Every year refuse trucks are constantly evolving. Trucks that simply ran on diesel engines that could be worked on with no electronic computers are a way of the past. Trucks evolved, as emission standards increased and the demand for recycling. Today’s waste trucks have to comply with all emission standards placed on us by our government. Vehicles manufactured in 2007 and later exhaust less soot from the diesel engine process of creating power. The way we handle waste today compared to the past has not varied much, however, because of increased technology on the trucks, haulers’ jobs have only become much more challenging in keeping the trucks on the road and out of our shops.
Understanding the new technology is paramount to keeping the trucks on the street and out of the shop. It can be very frustrating when it is failing and there is not much we can do. Whether it is the regeneration process, properly filling diesel exhaust fluid, or fast or slow filling natural gas trucks, all require exact procedures that need to be followed. If these procedures are not followed, the technology virus grabs ahold of a specific truck and never lets it go. In my experience once a truck is doomed with an electrical issue or regeneration issue, it can be a costly cure. There are many ways I have seen these manufacturers attempt to fix these issues. They usually start by setting up a phone conference with tech support walking mechanics through trouble shooting task. If that doesn’t work, the trucks are towed to a service center (in our case 90 miles away). Most recently, we have been told a “glitch” in the ECM had caused all of the issues of break down. I have seen brand new trucks, with not even the slightest scratch on them, costing upwards of $315,000, on the back of a wrecker heading to a repair shop more times than it has hauled garbage. What’s wrong with this picture!
I encourage you to introduce your company to formal training videos regarding new technology. Contact your truck manufacturer, such as MACK, Peterbuilt, Autocar, etc., they can provide you with support videos and additional information regarding the technology. Challenge your maintenance staff to enroll in higher education. Anyone who manages, operates, repairs the new equipment of today better have an above average understanding of the equipment. This will help prevent issues from arising. Like anything the best teaching tool is hands on experience. In addition to hands on experience, there are many online resources and courses ranging from $75 to $200 per course. These courses offer videos, pictures, course material relating to new technology. A simple search on Google or Bing will pull up many sites offering continuing education. This very magazine has ads with the resources needed to continue education. However, be prepared to be patient during this process because sometimes, even when you are doing everything right, the technology bug can still get you. Changes in the industry are inevitable but with the right training and education, you can help your company make it through the process.
John Paglia III is a 4th generation garbage man. Before he climbed the ranks to become Florida Express Environmental’s General Manager, he had a successful career in college and professional athletics. John has been around the garbage industry since his car seat days. Currently, John is focused on growing his company and offering the highest level of customer service and prolonging the world we live in today. John wakes up every day knowing the impact professional haulers have on their community is far greater than most realize. He can be reached at (352) 629-4349, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.floridaexpress.us.
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