Advanced Filtration Systems Incorporated (AFSI), the manufacturer of Caterpillar and Perkins differentiated liquid filters, has recently opened a new manufacturing facility near the city of Most in North Bohemia, Czech Republic. The opening of a facility on European soil will allow for better serve to the markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

AFSI, a joint venture of Donaldson and Caterpillar established in 1986, manufactures filters exclusively for Caterpillar and Perkins. In addition to the newly opened Czech facility it has a production plant in the city of Champaign, Illinois, USA. “A decision to establish a European branch came in 2007 as the plant in Champaign was reaching its maximum capacity. A European location, for additional capacity, was chosen to better and faster serve the markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. It will also help to serve the needs of Asia and Australia,” explains Stephane Latini, Marketing Consultant at Caterpillar.

The Czech factory was inaugurated on the 19th of March after a soft start of production in 2009. It can produce up to 2200 filters in an hour. In total, in its two plants, AFSI manufactures approximately 1.5 million filters a month.

AFSI filters are used in oil filtration (both engine and hydraulic), fuel filtration, and water separation systems of Caterpillar and Perkins products, and are well-known for meeting high quality and functionality requirements even under heavy-duty applications and difficult conditions. Specific features of the AFSI filters are the use of non-metallic center tubes with higher rigidity than their metal counterparts; polyurethane end caps to eliminate leak paths; media pleat stability features to maintain pleat separation and retain particles; and aluminum top plates for improved component cleanliness. This results in a compact filter cartridge that eliminates the risk of metal particles being released into the filtered liquids, minimizing the danger of potential impurities causing damage to critical machine/engine components.

Source:http://deutschland.cat.com/cda/layout?m=343975&x=7

The Cat® 336D L Hydraulic Excavator features greater performance, flexibility and versatility compared to the C-Series model. A new, spacious cab and new styling also set the D-Series apart from previous machines. And additional guarding for demolition applications helps ensure reliability and durability in demanding tasks.

The 336D L has more engine power and hydraulic pressure than the C-Series model. The result is increased breakout force and greater lift force, which create faster cycle times and superior productivity. The heavy lift circuit is now standard on D-Series models. At the touch of a switch, heavy lift will boost hydraulic pressure for increased lift performance.

The 336D L has a maximum operating weight of 82,962 pounds (37 631 kg) and net power of 268 horsepower (200 kW). The Cat C9 engine powers the 336D L and meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 emissions regulations. The engine management system provides flexible fuel mapping, allowing the engine to respond quickly to varying application needs. For reduced power consumption and reduced noise, the excavator has a hydraulically driven fan controlled by the electronic control module.

Strong and versatile in demolition applications
To enhance durability in demolition applications, the 336D L can be equipped with heavy-duty triple grouser tack shoes for long wear and solid traction. Track guards for the sprocket end and idler end are fitted to protect the full length of the track. Rubber bumpers attached to the sides of the excavator reduce inadvertent damage when swinging, and bottom and bearing guards protect those areas from damaging debris.

Additional cab guarding includes a full-length wire mesh window cover and a falling object guarding system. The spacious cab features glass affixed directly to the pillars to eliminate window frames and enhance visibility. A large skylight provides a view upward. Joystick controls have low lever effort and are designed to match the operator’s natural wrist and arm position. The operator can operate joystick controls with an arm on the armrest.

For expanded versatility, many factory-installed options are available. The 336D L features a wide range of factory-installed auxiliary hydraulic systems, including a one-way, high pressure, high flow circuit for hammers. Also, a two-way circuit is available for thumbs and other hydra-mechanical work tools.

Tool control and coupler systems speed work
Another option is the Tool Control System for D-Series models. The Tool Control System is exclusive to Caterpillar and allows operators and technicians to set auxiliary hydraulics flows and pressures by using the monitor in the cab instead of using expensive service tools. The customer can pre-set and store as many as 10 flow and pressure settings for 10 different hydra-mechanical work tools.

The Tool Control System is available in two factory-installed configurations-as a stand-alone system or with a medium pressure circuit and third pump. The latter system handles tools that require rotate function, such as multiprocessors or rotating grapples. It also can handle hammers, thumbs and similar tools. Single-function and double-function hydraulic tool systems also are available as a factory installed attachment

An expanded line of work tools is available. For fast work tool changes, two different quick couplers are available-a dedicated quick coupler and the Center-Lock™ Pin Grabber coupler. The latter uses a patented over-center locking mechanism and two hydraulic locking features to assure positive work-tool attachment. The new over-center locking technology promotes jobsite safety and allows operators to quickly, simply and confidently engage and disengage work tools regardless of boom and stick position.

To aid in machine management, Caterpillar offers Product Link. The optional system provides information on machine location, service hours and machine health via wireless communications.
HAMA - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the beginning of a feasibility study to spin-off its Industrial Machinery Division.

Source:http://deutschland.cat.com/cda/layout?m=343975&x=7

DEARBORN, Mich., – Many Ford Motor Company vehicles cost less to repair after a collision on average than all other vehicles in their segments, according to a new U.S. government report based in insurance claims database.

This is good news for the pocketbooks of current and future Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners because auto insurance companies often factor in model-specific claims data in setting premium costs.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 2010 Relative Collision Insurance Cost Information Booklet shows more Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles lead their segments for the lowest collision insurance cost than any other automaker. The report will be available in all dealerships this spring to help consumers anticipate repair costs that insurers rely on for setting insurance rates.

Ford has 10 segments leaders, including Taurus, Focus and F-Series trucks, from the 2007-2009 model years, more than three times as many as Toyota and Honda combined. The NHTSA ratings based on claim costs data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

“Vehicle affordability continues to be the most important purchase consideration for car and truck buyers, rivaled only by fuel economy,” said Frederiek Toney, vice president, Ford Customer Service Division. “We design our vehicles to be easier and more affordable to repair because we know this saves our customers money in insurance premiums and repair costs over the long term.”

According to NHTSA, Ford’s 10 segment-leading 2009 model year vehicles include:

• Ford Focus – Small Cars (four-door)
• Ford Taurus – Large Cars (four-door)
• Ford F-150 – Large Pickups (two-door)
• Ford F-150 Super Cab 4WD – Large Pickups (two-door-plus)
• Ford F-250 4WD – Very Large Pickups (two-door)
• Ford F-250 Super Cab – Very Large Pickups (two-door-plus)
• Ford E-350 Econoline wagon – Cargo/Passenger Vans (tied with Chevrolet Express 3500)
• Mercury Grand Marquis – Very Large Cars (four-door)
• Mercury Mariner 4WD – Small SUV
• Lincoln Town Car – Very Large Luxury Cars

Approximately 78 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models rated at or better than the industry average – nearly double Toyota’s 40 percent (including Scion and Lexus).

Designing to reduce damage
In 2009, Ford opened a Paint and Body Technology Center to leverage the combined expertise of Ford’s repair and safety experts, auto repair technicians and insurance companies to identify design solutions and repair procedures that will lower repair costs.

“If your vehicle costs less to repair, it generally costs less to insure,” said Gerry Bonanni, Ford damageability collision repair senior engineer. “We’re working harder to help reduce insurers’ repair costs by developing more affordable repairs earlier in a vehicle’s development.”

“It’s great that Ford gets insurance industry insight about how to improve repairability of its vehicle designs,” said Mark Woirol, project manager with Allstate Insurance Company’s Tech-Cor Applied Research Center, which works with automakers, insurers and repairers to make cars more damage-resistant and repair methods more cost-efficient. “We’ve never been as involved in an automaker’s product development process as we have since Ford invited us to participate.”

For example, Ford Focus maintained its hold on the top spot in the four-door small car segment thanks in part to a bumper design improvements.

“Ford’s repair-ability experts and safety engineers made the Focus’s bumper bigger and stronger to better protect adjacent components,” said Larry Coan, Ford damageability engineer. “The new technology center will help us build on these leading efforts.”

Higher resale values, fewer warranty repairs
In another key area of vehicle affordability, Ford’s resale values outpaced the industry by rising 23 percent according to the latest National Automobile Dealers Association auction data. The gains resulted from stronger demand for Ford’s new vehicles and improved quality and durability ratings.

“Rising resale values means more money in customers’ pockets when it is time to sell or trade in for a new vehicle,” Toney said. “Combine these savings with lower repair and maintenance costs and better fuel economy, and the cost to own a Ford product drops dramatically over the life of the vehicle.”

Source: http://www.ford.com/about-ford/news-announcements/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-report-shows-ford-vehicles-more-32593

YOHOHAMA - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the beginning of a feasibility study to spin-off its Industrial Machinery Division.

The aim of this feasibility study is to strengthen the division’s autonomy and create a flexible management for a sustainable growth in the forklift business, to cope with the challenging environment surrounding the forklift industry. The new company will be wholly owned subsidiary of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., thus maintaining the group synergies.

As Nissan intends to finalize the spin-off within FY 2010, they will start preparations of the spin-off arrangements simultaneously with the feasibility study. Further announcements will be made as soon as details of the spin-off are decided.

http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2010/_STORY/100513-02-e.html

What VIN Number ?

A car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) is the automotive equivalent of human “DNA”.

It sets the vehicle apart from the millions of other vehicles out there. Since 1981, it has been consisted of 17 digit characters. It displays a vehicle’s uniqueness and heritage and provides a form of “factory to scrap yard” identification. It can be used to track recalls, registrations, guarantee, warranty claims, thefts and insurance coverage.

Each character or digit has a particular purpose. VIN number does not include the letters I (i), O (o), or Q (q) (to avoid confusion with numerals 1 and 0).

A Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, is stamped onto a small metal plate and usually fixed to the driver’s side of the dashboard so that it is visible through the windshield. It is used by police in case of theft, insurance companies in case of accident, manufacturing companies for recall, mechanics or anyone that has a need to identify the vehicle or its attributes.

However vehicle manufacturers can stamp the VIN anywhere they want; frequently the engine block will have the VIN number stamped on it.

How to understand vehicle’s VIN ?

A VIN is basically a serial number for your any car or truck . It is 17 characters long and is a mix of numbers and alphabets. It is divided into four parts :

1. World Manufacturer’s Identification (WMI - three numbers or letters)
2. Vehicle Description Section (VDS - five numbers or letters)
3. The VIN Accuracy Check Digit (one number)
4. Vehicle Identification Section (VIS - eight numbers or letters)

• The first character identifies the manufacture’s country.
• The second number or letter identifies the car manufacturer.
• The third character is for vehicle type or manufacturing department,
• While the fourth through eighth characters identify attributes of the vehicle, like body style (like sedan, hatchback, SUV) and engine type.
• The ninth digit uniquely identifies the car, ensuring that no two cars within a 30 years period will have the same VIN number.
• The 10th character is the model year,
• The 11th is the assembly plant.
• The 12th to 17th identifies the sequence of the vehicle rolling off the production line; the last four characters are always numeric.

Use of VIN’s while buying a used car :

There are many things a seller may not disclose to you, such as a salvage title, flood damage or an odometer rollback. Any of these and other issues can affects the safety, performance and even value of a second hand vehicle.

To make it more difficult for you to learn a vehicle’s history, crooked or cheater sellers may list the wrong VIN in an online vehicle advertisement or may not be willing to provide the VIN at all. A buyer should ask seller to provide VIN number. So in case seller hide or refuse to disclose the VIN, that could be a sign of that seller do not want you to learn vehicle’s history.

Buyer can get the VIN from seller and can get the car history from several online website or some agencies reports like CARFAX report. If VIN do not match, you may avoid the deal from seller.

For more information and resources about any kind of used vehicles export and import please check our portal sites : http://www.japanesecartrade.com or http://www.japanautopages.com

Many people would like to have a sports car mainly for the performance but some may want to simply experience the sheer enjoyment that only a sport’s cars can give. Buying a brand new sports car will be too much expensive for many people, which is why mostly people prefer second hand or used sports car instead. Especially when it is a Japanese used sports car, people buy them because they are one of the best in quality.

Here is some good advice for purchasing any used or second hard Japanese sports cars.

1. Set expectations from a sport car
   Mostly buyers try to buy a second hand sports car with a brand new car in mind. It is considered that buying used sports cars is about getting the best value for your money. It is also necessary to know preferences and needs before buying any used sports cars.
2. Set up a budget to buy a sports car
   It is best to collect information about the current market price of the sports cars a buyer is looking to buy. It will help them to decide how much amount to be paid with certain quality or condition of the sports car. They can go through with Internet browsing or car magazines or online portals providing a buyer a general feeling about the current prices of different sports car models.
3. Check your selected sports car carefully before buying
   A buyer must be careful while inspecting the used sports car and must take his time doing so. There are four essential elements of the car that should be thoroughly inspected: the interior, the body, the engine, and the papers. A well-maintained sports car is worth buying.
   As all buyers may not be able to inspect them personally they can request the dealer or exporter for maximum photos of interior & exterior conditions, engine and other documents scanned copies, to ensure the quality of the sports car.
   Check for scratches or dents on the cars body. Of course, do not forget to check the car’s title, etc. Missing papers will cost the buyer additional money or prevent the purchase.
4. Test Drive
   If you are buying used sports car, meeting the exporters or dealer personally then it is advisable to take test-drive to ensure the quality of the sports car. However as most of the importers are unable to test them so they can ensure with the inspection sheet provided along with the sports car.

All these points will help the buyers to ensure the quality and buy a well deserving used or second had sports cars from Japan.

Check the latest stock of sports car at: http://www.japanesecartrade.com/type/sports-cars-49.html

To buy any used car from anywhere, prices are the main factor, which can motivate or de-motivate any buyer or supplier. Higher the price buyer will not be happy and lowering the price may lead the exporter in loss. However it is necessary for the used cars buyers or importers to know the factors affecting the prices of any used car, especially when you are buying from Japan. Japan is one of the biggest exporters of Japanese used cars around the world. Because of their high quality buyers around the world don’t hesitate to buy them even the second hand cars. Every month thousands of Japanese used cars are exported all over the world.

Guidance & factors determining the prices of Japanese used cars:

1. Most important factors that affect used car prices including the year (how old by age), overall condition, mileage, market demand, interior and exterior blemishes and the maintenance of the used car. All these factors help to determine the value of the car.
2. You must need to know a little about pricing before you buy any Japanese used car. Dealers that sell used cars add a certain percentage or they had a fixed amount to be charged with every used car.
3. Used car pricing is also affected by installed optional equipments & accessories. Installed accessories and equipments let the prices of the used car higher. Some of the accessories like Air Conditions, Power Window, Power Steering, CD Player, Sunroof, Bumper Guard, Leather Seat, TV, Cassette Player, Airbag, ABS, Navigation etc.
4. Another factor is the location where you are buying the used car. There are areas that have a high market demand for a certain car. If that is the case, you may get a better deal if you travel outside of the zone to shop around for your used car.
5. Beware of trade tricks. Many dealers strategize on the behavior of consumers when buying used cars. Dealers know that buyers will not purchase a used car unless they feel that they are offered a price lower than the original price. Dealers tend to make the price higher than the actual amount and make the buyer believe that they are offering a discount. What the buyer does not know is that the discounted price is actually the original price of the car.

How to verify the prices of the used car before buying them
Before buying any used car try to check the current market rates for the same cars you are interested to buy. The most common an easy source is Internet. Now a day there are a lot of web sites that provide pricing guides on used cars and also guidelines in finding the right used cars for you.

Buyers can also go through with some Japanese used cars portals, where they can find the stock of different exporters or dealers displaying their stock of used cars for sale and you can compare the prices of the different dealers at one place.

Now you can check the latest stock of Japanese used cars of all makes at: http://www.japanesecartrade.com/type/car-20.html

Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) announced today that Progress Rail Leasing Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Progress Rail Services, a division of Caterpillar, has acquired FCM Rail, Ltd. (FCM). Based in Fenton, Michigan, FCM is a leading lessor of maintenance-of-way (MOW) equipment in the United States. The acquisition strengthens Progress Rail’s existing position in the MOW industry by expanding its service offerings.

Incorporated in 1979, FCM specializes in MOW leasing, total equipment solutions with warehouse leasing and short- and long-term equipment rentals. Its extensive equipment portfolio includes tampers, ballast regulators, spikers, spike pullers, anchor applicators, track stabilizers, undercutters and various other railroad and track maintenance equipment.

“We are proud to announce the addition of FCM to the Progress Rail family,” said Dave Roeder, senior vice president of Engineering and Track Services at Progress Rail. “FCM is a well-known leader in the MOW leasing sector, and the company’s excellent reputation will further enhance Progress Rail’s position as a key player in the MOW market.”

Through this acquisition, Progress Rail Services will be able to better serve customers with an expanded leasing portfolio and cost-effective maintenance solutions.

“FCM is excited to join one of the premier companies in the railroad industry and become part of the Caterpillar family of companies,” said Denny Gilstad, former chairman and chief executive officer of FCM, who will remain as a consultant to Progress Rail.

Trent Marshall will succeed Gilstad as President of FCM, and FCM’s headquarters will remain in Fenton, Michigan.

Source: http://india.cat.com/cda/files/2195229/7/050710%20Caterpillar%20Subsidiary%20Progress%20Rail%20Acquires%20FCM%20Rail.pdf?mode

Caterpillar continues to refine the 950H Wheel Loader Industrial Arrangement for enhanced durability and reliability and extended maintenance intervals in demanding demolition applications. Starting in third quarter 2010, the specially equipped wheel loader can be fitted with new options including a new rear machine guard and new precleaners for engine air and for cab air.

The rear machine guard is designed to keep material from damaging the fan, radiator and engine enclosure. Additional rear working lights that activate while the machine is in reverse are included with the rear guard. The dual-stage engine air precleaner has a turbine-type first stage and a canister second stage. The system enhances air filtration and extends engine air filter maintenance intervals in high debris environments. Similarly, the cab air precleaner employs a powered, precleaner for improved filtration and extended cab air filter maintenance intervals. The new options provide more uptime and decreased operating costs.

These enhancements build on the proven Cat® 950H Industrial Arrangement, which features heavy-duty guarding for both machine and operator protection. In turn, the Industrial Arrangement builds on the versatile and productive foundation of the 950H Wheel Loader. The 950H produces 197 constant net horsepower (147 kW) and handles bucket sizes of 3.25 to 4.5 cubic yards (2.5 to 3.5 cubic meters) in most applications.

The 950H features a load sensing hydraulic system that automatically adjusts to operating conditions to provide only the hydraulic flow required by the implement. Additionally, the Cat C7 engine is electronically configured to provide constant net horsepower even when parasitic loads, such as cooling fans and air conditioning, are drawing power. Both systems promote high productivity and improve fuel efficiency.

Durable and productive

The 950H Industrial Arrangement features complete guarding of components to prevent damage and reduce downtime. Front drive guard and axle seal guards keep wire and other debris from wrapping around the axles. Hinged bottom guards protect the engine crankcase, transmission and other power train components. The steering cylinder and articulated hitch area are guarded, as is the tilt cylinder. Both the hydraulic tank and fuel tank are protected as well. Light guards and a windshield guard protect components around the operator.

The Cat limited slip differential axles provide traction and stability in difficult underfoot conditions, and their reliability and durability is proven. For flat-proof operation without a harsh ride, Caterpillar offers Flexport™ tires-solid, ported tires. The elliptical port design extends tire life, and the ports themselves cushion the ride for both the operator and the machine.

To promote high productivity in load and carry tasks, the optional Ride Control System cushions the work tool with a hydraulic accumulator system. The result is a smoother ride and better load retention.

Expanded versatility

The 950H Industrial Arrangement is equipped for multi-tasking on the demolition site. The Fusion quick coupler is designed for quick changes of work tools while keeping the load close to the loader for strong performance. A number of bucket and fork options as well as multiple auxiliary hydraulic options enable the 950H to handle a variety of attachments and materials efficiently.

For example, the Cat industrial grapple bucket can grip and retain irregularly shaped loads. Two hydraulic grapples clamp down on the load in the bucket to promote fast and secure sorting and loading of demolition debris.

High lift loader linkage arrangements are available for applications requiring additional dump clearance. The high lift linkage adds about 20 inches (489 mm) of lift height, which can speed truck loading tasks.

Built for the operator

For easy operator access and egress, the 950H has both left and right cab doors and ladders. The primary, left-side ladder is self-cleaning and features a 5-degree forward incline. The main cab door opens a full 180°. Platforms are wide and allow easy movement to the front or rear of the machine.

Electro-hydraulic implement controls with soft detents provide simultaneous lift and tilt capabilities. With the electro-hydraulic system, kickouts are programmable from within the cab for easy changes when the height of the target changes. An optional electro-hydraulic joystick is available with the same functionality.

The 950H provides excellent visibility to both the front and rear of the machine. Distortion-free flat glass stretches to the floor of the cab for excellent visibility to the bucket. An optional rear vision camera is available to clearly monitor movement behind the wheel loader.

Source:http://deutschland.cat.com/cda/layout?m=343975&x=7

Advanced Filtration Systems Incorporated (AFSI), the manufacturer of Caterpillar and Perkins differentiated liquid filters, has recently opened a new manufacturing facility near the city of Most in North Bohemia, Czech Republic. The opening of a facility on European soil will allow for better serve to the markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

AFSI, a joint venture of Donaldson and Caterpillar established in 1986, manufactures filters exclusively for Caterpillar and Perkins. In addition to the newly opened Czech facility it has a production plant in the city of Champaign, Illinois, USA. “A decision to establish a European branch came in 2007 as the plant in Champaign was reaching its maximum capacity. A European location, for additional capacity, was chosen to better and faster serve the markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. It will also help to serve the needs of Asia and Australia,” explains Stephane Latini, Marketing Consultant at Caterpillar.

The Czech factory was inaugurated on the 19th of March after a soft start of production in 2009. It can produce up to 2200 filters in an hour. In total, in its two plants, AFSI manufactures approximately 1.5 million filters a month.

AFSI filters are used in oil filtration (both engine and hydraulic), fuel filtration, and water separation systems of Caterpillar and Perkins products, and are well-known for meeting high quality and functionality requirements even under heavy-duty applications and difficult conditions. Specific features of the AFSI filters are the use of non-metallic center tubes with higher rigidity than their metal counterparts; polyurethane end caps to eliminate leak paths; media pleat stability features to maintain pleat separation and retain particles; and aluminum top plates for improved component cleanliness. This results in a compact filter cartridge that eliminates the risk of metal particles being released into the filtered liquids, minimizing the danger of potential impurities causing damage to critical machine/engine components.

Source:http://deutschland.cat.com/cda/layout?m=343975&x=7