It's important for builders to have what it takes to get the job done. It's time to recognize the industry
leading vehicles that help them get there. By Evan Lancaster
Professional builders and contractors need the tools
to get their jobs done right. They know that reliability
is not just a one-time deal, but that it's built from a
long-standing dedication to doing things right the first
time. We're making sure we recognize the commercial
vehicles that get builders to the job on time and continue to deliver the
dependability builders and contractors rely on.
For generations, the Ford Motor Company has stood by
builders of all types from professional engineers, to small
business residential contractors. Ford Motors knows what it
takes to provide dependable commercial grade trucks that
are manufactured with high expectations in mind.
For all things construction, the Ford F-650/F-750 are
the industry's go-to vehicle. The 2011 F-650/F-750 were
designed to serve as a builder's lifeline in the field. With
precision engineering, Ford has created a top-of-theline
work truck, which has set the industry standard. By
offering the only class 6 truck with a four-door SuperCab,
builders have the convenience of easy access and a rear
60/40 flip-up cushion seats, designed perfectly for storing
cargo, jackets, and first aid supplies. For contractors and
builders who need to take their project to the next level,
taking advantage of upfitter switches on the F-605/F-750
can be a convenient problem solver for sourcing electricity,
running auxiliary lighting, or powering a generator. Ford
designed the upfitter switches to be integrated into the
trucks electrical system, eliminating the need to access
additional electricity through its primary. By providing two
30-amp and two 10-amp circuits the four-switch bank
will give builders the power and the ability to get the job done. It's what's
under the hood that counts, that's why the 2011 Ford F-650 / F-750
models are equipped with a standard B20-capable Cummins ISB 6.7L
Turbo Diesel engine. In order to ensure builders get what they need, Ford
has made it possible for this Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine
available in a 10-tier set of power ratings 200 horsepower/520 lb.-ft. and
up to 360 horsepower/800 lb.-ft of torque and also can be equipped with
a turbocharger. Cummins Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT)
features a durable sliding-nozzle design and electric actuation for infinite
adjustment with quick response. An integrated exhaust brake is available
that contributes to slowing and stopping power.
According to Brian Rathsburg, Super Duty Marketing manager at Ford
Motors, by integrating new technology, and paying close attention to what
builders are calling for, Ford has taken the 2011 F-650 / F-750 off the
design board and placed it into the industry and builders have responded.
"For more workers, Ford Super Duty is the most important tool they
depend on to get the rest of their tools to the job site. There's no other
truck out there accomplishing as much in working conditions as F-Series
Super Duty is," said Rathsburg, Super Duty Marketing manager. "Super
Duty trucks are well known for their proven toughness and capability, and
that's why they are such a leading force in all sorts of industries. They have
it all -- durability, reliability, performance and fuel economy."
Other top ranked industry vehicles include, the Dodge Ram 3500 which
also comes equipped with a Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine
equipped with a 3500 Max Tow package with 22,750-pound maximum
towing capacity. Dodge Ram has also stepped up the interior technology
package in the Ram 3500. By partnering with Alpine Electronics, SiriusXM
satellite radio and Uconnect Web mobile WiFi the Dodge Ram 3500 has
the capabilities of a small office, letting builders determine when work the
is done. Ram also speaks to builder that called for the convenience of
RamBox Cargo Management System. A waterproof, drainable storage
unit perfect for utilizing tool storage. Load the cargo box with sheetrock
and the RamBox remains accessible. Both sides fit up to 240 cans of
your favorite beverage in a 5'7 bed or 280 cans in a 6'4 bed configuration.
For lighter builds, some builders favor Toyota Trucks for their long-lasting
dependability and industry leading safety features. The 2011 Toyota Tundra
has been redesigned with building professionals in mind. Equipped with
two different engine options, a 4.0-liter V6 and Dual Variable Valve Timing
with intelligence technology has increased power and performance. For
hauling needs the 310 horsepower 4.6-liter, 381 horsepower 5.7-liter V8
continues to impress Toyota fans and expand the Tundra line.
Knowing what you need to get done is the first step to beginning any
project, large or small. Getting to the job site is the number one priority
between builders and these trucks have been chosen to represent the
industry by the professionals who choose to work side by side these
machines day in and day out.
Evan Lancatser is an assistant editor at Residential Contractor. He
may be contacted at elancaster@penpubinc.com.
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