Question 46 Friday, September 30th, 2005 @ 12:00 am

Q.		I was wondering what has happened to all the buzz about APU’s. I have seen more and more of them on the trucks but it seems that its no longer a hot topic, even you have not added additional comments since 07/24/05. I was really surprised that you have not covered the story […]

A.		APU’s are a hot topic, they offer you the comfort of not having to idle your engine for heat, air-conditioning or in cab power. The energy bill recently signed by the President has significant funds allocated to idle reduction and energy conservation, $94.5 million to be exact. Weight exemptions were a big part of it, essentially alleviating the worries of truck drivers who were concerned about putting these 400-500 lb units on their trucks. Additionally California has indicated after January 01/2008, there will be a 5 minute idle time in that state and that every truck entering that state after the technology that shuts the truck down after those 5 minutes.

Question 47 Thursday, September 29th, 2005 @ 12:00 am

Q.		It is said that diesel engines run better if they are never shut off and the temperature they operate at directly increases or decreases feul economy. When driving class 7 straight trucks, making multiple stops for deliveries (10 min. and less in a northern state climate, is it better to shut the engine off at […]

A.		Great question, however it would probably be best to get in touch with an engine manufacturer to get a sound answer. From my experience, and I heard this just this week, is that it is better to shut the engine down when stopping even if it is making multiple stops in cold climates. The engines themselves retain heat for longer times that you would expect and the way these engines are manufactured today, which is robust, enables drivers to start up and go within 5-10 minutes.

Question 53 Saturday, September 17th, 2005 @ 12:00 am

Q.		I’m very interested in DC Airco’s 9000 BTU unit for use in an enclosed police boat cabin. The problem is that I am having a very hard time finding anyone who has actual experiences to share about any of DC Airco’s products. Why is this? Sure like to hear whether or not […]

A.		We do not market nor recommend the DC Airco for Marine Applicatiions, our target market with that product is the Truck Market where we have had success in our first year of promotion. You might want to try the DC Breeze unit, you can find more information re. that product here. http://www.dcbreeze.com/ We have had some dealings with this company and I believe it is the product you are looking for.

Question 45 Tuesday, September 13th, 2005 @ 12:00 am

Q.		Is it true that espar products will only be distribted through thermo king dealers?

A.		No

Question 48 Saturday, September 10th, 2005 @ 12:00 am

Q.		We are now selling alternative fuel system & methanol based alternative fuel for diesel trucks. Are there any gov’t/state incentives/rebates for selling methanol fuel?

A.		Izzy, I am not aware of any, however you can always check this web site for opportunities and initiatives. http://www.epa.gov/smartway/