Altec Inc

Category: Electric Utility

Cold Weather Safety Tips for Aerial Unit, Digger Derrick, and Crane Operators

Posted on by kphillips

Winter presents unique challenges for aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators. Freezing temperatures, ice, and snow require specific precautions to ensure safety on the job and to protect equipment from cold-related damage. Here’s a guide to keep operators safe and operations running smoothly in cold weather.

Recognize Symptoms of Cold-Related Health Risks

Working in extreme cold can be dangerous for your health. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks, especially for operators exposed to the elements. Watch for these symptoms:

  • Redness of skin
  • Pain, swelling, and numbness
  • Tingling or loss of feeling in extremities

If you or a coworker experience any of these signs, it’s essential to take a break and warm up.

Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather

Proper clothing is essential for maintaining body warmth and preventing cold-related injuries:

  • Layer Clothing: Wear several layers, and adjust as needed to prevent overheating and sweating, which can lead to rapid cooling.
  • Cover Your Head and Ears: These areas are particularly vulnerable to frostbite.
  • Keep Your Extremities Warm: Wear heavy socks, gloves, and use hand and foot warmers. Ensure gloves still allow for safe operation of equipment controls.

Consider How Clothing Affects Equipment Operation

Heavy clothing and gloves can limit dexterity and impair hearing:

  • Hearing: If your ears are covered, ensure you can still hear important sounds from your equipment, coworkers, and surroundings.
  • Gloves: While thick gloves are essential, test how they affect your grip and ability to handle equipment controls safely.

Use Work/Rest Cycles

Rotating between work and rest periods helps manage exposure to cold temperatures. Regular breaks in a warm area can help prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

Protect Fuel and Engine Components

  • Avoid Fuel Freeze: Water in the fuel tank can freeze, which may disrupt operations. Use fuel treatment to prevent gelling.
  • Plug in Block/Engine Heaters: This keeps the engine warm, ensuring easier starts on cold mornings.
  • Warm Hydraulic Fluid: Cold hydraulic fluid can thicken, affecting operation. Follow the hydraulic fluid warming procedure in the operator or maintenance manual.

Ensure Heating and Defrosting Systems Are Working

Make sure all heaters and defrosters are operational before the cold season begins. These systems are crucial for visibility and operator comfort.

Adjust Crane Capacity in Freezing Conditions

For Altec cranes, apply the following adjustments:

  • 10°F to -20°F: De-rate capacity by 15%
  • -20°F to -40°F: De-rate capacity by 40%
  • Below -40°F: Do not operate the crane, as extreme cold can compromise safety and equipment integrity.

Inspect the Ground Surface

  • Avoid Slippery Surfaces for Outriggers: Ice or slick surfaces under outriggers can cause instability. Ensure a secure footing for stability.
  • Frozen Tires or Tracks: Tires or tracks can freeze to the ground, causing potential damage. Check equipment for any frozen sections before operation.

Clear Ice and Snow from Equipment

Snow and ice buildup can add significant weight to equipment, which may affect structural stability. Clear all ice and snow from equipment to prevent any additional load.

Maintain Clear Visibility

  • Windshield and Cab Windows: Ensure all windows are clear of frost and fog. Use windshield wiper fluid rated for cold temperatures.
  • Defrost Thoroughly: Don’t begin driving until you have full visibility from all angles.

Tire Pressure and Road Safety

  • Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can lower tire pressure, so verify and adjust as needed.
  • Drive Safely: Ice forms first on bridges, overpasses, and ramps, so drive cautiously on the way to the job site.

By being mindful of these cold-weather safety measures, aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators can maintain a safer work environment, reduce the risk of equipment damage, and safeguard their health in challenging winter conditions.

Tools of the Trade: 6 Gift Ideas for Tradesmen and More

Posted on by kphillips

The holiday season is fast approaching. Whether you’re on the hunt for a gift for a lineman or arborist—or you’re looking to treat yourself—check out these gift ideas from Altec. And, keep reading for tools that double as treats for the littlest line enthusiasts in your life.

Fastback Folding Utility Knife Set

Image of Hawkbill Knife

The Fastback Folding Utility Knife Set includes the Fastback Folding Utility Knife with Blade Storage and the Fastback Compact Folding Utility Knife. Both Milwaukee knives feature a press and flip mechanism for easy, one-handed opening.

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Battery-Powered Headlamp

Image of Streamlight Headlamp

The Enduro Pro HAZ-LO is a low-profile industrial headlamp with Class I, Div 1 safety ratings. With flood, spot, and flood/spot combo modes, you can use a single lamp for a variety of jobs.

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5-in-1 Ratcheting Wrench

Image of Streamlight Headlamp

The Milwaukee Lineman’s 5-in-1 Ratcheting Wrench has built-in strike face offered in both milled and smooth, providing you with a dedicated surface for hammering. These wrenches have large directional switches that you can easily press while wearing gloves..

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Premium Leather Gloves

Image of Milwaukee Lineman Wrench

These gloves feature “A” grade cowhide with a rolled hemmed cuff. They also feature a keystone thumb and shirred elastic back.

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150-piece Professional Hand Tool Set

Image of Crescent Tool Set

Crescent mechanics tools are made from chrome alloy steel which is specially formulated and heat-treated for high strength and superior resistance to abrasion and corrosion. Wrenches, ratchets, socket, and drive tools all have a flawless chrome finish to extend tool life. The sockets and the box end of the combination wrenches both feature off-corner loading which reduces fastener rounding.

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Milwaukee Packout Tool Organizer

Image of Milwaukee Packout

The Packout modular storage system is the industry’s most durable and versatile storage system, offering enhanced protection for your tools.

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For the Littlest Linemen

For those not quite old enough (or tall enough) to operate a truck, check out these gifts.

Mini Canvas Tool Bags

Image of Canvas Tool Bucket

While line workers can find plenty of uses for these mini canvas tool bags, children will love to match their parents.

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Diecast or Plastic Toy Trucks

Image of Toy Altec Bucket Truck

The little line enthusiasts will enjoy plastic or die cast trucks. A bucket trick and digger derrick are available in the plastic toys.

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About Altec Supply

Altec Supply offers a wide range of tools and accessories, from the products you need to get the job done to leisure items such as golf balls, coolers and more. Most in-stock orders ship within one business day, getting you the items you need when you need them. To check out more tools and accessories, visit Altec Supply Store to shop our entire Tools and Accessories Catalog. To speak to an Altec representative, call 1-877-GO-ALTEC.

Save on Year-End Equipment Purchases Through Accelerated Tax Deductions

Posted on by kphillips

The end of the year is fast approaching. Now is a great time to take advantage of powerful tax tools that can help you save money while investing in your business: Section 168(k), also referred to as Bonus Depreciation, and Section 179. These sections offer significant tax incentives to promote business growth, allowing you to upgrade equipment while enjoying substantial savings.

Below, learn more about these important tax-saving tools and how qualifying purchases can benefit your business. Qualifying purchases include financed equipment that is placed in service on or before December 31, 2024.

Save with Section 179

Popular among small and medium sized businesses, Section 179 allows businesses to immediately expense qualifying equipment in the year of acquisition. This allowance creates a larger initial deduction and reduces a business’s tax burden in the year the equipment is placed in service.

The maximum amount of Section 179 for 2024 is $1,220,000 on qualified purchases of $3,050,000. Section 179 is reduced dollar for dollar when total equipment purchased exceeds $3,050,000, hitting zero at $4,270,000 of qualifying purchases. In addition, an income limitation limits a business’s Section 179 expense to taxable income, not allowing Section 179 expense to create a tax loss.

If these limits impact your business’s ability to use Section 179, you may still qualify for Bonus Depreciation.

Section 168(k): Bonus Depreciation

Bonus Depreciation is another tool to accelerate expensing of capital expenditures, but without many of the limitations. Bonus depreciation is percentage based, allowing a business to immediately expense a percentage of an asset’s cost before applying normal depreciation.

Businesses can currently expense 60% of the cost of qualified assets. This percentage is only applicable for assets placed in service on or before December 31, 2024. It is scheduled to drop as follows in the coming years:

  • 40% in 2025
  • 20% in 2026
  • and 0% in 2027 and thereafter.

How Much Money Could You Save?

Section 179 and Section 168(k) are valuable tools for businesses seeking to reduce their tax liabilities and invest in growth. To ensure you make the most of these opportunities, it is essential to work with tax professionals who can help you navigate the complexities and confirm your businesses eligibility.

Below, see hypothetical savings possible when utilizing these code sections as compared to normal depreciation.

*The calculations above are an example and not intended to provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor.

Ready to Learn More? Contact Altec Capital Today

If you’re interested in applying these tax benefits to your purchases, our knowledgeable finance experts at Altec Capital are ready to help you find the best options to achieve significant savings.

Altec Capital offers deferrals up to 90 days, aggressive financing rates and a variety of lease options. Altec Capital’s focus is meeting customers’ unique equipment financing needs. Most importantly, financing with Altec Capital is easy. Altec Capital offers a single source solution for all your financing needs, which means no more managing multiple banking relationships.

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

5 Truck Accessories That Might Need Replacing

Posted on by kphillips

If you need reliable, high-quality tools and accessories, Altec Supply has what you need to get the job done. Tools and accessories that take more wear and tear than others or items that are critical to safety should be evaluated often and replaced when necessary. Make sure you’re checking these five items.

Outrigger Pads

Our outrigger pads are lighter and stronger than most brands. Built specifically to add support and stability, outrigger pads play a critical role in the safe operation of equipment.

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Wheel Chocks

Designed to prevent accidental movement, Altec Supply’s sturdy chocks are made with heavy-duty rubber to provide superior grip and reliability.

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Platform Covers

Our vinyl-coated, water-shedding cover keeps rain, sleet, and snow out of the platform so your truck is ready to work when you are. Platform covers are available in a variety of configurations.

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Cones

These rugged, brightly colored safety cones are designed for many years of outside use. They’re constructed of fluorescent PVC with two reflective collars.

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First Aid Kit

Don’t underestimate the value of a first aid kit on the jobsite. This white metal first-aid kid is on a bracket that fits a two-man bucket and provides essential items you need for emergency jobsite injuries.

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About Altec Supply

Altec Supply offers a wide range of tools and accessories you need to get the job done. Most in-stock orders ship within one business day, getting you the items you need when you need them. To check out more tools and accessories, visit Altec Supply Store to shop our entire Tools and Accessories Catalog, or call 1-877-GO-ALTEC.

Achieve ZEV Requirements with Altec’s Electrification Solutions

Posted on by kphillips

Electrification technology, infrastructure, and legislation have evolved rapidly in the last few years, pushing the medium and heavy-duty truck space toward a cleaner future. With the adoption of California Air Resources Board regulations and a changing social landscape, that future is approaching quickly. Below, see how CARB regulations are impacting the transition toward Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) and how Altec can partner with you on your journey to a cleaner fleet.

What are CARB Regulations?

The California Air Resources Board has adopted several regulations designed to accelerate the adoption of ZEVs and encourage the industry to reduce emissions. Historically, CARB has played an active role in shaping federal EPA standards, and it also serves as a guide for states seeking to increase the adoption of MD/HD work applications.

Currently, there are three key CARB regulations under consideration in several states:

  • Omnibus Low NOx: rule that sets standards for engine particulates and emissions
  • Advanced Clean Truck: A sales mandate on chassis OEMs that requires OEMs to sell a certain percentage of ZEVs compared to their overall truck sales for participating states
  • Advanced Clean Fleet: A regulation for customer fleets to adopt ZEV solutions as a certain percentage of their fleet based on the vehicle classification

Why Should You Start Planning Today?

Regulations are only one of the many forces driving the U.S. toward reduced or zero emissions. As the public becomes more climate conscious, there is a larger social push to reduce tailpipe emissions. Many customers have their own corporate sustainability goals, and as vehicle technology continues to evolve, the adoption of ZEV solutions will continue to increase.

While legislation is always evolving, this combination of factors makes it more important for your fleet to have a strategy and roadmap for compliance in place.

How Can I Incorporate ZEVs into My Fleet?

When evaluating ZEV options, Altec has developed a range of battery electric vehicles (EV) targeting specific work applications that maximize EV performance without compromises. With the current EV charging infrastructure and state of technology, electrified solutions are best suited to specific work applications with a defined driving range within the OEM’s EV reported range, and less suited for applications like mutual assistance or storm response.

Altec is constantly evaluating additional work applications and OEM EV models to help customers electrify their fleets and achieve compliance in the way that works best for them.

What Makes Altec EVs Different?

Altec’s EV solutions are designed with technology that’s easy to use, doesn’t interrupt operator workflow, and functions no differently than a chassis with a traditional mechanical PTO or internal combustion engine chassis. This means Altec’s solutions use the same proven technology that our customers have come to expect.

Altec EVs feature an integrated ePTO solution that allows the truck to operate as a system rather than individual components. This system efficiently utilizes the chassis battery (with a minimal impact on range), maximizes productivity, and is easy to charge with a single port. This frees up valuable truck space and improves available weight for customers to outfit the truck with the necessary jobsite equipment.

To address range anxiety, Altec designed a Low State of Charge Alert. This is an audible and visual alert that notifies the operator in the aerial of the current state of charge. The alerts can be configured to sound at a certain level of charge, and it can also be sounded on demand to check the current charge. This feature allows operators to confidently complete their job and return to the garage.

How Do I Get Started?

Altec is here to be your partner in electrification planning. Our Green Fleet and chassis teams can serve as your electrification experts and help you map out the future of your fleet. To learn more about how Altec’s solutions can help electrify your fleet, speak with your account manager today or visit www.altec.com/green-fleet.

Explore New Operator Training with Altec’s Virtual Simulator

Posted on by kphillips

If you’re looking to enhance and expand your operator training program, the Altec Virtual Training Simulator is here to take your training to new heights.

The Altec Virtual Training Simulator imitates real-life operation to provide a life-like training experience for operators. It features equipment-specific, hot-swappable control sets including the Altec Optiview joystick controls, providing operators with familiarity of the controls they will use on actual Altec equipment.

Keep Your Equipment in the Field

With the Altec Virtual Training Simulator, you can keep your revenue producing equipment on the job while your operators train on the virtual simulator. The simulator also provides the ability to train in high-risk and dangerous scenarios without the risk—and without wear and tear on your equipment.

Train on Multiple Pieces of Equipment

The simulator is also configurable with a variety of additional equipment, providing an all-in-one training platform. In addition to the Altec digger derrick, available equipment includes:

  • Articulated dump truck
  • Backhoe
  • Boom truck
  • Compact loader
  • Crawler crane
  • Digger derrick
  • Dozer
  • Excavator
  • Forklift
  • Luffing tower crane
  • Mobile crane
  • Motor grader
  • Telehandler
  • Tower crane
  • Wheel loader
  • Wheeled excavator

Start the Conversation Today

For veterans or new hires, the simulator can increase the safety and efficiency of your team. The Altec Virtual Training Simulator is available for purchase or for rent today. To inquire about usage options, contact Altec Sentry at 205.408.8260 or visit altec.com/safety.

6 Best Practices for Bucket Trucks Wheel Chocks Safety and Compliance

Posted on by kphillips

Are your crews using wheel chocks correctly? Keeping your bucket truck from moving unexpectedly while on the job sounds like common sense, but sometimes we underestimate how important the proper wheel chocks are for ensuring reliable stability.

The Importance of Wheel Chocks

Wheel chocks are wedges placed against a vehicle’s wheels to help prevent unexpected vehicle movement, an especially vital concern for heavy trucks, which can pose significant hazards if not immobilized correctly. When wheel chocks are used properly, they help keep the truck stationary, protecting workers from potentially life-threatening situations.

Wheel Chocks Best Practices

  1. Select the Right Chocks: The type and size of wheel chocks should match the specific vehicle and its wheel diameter. Chocks come in various materials, such as rubber, polyurethane, and metal. Each may have advantages in certain applications and environments. Also, don’t substitute things that aren’t designed/intended to be chocks, like blocks of wood, stones, or concrete blocks.
  2. Number of Chocks: In some scenarios two chocks might not be enough. Drivers and operators should consider whether more than two chocks are needed when parking on steep slopes or when tire to ground contact is reduced.
  3. Positioning: Place the chocks against the center of the tire’ treads to maximize contact. For heavy trucks on level ground, place chocks on both sides of the same wheel to guard against movement in either direction.
  4. Surface Considerations: Ensure the surface where the chocks are placed on a stable, flat surface. Uneven or slippery surfaces can compromise the effectiveness of the chocks. It’s also a good idea to use larger or extra chocks on particularly soft ground,
  5. Application: Apply the parking brake before positioning your wheel chocks. The parking break is the first line of defense in maintaining truck stability, and you should treat wheel chocks as a backup in case it fails.
  6. Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect wheel chocks for wear and damage. Any wheel chock should be replaced if it shows signs of deterioration or damage.

Relevant OSHA Regulations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific regulations concerning the use of wheel chocks for heavy trucks. According to OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.178(k)(1), all trucks and trailers must have their wheels chocked when parked to prevent accidental movement during use. Additionally, OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.178(m)(7) requires that powered industrial trucks be chocked while being loaded or unloaded.

These regulations emphasize the critical role of wheel chocks in workplace safety. Failing to comply with these regulations increases the risk of serious injury-causing accidents for workers or legal penalties and increased liability for companies.

Benefits

Proper use of wheel chocks is not just a safety best practice; it is an employer’s responsibility that helps prevent accidents and protect workers. By selecting the right chocks, deploying them correctly, adhering to OSHA guidelines, and offering comprehensive safety training, companies can ensure a safer working environment for everyone involved.

When it’s time to get new wheel chocks for your bucket truck, visit the Supply Store or contact your account manager for more information. If you do not have a Supply account manager, call 1-877-GO-ALTEC to connect with us today.

Also don’t forget you can stay up to date on all the products and accessories you need with our seasonal newsletter. Sign up for Altec Supply’s Tools & Accessories Newsletter to receive our latest product recommendations, as well as information on new products and promotions.

Altec Supply Top-Rated Wheel Chocks:

Rubber Wheel Chock, 9.88 x 7.75 x 5 in, Single
Polyurethane Wheel Chock – 10 x 8.5 in, Single

Which Equipment Financing Option is Right for You? 

Posted on by kphillips

Choosing how to finance your equipment is an important decision. Because each customer’s situation is unique, Altec Capital offers several lease types designed to help customers build their fleet while still reaching financial and operational goals. Below, get to know Altec Capital’s leasing options and see which one might be right for you.

Fair Market Value Lease

The Fair Market Value (FMV) lease is Altec’s most popular leasing option. With the FMV lease, Altec Capital Services is able to minimize the total life-cycle cost, while maximizing the utilization of your entire fleet.

At lease maturity, you may opt to return the equipment and lease a new unit. You can also choose to lease on a month-to-month basis or purchase the equipment at its fair market value.

Advantages of the FMV lease are:

  • Lowest monthly payment
  • Fixed cost of using asset
  • Elimination of resale liability
  • Optimize the economic life of the asset

Best for customers who… want to maximize their free cash flow, want to operate newer equipment, or want to eliminate residual and interest rate risk.

$1 Purchase Option

The $1 Purchase Option, also known as a capital lease, allows you to capitalize the equipment on your balance sheet and take tax benefits associated with the equipment. This leasing option most closely resembles a traditional bank loan.

Advantages of the $1 Purchase Option are:

  • 100% financing
  • Long-term ownership
  • Variety of payment plans including monthly, annual and skip payment plans.

Best for customers who… want advantage of ownership and want to own the equipment outright.

TRAC Lease

The Terminal Rental Adjustment Clause (TRAC) lease guarantees your business a pre-determined residual price when the lease matures with a balloon payment at the end of term.

Benefits of a TRAC lease include:

  • Mitigation of interest rate fluctuations
  • Increases operating capital and free cash flow
  • 100% financing

Best for customers who… want to own the equipment outright with a lower monthly payment than the $1 Purchase Option due to the balloon at the end of the term.

About Altec Capital

Altec Capital’s focus is meeting your unique equipment financing needs. Not only does Altec Capital finance equipment, but it also helps customers manage and maintain their equipment fleet. While its core business is financing Altec products, Altec Capital also offers financing for light duty trucks and other non-Altec, third-party equipment.

Most importantly, financing with Altec Capital is easy. Altec Capital offers a single solution for all your financing needs, which means no more managing multiple banking relationships.

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

Reduce Fleet Downtime with Op-Ready

Posted on by kphillips
Image of laptop showing Op-Ready report

Image of laptop showing Op-Ready report

When you’re ready to go to work, make sure your equipment is, too. Op-Ready is a digital report that combines data from telematics and Altec equipment to identify assets that might go down and why. With this report, customers can address issues today to prevent downtime tomorrow.

Maximize the Value of Your Assets

Op-Ready is a digital solution from Altec Fleet Services designed to help you maximize the value of your Altec equipment by reducing unplanned downtime. Op-Ready tracks chassis and unit data to monitor your entire asset and alert you of any issues that might keep you from using the asset to its fullest extent.

Diagnostic trouble codes and other data are translated into easily understood, actionable insights. Op-Ready also delivers OEM notices, recalls and other alerts.

No additional hardware or software is needed on existing connected equipment, and reports can be set up quickly and easily.

Get Personalized Reports

Op-Ready reports are customizable so you can get just the information you need to know. Reports can also be configured to provide a summary of the entire fleet, a subgroup of assets, or for an individual unit.

To generate the report, Op-Ready compares against user preferences. For example, the user can decide what fuel level, tire pressures, or battery level that warrant being notified. Report recipients are also configurable so that different people within your organization can see the right information for them to keep your equipment up and running.

Keep Your Fleet Op-Ready

Technology has changed a lot over the last 95 years, but Altec’s approach to it remains the same—innovate with purpose to improve the experience of our customers. Operational readiness of equipment has never been more important and Op-Ready is the next step in improving uptime by making sure the right people know what action is needed and when. To learn more about Op-Ready and the other advanced solutions, visit the Altec Fleet Services site here, or click the button below to contact our team today.

Contact Us Today

Remote Diagnostics are Now Available on Altec Insights

Posted on by kphillips

 

Altec Insights is a powerful tool for understanding your Altec equipment, now with two new features.

Most supervisors have probably received a familiar phone call—the crew has arrived at the jobsite, but their equipment isn’t working properly. The outriggers won’t deploy, and the crew can’t start their work until a mobile service tech can make it to their location.

With the newest updates to Altec Insights, a powerful tool for understanding your Altec equipment, that familiar situation plays out a little differently. Through Insights, customers can remotely view unit diagnostic trouble codes and vehicle status within Altec Connect.

Once the supervisor receives the call from the crew that the derrick isn’t working, he logs into Altec Connect and pulls up that piece of equipment. He verifies there aren’t any active diagnostic trouble codes, then checks the vehicle status tab. Turns out an emergency stop is activated but the operator forgot to check the one at the front bumper controls. The lineman disengages the switch, deploys the outriggers, and the team gets to work.

Altec Insights is Designed to Help You Work Safely and Efficiently

Altec Insights allows users of select Altec equipment including E-Series derricks and cranes to understand their equipment like never before. Insights combines the raw data from your equipment with Altec expertise and gives users actionable information to improve safety and reduce downtime.

Vehicle Status and Diagnostic Trouble Codes are now available within Insights under the “Analytics” tab. As you saw above, these features allow users to view equipment remotely and identify any easily resolved errors, saving valuable time and money.

Vehicle Status

Vehicle Status information allows for easy remote trouble shooting. As in the example above, an activated emergency stop can be a common occurrence that would result in an unneeded call to a service technician. Vehicle Status includes over a dozen pieces of information including the status of the parking brake, PTO and outrigger interlocks.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Unit DTCs provide details on potential equipment faults. DTCs include the name, description, symptoms and actions for further troubleshooting to identify the root cause. DTCs can detect temperature and pressure sensors reporting error values, joystick faults, and slip ring communication issues.

When used in tandem, these features allow users to get the full picture of their equipment and know whether simple troubleshooting is the fix, or verify a service call is necessary for equipment operation.

Learn More About Altec Insights and Other Data Solutions

Altec Insights is available on select Altec models, including E-Series derricks. Click the button below to learn more about Altec insights and other digital products offered by Altec’s Fleet Services.

Learn More About Altec’s Data Solutions

Buying Used? 5 Reasons to Buy from Altec NUECO

Posted on by kphillips

When buying used equipment, reliability and safety are top concerns. Is the equipment in good condition? Is it safe? Is this what I need to get the job done? When you buy used bucket trucks and other equipment from Altec NUECO, you can buy with confidence knowing that the answer to these questions is yes. Below, see five reasons you should buy from Altec NUECO when buying used.

1. We’re the Only Provider of Altec Certified Pre-Owned Equipment

Altec NUECO is the only provider of Altec Certified Pre-Owned equipment, which undergoes an extensive inspection, repair and reconditioning process. Altec Certified Pre-Owned equipment is inspected by us—the OEM—and any work is done by OEM trained technicians using OEM parts. From day one, you take these units to work knowing you can get the job done. Learn more about the process.

2. We Have the Equipment You Need When You Need It

When you need equipment quickly, buying used can save you a significant amount of time. At Altec NUECO, we have a wide variety of late-model off-lease equipment that’s ready to get to work when you are.

We have a broad inventory of trucks that are ready to work, and even more that are currently in our reconditioning process. We offer a variety of distribution bucket trucks and digger derricks, including a large selection of AA55s and DM47s. We also offer Tree Care, Telecom, Cranes and Specialty equipment. Call us to find your truck today at 866-617-1569.

3. You’re Covered With a 30-Day Warranty

Altec Certified Pre-Owned units come with a 30-day warranty to protect your purchase and give you the confidence to buy.

4. Enjoy In-House Financing

Altec Capital, our in-house financing department, offers a variety of financing options designed to help you acquire equipment while maximizing free cash flow. When you use Altec Capital, you no longer have to manage relationships with multiple companies—your financing and equipment comes from the same place.

5. Experience the Benefits of Team Altec

When you buy from Altec NUECO, you have access to the products and services Altec offers to support you and your fleet. With Altec’s nationwide network of shop and mobile service, we’re here to help you keep your equipment online and at work. Altec also offers a wide range of tools and accessories, as well as replacement parts. Industry-leading equipment deserves industry-leading safety training provided by Altec Sentry, which helps you work safely and efficiently. We also offer digital products and services that help you monitor and maintain your fleet.

For more information on buying from Altec NUECO and the benefits of Altec, contact us today by clicking here. To check out our available inventory, click the button below.

View Our Inventory

Get Ready for Rainy Season with These 5 Key Products

Posted on by kphillips

 

April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring soupy soil and damp ground. As we navigate the rainy season late this winter and into spring, make sure you have the tools and accessories you need to protect the turf you’re working on and make jobs easier for your crews. Below, take a look at the tools and accessories Altec Supply recommends you keep on hand, including Altec Supply’s turf mats.

Turf Protection Mats

These turf protection mats have been designed to stand out from the competition—and not just because of their unique color. Lightweight and durable, the 4×8 ft mats are designed with layered high-density polyethylene and weigh in at only 56 pounds, while still being rated for 160,000 pounds. That’s more than 30% lighter than competing mats of similar sizes or comparable mats on the market and just as strong. Turf mats also come in a 3×8 size that weighs 42 pounds while maintaining its 160,000-pound rating.

The mats are a highly visible yellow color and feature two ergonomic handles on all four sides, giving you the industry’s safest, lightest, easy-to-move mats. Mats are in stock and ready to ship and are offered individually or in packs of 10.
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Composite Outrigger Pads

These composite outrigger pads are lightweight, non-conductive, and moisture resistant, making them the optimal choice for rainy weather. They are also stronger than the average wood, plywood, or cast metal outrigger pads.
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Wheel Chocks

OSHA requires wheel chocks for vehicles over 3/4 ton when parked on an incline —and it’s especially important in wet conditions to make sure your equipment is stable and stays securely in place.
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Platform Covers

Don’t let water collect in your bucket when it’s not in use. If you need new platform covers, now is the time to buy. Altec Supply offers several varieties of platform covers. If you need help choosing the correct one for your truck, contact your account manager.
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Fire-Resistant Rain Jackets

Is your rain jacket up to the task for the coming Spring season? Shop our selection of Nasco rain-resistant gear on our online store and be prepared for the wet, rainy days of Spring.
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Get the Latest from Altec Supply

If you want to stay up to date on the products and accessories you need, Altec Supply makes it easy. Sign up for Altec Supply’s Tools & Accessories Newsletter to receive our latest product recommendations, as well as information on new products and promotions.

To order any of the products included above, visit the Supply Store online or contact your account manager. If you don’t have an account manager, call 1-877-GO-ALTEC to be connected with a member of our team.

Are You Connected? Four Benefits of Connect

Posted on by kphillips

 

Whether you’re the first owner of your Altec equipment or the fourth or fifth, it’s important that you take the time to sign up for Altec Connect and register your unit.

Altec Connect is an online platform that is designed to give you access to the equipment information you need when you need it. In conjunction with the Altec Supply Store, it is your one stop online shop for ordering tools, supplies, accessories, replacement parts and managing your fleet information.

Below, see four benefits of registering your equipment.

Digitally Access Unit Documents

Misplaced your manuals? Or maybe a member of your service team needs the schematics for a truck currently in the field? Unit-specific materials including manuals, unit schematics and paperwork for Altec-performed inspections are all available digitally in Connect, meaning you have access to all of your paper documentation at anytime from anywhere.

Order Unit-Specific Replacement Parts 24/7

When it’s time to order replacement parts, eliminate the guesswork by ordering through Connect. When you order parts online through Connect, you’re getting the same parts that were used to build your specific unit as listed on your Bill of Materials. While expert members of Altec’s Parts team are available by phone Monday-Thursday 6:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Friday 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central time, Connect gives customers the ability to order parts online 24/7.

View Important Product Notices

Altec Product Notices are Altec-generated documents that require specific action or provide information about products after they’ve been delivered to you. APN types include a variety of information such as items that require immediate action, items that may require future action, best practices and more.

Receiving and completing APN actions plays a vital role in maintaining your equipment’s efficiency and safety. If you are not the original owner of your equipment, it is especially important to register your equipment and sign up for Connect to ensure you receive these critical equipment updates.

View and Manage Notifications for Service Jobs

As an Altec Connect user, you can keep tabs on open service jobs for your fleet. Within Connect, you can manage notification settings for service job status changes. This self-service feature allows you to set which service job notifications you would like to receive.

Don’t Miss Important Information: Get Connected Today

These features of Altec Connect are free for all users. For more information about all of the features available in Connect, click here. If you’re ready to get connected and start taking advantage of digital information about your fleet, create an account today. If you choose not to sign up for Altec Connect, you can still register your unit to ensure you receive important product notices by clicking here.

Reach New Heights with IJ26 Insulating Personnel Jib

Posted on by kphillips

As the electrical grid becomes more heavily stressed and outages become more expensive, the ability to work on electrical lines while keeping them energized is becoming more important than ever before. Compatible with the AC40E and AC45E, Altec’s new IJ26 Category A Insulating Personnel Jib allows for live-line work at new heights.

The jib allows for service of a 500 KV line with a barehand work application. When added to the AC40E, this jib creates Altec’s highest reaching insulating aerial device, giving operators the ability to accomplish live line transmission work practices at higher heights.

Easy Integration with Quick-Attach Aluminum Platform

The IJ26 insulated personnel jib seamlessly integrates with the aluminum two-person quick-attach platform. This platform is rated for up to 1,200 pounds of capacity and includes an additional grounding system to ensure continuity. The platform can be mounted on both the IJ26 as well as on the main boom tip with no modifications.

Four Pinning Offset Positions

The IJ26 is quickly offset into either the 0-, 15-, 30- or 45-degree positions via a single pin. Gently placing the jib tip on the ground allows for the pin to be unloaded and easily moved between offset positions. The use of a wheel at the jib tip prevents the jib from contacting the ground, preventing the risk of damage to the jib.

In-Cab Leakage Monitoring

The IJ26 includes a current leakage monitor mounted inside the cab. A current leakage monitoring system is critical for continual monitoring of current leakage while approaching, bonding on to and working on energized lines, ensuring the dielectric properties of the IJ26 are maintained throughout the use of the system.

Insulated Jib Length Maximum Air Gap (Clear Space) Maximum Platform Capacity AC40E Maximum Working Height AC40E Maximum Platform Capacity AC45E Maximum Working Height AC45E Dielectric Rating, Category A use only
26 ft 3 in 12 ft 10 in 1,200 lbs 193 ft 800 lbs 163 ft 500 kVAC

 

For more information on the IJ26, contact your account manager. If you do not have an account manager, call 1-877-GO-ALTEC or click here to contact a member of our sales team today.

Illuminating the Workspace: The Crucial Role of Quality Lighting at Job Sites

Posted on by kphillips

When it comes to optimizing productivity and ensuring a safe work environment, the significance of quality lighting at job sites cannot be overstated. Whether you’re working on a construction site, in a warehouse, on the roadside, or any industrial setting, proper illumination plays a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, reducing accidents, and fostering better overall working conditions.

Safety First

One of the primary reasons why quality lighting is paramount at job sites is the direct impact it has on safety. Inadequate lighting can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Well-lit workspaces empower employees to navigate through the site confidently, identify potential hazards, and avoid obstacles.

Consider a construction site where workers are moving heavy equipment or navigating complex structures. Insufficient lighting can turn these tasks into potential dangers. Well-placed, bright lights ensure that every step is taken with precision, minimizing the risk of accidents and promoting a secure working environment.

Boosting Awareness and Focus

Quality lighting not only enhances physical safety but also contributes to mental alertness and focus. Proper illumination reduces eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, creating a more comfortable and conducive atmosphere for work. Employees can maintain higher levels of concentration, leading to improved accuracy in tasks and a more efficient workflow.

Meeting Regulatory Standards

Adhering to lighting standards set by regulatory bodies is not just a box to tick; it’s a commitment to the well-being of your coworkers. Quality lighting at job sites ensures compliance with safety regulations, avoiding legal issues and penalties. By investing in appropriate lighting solutions, businesses demonstrate their commitment to providing a secure and compliant work environment.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

In addition to safety and productivity, quality lighting can also contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability. For example, LED lighting not only provides bright and consistent illumination but also consumes less energy, resulting in lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint.

It’s important to realize how quality lighting at job sites extends beyond mere visibility. It is a cornerstone of safety, awareness, and overall workplace well-being. Companies that prioritize proper lighting invest in the longevity and success of their business by creating a work environment where employees can thrive.

When you illuminate your workplace with Altec Supply, you’ll discover how light guides the way to a safer and more productive future for your organization and your crewmates. Visit the Altec Supply store today to see our variety of lighting options for indoor and outdoor settings.

Need Help? Please contact us at 1-877-GO ALTEC, option 1.

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Altec Inc.

210 Inverness Center Drive
Birmingham, AL 35242-4834
Phone (205) 991-7733
Fax (205) 408-8601

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