This is a sources sought synopsis seeking qualified small businesses capable of providing Skid Plate Protection and Suspension Packages for diesel powered Ford F550 Series trucks with automatic transmission. The USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region is seeking Contractors interested in producing these packages for current and future Hotshot Superintendent Trucks. The production of a full Skid Plate Package is to protect the undercarriage of the vehicle. Protection of the vehicle must be provided during normal street driving, on unimproved dirt roads (wash-boarded) and complete off-road situations. The production of the Suspension Package is to improve the suspension, including up-graded shocks, coil springs, dampening devices and limiting straps. Skid Plate Protection Package: The skid plate protection package must protect all turbo, A/C, oil, transmission and radiator cooling cores and supply lines from damage due to small trees, rocks, brush and tree stumps. Protection must be provided to the oil pan, steering stabilizer, transfer case, muffler, catalytic converter, front differential and ABS brake lines from damage due to small trees, rocks, brush and tree stumps. Suspension Package: The suspension package must provide (NFPA 1906 compliant on a tilt table test to + 30 o). Limiting Straps: These must prevent maximum shock travel that will damage shock components. Straps will be rated to provide protection at the vehicle operational weight and driving conditions encountered. Shocks: Shocks must be provided that do not fade under extreme use with operational weight. They must provide dampening while driving on hard surfaces, wash-boarded dirt roads and the extreme off-road conditions encountered. Shocks require a lifetime warranty. Dampening devices: Coil springs must be provided with dampening inserts. Coils must level the vehicle with aftermarket bumper/grill guard/winch installed. Improved bump stops are required to reduce jarring of drive train components during off-road travel at variable speeds. These Packages must comply with the following specifications: *NFPA 1906 (2006 Edition) Standards *USDA Forest Service - Southwest Region Standards *NM DOT Standards *AZ DOT Standards *OEM Standards (must not void any OEM Warranty) In determining small business, the North American Industrial Classification System Code (NAICS) most applicable is 441310, Automotive Parts and Accessories with a small business size standard of $6.5 million. This is a sources sought announcement and does not constitute a solicitation. Qualified small businesses may express interest by submitting; Company name, address, point of contact, and a brief statement of capabilities to either: USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region, Attn: Linda Marquette, 333 Broadway Blvd., SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 or to:
[email protected] no later than January 11, 2007.