The galvanized bracket is intended as a field service solution for situations where damaged mud flaps create compliance issues and delay equipment from returning to service. Using a clamp-style design, the bracket mounts directly to I-beam crossmembers and can be installed with standard hand tools.

According to the company, the design allows repairs to be completed in minutes using two 9 16 inch wrenches, eliminating the need for shop equipment or permanent chassis modifications.

Engineered for Field Conditions

Traditional mud flap brackets often require drilling or welding, which can create delays when repairs are needed away from a maintenance facility. Konik’s bracket instead uses a spring tab clamping system that maintains tension once installed.

Key design features include a heavy-duty build formed from grade 50 steel, hot dip galvanizing for corrosion resistance, and a low profile that avoids interference with winch tracks and other trailer equipment. The bracket also includes a backer plate designed to help distribute load and reduce the risk of mud flap tearing.

The company said the bracket was engineered specifically to address roadside repair challenges where speed and simplicity are critical.

Reducing Compliance Delays

Mud flap damage is a common result of tire failures and can quickly lead to DOT compliance issues if not addressed promptly. Konik positions the Quick Install Mud Flap Bracket as a practical option for avoiding citations and extended downtime when repairs are needed in the field.

“Our goal was to make the fix easy,” said Thom Davis, Product Line Manager at Konik. “Technicians can install it in minutes using standard hand tools and get equipment back on the road quickly.”

Konik noted that keeping a fast install solution available can help reduce maintenance bottlenecks and prevent small equipment issues from escalating into larger operational delays.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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Mack Trucks Recall Details

Mack Trucks Inc. is recalling roughly 156 Mack Pioneer VR trucks from the 2025-2026 model years. The issue involves the trailer lighting system.

When a trailer is connected, the lights may not illuminate because of a body control module that was manufactured incorrectly.

Remedy:
Dealers will replace the trailer body input/output module at no cost to owners. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on November 17. For assistance, owners can contact Mack customer service at 1-800-866-1177. The recall number assigned by Mack is SC0484. Vehicle Identification Numbers included in the recall can be searched on the NHTSA website.

Volvo Trucks Recall — Trailer Lighting Issue

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling approximately 2,307 New VN trucks from model years 2025-2026 for the same potential trailer lighting malfunction.

As with the Mack recall, the trailer lights might not activate when towing, due to a body control module that was improperly manufactured.

Remedy:
Dealers will replace the trailer body input/output module at no charge. Owner notification letters should be mailed on November 17. Volvo Trucks customer service is available at 800-528-6586. The recall reference number is RVXX2507. VINs included in the recall may be searched through the NHTSA website.

Volvo Trucks Recall — Door Latch Cable

A separate recall affects an additional 3,609 New VN trucks from the 2026 model year. This issue is unrelated to lighting.

The problem involves the interior door handle. The door latch cable may have been installed incorrectly, which could prevent the door from opening.

Remedy:
Dealers will replace both the pivot clip and the door latch cable at no additional charge. Notification letters are slated for mailing on November 17. Owners with questions can call Volvo Trucks customer service at 800-528-6586. This recall is listed under number RVXX2508, and VINs can be confirmed on NHTSA’s site.

Source: The Trucker

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Which ELDs Were Affected?

The two devices taken off the approved list are:

• Walker ELD – Model WAL-R, ELD Identifier WLK790
• SR ELD – Model SR-E, ELD Identifier SRE288

Both were removed for failing to meet the technical requirements FMCSA sets for electronic logging devices.

What Drivers Are Required to Do

If you’ve been using either system, you’ll need to stop immediately and begin logging hours using paper logs or compliant logging software while you transition to a new device. FMCSA is giving drivers and carriers until September 29, 2025, to switch over to a registered ELD.

If you continue using one of the revoked devices past that date, you’ll be considered out of compliance. That includes potential citations for not maintaining a valid record of duty status and the risk of being placed out of service under CVSA guidelines.

What If the Device Companies Fix the Issues?

According to FMCSA:

“If the ELD providers correct all identified deficiencies for their device, FMCSA will place the ELD back on the Registered Devices list and inform the industry and the field of the update,” FMCSA said. “However, FMCSA strongly encourages motor carriers to take the actions listed above now to avoid compliance issues in the event that these deficiencies are not addressed by the ELD provider.”

In other words, don’t wait for a fix that might not happen. If you’re running with one of these devices, start the switch now to avoid downtime or violations later.

Why It Matters

This move follows the earlier removal of multiple ELDs earlier this year. With FMCSA continuing to crack down on non-compliant technology, drivers and fleet managers must stay updated. Checking your ELD’s registration status regularly can help avoid major disruptions and keep you compliant on the road.

Source: The Trucker

The post Walker and SR ELDs Removed from FMCSA’s Approved List—Here’s What Drivers Need to Do appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Thousands of truck drivers delivering fireworks for July 4th celebrations will experience some relief from federal working-hour rules, thanks to an exemption granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The exemption, effective from June 28 through July 8 each year until 2029, applies to approximately 44 private carriers and around 3,000 drivers. This temporary measure allows these drivers to bypass specific hours-of-service (HOS) limits and electronic logging device (ELD) requirements during the holiday period.

Under current regulations, drivers are prohibited from driving beyond the 14th hour following 10 consecutive hours off-duty, and they are required to track their time using ELDs. However, the exemption permits drivers to exclude off-duty and sleeper berth time from the calculation of the 14-hour driving limit. Additionally, they can use paper logs instead of ELDs to record their work hours.

This updated relief renews waivers that expired last year. FMCSA justified the exemption by stating, “The exemptions … will likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved in the absence of the exemptions.”

Julie Heckman, Executive Director of the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), supported the exemption, emphasizing its importance to Independence Day celebrations. “Without these exemptions, America’s traditional celebrations of Independence Day would be at risk, as there are no practical alternatives available for compliance,” Heckman stated in a request made on behalf of the APA’s members.

“The HOS requirements on small businesses should be modified for this limited time each year to permit this small number of fireworks carriers to conduct Independence Day fireworks displays while maintaining an equivalent level of safety on our highways and in our communities,” Heckman added. She pointed out that APA members have operated under similar exemptions for the past 20 years without incidents, injuries, or fatalities, demonstrating that safety will not be compromised.

Addressing Concerns About Safety Risks

While the exemption has been praised by many, it has also faced criticism. An anonymous public comment argued that the exemption could increase the risk of accidents involving hazardous materials, potentially leading to major incidents requiring a multi-agency response.

FMCSA addressed these concerns with a thorough review of the safety records of the 44 APA member companies covered under the exemption. The agency evaluated each carrier’s active USDOT registration, insurance coverage, and compliance with safety regulations.

“FMCSA reviewed its Motor Carrier Management Information System safety records, including inspection and crash reports submitted by state agencies. The motor carriers have ‘satisfactory’ safety ratings … and valid Hazardous Materials Safety Permits. Additionally, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration reviewed its own records and found no adverse data,” the FMCSA clarified in response to the concerns.

By ensuring these measures are in place, FMCSA aims to balance public safety with the logistical needs of organizing one of America’s most cherished holiday celebrations.

Source: Freightwaves

The post FMCSA Eases Work Rules for July 4th Fireworks Carriers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Vehicles passing Level I or Level V inspections without critical violations may earn a CVSA decal valid for three months.

During the 2024 International Roadcheck, tire issues and brake-related violations accounted for over 50% of all Out-of-Service (OOS) violations.

“According to CVSA, nearly one in four commercial vehicles inspected during last year’s event was placed out of service,” said TJ Thomas, director of marketing and customer solutions for Bendix. “With brake systems, tires and other aspects of vehicles, attention to detail, consistent training and regular maintenance can deliver real-world safety and compliance improvements.”

To help drivers, technicians, and fleets prepare for Roadcheck 2025, Bendix offers key insights and best practices.

The Vital Role of Brake Maintenance in Safety

Brake-related violations remained the leading cause of OOS orders in 2024. CVSA reported that defective service brakes accounted for 25% of vehicle violations, while additional brake system-related issues comprised another 18%.

“Brake systems are the backbone of any truck’s safety suite,” said Rick Conklin, director of wheel-end engineering at Bendix. “Not only do they bring vehicles to a stop, but they also enable advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), like full-stability control and collision mitigation, to function optimally. If brakes underperform, the entire safety architecture is compromised.”

To prioritize brake safety, Bendix recommends daily walkarounds and in-shop inspections.

During walkarounds, look out for:

• Damaged air chambers
• Misaligned slack adjusters
• Extended pushrods

Technicians should perform these shop inspections:

• Measure brake chamber stroke and check adjustments.
• Conduct brake applications above 80 psi to identify air leaks.
• Inspect friction components for cracks, wear, or contamination.
• Evaluate drums and rotors for heat spots or damage.

“Brake performance starts with the right friction components,” Conklin added. “Using OEM-specified parts and meeting Reduced Stopping Distance (RSD) standards ensures braking balance. Replacing brake pads or shoes in matched axle sets is critical to maintaining performance.”

Conklin also emphasized the advantages of air disc brakes, highlighting their ease of inspection, reduced risk of out-of-adjustment violations, and exceptional performance benefits.

Tire Maintenance Tips for Roadcheck Compliance

Tires are another primary focus for Roadcheck 2025, with inspections including tread depth, inflation levels, sidewall integrity, and repair quality checks. Proper tire health reduces the risk of roadside incidents and unnecessary costs.

Over 20% of vehicle violations during the 2024 Roadcheck were tire-related, with underinflation being a common cause of failures.

“Underinflated tires are more than a wear issue – they’re a potential safety liability, increasing the chance of sudden failure due to excessive heat buildup,” said Brian Screeton, manager of technical training and service at Bendix. “With today’s technology, there’s no reason not to monitor the pressure in real-time and catch problems before they turn into emergencies.”

Bendix suggests using tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), like SmarTire and Trailer-Link, which continuously monitor tire pressure and temperature inside the cab.

“TPMS solutions do more than alert you to inflation issues,” Screeton said. “They can identify brake drag, which causes dangerous pressure and heat buildup at the wheel end.”

Tire maintenance recommendations include:

• Checking tread depth to meet legal standards.
• Inspecting sidewalls for damage or embedded objects.
• Ensuring dual tires are properly matched and inflated.
• Conducting routine rotations and alignments.

Tractor Protection Systems (TPS): A Step Not to Overlook

Although not a specific focus category for 2025, Tractor Protection Systems (TPS) remain crucial for trailer safety during unexpected disconnections. Over 560 TPS violations were reported during the 2024 Roadcheck.

“A well-functioning TPS can mean the difference between a safe stop and a runaway trailer,” Screeton stated.

Screeton outlined a straightforward method for verifying TPS operation:

1. Start the engine and allow the air system to pressurize fully.
2. Shut off the engine and disconnect the glad hands from the trailer.
3. Push in the red trailer-supply valve on the dash.
4. When air vents from the trailer-supply glad hand, the red valve should pop out automatically.
5. Press the brake pedal to confirm no air escapes the service glad hand.

“If the sequence behaves unexpectedly, the TPS requires a closer inspection,” he explained.

Screeton warned that contamination, such as dirt in the glad hand connection, can damage downstream components like the trailer relay valve, leading to dragging or brake release issues.

“When uncoupling glad hands, always use dummy couplers to keep out debris and prevent bigger problems,” he advised.

Stay Roadcheck-Ready with Expert Practices

Roadcheck initiatives like these are critical for reinforcing safety measures across North America. With proper maintenance and proactive checks, fleets and drivers can ensure compliance while enhancing overall safety.

By following these guidelines, you’ll meet safety standards and reduce your operational risks significantly. Stay safe out there!

Source: The Trucker

The post Bendix Shares Expert Tips for Keeping Trucks and Drivers Roadcheck-Ready appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of these upcoming changes and how they might impact your operations.

What’s Changing in the Safety Measurement System?

After years of evaluation, FMCSA is set to overhaul several key aspects of the SMS. Starting from 2023, the agency sought input from various stakeholders, including carriers, drivers, and law enforcement, to revamp its methodology. Now, these changes are on the horizon, and while the specifics won’t be implemented immediately, preparation is essential.

Goodbye to BASICs, Hello to Compliance Categories

The first notable change involves retiring the current seven Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs). Instead, they’ll be replaced by six streamlined “Compliance Categories.” One significant adjustment involves folding Controlled Substances and Alcohol violations into the Unsafe Driving category, alongside all Out-of-Service (OOS) violations.

Vehicle Maintenance Gets a Driver-Specific Update

The Vehicle Maintenance category will also see specific changes. Violations that drivers should catch during pre-trip inspections will now be labeled as “Vehicle Maintenance: Driver Observed.” This list currently includes 858 potential inspection items, although the number may change before implementation. Download the list here.

FMCSA Compliance Division representative Wesley Russell explained, “Dividing those (violations) out does a better job increasing our understanding of what violations are occurring, and gives us a head start already on determining where to go look to determine if maybe there’s smaller things on quick checks that are not being found, or maybe it’s something bigger in the overall maintenance program.”

For drivers, the classification of a maintenance violation as “Driver Observed” can have direct implications. Such violations are likely to appear in the Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP), making it more challenging for drivers who neglect pre-trip inspections to secure employment.

Changes to Violation Severity Points

Another significant adjustment involves the scoring system for violations. Under the current system, violations are weighted on a scale of 1–10. The new process simplifies this to just two levels:

• Out-of-Service (OOS) violations and driver disqualification incidents will receive a “2.”

• All other violations will receive a “1.”

Additionally, similar violations will be grouped into approximately 100 categories. For example, hours-of-service violations, such as 14-hour, 11-hour, rest break, and 70-hour rule violations, will fall under the same category. This means that only one point will be applied per inspection, even if multiple related violations are identified.

According to Russell, this change helps identify problem areas without penalizing carriers for multiple similar violations during one inspection.

When Will These Changes Take Effect?

FMCSA has not set a definitive date for the new system to go live. Several milestones, such as updating the CSA website and finalizing the methodology, still need to be addressed. For now, carriers and drivers will continue to use the existing system, and all current data in SMS will be transitioned to the new format once the changes are implemented.

Stakeholders can continue to monitor updates, including a prioritization preview, on the FMCSA’s official site here.

Staying Prepared for What’s Ahead

While initial plans included webinars in February and March 2025, these were canceled following January’s session. However, stakeholders can still access valuable resources and submit questions about the changes.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: fleetequipmentmag

The post Prepare Now for Major FMCSA Safety Measurement System Updates appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What is the International Roadcheck?

The CVSA International Roadcheck is an annual initiative designed to enhance road safety. This large-scale operation involves thousands of commercial vehicles and drivers being inspected at weigh stations, inspection sites, and even through mobile units. These inspections focus on verifying adherence to safety regulations, with results collected and shared publicly during the summer.

Each year, the Roadcheck focuses on specific areas of compliance, and this year, the spotlight is on drivers’ records of duty status (RODS) and vehicle tire safety.

What to Expect During the Inspections

CVSA-certified inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspection, a comprehensive 37-step procedure. This process ensures compliance with both drivers’ operational requirements and vehicles’ mechanical standards. Additionally, inspectors may vary their approach depending on circumstances, such as weather, using less stringent Level II or Level III inspections if needed.

Spotlight on Driver Safety

For drivers, inspections will include a thorough review of essential documents and compliance checks. Here are some specific areas inspectors will evaluate:

• Licenses and Certificates: Inspectors will review the validity of your license, commercial driver’s license (CDL), medical examiner’s certificate, and skill performance certificate (if applicable).

• Record of Duty Status (RODS): Your hours of service and compliance with the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (in the U.S.) will be closely examined.

• Physical Condition: Inspectors will check for proper seat belt use and signs of drug or alcohol impairment.

Violations in these areas may result in the driver being declared out of service until issues are corrected.

Spotlight on Tires and Vehicle Safety

Inspectors will pay close attention to a vehicle’s tires, as proper maintenance is critical to overall safety. Areas of inspection include:

• Tread Depth

• Inflation Levels

• Visible Damage such as bulges, cuts, or sidewall issues

• Air Leaks or Tread Separation

Beyond tires, the Level I Inspection also evaluates a vehicle’s brake systems, lights, windshield wipers, coupling devices, cargo securement, and more. Additional checks for passenger-carrying vehicles include emergency exits, seat conditions, and electrical systems.

What Happens After an Inspection?

Vehicles that pass Level I or V Inspections without any serious safety violations earn a CVSA decal, valid for three months.

However, if serious violations are discovered, fleet operators and drivers must address these issues before the vehicle can return to service. These violations are classified within the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria and must be corrected immediately.

Alternate Inspection Levels

When weather or other conditions make full inspections challenging, inspectors may conduct a Level II Walk-Around or Level III Driver Credential and Administrative Inspection instead. Note, however, that only Level I and V inspections qualify for a CVSA decal.

Source: Truckers News

Image: CVSA

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