Driving long-term truck performance
Rokbak’s senior product manager, Scott Pollock, discusses how to maximize ADT efficiency
MAXIMIZING uptime and minimizing costs are essential when managing an articulated dumptruck (ADT) fleet. Here, Scott Pollock, senior product manager for articulated hauler manufacturer Rokbak, shares strategies – from smarter maintenance and operator training to cutting-edge onboard technologies – that help boost efficiency, cut expenses, keep your haulers moving and leave you stress-free.
In today’s competitive industrial landscape, articulated haulers are expected to do more than move material. They must operate efficiently, reliably and safely for the long haul. At Rokbak the focus is not just on manufacturing the company’s robust RA30 and RA40 trucks, but on helping customers get the most out of them throughout their operational life.
Unplanned breakdowns are a costly disruption in any fleet. The best defence against them is a solid strategy for planned, proactive maintenance. This goes far beyond routine filter and oil changes. Rokbak encourage regular inspections that can catch issues early – from worn suspension to minor leaks that could become major headaches.
Like a good vehicle check-up, effective servicing looks for both current faults and potential problems on the horizon. A vigilant approach to diagnostics and servicing can keep trucks on-site and earning, rather than waiting on repairs.
No truck is better than the person operating it. Well-trained operators not only maintain productivity but the health of the hauler itself. Pre-start checks, basic diagnostics, and awareness of operational anomalies make all the difference.
That is why Rokbak invest in training programmes that empower operators and service personnel. When everyone understands the ‘why’ behind truck care, the result is longer-lasting equipment and a safer, more efficient worksite.
Today’s articulated haulers are smarter than ever. Rokbak integrate automation and safety features that actively prevent misuse and mechanical stress. Technologies such as anti-tip body controls and downhill retardation systems protect the hauler and the operator.
Load monitoring and productivity tracking also ensure trucks are operating within their optimal range, saving fuel, reducing wear and avoiding costly errors. These built-in tools support smarter, more cost-effective operation.
Every Rokbak articulated hauler comes fitted with Haul Track as standard – an intuitive telematics system that gives fleet managers real-time access to vital performance data. This connected technology uses onboard diagnostics, GPS, and wireless communication to track and improve truck performance across multiple sites.
From any Internet-connected device, fleet managers can monitor fuel consumption, idle time, and machine usage. This helps them develop more effective maintenance schedules, reduce operating costs and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Maintenance alerts and fleet activity reports highlight potential issues before they become downtime-inducing problems.
Haul Track also helps identify operational inefficiencies. By detecting patterns such as harsh braking or excessive idling, it allows for corrective actions such as targeted operator training or re-routing – improving driving habits, protecting uptime, and extending machine lifespan.
Using non-OEM components might save money in the short term but often leads to long-term losses. Rokbak haulers are designed with precision, and only genuine parts offer the fit, compatibility, and tested durability the trucks demand. Every part plays a role in maintaining uptime and performance. By using OEM-approved components, operators gain the assurance of full compatibility with the truck’s systems and sensors.
Understanding that no two job sites are alike, Rokbak work closely with a global dealer network to tailor parts strategies and service support for each application – whether it is a construction site in the US or a quarry in Australia. Rokbak parts availability planning and regional stocking strategies ensures fast response when customers need it most. Strong local support, combined with a robust global network, is key to keeping haulers running and delivering value.
Ultimately, achieving long-term ADT efficiency is not about a single factor – it is a combination of great equipment, smart technology, reliable parts and, most importantly, skilled and committed people.
At Rokbak, there is a focus on this full ecosystem because the company knows that customers depend on it. By partnering closely with operators, technicians, customers, and dealers, Rokbak are helping to ensure that every one of their haulers delivers maximum productivity, minimal downtime, and lasting value.
