YEAH, IT’S LIKE THAT.
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24 Fleet Maintenance | November/December 2018
or by their trailer dealer,” FlowBelow’s
Butler says.
But, SmartTruck’s Ingham adds that
in most cases, fl eets decide to spec aerodynamic
devices with the purchase
of a new trailer, so it makes the most
sense for the trailer OEM to install the
device. “One of the trigger mechanisms
for making decisions about aerodynamics
is the purchase of a new trailer,”
Ingham explains. “All of our devices
can be installed online when the
trailer is manufactured, so there is no
extra eff ort required on the part of the
purchaser when it’s associated with a
new trailer purchase.”
Fleets also have the option to work
with a third-party installation professional
that has been trained by the aerodynamic
device provider. Manufacturers
may off er a network of providers who are
able to install aerodynamic devices for
fl eets who are adding them to trailers
they already have.
Aerodynamic device
maintenance
Aerodynamic devices should be inspected
at regular intervals to ensure that
everything is functioning properly and
there is no visible damage.
“We recommend that everything is
looked at during all scheduled intervals
or service,” says STEMCO’s Piper. “Our
history shows less than $30 a year in parts
average during the life of the product.”
“Regularly scheduled maintenance
is recommended per the aerodynamic
device supplier’s recommendation,” adds
Great Dane’s Lee.
During inspections, fl eets should
check for structural damage and signs
of wear and tear. Also check bolts and
brackets to ensure that everything has
remained tight during use. Any safety
concerns should be addressed during
maintenance.
The future of
aerodynamics
Improving truck and trailer aerodynamics
is not a new concept, but the industry
is just starting to see an increased adoption
of these devices. Much of that initial
adoption was mandated by government
VehicleServicePros.com/10120677
» Many fleets initially
installed trailer skirts to
comply with California’s
SmartWay certified
trailers mandate.
Photo courtesy of FlowBelow
» Trailer tails help minimize
the low-pressure vacuum
that occurs directly
behind the trailer.
Photo courtesy of STEMCO
Check aerodynamic
devices
for structural
damage and wear at
regular intervals.
through repair shops or subcontractors
is also an option.”
For fleets that elect to install in
their own facilities, most aerodynamic
device manufacturers offer support
materials and detailed instructions
for installation. “Our system can be
installed in under an hour by either
the fleet’s maintenance/service crews,
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/10120677