This is part one of a two part story.
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Fleets and service providers have several questions to answer when considering how to effectively choose the best distributors and sources for parts, lubricants, tools, and shop equipment. These extend beyond pricing, because so much can affect the true cost of doing business with them. How do they communicate? How fast can they deliver what you need? And what kind of variety and inventory do they have?
All of these factors can impact uptime, and therefore your revenue. For example, if Distributor A offers better pricing than Distributor B, but ordering is complicated and time-consuming, or all the necessary information isn&#;t readily available, that hurts your labor efficiency for that specific task. But if making one poor parts specialist go through an exhaustive search gets a truck back on the road faster and generating revenue, that&#;s time well spent.
John Centnarowicz, sr. category manager, vehicle maintenance, Zoro.com, pointed out that choosing the best sources is situational.
&#;If it&#;s an emergency and the business stops running, finding a source that can ship the part you need the same day is going to be one of the most important factors,&#; he said. &#;If it&#;s a planned upgrade or an opportunity to make your fleet run more efficiently, the source needs to offer a wide selection of products so you can find the right parts for the particular make or model of your vehicle.&#;
There are several other things to consider in choosing how and where you get parts, so we put together some best practices to choose a distributor for a fleet&#;s various needs.
With so many SKUs out there, it&#;s hard to keep track of it all. One way to make this easier is knowing where to find the correct parts information.
&#;Fleets and service providers should have access to all the correct parts information so they can properly prepare for a service event,&#; said Anthony Balkonis, VP, service and warranty, Navistar, who got his start as a service advisor 24 years ago.
But how to make parts visibility more accessible? In a blog created by Chevin, the fleet management provider recommended an orderly inventory room with a focus on high-volume items. Parts room personnel &#;should be trained to recognize which parts in your inventory are fast moving, therefore needing to be reordered more frequently.&#; These are likely parts involved in preventive maintenance. Conversely, shops should also identify less-used and obsolete parts to clear shelf space, which also lowers costs and reduces unnecessary spend.
Chevin noted suppliers are more familiar with manufacturer parts lists and should be able to help train staff to optimize organizational procedures.
And identifying which parts are most used can also be tracked via fleet management software, as well as through a supplier&#;s ecommerce site. Chevin noted the ability to integrate your fleet management system into the parts supplier&#;s system also improves efficiency and visibility.
A good parts provider also &#;asks what options are available for parts, such as new and remanufactured items, and what makes sense for the specific situation,&#; Balkonis said. He added Navistar in particular &#;can help by leveraging our insight on what products fleets are using.&#;
You would be surprised at how many pieces make up your trailer. You can choose from a wide range of high-quality trailer parts for recreational and commercial applications. When trailer parts need to be serviced, finding the best ones that fit your vehicle can take time and effort. We make shopping for trailer parts for you&#;re trailer simple. Here are the trailer parts you may need to know about in order to have the best for your hauler.
Are you wondering what materials make up a trailer? Check out this blog to understand more about what trailers are made of, and the best materials for a trailer.
Trailer PlugsA trailer plug is an electrical connector plugged from a towing car or a truck to the trailer to supply lighting, such as brake lights, signal lights, and reverse lights. We offer various sizes of trailer plugs in KY, like 4-way, 6-way, and 7-way, that are built to last.
Trailer HitchesTrailer Hitches allow you to haul a trailer of any kind on your trip over long distances&#;depending on what your vehicle can handle. Trailer hitches come in many different forms because there are multiple uses for trailer hitches. You have receiver hitches, bumper hitches, weight distribution hitches, ball mounts, pintle hitches, and more! Contact us to find out what you need, and look below for more details on these trailer hitches in KY.
Receiver HitchesReceiver hitches are a popular choice for those who want to tow a trailer or attach accessories to their vehicle. They come in different sizes, and one of the key features to consider is the length of the hitch. The good news is that you can find receiver hitches in five different lengths to fit your needs: 6, 8, 12, 24, and 36 inches. This means that you can choose the length that will work best for your specific vehicle and towing needs.
Bumper HitchesBumper hitches are essential trailer parts that provide a secure connection between your vehicle and trailer. The Step Bumper Hitch W/2&#; Receiver Tube is a popular choice among trailer owners with its lbs capacity and painted finish.
Weight Distribution HitchesWeight distribution hitches are an excellent solution for those who frequently tow trailers with heavier tongue weights. These hitches work by applying leverage between the tow vehicle and trailer, resulting in a more level ride with less stress on the rear of the tow vehicle. This can help to improve safety and stability while towing.
One of the key benefits of weight distribution hitches is their high towing capacity. Many weight distribution hitches are rated for towing capacities of up to 10,000 lbs, making them suitable for a wide range of trailer sizes and weights. This means that you can rely on a weight distribution hitch to provide the necessary support and stability when towing heavy loads.
Ball MountsOur ball mounts come with capacities ranging from to lbs. If you are towing a heavier load, opt for a ball mount with a higher weight capacity. Ball mounts are designed to fit 1 1/4&#;, 2&#;, and 2 1/2&#; receiver tubes. Receivers are available in steel, forged steel, and aluminum, which means you can choose the material that best fits your budget and preferences.
Pintle HitchesPintle hitches can be used when towing light, medium, or heavy-weight trailers. They are available in 4 or 6-bolts with capacities ranging from - lbs. FastLatch pintles are designed with safety in mind and feature an automatic secondary lock for added security, eliminating the need for cotter pins or other manual locking mechanisms. We also have &#;Combination Pintle Hitches,&#; which are ideal for farm, construction, and general use.
Trailer WheelsWe offer various sizes of durable trailer wheels that are affordable and can be used for multiple purposes on rocky, sandy roads. Our trailer wheels are aluminum and come in different styles and designs. There are paint finishes, chrome finishes, galvanized finishes, and spoke mods.
Trailer wheels are an essential part of a trailer that must be inspected on every trip to ensure there is no leak and the lug is tight. If there are problems with the trailer wheels, it could result in loss of control in rain and snow. Aluminum wheels are stronger, better looking, lighter weight, and more durable than their steel counterpart.
Trailer Wheel PartsTrailer wheels and tires are an essential component of any trailer, and their smooth operation is critical to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. The wheels themselves consist of several parts, including the rim, tire, and hub assembly. The rim is the outer edge of the wheel that holds the tire in place while the tire provides traction and stability on the road.
The hub assembly includes the bearings and the axle, which help the wheel rotate smoothly. Other parts, such as lug nuts and wheel studs, hold the wheel securely to the trailer. Regular maintenance and inspection of these trailer wheel parts are crucial to ensure they are in good working order and help to prevent any accidents or breakdowns on the road.
Trailer Bearing KitsWhen it comes to trailer parts trailer bearing kits are a crucial component in ensuring that the wheels operate smoothly and safely. The kit typically contains a variety of essential parts, including bearing protectors. They also keep grease inside the hub and water out.
Finally, they also keep excess grease from being thrown on the wheels while trailering. Popular bearing kits are efficient for - lb axles, and each kit contains an inner/outer bearing, inner/outer races, double lip seal, and a cotter pin.
As the trailer wheel bearings are constantly under high stress and heat due to the weight of the trailer and the friction from the road, it&#;s essential to regularly inspect and replace them to avoid any potential accidents or breakdowns. Trailer bearing kits are available in different sizes and configurations depending on the trailer and wheel type, and selecting the right kit is crucial for optimal performance.
By regularly maintaining and replacing trailer bearings using top-quality trailer bearing kits, you can ensure that your trailer remains in good condition, extends its lifespan, and provides safe and comfortable travel.
Trailer HubsTrailer hubs play a vital role in ensuring a safe ride, and they are an essential component of any trailer. The hub is the central component of the wheel assembly that attaches to the axle and holds the wheel in place. It contains the bearings, races, and a grease seal, which keep the bearings lubricated and prevent debris from entering and damaging them.
Trailer hubs come in different configurations depending on the type of trailer, size, and weight capacity required. Regular inspection and maintenance of trailer hubs are critical to ensure they are in good working condition, and any signs of wear or damage should be addressed immediately.
Investing in high-quality trailer parts for your trailer hubs is critical for optimal performance and safety on the road. By choosing top-of-the-line trailer parts, you can rest assured that your trailer hubs are designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use, ensuring your safety and the safety of your cargo. Regular maintenance and replacement of your trailer hubs are vital for extending the life of your trailer.
Trailer DrumsThe drum brake system consists of a brake drum, brake shoes, and a wheel cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, the hydraulic system forces the wheel cylinder to push the brake shoes against the brake drum, creating friction and slowing down the trailer. Regular inspection and maintenance of trailer drums are crucial to ensure that they are in good working order, as worn-out or damaged drums can lead to brake failure and potentially dangerous situations on the road.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Truck and Trailer Parts Solution. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Choosing high-quality trailer parts for your trailer drums is also essential to ensure optimal performance and safety. By investing in top-quality trailer parts for your trailer drums and regularly maintaining them, you can enjoy a safer and more efficient braking system and peace of mind on every journey. To learn more about trailer brakes, check out this article on disc vs. drum breaks.
Trailer LightingTrailer lighting, like trailer wheels, needs to be inspected multiple times so that they are not broken and are functioning correctly. If trailer lights are damaged or are not working correctly, your trailer is unsafe to drive. Since trailer lighting informs the driver behind you if you are braking or making a turn, trailer lights need to be fixed as soon as possible.
The driver behind you will not know you are braking, which could result in being rear-ended. We offer a variety of high-quality trailer lighting, from reverse to brake lights, as well as turning lights with multiple designs and styles. To learn about LED trailer lights more in-depth, check out this blog.
Trailer Clearance LightsOur trailers come equipped with premium clearance lights that alert other drivers to your width, ensuring maximum visibility and safety on the road. As per the regulations, trucks over 80 inches wide must run clearance lights on both the front and back.
At Four Winds Trailers, we make sure that our clearance lights are not only functional but also meet the color requirements set by the regulations. The clearance lights on the front of our trailers are yellow, while the lights on the rear are red, providing excellent visibility and signaling to other drivers.
Trailer ReflectorsAt Four Winds Trailers, we understand the importance of safety when it comes to hauling your trailers on the road. That&#;s why we offer a wide range of premium trailer parts, including essential trailer reflectors.
Our trailer reflectors are made of high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring your safety on the road no matter the weather. These reflective parts are strategically placed on the sides, front, and rear of trailers to enhance visibility and increase safety. They are designed to reflect light from other vehicles&#; headlights back toward the driver, improving visibility in low-light conditions.
We offer a variety of trailer reflectors in different sizes, shapes, and colors to fit the needs and purposes of your trailer. Choose Four Winds Trailers for your trailer parts needs and experience the peace of mind that comes with top-quality products and enhanced safety features.
Trailer Light BarsOur trailer light bars are ideal for trailers transporting goods or equipment at night, in adverse weather conditions, or in poorly lit areas. We offer a wide range of trailer light bars, including different types of lights, such as brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights.
These lights help other drivers on the road understand the trailer&#;s movements and intentions, making it easier to operate and preventing accidents. Trust Four Winds Trailers for your trailer parts needs and experience the peace of mind that comes with enhanced safety features.
Trailer Turn SignalsTrailer turn signals are typically located on the sides and rear of the trailer and emit a flashing light to indicate the direction of the trailer&#;s turn. They help drivers on the road to understand the trailer&#;s movements and intentions, reducing the risk of accidents. They come in different types of bulbs, such as LED or incandescent, to provide optimal brightness and visibility.
Trailer JacksWe provide the proper trailer jack stands for your trailer. Our trailer jacks are built to last and can withstand heavy loads. We offer trailer jacks that are simple to use and easy to jack up and lower. Our trailer jacks will allow you to quickly hook and unhook trailers on a truck by smoothly operating the trailers.
Trailer BallWe offer highly rated trailer balls that are easy to use, make towing safe and secure, and provide you with ease of mind when hauling long or short distances. The trailer ball measurement is 2 inches in diameter; it&#;s a device that gets attached to the truck&#;s hitch and is greased, which increases and allows the trailer maneuverability at a heavy speed on highways as well as when making a turn on a tight road. Trailer balls can be used on multiple-sized trailers and have a towing capacity of between to lbs.
Trailer Ball MountsTrailer ball mounts are critical trailer parts that help to attach a trailer to the towing vehicle securely. These ball mounts are designed to fit into a receiver hitch on the rear of the towing vehicle. The ball on the end of the mount is available in a range of sizes to accommodate different trailers and loads. The size of the trailer ball mounts is essential to ensure proper weight distribution and prevent accidents while towing.
Trailer FenderWe also offer high-quality tandem trailer fenders with multiple fender sizes and materials such as aluminum and steel. Trailer fenders provide numerous advantages and benefits. Trailer fenders protect your trailer from getting corrosion because of all that excessive debris exposure.
Trailer fenders also protect the body of your trailer or whatever you&#;re hauling, for example, a boat. It will prevent the boat from getting ruined by debris, mud, and rock bounced off by the wheel&#;s rotation. The trailer fender also protects the trailer&#;s paint from getting destroyed. Having a durable fender also protects the windshield of a car that is behind you.
Trailer Safety ChainsTrailer safety chains are a backup for your trailer hitch if the hitch gets damaged and breaks. Trailer chains are supposed to be installed crisscrossed so that it is distinct from each other. We offer high-quality safety chains in a variety of sizes for different oversized trailers. Safety chains also prevent the trailer from swerving during heavy snow or rain.
We recommend you have two safety chains on the tow hitch so that when you are in a collision, you have extra weight protection to keep the trailer from getting detached from your trailer. For more information on trailer safety chains, check out this article.
Trailer PanelsWe have a variety of pre-painted trailer panels for interior and exterior uses. Our trailer panels are high-quality panels with multiple color and size options. Trailer panels are mainly covering used for enclosed trailers&#; interiors and exteriors, which protects your tools while driving at high speeds on an interstate or when making turns and offers protection from weather damages. We provide affordable trailer panels with different types of material that will not rot or corrode.
Trailer AxlesWe offer multiple trailer axles with different weight ratings. Trailer axles provide great suspension and a quieter ride during long or short travels. Trailer axles bear and spread the trailer&#;s weight and allow the trailer&#;s wheel to move. We provide trailer axles that are rated for multiple wheels. Whether single or double, trailer axles offer you a smoother ride on bumpy roads, rocky roads, and windy environments. Our trailer axles range from utility trailers dumb trailers, and any commercial trailer.
Spring AxlesSpring axles consist of a set of steel springs that connect the trailer&#;s wheels to the frame. The springs absorb shock and vibration caused by uneven terrain, helping to reduce stress on the trailer&#;s structure and contents. We offer different sizes and capacities of spring axles, depending on the trailer&#;s weight and the load it carries.
Common sizes range from 2,000 pounds up to 10,000 pounds, and higher capacity options are available for heavier loads. Besides axles, we offer related components, such as hangers and shackles, to fit different types and sizes of trailers. Proper installation and maintenance of spring axles are crucial for ensuring their longevity and safe operation.
Torsion AxlesWe offer reliable and durable trailer parts to ensure a smooth and safe ride for your cargo. These high-quality trailer parts are designed to provide exceptional suspension and stability, ensuring your cargo remains secure and protected during transport.
Breakaway SwitchA breakaway switch is mounted on the truck&#;s hitch or can also be mounted on the trailer. The breakaway switch is attached to the trailers, and if the trailer is detached from the car while towing, it activates the switch to engage the electric brakes on the trailer, which makes the trailer slow down and come to a standstill.
The breakaway switch is wired to the 12-volt battery of the vehicle, which helps it detect if it&#;s detached. Breakaway switches are an excellent safety tool for your trailer if you haul a trailer for long distances. We offer long-lasting breakaway switches, so you don&#;t have to keep changing them all the time.
Check out this article for more information on breakaway switches.
Trailer Parts From Four Winds TrailersLooking for a gooseneck flatbed trailer for yard work? Or maybe an enclosed trailer for hauling? What about a car tow dolly for transporting vehicles? Or a cattle trailer insert for moving cattle? Four Winds Trailer offers a large variety of trailers and trailer parts for your needs. Take a look at our inventory and find the perfect trailer for your needs!!
Are you interested in learning more about Heavy Duty Leaf Spring? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!