Latest Industry News Brief Courtesy of PMTA

TAT Awarded The Department Of Transportation Combating Human Trafficking In Transportation Impact Award For 2024

On July 30, marking UN World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced TAT as the first-place winner for its $50,000 Combating Human Trafficking in Transportation Impact Award for 2024. TAT won for its Youth on Transportation (YOT) Initiative, designed to prevent and interrupt youth exploitation at the intersection of public transit and school transportation.

 The award’s goal is to incentivize individuals and entities to think creatively in developing innovative solutions to combat human trafficking in the transportation industry and to share those innovations with the broader community.

YOT works to train the adults who work in the transportation ecosystems youth rely on, by giving them the knowledge they need to identify and report signs of grooming, exploitation and trafficking. By convening and connecting local stakeholders around the issue of youth exploitation and human trafficking, YOT facilitates community-wide collaboration to protect youth as they move through their days. Finally, by partnering with public transit systems to display and distribute youth-focused awareness materials, YOT equips young people and their parents with crucial information on how to understand vulnerabilities to trafficking.

To date, TAT has hosted three YOT convenings: November 2023 in D.C.; January 2024 in San Joaquin, California; and February 2024 in Denver, Colorado. It will be hosting its fourth in Cleveland, Ohio in September 2024.

 “On behalf of the TAT team and Board of Directors, we are incredibly grateful to receive this prestigious award from the USDOT,” stated TAT Executive Director Esther Goetsch. “Creating innovative solutions to combat human trafficking in the transportation industry is deeply important to us, and the Youth on Transportation Initiative serves as a shining example of that creativity. Through this initiative, and with the support of our dedicated transportation and public sector partners, we believe that more young people in diverse communities across our country will be better safeguarded from exploitation as they travel throughout their day.”

Transportation intersects with human trafficking on various levels. The 2021 National Outreach Survey on Transportation found that 81% of 107 survivors of human trafficking used transportation during their recruitment; 76% used transportation during the course of their exploitation; and 52% stated that transportation facilitated their exit or escape from their trafficking situation.

 For more on YOT, visit www.tatnonprofit.org/youth-on-transportation.

Reminder of Hazmat and Width Restrictions in Tunnels

The Maryland Motor Truck Association (MMTA) is encouraging restricted trucks to stay vigilant of restrictions in Baltimore tunnels on I-95 and I-895. 

According to MMTA, these are trucks that likely would have used I-695 before the Key Bridge Collapsed. 

MMTA states their staff has been informed law enforcement will be stepping up efforts to stop these vehicles. 

Size Limits and Hazmat Restrictions in Baltimore Tunnels:

Vehicles in excess of 13’6” in height, or 96” (8 feet) in width are prohibited from using the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895). The I-95 Ft. McHenry Tunnel restrictions are 14’6” height and 11’0” in width.

Most hazardous materials are prohibited in the tunnels and should use the western section of I-695. 

 A list of the specific prohibitions on various commodities is laid out in COMAR 11.07.01.04, which is available at: https://dsd.maryland.gov/regulations/Pages/11.07.01.04.aspx. 

 In addition, if you are operating a vehicle powered by natural gas, you are restricted from using the tunnels if the fuel capacity of the vehicle exceeds 150 pounds. See COMAR 11.07.01.03:  (https://dsd.maryland.gov/regulations/Pages/11.07.01.03.aspx).

FHWA Opens Applications for $800 Million in Funding to Reduce Climate Pollution from Transportation, Encourage Cleaner Construction Materials

 WASHINGTON, DC… The U.S. Department of Transportation is making available $800 million in funding under the Low Carbon Transportation Materials (LCTM) Program as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda and ongoing work to tackle the climate crisis. Administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), LCTM will support the use of low-carbon materials and products used in transportation that reduce air pollution, specifically greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). 

 FHWA made $1.2 billion available under this program to state departments of transportation in March 2024 and is now opening funding up to other potential applicants such as cities, metropolitan planning organizations, tribal governments and other federal, state and local agencies that also carry out transportation activities.  

 “As the Biden-Harris Administration works to modernize our nation’s transportation systems, we’re also making sure to use cleaner construction materials that reduce carbon pollution,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “With today’s announcement, we’re broadening these efforts so more key stakeholders in the transportation sector have the funding they need to build a cleaner future.”

 “We’re aiming to provide Americans with the best transportation at less cost to the environment,” said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “FHWA is making the program available to cities, tribes, and other local agencies to help ensure the entire transportation sector invests in sustainable transportation and takes part in addressing climate change.” 

 The Low Carbon Transportation Materials Grants program is one of three new programs at FHWA created by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment in climate action and clean energy in history. As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-governmentFederal Buy Clean Initiative, and consistent with Executive Order 14057, Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability, FHWA continues to closely collaborate with the Environmental Protection Agency and General Services Administration to implement related low carbon programs that were authorized in the Inflation Reduction Act. 

 The LCTM program makes $2 billion available under the Inflation Reduction Act for State Departments of Transportation, cities, Tribes, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and other agencies to incorporate more materials that create less pollution, including steel, concrete (and cement), glass, and asphalt.

 In addition to funding the use of cleaner construction materials that reduce pollution and carbon emissions for transportation projects, the program will provide resources for agencies to implement processes and coordinate with industry to quantify the emissions of construction materials. That information will allow substantially lower carbon materials to be identified by comparing emissions to established thresholds. Funding can also be used to develop specifications for low-embodied carbon materials that ensure adequate engineering performance for appropriate use on Federal-aid projects. Applicants are encouraged to update procurement processes to allow for or encourage the use of these materials. 

 The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is available from the program website: Low Carbon Transportation Materials Grants Program. 

Enrollment is Now Open for TCA Elite Fleet Program

  Enrollments for the new Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) Elite Fleet Program are officially open! This exciting certification program, created in partnership with the University of Denver’s Transportation & Supply Chain Institute, aims to spotlight and honor those North American for-hire carriers that offer best-in-class work environments, competitive compensation, and innovative practices for their drivers.

What Is it? A certification program that honors the best workplaces in truckload, focusing on driver satisfaction and company policies

How It Works Evaluation based on company data and driver programs, including metrics on safety, operations, compensation, benefits, quality of life, and technology. Surveys completed by drivers and independent contractors will help validate these factors.

  Who Can Apply? TCA for-hire carrier members

  Enrollment Opens August 27, 2024

  Enrollment Closes October 18, 2024

  Carrier Applications/Surveys Open October 21, 2024

  Carrier Applications/Surveys Close December 31, 2024

  Certified Fleets Announced January 22, 2025

  Recognition & Celebration Certified carriers will be honored at TCA’s 2025 convention March 15-18 in Phoenix, Arizona

If you’re a TCA member, this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your commitment to creating a superior work environment for drivers and the truckload community. Full program information and the enrollment form are available at www.TCAEliteFleet.com

Darryl Tolle with Ryder is CVSA's 2024 International Driver Excellence Award Recipient

  Washington, DC… The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is pleased to announce that Darryl Tolle with Ryder System Inc. has been selected as this year’s International Driver Excellence Award (IDEA) recipient. With more than 41 years of crash-free professional driving experience behind the wheel, Tolle has driven 3.6 million safe miles – 2.8 million of those miles during his 35-year tenure with Ryder. 

“I was ecstatic. I had goosebumps,” said Tolle when recounting the moment he found out he was the 2024 CVSA IDEA winner. “I was at a loss for words.” 

When Tolle first joined the Ryder team, he told the hiring manager he’d work at Ryder until he retired. Thirty-five years later, Tolle is still truckin’ at Ryder. 

  “Thirty-five years at one company speaks for itself, but Darryl had it in him to go further than that,” said Corey McSweeney, logistics manager at Ryder. “He has a sense of duty not only to his company, but to his country as well. For the first 22 years of his employment with Ryder, Darryl was also serving in the Kentucky Army National Guard.”

  “It’s crazy to think that he’s had a whole career in the National Guard and a whole career with Ryder, all while being a family man through it all,” said McSweeney. 

  “Ryder values someone who is responsible, determined and trustworthy. Darryl Tolle is the embodiment of this and more,” added McSweeney, who nominated Tolle for IDEA.

  “CVSA proudly recognizes Darryl Tolle as a champion of the trucking industry," said CVSA President Col. Russ Christoferson. "His unwavering commitment to safety, alongside his exceptional service to his community and country, sets a benchmark for commercial motor vehicle drivers everywhere. Mr. Tolle's achievements underscore the vital role these unsung heroes play in our daily lives.”

Acts of Service

As a four-time-decorated retired Kentucky Army National Guard sergeant first class (SFC) with 32 years of service, Tolle has a distinguished military record, including natural disaster response, humanitarian operations and clearing roadside bombs in Afghanistan. Here are just a few examples: 

* Worked with Barbadian and Dominican defense forces to remodel schools

* Constructed schools, medical clinics and restroom facilities in Ecuador

* Drove relief trucks after Hurricane Katrina 

* Drove dump trucks to rescue people from flooded homes after the 1997 flood in Cynthiana, Kentucky 

* Hauled soldiers near fire zones during Kentucky’s 2002 wildfire season 

“I was deployed with Darryl from 2002 to 2003,” said Steven T. King, retired brigadier general with the U.S. Army. “His selfless service made it evident that he placed the needs of the mission and the soldiers over his own. His work ethic and dedication made him stand above others as he was often seen working late to ensure the mission was completed to a high standard and his soldiers were taken care of in the process.” 

  “I served with Darryl Tolle for more than 20 years,” said Michael S. Ferguson, retired colonel with the U.S. Army. “Countless soldiers have been mentored by SFC Tolle. He was a long-time standard bearer, the go-to guy when you needed something done. This is a testament to SFC Tolle’s dedication to duty and selfless service.” 

  “Tolle has shown his bravery and dedication to helping keep civilians and his fellow service members safe,” said McSweeney. “It’s just who he is, and that sense of safety and security is just one of the reasons Darryl Tolle’s name is so widely known among Ryder and its customers.” 

  Tolle retired from the National Guard in 2012; however, his call to service didn’t stop there. He still finds ways to care for and serve his community – the United Veterans Group organization is one of those ways. From assisting local food banks and elementary schools, to servicing local cemeteries, Tolle – along with fellow retired veterans he served with in the National Guard – continues to support the community. 

  Caregiver and Support System

When his in-laws’ health started to decline, Tolle and his wife vowed to give them the best care possible, and they never wavered in that commitment. 

  “My father had a sharp and intelligent mind, but his body was failing him,” said Connie Tolle, Darryl’s wife of 43 years. “Darryl went out of his way to care for my elderly father. He would drive an hour and a half twice a week to aid with my father’s hygiene, collect dirty linens and clothes, pick up groceries and mail, pay bills, and run errands. Dad never had to go to a nursing home. He got to keep his independence, living in his home, because of Darryl.”

  Connie added, “A couple of years later, my mother was diagnosed with dementia. Darryl and I took her into our home and created a maintenance routine. As her dementia progressed, just about everything had to be done for her. It took a strong man to handle such a challenging situation, because on top of all that, I leaned on him hard, and he kept me from falling.”

  Family Man

“I am the child of a dedicated truck driver who has not only shaped my life but has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his profession, family and the wellbeing of others,” said Karryl Boggs, Darryl and Connie’s daughter. “My father has exemplified this commitment through countless hours on the road, ensuring essential supplies reach their destination and creating cherished memories for our family.”

  “My father’s engaging personality means he never meets a stranger,” added Boggs. “His extensive travels across the U.S. and beyond its borders have resulted in a plethora of stories and friendships. This ability to connect with people has not only made our lives more interesting but has also led to significant moments, such as saving a man’s life on the beach.” 

  Kenneth Tolle, Darryl and Connie’s son, said, “When I turned 16, my dad taught me how to drive, and I remember him always telling me to watch out for other drivers and to be careful of the bridges in the winter. However, the most important thing I can say my dad has taught me is how to be a father.” 

  It Takes a Team

Tolle says he couldn't have had his fulfilling career without the support of the teams in his life – his family, coworkers and mentors. 

  Tolle said his driving career all started with John Arnold, an experienced driver when Tolle first started. “He taught me a lot about safety. He taught me everything. He was a mentor to me. We worked together for years. In fact, he was the best man at my wedding.”

  Speaking of marriage, Tolle also acknowledged the support of his wife over the years. “She’s the best,” he said. Plain and simple. “She raised our family when I was on the road. She was the head of the household. Took care of everything. She is an excellent mother and, now, an excellent grandmother.”

  The Professional Driver

CVSA’s International Driver Excellence Award isn’t the only award Tolle has received during his professional driving career. In July, Tolle received Ryder’s Driver of the Year Award – an award that recognizes the exemplary efforts of the company’s standout professional drivers – joining Ryder’s elite Driver of the Year Hall of Fame.

  When asked what he enjoys most about his profession, Tolle said he likes getting to travel all over the country and he loves the people he works with, the suppliers and the customers. 

  With more than four decades of professional driving experience, Tolle has many valuable safety tips for his fellow drivers.

  “When you go to work, be focused on work,” said Tolle. “Don’t worry about what happened at home, what you have planned for next week, something that happened earlier that day; just stay focused on work. In fact, make sure you’re focused before you even get to work.”

  The most important tip he gave was to get to work early. “That way you’re not rushing.” That’s one of the biggest mistakes people make. “They’re in a hurry and skip steps.”

  Off the Road

When Tolle is not behind the wheel, he enjoys many hobbies and activities, including scuba diving, going on cruises, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking and vacationing with his family. He especially enjoys spending time with his grandsons – ages 11 and 14. Whether it’s taking them hunting or snorkeling with sharks, Tolle is sure to spoil them. “He loves being a papaw,” his son proudly added.

  

Tolle will attend the CVSA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Big Sky, Montana, in September where he will receive $5,000 and a crystal trophy at the general session and awards ceremony on Sept. 9.

  The 2024 International Driver Excellence Award was sponsored by PrePass Safety Alliance. PrePass Safety Alliance brings together state and motor carrier industry decision-makers to advance safety and efficiency on our highways. PrePass Safety Alliance’s mission is to make highways safer and more efficient through innovative data-driven solutions.

  As the leading organization working to improve commercial motor vehicle safety and enforcement by providing guidance, education and advocacy for enforcement and industry across North America, CVSA recognizes the exceptional careers of professional commercial motor vehicle drivers and their commitment to public safety through the International Driver Excellence Award.

This annual award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond the performance of their duties as a commercial motor vehicle driver, distinguishing themselves conspicuously and beyond the call of duty through the achievement of safe operation and compliance carried out with evident distinction for an extended period of time. The nominated individual must be of personal character beyond reproach with no disqualifying past behavior, as indicated in the award criteria. Tolle more than epitomized those criteria. 

Nominations for the 2025 award will open in spring 2025.

Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Releases Results Of 2024 Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative (HTAI)

Fifty-one jurisdictions took part in the 2024 Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative (HTAI) of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), which was carried out in the first few months of the year throughout the three nations of North America – Canada, Mexico and the U.S.

As part of the five-day awareness and outreach campaign to educate commercial motor vehicle drivers, motor carriers, law enforcement officers and the general public about human trafficking, participating individual law enforcement officers/troopers/inspectors held 334 human trafficking awareness and prevention events and made 204 presentations. In addition, there were 692 media contacts and 107 social media activities/outreach throughout North America. 

CVSA collaborated with TAT (Truckers Against Trafficking) to offer human trafficking identification and prevention training and reference materials to the motor carrier industry and law enforcement. During the five days of HTAI in each country, participants distributed 38,158 wallet cards, 13,510 window decals and 1603 posters. In the U.S., for the first time, TAT staffers participated in some activities alongside law enforcement officers.

Examples of law enforcement’s activities include:

* Handed out human trafficking information to drivers to review during the portion of an inspection when the driver is waiting

* Observed and spoke with passengers in trucks to monitor for signs of human trafficking

* Distributed flyers and wallet cards and talked to the public at truck stops, city halls, train and bus stations, ports of entry, department of motor vehicle offices, weigh/inspection stations, etc.

* Displayed the human trafficking hotline on digital roadway billboards

* Posted messages, videos, infographics, etc., to social media

* Included brief information about human trafficking and a hyperlink to more information in new entrant and compliance review emails

* Delivered human trafficking awareness and prevention training to motor carriers

* Issued news releases, held news conferences, and spoke with reporters for print and television news segments

* Completed the human trafficking online learning modules

* Participated in Wear Blue Day (in the U.S.) on Jan. 11

At the Love’s Travel Stop in Berthoud, CO, LaDonna Rogers, Port of Entry training coordinator for Motor Carrier Programs and Training for the Colorado State Patrol (center), and Zachary Miller, Dumont Port of Entry officer for the Colorado State Patrol (right), give a driver (in yellow vest) information on human trafficking and some TAT materials during HTAI week.

?Zachary Miller, a Dumont Port of Entry officer with the Colorado State Patrol, commented, “I found the HTAI events to be very rewarding and a great experience! While they took me out of my comfort zone, they gave me effective and positive ways to spread awareness about human trafficking, such as sharing what red flags to look out for and the resources TAT has available to help fight this crime. I also learned a lot by interacting with the truck drivers and hearing what they had to say. I really appreciated the opportunity to work these events accompanied by a TAT staffer and hope to do more events like this in the future! Thank you!”

Caption:

At the Love’s Travel Stop in Berthoud, CO, LaDonna Rogers, Port of Entry training coordinator for Motor Carrier Programs and Training for the Colorado State Patrol (center), and Zachary Miller, Dumont Port of Entry officer for the Colorado State Patrol (right), give a driver (in yellow vest) information on human trafficking and some TAT materials during HTAI week.

Best Fleets to Drive For® Nominations Open

 NEWMARKET, ONTARIO…  Best Fleets to Drive For®, produced by CarriersEdge®, has officially opened nominations for the 17th edition of the program. Now through October 31st, 2024, company drivers and independent contractors can visit www.bf2df.com to formally nominate the companies they work with as Best Fleets to Drive For.

 All for-hire fleets operating 10 or more tractor-trailers in the US or Canada, regardless of freight segment, are eligible to participate in the program. 

Once nominated, fleets who choose to participate complete a questionnaire and interview, providing information about driver programs across a range of categories. A selection of drivers is also surveyed, supplementing the information provided by management. Company responses and driver surveys are compiled and scored, with the top 20 scorers identified as Best Fleets to Drive For. The top 20 is then divided into “small” and “large” fleet categories and the top scoring fleet in each category is crowned Best Overall Fleet for the category. The top scoring fleet in the Hall of Fame will also be honored as an overall winner in that category.

 The Top 20 Best Fleets, the overall winners, and fleets entering the Hall of Fame will be recognized at the Best Fleets to Drive For Education & Awards Conference March 3-4, 2025 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina.

 Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge, noted, “despite coming through some of the most challenging conditions the industry has seen in decades, fleets have managed not to lose sight of the importance of supporting their drivers. We’re excited to hear about the new, innovative ways companies are making a difference for their people.” 

 More information on Best Fleets to Drive For, including best practices and details of past winners, is available at www.bf2df.com.

Follow the program on social media through the hashtag #BestFleets25, through the Facebook page www.facebook.com/BestFleetsToDriveFor, or LinkedIn www.LinkedIn.com/company/BestFleetsToDriveFor

Bendix Tech Tips: Post-Flood Inspection And Reconditioning Advice For Tractors And Trailers

AVON, OH…  Hurricanes and summer storms are once again unleashing torrential rain in regions of the United States, resulting in devasting floods requiring massive relief and rebuilding efforts – many of which depend on the trucking industry and thousands of truck drivers. For commercial vehicles exposed to these types of floodwaters, this special installment of the Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix) Tech Tips series provides fleets and drivers with technical advice on inspecting and possibly reconditioning air brake, wheel-end, and other safety components that have been partially or completely submerged.

“One important thing to note is that electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common, and service procedures for EVs require special training,” said Randy Salvatora, engineering manager – Vehicle Systems at Bendix. “Do not approach a previously submerged hybrid or electric vehicle until the high-voltage electrical system is inspected by a qualified technician.”

Salt Water vs. Fresh

The first determination to make is whether the water affecting the vehicle was salt water or fresh water. If it was salt water, you’ll need to immediately begin replacing parts due to its extreme corrosivity, which can remove lubrication and put certain parts at much higher risk for unexpected and premature malfunction. Any brake system valve that has been submerged in salt water must be replaced. In addition, systems and components including air compressors, air reservoirs, antilock brake system (ABS) relays, modulators, wiring harnesses, and brake actuators must also be replaced. Talk to your Bendix account manager or call the Bendix Tech Team for complete details.

“Saltwater corrosion is also a threat to brake mechanisms, since it increases the likelihood of rust jacking of the friction material and accelerates corrosion of critical surfaces,” Salvatora said. “So, we recommend complete replacement of the foundation brakes to prevent a potential future failure. And if it’s not clear whether the water was fresh or salt, play it safe and follow the saltwater guidelines.”

Additionally, when replacing any pneumatic system components that have been subjected to flood conditions, disconnect all contaminated air tubes and hoses, flush them with clean water, and blow them out with air pressure to remove contaminants.

Fresh-Water Damage Guidelines

If you’re certain the power unit or trailer was submerged in fresh water, begin by carefully power-washing the vehicle – including the foundation brakes. Be cautious while cleaning: Rubber parts and sealing interfaces should not be directly sprayed with the high-pressure jet. Irreparable damage to valves will occur when a high-pressure washer directly sprays exhaust ports. Appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is recommended while washing or working on flooded vehicles, whether salt water or fresh. In the unapplied state, most valves have the delivery open to atmosphere at the exhaust port, so if any exhaust port is submerged, the water has infiltrated the system and can lead to future malfunction.

Do not attempt to start a vehicle if fresh water has entered the air compressor or dryer through the air system intakes.

Follow these steps to thoroughly check the various parts of the air brake system:

* Vehicle valving

•Inspect each component in the pneumatic brake and accessory systems.

•Drain any pressure remaining in the service reservoirs.

•Mark and remove all pneumatic and electrical connectors at each valve.

•Check for evidence of water or contamination inside the connectors, air hoses, or the component itself.

•Carefully inspect any wiring harness connections. Water infiltration at the connector can lead to corrosion of the wiring harness inside the insulation. This can lead to intermittent continuity, increased resistance,  and time-consuming electronic diagnostics. 

•Carefully use dry compressed air pressure (from a stationary compressor or similar) to blow air through the pneumatic tubes and hoses. Watch for evidence of water or contamination.

•If water or contamination is found inside the component, replace the component.

•If no evidence of water or contamination is found inside the component, reassemble the component to the associated lines and fittings.

•Repeat this process as you continue to inspect all the valves in the air brake system. Replace any nonfunctioning valves or those showing evidence of ingestion of water or contaminants.

•Inspect tractor and trailer glad hands and the supply and control hoses. Water and contaminants frequently enter the air brake system through unprotected glad hands.

* Charging system

•Inspect the air intake, compressor, and air dryer for signs of water or contaminant ingestion.

•Carefully use dry compressed air pressure (from a stationary compressor or similar) to blow air through the pneumatic tubing and watch for evidence of water or contamination.

•An electrically driven air compressor that has been submerged is not serviceable and should be replaced.

•Use dry compressed air from a stationary air compressor (or suitable portable unit) to get any residual water out of the service tanks.

•Air dryers remove moisture in compressed air, but they will not remove moisture that’s present in the system beyond the service tanks.

•After reconnecting pneumatic lines, install a new or properly serviced air dryer to aid in removing any residual moisture from the air inlet.

 If you find signs of moisture or other contamination, then all the pneumatic air brake components should be replaced: Once water or contaminants get into any of the air brake components, it’s impossible to completely clear the system without total disassembly. Consider also the guidance included in the TMC Recommended Practice 617A for contaminant elimination procedure for tractor, trailer, or dolly air brake systems.

Wheel-Ends and Electronics

Examine all wheel-ends for water, which increases the possibility of corrosion between drum brake lining material and the shoe table (rust jacking), and can also pool in drums when left standing – increasing the risk of corrosion. You will also need to check the integrity of the friction couple between the friction and disc or drum. Water-filled loading docks may not immediately come to mind as “flood events,” but can certainly have the same impact to some wheel-end components such as slack adjusters.

Remove any fittings and mounting stud nuts, and orient ports downward to verify that no water has entered brake chambers through the air lines. If water is present, replace the actuator. Follow the appropriate wheel-end relubrication procedures, including re-greasing slack adjusters.

Assess the braking/safety electronics components by using a tool such as Bendix® ACom® PRO™ software to conduct a diagnostic download on systems such as ABS, ESC (electronic stability control), and collision mitigation controllers, including any front or side radar units. Electronics will validate through self-check in most cases: If the electronic control unit (ECU) is operable, it will check the necessary solenoids, sensor, harnesses, etc.

A visual inspection is still necessary. Any residual mud must be cleaned off the radar and radar cover. If any cracks or damage are observed, then both the radar and cover should be replaced. Make sure to inspect the seven-pin electrical connector interface between the tractor and trailer as well. Corrosion at this connection is a common cause of flickering lights and intermittent power to the trailer ABS system.

For further detailed reference, two Bendix Technical Bulletins are available in the Bendix Document Library at B2Bendix.com that serve as valuable resources for getting tractors and trailers back into service after they’ve been submerged:

* Flood Damage: Bendix Recommended Procedure for Trailer and Dolly Control Systems That May Have Been Submerged (TCH-003-048)

* Flood Damage: Bendix Recommended Procedure for Power Vehicles That May Have Been Submerged (TCH-003-049)

Back on the Road and Follow-Up Support

If your checks turn up no evidence of water or contamination, conduct a thorough test of the air brake system and ABS before returning the vehicle or trailer to service. Note that between the floodwaters and power-washing, it’s possible that ABS wheel speed sensors may have been moved from their normal position. Push them back into contact with the exciter ring by hand, and when the wheel turns, normal wheel-bearing play will adjust the sensor position.

“We recommend retesting and diagnostic checks of the electronic systems after the initial post-flood testing,” Salvatora said. “Additionally, make sure you’re following other vehicle and system manufacturers’ guidelines: Flooding can have bumper-to-bumper effects, and you can’t be too careful.”

Other Bendix support resources include 1-800-AIR-BRAKE, its Service Engineering team, and a library of Service Data Sheets and Technical Bulletins. 

ATA Truck Tonnage Index Rose 0.3% in July

Washington, DC… American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index increased 0.3% in July after declining 1.8% in June. In July, the index equaled 113.7 (2015=100) compared with 113.3 in June.

“While July wasn’t a strong month, we see continued evidence that the truck freight market is likely turning a corner, albeit slowly,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “Some of July’s small gain was likely due to strong import activity, especially at West Coast seaports. Decent retail sales and factory output growing slightly from a year earlier also helped truck tonnage last month.”

June’s decrease was revised down from our July 23 press release.

Compared with July 2023, the index decreased 0.9%. In June, the index was down 0.6% from a year earlier.

The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 116.7 in July, 3.4% above June. ATA’s For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index is dominated by contract freight as opposed to traditional spot market freight.

In calculating the index, 100 represents 2015.

Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.6% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.46 billion tons of freight in 2022. Motor carriers collected $940.8 billion, or 80.7% of total revenue earned by all transport modes.

ATA calculates the tonnage index based on surveys from its membership and has been doing so since the 1970s. This is a preliminary figure and subject to change in the final report issued around the 5th day of each month. The report includes month-to-month and year-over-year results, relevant economic comparisons, and key financial indicators.