capabilities in serving vehicle repair facilities. We believe this acquisition will further Snap-on’s progress along its strategic and coherent growth runway of expanding with repair shop owners and managers. We look forward to welcoming Challenger associates to the Snap-on family.”

The Edison Award, which recognizesinnovative products and services from companies around the world, is the second recognition in a month for the Dana Spicer® Diamond Series™ driveshaft. On April 15, the company also received a 2013 Automotive News PACE Award, which honors superior innovation, technological advancements and business performance among automotive suppliers. The product previously earned the Frost & Sullivan Best Practice Award for Technological Innovation.

Dana says the Spicer® Diamond Series™ driveshaft utilizes significantly reduces weight, delivers the strength of an all-steel system, and improves fuel efficiency and load-carrying capacity.

“This achievement is very special to Dana because it recognizes companies that have the innovative spirit of its namesake, Thomas Edison,” said Pat D’Eramo, president of Dana Commercial Vehicle Driveline Technologies. “To be honored among a wide array of products and services in nearly every industry demonstrates Dana’s leadership and commitment to innovation. This robust component adds to our already strong and balanced portfolio of products, and will serve our commercial vehicle customers’ unique needs while delivering exceptional performance and efficiency.”

Dana’s one-piece driveshaft eliminates the need for a center bearing to reduce component complexity and weight by up to 100 pounds. It also is eco-friendly, requiring no exterior tube painting and eliminating the metal inert gas (MIG) welding process to reduce emissions during manufacturing.