Solicitation of sales and the delivery of the product to the customer constitute the most important operative features of the motor-truck fleet supervised by the author. Endeavor is made to install the vehicles in the various fields along standardized lines. The volume and the extent of the business and the topographical conditions of each locality determine the size and the mechanical equipment of the vehicle that is employed, and it is installed only after a study of all the conditions pertaining to its operation.
Adequate training of vehicle operators, not only along mechanical lines but also as direct sales representatives of the company, is made a feature; and so is accident prevention. These interests are promoted in various standard ways and are furthered by the publication of “house organs.” After a vehicle is installed the slogan adopted is: Keep It Moving With a Pay Load.
Methods of mechanical upkeep are outlined, special tools and fixtures used are illustrated and valuable details of maintenance practice are stated. Engineering factors that affect fleet operation are discussed, as well as details relating to tire selection. A magazine system of chassis lubrication is advocated. Brakes, wheels and accessories are treated from the standpoint of design, the keynote being simplicity and accessibility. Operating costs, records and record forms are considered in general and, since adequate records are a necessity if fleet operation is to be successful, some specific recommendations are made concerning them.