S2G Propane Bobtail Forum focuses on service support

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) hosted a Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. S2G Propane Bobtail Forum at the NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo in Atlanta.

Project leaders, including representatives from Freightliner, PERC and Agility Fuel Solutions, sought input from industry members about their experiences with the S2G propane-fueled chassis. A similar event held last year at the Propane Expo in Nashville, Tennessee, drew more than 100 attendees. Attendance at this year’s event wasn’t quite as strong, but the message delivered to the group was similar.

“When the chips are down, you have to let us know how to advocate for you,” says Tucker Perkins, PERC’s president and CEO, referencing service issues with the chassis since production began several years ago.

In order to address any future issues, Freightliner has been transitioning to a Tier 1 support model. End users and dealers will now work directly with Freightliner on technical support. Processes, approvals and parts purchases will go directly from the dealer to Freightliner.

Freightliner says the change will result in a more streamlined process for support, warranty and parts purchases, leading to faster repairs with fewer delays at the dealer. “We want you to call us,” says Michael Stark of Freightliner, sharing the dedicated toll-free number for customers (855-639-8657), who can receive factory-direct support at any time of day.

Freightliner says the 8.0-liter engine will remain as the established foundation of the S2G product. Known as DriveForce, the engine will feature enhancements for reliability and durability and come with full service and warranty support from Freightliner, the company says. It will begin taking orders June 1.