June 29, 2026
Rush Truck Centers’ technicians complete service calls with Knapheide Van Equipment and Mechanics Trucks.
To exceed customer expectations, the Mobile Service Division needs the right tools when responding to a call.
Rush Truck Centers’ customers are accustomed to excellent service. With more than 60 years of experience, exceeding customer expectation is not just a goal at Rush, it’s the culture.
Since 1965, Rush has grown to more than 150 dealerships nationwide. During that time, Rush adapted to the changes in the industry.
“One of our fastest growing market segments that we’ve seen over the last couple of years has been our Mobile Service Division,” said Mitchell Scates, Director of Mobile Service at Rush Truck Centers. “With over 700 mobile and on-site technicians nationwide, we range from a variety of services covering preventative maintenance to heavy-duty engine diagnostics and repairs.”
Rush standardized its fleet with the Ford Transit 350 upfitted with Knapheide Van Equipment and the Ford F-550 upfitted with Knapheide KMT1 Mechanics Truck.
“These trucks can vary in the type of repairs they do. They can do anything and everything that our customers ask us to do,” Scates said.
A Ford Transit 350 Packed with Knapheide Van Equipment
Rush’s fleet of Ford Transit 350s with Knapheide Van Equipment allow technicians to complete multiple oil changes in one setting, along with basic maintenance, DOT inspections, HVAC work and anything from a light-duty standpoint.
“I have my whole work area here that I’m able to come inside the van and actually work on top of this work surface with a vice, a plug for anything I need to plug in, whether that’s battery chargers or any tools that require an outlet,” said Marshal Aguirri, Mobile Service Technician at Rush Truck Center San Antonio.
“One of the best things about using the van is being able to work on this work surface protected inside the van,” Aguirri said. “The interior lighting allows me to see exactly what I’m doing whether it’s sunup or sundown while I’m inside the van. And when I’m outside the van, I have exterior spotlights to shine down, and these are moveable to allow me to point exactly where I need it.”
Some features Aguirri likes about his Ford Transit 350 with Knapheide Van Equipment:
- Lube reels allowing for three types of oils
- Air compressor
- Ample shelving and storage
- Power inverter
- Interior and exterior lighting
- Lube tank for oil and two other types of fluids
A Ford F-550 Upfitted with a Knapheide KMT1 Mechanics Truck
Rush uses Ford F-550s upfitted into KMT1 mechanics trucks for its larger jobs.
“Anything that a crane is needed for we’re able to do out of this vehicle,” Scates said.
The crane allows technicians to manage jobs both big and small.
“I actually had a situation where a customer had a truck that fell into a ditch and was unable to open the hood. So we were able to use the crane – strapped to that hood – and actually lift the hood off that body, so we could access the engine and move on with repairs” said Justin Gonzalez, Mobile Service Technician at Rush Truck Center San Antonio. “It’s strong enough to do the heavy stuff but it’s also very nimble to do the small things.”
When on a service call, technicians have plenty of space to work.
“This workbench is really nice. It’s at a good level. It’s very deep. I don’t have to worry about bolts or stuff rolling away in the corners because it has these gussets,” Gonzalez said. “I’m sure it’s for strength but it also doubles as keeping stuff from rolling off the bench when you’re working on it.”
And when there’s a tight squeeze on a service call, the KMT1 can adapt for Gonzalez.
“One feature that I do like about these doors is that I can take these pins off and open the door all the way,” he said. “So if we’re working in a tight spot at say a truck stop where we’re limited on space, we’re not bumping into the doors.”
Some features Gonzales likes about his KMT:
- Cubby storage system
- Adapter plate to mount other equipment without cutting into box
- Outriggers operated with hydraulics
- Knapliner bumper with storage that provides workspace
- Air compressor
- Ample storage that keeps tools and equipment dry and free of dust
To see vehicle solutions for mobile auto service pros, explore Knapheide Van Equipment and Mechanics Trucks.
“I’m very pleased with the way the box is designed. It really fits a mechanic’s needs as far as keeping them organized and keeping things convenient.”
- Justin Gonzalez, Mobile Service Technician, Rush Truck Center San Antonio
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