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Thermo King announces the addition of another new feature, a controller with more programmability, to the industry-leading TriPac™ Hybrid Auxiliary Idle Reduction and Temperature Management System (APU). The new feature allows customers the opportunity to customize their TriPac system even further to match the unique demands of their business and is standard on all new TriPac systems.

Thermo King TriPac Auxiliary Power Unit

With this latest feature, Thermo King has added selectable functions to its controller for the TriPac system that allow the driver or fleet to select the parameters that the TriPac system will automatically control after a tractor on/off cycle. The TriPac system can now be programmed to monitor battery and coolant temperature only after the tractor on/off cycle, or, if the driver/fleet prefers, the system can also monitor cab temperature and automatically maintain the previously selected set point.

The addition of this feature resulted in part from customer comments, which indicated that some fleet managers wanted to ensure that the APU systems wouldn’t accidentally be left running during down times or over weekends.

Thermo King TriPac Auxiliary Power Unit

One of the biggest factors in choosing an anti idling device for many truck operators is the engine tie in.  Some just are not comfortable having the same coolant run through their APU as runs through the drive engine because they feel that there is an increased risk of a coolant leak.  Although I don’t agree with the severity of risks as some with a tied in system, in my book you don’t get much more foolproof than a properly inspected hose, I will admit that in the case of a hose rupture or, God forbid, a radiator rupture it would be great to still have the use of your APU for the (many) hours it takes the hook to show up.

The amount of integration between an anti idling device runs the gamut from excessive, like the Willis that integrates into the trucks coolant AND A/C AND engine fan, to completely independent, like the Rigmaster.  Unfortunately, as easy as it would be to offer the option to be integrated or not per the operator’s wishes, very few manufacturers will let you have it your way.  This is not Burger King.

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