Ready for the Road!
From sports and competitions to family reunions and vacations – We start hitting the road more often this time of year. So here’s a few tips to make sure your next trip goes as smoothly as possible:
Planning & Preparation
- Outline Your Route – Use a GPS or navigation app, and keep a physical map as a backup.
- Check Weather and Road Conditions – Stay updated on any closures or potential delays.
- Reserve Lodging in Advance – Ensure hotel or campground availability by booking early.
- Set a Budget – Plan for expenses like fuel, food, accommodations, and activities.
- Download Offline Maps and Entertainment – Useful in areas with weak or no signal.
Vehicle Readiness
- Have Your Car Inspected – Check tire pressure, brakes, fluids, lights, and battery.
- Pack a Roadside Emergency Kit – Include a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, and first-aid supplies.
- Confirm Insurance and Registration – Keep these documents up-to-date and easily accessible.
- Bring a Spare Car Key – Store it separately to prevent getting locked out.
Essential Items
- Pack Snacks and Drinks – Reduces the need for frequent food stops.
- Dress in Layers – Be prepared for changing temperatures along the way.
- Carry a Portable Charger and Cables – Keep all devices charged for navigation and entertainment.
- Keep Cash and Cards Handy – Some places may not accept digital payments.
- Take Sunglasses and Sunscreen – Protect yourself from sun exposure.
Safety & Comfort
- Take Breaks Regularly – Stop every couple of hours to stay alert and refreshed.
- Share Your Travel Plans – Let a friend or family member know your route and schedule.
- Switch Drivers When You Can – Helps prevent fatigue on long drives.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink enough water to maintain focus and energy.
- Follow Traffic Laws – Be mindful of speed limits and driving regulations in different areas.
Make It Fun
- Prepare a Playlist or Download Podcasts – Keep the trip enjoyable with good entertainment.
- Document Your Adventure – Take photos, videos, or keep a travel journal.
- Plan Interesting Stops – Visit scenic spots, local attractions, or unique eateries along the way.
Employee Spotlight
Did You Know…?
Tips For Better Fuel Mileage
Whether you want to cut fuel costs, use less gas, or be more eco-friendly, most drivers in Tullahoma & Winchester are looking for ways to improve fuel efficiency. We’ve all heard different tricks for saving gas, but do they actually make a difference? How much can regular maintenance and smart driving really help?
Fortunately, the U.S. government has researched this topic, so let’s break down the facts and see which fuel-saving habits truly pay off.
The Power of Preventive Maintenance
A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently, and a simple tune-up can improve gas mileage by 4%. That means saving about 14¢ per gallon when fuel costs $3.50 or 16¢ per gallon at $4.00.
Certain repairs can make an even bigger impact. Take the oxygen sensor, for example—if it’s malfunctioning, your engine won’t get the correct fuel-to-air ratio, leading to poor fuel burn. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can boost fuel efficiency by up to 40%. That’s a huge difference! Bringing your vehicle to Russell Barnett Automotive Family for regular check-ups ensures small issues don’t turn into costly problems.
A lit check engine light is another red flag. Many fuel-wasting problems trigger this warning, so if yours is on, don’t ignore it! Our team in Tullahoma & Winchester is ready to diagnose and fix the issue to help you maximize your miles per gallon.
Tires and Oil: Small Adjustments, Big Savings
Tire pressure plays a key role in fuel efficiency. Driving with underinflated tires can lower gas mileage, but keeping them properly inflated can save you 3%. Even slight pressure drops add up, so check your tires weekly to keep them at the recommended levels.
Another easy way to save? Use the correct motor oil for your vehicle. The right oil viscosity can increase fuel efficiency by 2%, so be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines.
Does Driving Style Affect Fuel Efficiency? Absolutely.
Unlike maintenance, changing your driving habits costs nothing—and the benefits are real.
Aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration, sudden stops, and weaving through traffic, wastes gas. Taking a more relaxed approach behind the wheel can save up to 5% in town and as much as 33% on the highway. That’s a major difference!
Speeding is another silent gas guzzler. Many drivers assume going just a few mph over the limit won’t matter, but in reality, driving 5 mph over reduces fuel efficiency by 7%, while going 15 mph over can cost you 23% more per gallon. Slowing down not only saves money but also helps you avoid expensive speeding tickets.
Lighten the Load
A simple way to improve fuel economy is to clear out unnecessary weight from your vehicle. Carrying around an extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel efficiency by 2%. So, clean out your trunk and avoid treating your car like a storage unit.
Next time someone asks for a ride, you might joke, “You’re costing me an extra fifteen cents per gallon!”
Bottom Line: Drive Smarter, Save More
By staying on top of vehicle maintenance, driving more efficiently, and reducing excess weight, you can make your gas dollars go further. Small changes add up, and with a little effort, you’ll keep more money in your pocket while improving your car’s performance.
So why not make these simple adjustments today? Your wallet—and your vehicle—will thank you!
Getting Started With A Food Truck or Food Trailer
Why Buy Anywhere Else?
That’s the question posed by the Russell Barnett Automotive Family. With roots in the automobile business dating back to 1939, the Barnett family has built a legacy of trust and quality. Learn more about our story at https://www.barnettfordtullahoma.net/aboutus.aspx.
BPN Dealer – Meeting All Your Needs
Our dedicated sales team is committed to addressing every aspect of your automotive needs. When it comes to commercial trucks and trailers, we specialize in creating customized setups tailored to your requirements.
If you’re ready to purchase a truck or trailer, consulting a knowledgeable representative is essential. Our team ensures you’re informed about critical details, such as weight ratings, electrical requirements, and optimal placements for generators or propane tanks. We proactively address potential concerns, asking the right questions to guarantee your vehicle fits your needs perfectly.
Custom-Built Solutions for Every Vision
Starting fresh? No problem! We’ll guide you through the process to bring your ideas to life. Whether you envision selling shaved ice, BBQ, shaved ice, tacos, or anything else, we’ll craft a custom trailer to match. Each trailer is uniquely designed to your specifications, from interior layouts to professional graphics.
Check out our gallery for examples of past projects, but remember, we design everything to your specific needs. From hot dog stands to state-of-the-art food trucks, our custom mobile kitchens are equipped with the tools and equipment essential for your business.
Expert Knowledge, Continuous Improvement
Our team stays up-to-date with the latest industry advancements. For instance, did you know you can purchase a food truck powered by propane? Propane is an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option, providing reliable heat, portability, and lower operating costs.
Have questions? Call us anytime. Our team members are always ready to find the answers you need, even if they don’t have them immediately.
The Mobile Food Industry Advantage
The food industry has evolved dramatically in recent years, with mobile food trucks and trailers leading the way. These mobile kitchens offer a flexible, cost-effective way to start your own business, with significantly lower overhead compared to traditional restaurants.
Food trucks and trailers enable you to run your own restaurant on wheels, giving you mobility, competitive advantages, and the ability to maximize profits. Whether you’re just getting started or adding another unit to your fleet, our custom mobile kitchens provide the exposure and flexibility to grow your business.
Powering Your Success: Generators and Battery Systems
Many events and festivals don’t provide power, making generators an essential investment. With the right generator, you can ensure uninterrupted service, even during power outages. Proper generator maintenance includes regular oil changes, weekly checks, and safe operation practices to extend its lifespan.
Alternatively, battery-powered food trucks offer significant advantages, including low maintenance, long run times, and substantial cost savings compared to generators. Plus, the federal government offers a 30% tax credit for battery system purchases.
Why Propane Matters
Propane is an excellent fuel choice for mobile kitchens due to its:
- High heating power for consistent, efficient cooking
- Portability with easy tank replacements
- Cost-effectiveness compared to other fuels
- Clean-burning properties with minimal emissions
- Versatility for powering stoves, grills, fryers, and more
Fire Suppression: A Smart Investment
A fire suppression system is a critical safety feature, automatically shutting off gas and dispersing chemicals if temperatures exceed a certain threshold. Even if not required locally, having this system ensures compliance when traveling to areas where it’s mandatory. Skipping this step could result in costly shutdowns at events, leading to lost revenue and entry fees.
Here’s A Few Satisfied Customers
Did You Know…?
Tire Care Tips
How to Extend the Life of Your Tires and Improve Safety
Taking care of your vehicle’s tires not only saves money but also enhances safety and performance. Follow these essential tips to keep your tires in top condition:
1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
- Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips.
- Inflate tires to the recommended PSI, found in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s side doorjamb.
- Underinflated tires wear on the edges, while overinflated ones wear in the center.
2. Rotate Your Tires Regularly
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- This helps ensure even tread wear and extends their lifespan.
3. Get Your Wheels Aligned
- Misalignment causes uneven tread wear and reduces tire durability.
- If your vehicle pulls to one side, vibrates, or shows uneven wear, schedule an alignment check.
4. Balance Your Tires
- Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations and premature wear.
- Have them balanced when installing new ones or if you notice shaking at certain speeds.
5. Drive Gently
- Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns, which can wear out tires faster.
- Be cautious when driving over potholes, rough roads, and curbs.
6. Inspect Your Suspension System
- Worn shocks, struts, and ball joints contribute to uneven tire wear.
- Have your suspension checked periodically to prevent unnecessary damage.
7. Regularly Check for Tire Damage and Tread Wear
- Look for cuts, bulges, cracks, or embedded objects that could cause issues.
- Use the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down—if you see the top of his head, the tread is too worn and needs replacing.
8. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
- Carrying too much weight puts extra stress on the tires and speeds up wear.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s load capacity recommendations.
9. Store Tires Properly When Not in Use
- Keep spare or seasonal tires in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and chemicals.
- Store them either upright or stacked correctly to prevent warping.
10. Choose the Right Tires
- Select tires suited for your driving conditions, such as all-season, winter, or performance tires.
- Investing in high-quality tires can improve durability and overall performance.
By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your tires, save money, and ensure a safer ride. Drive smart and stay safe!
A Stitch In Time (Winter Battery Checkup)
You probably have heard that expression, “A stitch in time saves nine.” In other words, if you fix an issue at its early stages, it will prevent a much more difficult problem later. That’s certainly the case with your vehicle, and here’s a true story to demonstrate it.
A driver noticed his vehicle was due for an oil change, so he took it in to his service facility early in the morning so he could wait while the work was performed. The technician routinely checks the battery on vehicles just before extreme weather is approaching (cold or hot), so with winter coming up, he hooked up the load tester (it measures voltage while a load is put on the battery). It showed the battery wasn’t holding a charge well.
The technician checked the manufacturing date on the battery, too (most batteries have a date stamped in code somewhere on them). The date showed it was five years old. While batteries can last more than five years, many technicians say you should expect to get anywhere from three to six years out of them, depending on what they go through.
So, this battery was getting a little long in the tooth, and it wasn’t holding a charge particularly well. But how much current was it being sent by the vehicle’s alternator? If it wasn’t getting enough, that might be a factor. A test of the charging system showed the alternator was putting out the correct amount of power. The technician recommended replacing the battery, and the driver agreed.
That was the stitch in time. Had the technician not checked the battery, that driver likely would have been stranded the next time he tried to start his vehicle on a very cold day. What originally was supposed to be just an oil change led to a technician’s sharp diagnosis and a little preventative maintenance for one fortunate driver. Sometimes timing is everything.
Employee Spotlight
Annual Christmas Party
Every year the Russell Barnett Automotive Family hosts a Christmas party for all of our employees and their guests. Our employees work so hard throughout the year, and this gives us a chance to show our appreciation for them with great food, gifts, and some really fun games. The party gets a little bigger every year as our wonderful automotive family continues to grow.
While everyone is together, it is a perfect time to recognize our employees’ achievements as they reach goals and milestones in their careers. From welcoming new employees to celebrating someone’s 30th year (or more) with us, or from celebrating a salesperson’s first vehicle sold to celebrating a 5,000th vehicle sold – there are always plenty of achievements to be proud of as our employees advance through various stages of their careers.
Most importantly, our annual Christmas party is a chance for everyone to get together and celebrate the holiday season. It’s easy to stay focused on the work and lose sight of the more important things in life, but Russell always makes sure to give back. If there’s one thing that has always mattered the most to Russell Barnett, it’s taking care of people. This includes his family, employees, customers, friends, and the surrounding communities.
Let’s have another spectacular Christmas season together, and then get ready for another great year with the Russell Barnett Automotive Family!
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