The premier West Coast educational conference for the vehicle maintenance industry

2008 Conference Sessions

Monday || Tuesday || Wednesday || Thursday

Monday, March 24, 2008

8:00–8:30 A.M.
Opening General Session

The opening general session is an important first step in maximizing your VMMC experience. The 2008 conference officers John Breland, Chair; Kerry Swayne, Vice-Chair; and Gene Jakubczak, Secretary, will provide detailed information necessary for you to get a running start on making the most of the many educational opportunities that the conference has to offer.

8:30-9:00 a.m.
Keynote Speaker: Jim Lopez, King County Executive Office

King County is on the leading edge of greehouse gas emmision reduction. Jim Lopez will look at greenhouse gas emissions and programs and tools to help you reduce your carbon footprint.

9:05-10:30 a.m.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Managing Equipment Fleets

Presenter: Bill Purdie, MobileNet, Inc.

Today’s technologies allow fleet owners to monitor their equipment, benchmark usage, and run their machines safely and more productively than ever before. This session will cover the latest GPS, satellite, cellular and private wireless data collection networks, and commercial software concepts available to fleet managers. The link between improved field productivity and increased up-time will be addressed, as well as how to reduce overall vehicle and equipment operating costs.

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Electric, Hybrid and Plug and Drive Vehicles are Available Today

Panel Facilitator: Bill DeRousse, City of Everett, MVD
Panelists:

With all of the talk about our environment, carbon footprints and the price of fuel, the use of alternative vehicles is more important then ever. Our panelists represent the vehicle manufacturers of the future. Whether you are looking for a biofuel, hybrid, pure electric or a plug and drive vehicle, you can not miss this opportunity to hear about what is available today.

Proper Use of Wire Rope, Slings and Chains

Presenter:Art Stanley, West Wire Rope & Riggings, Inc.

In this informative session we will discuss what is “Below the Hook” including requirements and how to inspect your slings, hooks and shackles. Learn how to quickly tell if your chain is stretched beyond safety limits, what to look for when inspecting your non-metallic slings, how and why wire rope wears and what to look for when inspecting your rigging. You will learn why sling angle is important and you will come away from this session with a very useful handout which cuts through the jargon and provides references that you will use in the future.

11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Basic Electrical Repair and Battery Maintenance 101

Panel Facilitator: Kerry Swayne, Washington State Department of Ecology
Panelists:

Re-learn the basics of electrical repair. Questions covered include: why make a proper repair; what are the proper tools for the repair; how to use that tool and connectors, how to make a proper repair; and how to know when a repair is done correctly.
Re-learn battery basics: different battery types, Gel Cell, AGM and Flood Cell. Learn proper maintenance and charge regimens for each, based on a comprehensive diagnostics program and follow up on preventive maintenance.

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Filtration, Yes or No

Panel Facilitator: Paul C. Dennis, Conoco Phillips Petroleum Marketers
Panelists:

Join us for a debate style forum on the effects of new fuels and lubes on your fleet operations.

Lurking Regulated Wastes

Presenter:Tom Cusack, Washington Department of Ecology

Do you know regulated wastes are lurking in your maintenance shops? This presentation will take you on a journey to uncover the regulated wastes that are generated in automotive shops during routine maintenance. We will learn how to manage shop waste by using the regulations with the overall goal to avoid unpleasant visits from your local regulators.

1:30-3:00 p.m.
You’ve had a Traffic Collision, Now What?

Presenter:Greg Wilcoxson, Washington State Patrol

As the number of heavy-duty trucks and the amount of freight they transport continues to increase, so does the possibility that your company’s truck will be involved in a traffic collision. Would you like to learn about the important roles that law enforcement, drivers and company management can play during and following a heavy-duty truck collision? If your answer is “yes”, then this session is for you. The presenter will discuss and explain what you might expect during and after a collision investigation, including the uses of engine and airbag technology for collision reconstruction.

Ford 7.3L Power Stroke Diagnosis

Presenter:Jeff Rheavme, CARQUEST Technical Institute

The fastest growing vehicle group today is electronic diesel light- and medium-duty trucks. This course focuses on the popular Ford 7.3L Power Stroke. Beginning with a fundamental review of the basics of electronic direct injection systems the technician will learn how to properly test and diagnose the major systems, including the fuel supply, HEUI injection, high pressure oil and exhaust backpressure regulator systems. Topics will include the use of the scan tool during diagnosis. Also included are common pattern failures and preventive maintenance service procedure.

Diesel Retrofit Programs (Exhaust After Treatment)

Panel Facilitator: David Adler, Washington State Department of Ecology
Panelists:

There is still retrofit grant money available. Private and government fleets may benefit greatly from this program. Find out about current retrofit programs and technologies. Also, learn about exhaust and crankcase after treatments.

3:30-5:00 p.m.
Introduction to Mobile Hydraulic Certification

Presenter:Scott Bittler, Terex Utilities

Participants will learn what is involved in the four steps to certification. This session will include detailed schematic readings, component and system identification and basic system operation.

Specialty Vehicle Design – Police Patrol Cars

Panel Facilitator: Kim Svidran, Washington State Motor Pool
Panelists:

The Specialty Vehicle Design Series Session for 2008 will focus on police patrol cars.

  1. How to properly specify the vehicle to facilitate the installation of the equipment configuration desired by the user agency.
  2. How to accomplish the installation of equipment, whether the work is performed in-house, by the supplier, by a third party or a combination of methods. Gene Jakubczak, Fleet Services Director for the City of Spokane, will discuss vehicle specifications and the methodology utilized by the City of Spokane for preparing the patrol vehicles for service. Alan Bateman of Financial Consultants International (F.C.I.) will discuss third party preparation of patrol cars. Other panelists will be available for questions. A completed City of Spokane police patrol car will be featured in the equipment show.
What’s in Your Fleet Maintenance Program Matters

Presenter:John Clements, San Diego County

The feds are knocking at your door, there was an accident involving one of the vehicles your organization maintains and they want to see your fleet maintenance program and records. What you do next will determine if you are still employed in the morning. John Clements, Fleet Manager for San Diego County, will share with you what you should do, what you need to have in your maintenance plan and what you do not want to do. If you follow John’s directions your job and your organization’s reputation will be intact. Most important, the users of your vehicles will be confident that the vehicles you maintain are safe and properly maintained.

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
First Level Management

Presenter:Phil Barto, P.E., Fleet Engineering Services

This session is for those who are thinking about going into management or have recently become managers. Part one is the Introduction to Management. It covers the advantages and disadvantages of a management job. It also covers the most important duties of a manager and the difference between the duties of crew members and the foreman. We will talk about interacting with the crew members, other managers and your supervisor. There will be a brief discussion on ways of handling discipline and doing performance evaluations.

Part two is Supervising Employees with Bad Attitudes. Learn basic management skills to deal with employees with bad attitudes. The goal is to provide you with basic leadership skills that can be used immediately. There will be plenty of time for discussion. Bring your real-life problems; they are welcomed and encouraged!

Are Your Tires and Wheels On or Off?

Panel Facilitator: Rich Cetnarowski, Tire Distribution Systems
Panelists:

This double session will address the root causes of wheel-off accidents and related failures, proper mounting and maintenance of wheel components, preventing tread off issues on tires and retreads, and practical real world aspects of the tire and wheel industry. Industry representatives will ensure you are armed with the knowledge to operate a safer and cost-effective fleet.

Hybrid Medium/Heavy Duty Truck Update

Presenters:

This double session will provide you with the very latest information on hybrid trucks. Representatives from the International Truck and Engine Company, Freightliner and Kenworth will describe the benefits of their new diesel-electric hybrid chassis. Also, their new hybrid chassis have drive systems jointly developed by the truck manufacturer and Eaton Corporation. We will also hear from mounted equipment manufacturers who will discuss their involvement in developing and integrating personnel lift, mounted equipment onto the hybrid cab and chassis. In addition, the equipment exhibit area will feature one or more of these hybrid trucks for all to see.

1:30-5:00 p.m.
Optimizing Shop and Parts Functions

Presenter:Kelly Walker, Kelly Walker Associates

Kelly Walker, a nationally recognized expert in fleet management, presents this double session to explain how to modify your maintenance and parts operations for maximum efficiency. The current shortage of skilled technicians can be mitigated through improving the productivity of your operations. This is an invaluable class for anyone working in maintenance operations.

1:30-3:00 p.m.
Overcoming the Maintenance Challenges of Your Hybrid Vehicles

Presenter:Bob Biesiedzinski, Shoreline Community College

This session will cover the dos and don’ts of maintaining hybrid vehicles. What cautions should be taken when working with high voltage? Can we install radios and computers in our hybrid vehicles? What should we not do while working on hybrid vehicles?

Load Securement and Commercial Vehicle Inspection

Panel Facilitator: Scott Beal, Peninsula Light Company
Panelists:

The panelists from the Washington State Patrol will discuss Load Specific Cargo Securement and Pre/Post Trip Vehicle Inspections. This session will walk participants through the requirements as they relate to Commercial Motor Vehicle operations and Vehicle Inspection required by state and federal guidelines.

3:30-5:00 p.m.
Alternate Fuels

Panel Facilitator: David Adler, Washington State Department of Ecology
Panelists

Learn about current and future fuels, their advantages, availability and distribution. Panel members will discuss the pros and cons of E85, hydrogen, CNG and the advances in bio-diesel.

Crane Regulations and Upcoming Rules

Panel Facilitator: Gary Lentsch, Chelan County PUD
Panelists:

How well do you understand the changes associated with inspecting and/or operating a crane? Do you know the importance of compliance, or do you sometimes find it difficult to know where to start. Our professional panel will translate recent regulations and upcoming rules on cranes and concepts into terms you can use.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

8:30-10:00 a.m.
Fuel Saving Techniques and Equipment

Panel Facilitator: David Adler, Washington State Department of Ecology
Panelists:

Learn how to save fuel through aerodynamic, auxiliary power units, tires and anti-idling techniques and devises.

Product Liability

Presenter:Robert Hunter, Altec Industries, Inc.

Product liability is not just for manufacturers anymore. The presenter will use product litigation case studies to present a different perspective on the challenge of product liability and will describe ways we can work together to mitigate the costs of product liability.

8:30-12:00 p.m.
Brakes

Presenter:Paul Jones, Bendix

This double session will cover the operation of ABS brakes and updates on federal mandates on stopping distances, new disk brakes, and information on the operation of the new Anti-Roll-Over which is an option on all new class eight trucks.

10:20 a.m.-11:50 a.m.
Darley Pumps: An Overview

Presenter: Dan Ochoa, Darley

This session will provide a review of the operation and maintenance of Darley Pumps.

Cooling System Maintenance—How to Detect and Prevent Cooling System Problems

Presenters:

In addition to freezing and boil-over, a cooling system is subject to pitting, corrosion, cavitation, erosion and electrolysis. Although coolants are formulated to help prevent these problems from occurring, coolant analysis will identify problems, if present, and determine if the coolant you’re using is providing adequate protection. This session will review cooling system problems and help you analyze automotive and heavy-duty coolants. New emissions standards and EGR have placed increased demands on the cooling system. Service personnel can prevent major problems by regular testing and coolant analysis. The basics of a good maintenance and testing program will be provided.

Steering, Axles and Suspensions

Panel Facilitator: Rudy Anaya, Retired, Peterbilt Motors Company
Panelists:

This session is a perennial favorite, featuring timely topic presentations by industry experts and strong audience participation. New technology and best maintenance practices will be the focus this year.

1:00-2:30 p.m.
Technical Roundtable Forum

Facilitator:Ed Schaplow, Allview Services, Inc.

BStrategic Business Plansring your concerns, issues, questions, experiences and creative solutions to share with your peers. This session provides a great way to address your issues and concerns, and provide feedback and problem solving approaches based on the experiences of other technicians.

Vehicle Replacement Analysis

Presenter:Paul Lauria, Mercury Associates

Vehicle replacement is the one of the most important aspects of fleet management. Paul Lauria, the president of Mercury Associates, the largest fleet management consulting firm in the United States, will discuss how to analyze vehicle replacement and create a replacement plan.

Diesel Engines and Diesel Emissions Controls

Facilitator: Mel Lofquist, Cummins Northwest, Inc.
Panelists:

The major suppliers of diesel engines will present information on their 2007-2009 engines, emissions controls both internal and external will be covered. How do these engine and after treatment changes effect you and your job in management, maintenance and troubleshooting. Bring your questions and plan not to leave without the answers.

1:00–4:30 p.m.
New Aerial/Digger Derrick ANSI A.10.31 and 92.2 Standards

Presenter:Josh Chard, Altec Industries, Inc.

This session will cover the latest update to the ANSI standards for Aerial and Digger Derricks and how that will impact you.

2:30-4:30 p.m.
Management Roundtable Forum

Facilitator:John Breland, Freedom Truck Center

This session will be made up of three to six separate small group discussions and each will have a different topic. The goal is to stimulate discussion among attendees, and to encourage sharing experiences and opinions. Each table will have a facilitator whose job is to stimulate the discussion by asking questions and commenting, but taking care not to dominate the discussion. It is possible that we will repeat the sessions every 30 or 45 minutes so that each attendee has a chance to sit in on two or three different sessions. Possible topics are supervising employees, out-sourcing shop work, warranty management, employee recruitment and training, computerized fleet management, facilities, equipment replacement and other topics the attendees choose.

OBD II Advance Diagnostics for the Fleet Technician

Presenters:

Keep current with the latest in on-board diagnostic systems. This session provides in-depth information on how to diagnose OBD II systems. Topics discussed include 1) how to use critical thinking skills to evaluate symptom driven, DTC-driven, adaptive strategy driven and intermittent drivability concerns, 2) strategies to diagnose no code OBD II drivability concerns and 3) latest OBD II information. A question and answer session will follow.

What You Do Not Know About Inspecting Your Equipment Could Get You in Trouble

Presenter:John M. Koch, Washington State Patrol

This session will cover the essential points for inspecting fleet equipment in municipal fleets, transit operations, trucking companies, school bus fleets, tour bus fleets, government fleets and others. The importance of knowing what causes your equipment to be out-of-service is important to your operator’s safety. Your inability to identify defects during a maintenance inspection could change your career and the lives of others. Washington State Patrol professional inspectors will share with you what they have seen and what you need to be aware of.

Download Session PPT

Thursday, March 27, 2008

8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Steering Systems/Troubleshooting: All Applications

Presenter:Robert Ware, TRW Automotive

Learn the latest in new steering systems and how to troubleshoot your application with minimal down time. Choose which steering system is right for your application.

8:30-12:00 p.m. or 1:00-4:30 p.m.
Air Brake Adjustment Certification

Presenter:Ray Shjerven, Bates Technical College

This course targets medium- and heavy-duty vehicle inspection and brake adjustment. Participants will obtain a brake adjust certification upon completion of this session. Please indicate on the registration form if you plan to attend. (Limited to 20 attendees per session. Session is held in Bellevue.)

8:30-10:00 a.m. or 10:15-12:00 p.m.
Understanding Load Sensing Hydraulic Systems

Presenter:Dennis Koering, Monroe Truck Equipment, Inc.

This session will provide instruction on understanding how load sensing hydraulic systems work in today’s mobile equipment applications. To facilitate instruction, cutaways of pumps and control valves will be used. Due to the technical nature of the material, sessions are limited to 20 attendees. Please indicate on the registration form if you plan to attend.

8:30-10:00 a.m. or 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Engine Sessions:
Caterpillar Engines

Presenter:Alex Mazepa, Caterpillar

Learn current medium- and heavy-duty diesel engine technology from Caterpillar. Also covered is the upcoming 2010 emission laws and future diesel engine technology.

Cummins Automotive Diesel Engines

Presenters:

Topics to be covered: emission controls for 2008 engines, engine and after-treatment maintenance requirements, Insite (Cummins Diagnostic Software Program) and questions and answers.

Detroit Diesel Engines

Presenter:Pat Thomas, Pacific Power

Download Session PPT

International Engines

Presenter: TBD

1:30-3:30 p.m.
TOUR: B&G Machine, Inc.

B&G Machine, Inc., is dedicated to the highest standards of quality, innovation and technical superiority for the industrial aftermarket. Through active involvement in the Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA), B&G Machine, Inc., has access to a wealth of technical information. In 1993, it was rated the #1 Diesel Machine Shop in the country by a nationwide trade magazine, and in 1998, it was the recipient of the City of Seattle Mayor’s Small Business Award. B&G Machine, Inc., invites you to tour this very impressive facility. The criteria by which quality is judged will be discussed and demonstrated. You will see state-of-the-art machinery used to recondition heavy-duty engine parts. Demonstrations will include the machining of crankshafts, blocks, cylinder heads, camshafts, connecting rods, and more. You can also view a new process used to repair diesel crankshafts…one of only two in the USA. This is a terrific opportunity—don’t miss out! Driving directions will be included in your conference materials.

8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
TOUR: Kenworth Truck Company

This wonderful tour is being offered to the first 50 registrants who sign up. Enjoy a tour of Kenworth’s West Coast manufacturing plant located in Renton, Washington. On this tour you will see how a truck is started in the frame start area, through engine drop, cab/hood drop, to driving out the door as a completed truck. The tour will also include the cab/hood paint area. It will then go to the dyno test area for a final test, to ensure all components are functioning properly, before being shipped to the sold lot, then off to the Kenworth Dealer. There is a $15 non-refundable transportation fee (indicated on the registration form) that is not included in the conference registration fee. Attendees must travel to the Kenworth Plant on the bus provided.