School Bus Fleet
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Product Highlights

Bosch school bus alternator offers efficiency, long life Bosch has introduced a new alternator specifically for the school bus market. The...

September 1, 2008
4 min to read


Bosch school bus alternator offers efficiency, long life
Bosch has introduced a new alternator specifically for the school bus market. The alternator incorporates Bosch Self Protection Regulator technology that automatically reduces the output to prevent failure when under-hood temperatures reach 257 degrees, then returns to normal when the temperature drops.

In addition to the Bosch Self Protection Regulator, dual internal cooling fans optimized for air flow help maintain the alternator’s even temperature under all operating conditions.

Ad Loading...

“This is the ideal alternator for school buses with a lot of stop-and-go driving, long stops at idle and amperage-eating accessories such as chair lifts,” said Fred Padgett, group product manager, Starting and Charging Products for Bosch.

The alternator produces 200 amps operating output and 120 amps at idle. The higher charge rate at idle prolongs battery life by reducing deep cycling.

Additional features include Bosch patented high-efficiency winding technology that uses 30 percent more copper than conventional replacement alternators, producing increased efficiency and fuel savings.

The external regulator and rectifier combine with the alternator’s heat sink design to rapidly dissipate heat, and the rectifier body design prevents clogging from heat-damaging debris. The heat-treated, long-life steel bearings and heat-resistant, water-repelling lubricant also contribute to efficiency and durability. The alternator also features a reduced slip ring diameter to cut down on carbon brush wear.

Bosch’s school bus alternator is backed by a 24-month, 200,000-mile warranty.

Ad Loading...

For information on Bosch automotive aftermarket products visit www.boschautoparts.com.
Bosch

Multi-purpose epoxy adhesive cures quickly
Master Bond EP41SMED is a low viscosity epoxy adhesive that cures rapidly at room temperature and has low shrinkage upon cure. The compound has a handling time of 10 to 15 minutes. Bonds are rigid and resistant to water, oil, organic solvents and cold sterilants. Master Bond EP41SMED is solvent- and diluent-free and adheres to numerous substrates, including metal, glass, rubber, wood and most plastics.
Master Bond Inc.

Pressure washer for heavy-duty vehicles, equipment
The Hydra-Clean Air-Operated Pressure Washer can be used on heavy-duty equipment and transit systems. Hydra-Clean packages are available in 12:1, 23:1 and 30:1 ratio units with fluid pressures of 1,250; 2,275 and 3,065 psi, respectively. The washers can be used with cold or hot water up to 200 degrees and with detergent or chemical solutions. Wall- and cart-mounted units that support multiple spray guns are available.
Graco Inc.

Mobile DVR has GPS capabilities, multiple audio-video channels
The mDVR500 Mobile Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is designed specifically for school buses. The GPS-enabled device allows end users to record speed and location data, and its two or four audio-video channels each produce high-resolution, real-time recording. The DVR also features input sensors for the bus’ lights, brakes and doors.
247Security Inc.

Heavy-duty wheel lifting tool introduced
The IronMan Ergonomic Wheel Lifting Bar comprises a long bar with a knob on one end and a curved spoon on the other that can easily slip into wheel openings, allowing end users to raise the tire/wheel assembly to a standing position and thereby reducing the risk of back strain.
Ken-Tool

Ad Loading...

In-vehicle computer accommodates fleet management needs
The Ranger, a mobile computer with an internal wireless modem that supports data and voice communications on GPRS (general packet radio service) and CDMA (code division multiple access) networks, can accommodate hands-free voice calling and turn-by-turn driving prompts with integrated navigation. Its 16-channel GPS receiver, magnetic stripe reader and multiple inputs and outputs provide a platform for a wide range of fleet management needs.
Mentor Engineering

Diagnostic tool amplifies component malfunction sounds
The Tracerline Marksman diagnostic tool converts and amplifies ultrasonic sound into audible, “natural” sound through heterodyning and Sound Signal Technology, enabling technicians to hear sounds that signify problems, such as air brake and compartment leaks and gear wear. The TP-9370 Marksman Master Kit (pictured) comprises a receiver, full-size headphones, two probes and an ultrasonic emitter. Standard 9-volt batteries are included for the receiver and the emitter.
Tracer Products

Fleet monitoring device attaches to vehicle battery
The TeleNav Vehicle Tracker is a GPS-enabled “black box” that is hard-wired or embedded onto a vehicle battery. Fleet managers can then log on to www.telenavtrack.com to obtain the location of each fleet vehicle. The Website also provides detailed reports that can assist in a company’s analysis of its fleet’s past performance.
TeleNav Inc.

Educational vehicle lift booklet available
“What Makes a Mohawk a Mohawk” is a free, 12-page booklet that includes pictures and descriptive text of Mohawk Lifts’ products, their components and lift brand comparisons. It is also designed to educate users about lift safety, ALI/ETL certification and the national vehicle lift safety standards. It can be found at www.mohawklifts.com.
Mohawk Lifts

Topics:Management
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Management

thumbnail for the route season 2 episode 9 featuring photos of bret brooks and amanda huggett
ManagementSeptember 15, 2026

How to Build a Better Driver Training Program

Ready to boost up your school bus instructor training? Here’s how to pick the right talent and improve recruitment, retention, and safety.

Read More →
Catalyst Mobility: Building Clean Transportation Together
Managementby Alex RomanSeptember 14, 2026

CALSTART and Forth Combine to Form Catalyst Mobility

The new name represents a renewed vision for the nonprofit focused on advancing clean, equitable, and affordable transportation solutions that move people and goods.

Read More →
School bus driver training graphic featuring a group gathered around a yellow school bus, with text reading, “Tips for Selecting Superb School Bus Driver Instructors.”
Managementby Amanda HuggettSeptember 14, 2026

What Makes a Great School Bus Driver Trainer?

Choosing the right school bus driver trainer takes more than experience. Learn six keys to selecting and developing trainers and evaluating program effectiveness.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Compton Unified School District transportation staff stand between two yellow school buses, including a small bus and a full-size conventional bus.
Managementby Staff and News ReportsSeptember 11, 2026

School Bus Contractors Expand Through New Deals, Acquisitions & Partnerships

STA's Canadian division acquires Ontario-based G&L Stevenson Transport; Durham School Services adds a new district in California; First Student expands in New Jersey; and Minnesota Coaches rebrands and acquires Halo Transportation.

Read More →
A line up of school buses with one out front of the group.
Managementby Elora HaynesSeptember 7, 2026

Logan Bus Company Rolls Out AI Phone System for NYC School Bus Families

A summer pilot found that AI agents could handle most routine calls, freeing up time for customer service staff to focus on emergencies and complex family concerns.

Read More →
Graphic that reads “What I Learned About Leadership” over photos of school transportation professionals participating in discussions and networking at the TAPT leadership event.
ManagementSeptember 4, 2026

From Intent to Impact: What I Learned About Leadership from TAPT

A Texas transportation supervisor shares lessons on self-awareness, accountability, managing stress and building trust — and why investing in leadership development matters at every stage of your career.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Graphic announcing the 2026 NAPT Award Winners, featuring the National Association for Pupil Transportation logo on a blue background with gold stars.
Managementby News/Media ReleaseSeptember 3, 2026

NAPT Names 2026 Award Recipients, Hall of Fame Inductee

Who earned national recognition for their work in student transportation? This year, NAPT named five recipients of its 2026 awards for service, safety, and leadership, plus its newest Hall of Famer.

Read More →
Zonar Cover for White Paper Survey Results for 2026 State of Student Transportation
SponsoredSeptember 2, 2026

2026 State of Student Transportation Report

Driver shortages. Rising costs. Growing safety expectations. More data, but not enough time to act on it. The 2026 State of Student Transportation Report reveals what transportation leaders say is putting the most pressure on their operations—and where they’re investing next. See how your priorities compare.

Read More →
Graphic reading “Managing Others’ Anger: Keeping Your Cool When Tempers Are High,” alongside a red balloon with an angry face against a stormy background.
Managementby Amanda HuggettSeptember 1, 2026

How to De-Escalate an Angry Person: 5 Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict

What makes emotions run high, and how should you handle an angry colleague or parent? Follow these steps for staying calm, listening, showing empathy, and resolving conflict.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Image of happy school children exiting their school bus
SponsoredSeptember 1, 2026

What Readiness Looks Like This School Year

Learn about the challenges shaping the 2026–2027 school year, from persistent driver shortages and budget pressure to technology and readiness gaps. See how school districts are responding and adapting in Zonar’s 2026 Back-to-School Readiness Report.

Read More →