TV Gig Makes Veteran Trucker a Star

June 2010 Volume 21, Issue 6

Delivering daily news to Canada’s trucking industry at www.trucknews.com AMTA begins search for new executive director By Jim Bray BANFF, Alta. – The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) is looking for a replacement for its executive director. According to incoming AMTA president Dean Paisley, the current executive director, Mayne Root, will be leaving his post at the end of the year. Paisley made the announcement shortly after taking over the gavel from outgoing president Richard Warnock at the group’s Annual General Meet- ing, held during its 2010 Man- agement Conference at the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff in mid-April. “We’ve got some challenges ahead,” Paisley said early in his initial address as president, not- ing that they’re going to “put the past presidents to work” looking have truck, will travel: Ice Road Trucker Alex Debogorski, 56, has remained with the show as it changed venues for someone to take over Root’s from the Northwest Territories to Alaska, where the current season was shot. duties. “They’re going to be huge shoes to fill,” Paisley said while recog- nizing Root’s contributions. Pais- TV gig makes veteran trucker a star ley added he expects the AMTA will see the former executive director “very much” regardless of By Jim Bray Alex Debogorski, a 56-year-old up when Debogorski slowed down his retirement. YELLOWKNIFE, N.W.T.– He’s driver and entrepreneur based out long enough to be interviewed, an Paisley also thanked Root, to been a bouncer and a cabby and of Yellowknife, NWT, has also experience punctuated by hearty the accompaniment of much ap- he’ll soon add ‘author’ to his list spent the past few years carv- laughter. He remembers clearly plause from those gathered, for of careers, but if it all ended to- ing out a niche as one of the lead when the History Channel sent a “An excellent job.” morrow he says he’d be okay characters in the History Chan- crew up there one summer, look- For a full report on the AM- with it. nel series Ice Road Truckers. And ing for characters. TA’s annual management confer- Not that he wants it to end, a character is what he remains, “Every time they interviewed ence, be sure to pick up a copy of mind you; he seems to be enjoy- proudly. someone,” he says, “the people the July issue of Truck West. n ing life too much for that. Season Four had just wrapped Continued on page 8

EPA2010 from behind the wheel InsideInside ThisThis Issue...Issue... Mark Dalton O/O • Roll on: We review a book that recounts a true story about the Canadian trucking industry giving back during a woman and child’s time of need. Page 7

• A natural solution?: Would a natural gas corridor through Ontario be enough to convince trucking companies to convert their fleets to natural gas? Page 12

• Tax tips: With tax season come and gone, our resident tax expert offers tips to make the process easier. Page 16 • A new challenge: Challenger Motor Freight isn’t hiding the Page 28 See pgs. 22-23 fact it wants a bigger slice of the LCV pie. Page 21

Reach us at our Western Canada news bureau To view list of advertisers see pg. 27 E-mail Jim Bray at [email protected] or call 403-453-5558

PAP Registration No. 11065 PM40069240

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OO of the Year Award.indd 1 17/03/10 12:02 PM Chevron class 8 June 5/12/10 11:49 AM Page 1

Page 4 TRUCK WEST June 2010

Monthly Class 8 Sales - Mar 10 Historical Comparison - Mar 10 Sales The economic rebound was slow to take form OEM This Month Last Year in 2010 but carriers are reporting encouraging freight volumes in March and April. Does that Freightliner 409 387 mean there is enough confidence to invest in International 409 325 new trucks? Truck sales also appear to have Kenworth 327 142 picked up a bit of steam during the final month Mack 105 127 of the first quarter, coming in at 1,734 units Peterbilt 191 64 sold. That’s still more than 700 units below the Sterling 15 126 five-year average but it is considerably better Volvo 181 170 than last year’s disastrous sales records and Western Star 97 115 also ahead of 2002 and 2003. TOTALS 1,734 1,456

Class 8 Sales (YTD Mar 10) by Province and OEM Historical Comparison - YTD Mar 10

OEM BC ALTA SASK MAN ONT QUE NB NS PEI NF CDA Freightliner 60 102 77 55 382 149 61 52 0 3 941 Kenworth 67 206 51 53 144 214 15 0 0 0 750 Mack 10 19 14 24 76 49 8 8 0 0 208 International 62 100 14 58 423 273 33 34 0 13 1,010 Peterbilt 40 74 27 32 73 159 22 14 0 0 441 Sterling 8 11 1 2 2 15 0 0 0 0 39 Volvo 12 26 17 23 142 70 35 23 0 0 348 Western Star 34 64 16 6 55 33 12 26 0 1 247 TOTALS 293 602 217 253 1,297 962 186 157 0 17 3,984 The previous year was the worst year for Canadian Class 8 truck sales of the past decade and one of the worst since the economic slowdowns of the early 90s.The first quarter of 2009 was so weak that, three months into the year, sales were about 3,000 off the five-year YTD average and about 5,000 off the banner year of 2006. The improvement in truck sales during the first two months of the first quarter of 2010 was marginal but March showed a decent pick up. The first quarter ended with sales of 3,984 Class 8 trucks, which although considerably behind the five-year average, is better than both last year’s first quarter mark as well as the mark posted back in 2002. 12 - Month Sales Trends Market Share Class 8 – Mar YTD

1,800

1,600

1,400

1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0 April May June July August September October November December January February March Sales 1,197 1,078 1,038 995 923 1,071 1,405 1,131 1,380 1,031 1,149 1,734

There are many reasons motor carriers remain reticent to purchase new trucks. Despite bankrupt- International, once again, captured the market share crown in the Canadian Class 8 cies and fleet size reductions, there are still too many trucks chasing too little freight. Although market in 2009, ending up with a commanding 29% share of the market. But the fight for indications are that freight volumes are growing, growth remains tentative. Pricing for trade-ins market share this year is proving much tighter with International standing alone with its remains less than appealing and access to capital for new truck purchases remains limited. The advanced EGR solution to the 2010 emissions standards compared to the SCR option all new trucks also come with 2010 emissions standards compliant engines, which add about other truck manufacturers have chosen. Although it’s too early in the game to determine $10,000 to the price of a new rig. how the market share battle will unfold, after the first quarter, International holds a narrow 2% lead over rival Freightliner for the market share crown. Source: Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association

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® TM A company product © 2010 Chevron Lubricants Canada Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are DELO DELIVERS CONFIDENCE the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC. June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 5 Are LCV drivers getting their fair share? June 2010, Volume 21, Issue 6 Canada Post Canadian Publications I’ve written quite favourably about treat them like they’re elite and pay ISSN 0700-5016 – Truck West (Print) ISSN 1923-3531 – Truck West (Online) Ontario’s LCV program and in do- them like they’re elite. Otherwise, Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40069240 ing so, I’ve invited some criticism from Editorial there’s a very real possibility this pro- “Return Postage Guaranteed” drivers and engaged in some lively de- gram will fall flat. 12 Concorde Pl., Suite 800, Toronto, Ont., M3C 4J2 Comment Sales: 416-510-6892 / Editorial: 416-510-6896 bates. As I see it, drivers stand to ben- In closing, if you’re the manager of Fax: 416-510-5143 efit from the program. Carriers have James Menzies a fleet that is participating in the LCV Truck West, USPS 017-178 is published monthly by BIG Magazines L.P., a div. of Glacier BIG Holdings told me they pay 20-30% per-mile pre- program and pay your LCV-certified Company Ltd., a leading Canadian information miums for LCV drivers. Here’s an op- equipment. drivers fairly, go ahead and tout your company with interests in daily and community newspapers and B-2-B information services. portunity to take the training, get cer- So where are the savings going and LCV pay packages by commenting US office of publication: 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd, tified, enhance your value and make why aren’t drivers getting their fair on my recent blog on this subject at Niagara Falls, NY 14304-5709. Periodicals Postage Paid at Niagara Falls, NY. US postmaster: Send more money. For the motivated driver, share? Trucknews.com. address changes to Truck West, PO Box 1118, what’s not to like about that? If only it Some drivers tell me the big carri- Consider it a free ad on me (just Niagara Falls, NY 14304. SENIOR PUBLISHER – Rob Wilkins were so simple. ers are lining their pockets with the don’t tell Kathy). Perhaps it’ll put ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – Kathy Penner In talking to several LCV-certified efficiencies afforded by pulling Twin- some pressure on the others. In EXECUTIVE EDITOR – James Menzies MANAGING EDITOR – Adam Ledlow drivers, it seems there’s a significant 53s. I don’t buy that. I see very few car- all seriousness, let’s get some dia- CIRCULATION MANAGER – Vesna Moore discrepancy between what carriers say riers getting rich running LCVs. My logue going. Fleet managers, what CIRCULATION ASSISTANT – Anita Singh CREATIVE– Carolyn Brimer, Beverley Richards they pay their LCV drivers and what suspicion is that the vast majority of do you pay your LCV drivers? V.P. PUBLISHING – Alex Papanou those drivers are actually making. the savings are being passed onto the Drivers, what are you being offered to PRESIDENT – Bruce Creighton Circulation inquiries: 416-442-5600 ext. 3553 One such driver, Kassie Gibner, shipper. But why? pull Twin-53s? n Change of address: Please include subscription shares her experience: “Although it’s Eric Gignac of Groupe Guilbault number from mailing label. Subscription rates: Canada (Includes GST) – quite the experience to pull the LCVs, perhaps said it best at last year’s OTA – James Menzies can be reached One year $40.60; U.S. – one year $66.95; and the money that’s saved and made convention: “Why should we give by phone at (416) 510-6896 or by foreign – one year $66.95 Send subscription orders, address changes (incl. mailing label for the company is sizeable, typically it the savings to the customer? That’s e-mail at [email protected]. from latest issue) to above address. On occasion, our subscription list is made available to organizations whose products or only pays three cents a mile more than what I’m hearing in Ontario and that You can also follow him on Twitter services may be of interest to readers. If you prefer not to running a single. Not even remotely scares me a lot. You need a shipper at Twitter.com/JamesMenzies. receive such information, please write to us. Please allow 8 weeks for changes or corrections. worth it as a driver to take on the add- who gives you two truck- PAP Registration No. 11065 ed responsibilities and extra work, only loads at the same time We acknowledge the financial support of the to be under such incredible scrutiny by at the same place with Government of Canada, through the Canada Magazine Fund, towards our editorial costs. everyone from the companies them- the same appointment We acknowledge the financial support of the selves to the OTA to the public.” time with equal weight. Government of Canada, through the Publications If you have that in On- Assistance Program, towards our mailing costs. Worse yet, she tells me she’s at risk of losing her job because she’s the only tario, you’re lucky. We LCV-certified driver at her company don’t have that in Que- and she’s no longer willing to pull dou- bec. You have savings but Advertising inquiries bles for a measly three cents a mile ex- you also have extra costs Kathy Penner (416) 510-6892 Fax: (416) 510-5143 tra. Jumping to another carrier that – permits, paying more pays better may be an attractive op- for the driver…” tion, but it’s now clear why a clause Damn straight. was cleverly tucked into the regula- As an observer, I tions that makes the LCV certifica- see quite clearly there’s tion non-transferrable. She’d have to something fundamen- re-certify if she moved to another fleet. tally wrong with this At any rate, she’s not the only one picture. More than any- who has told me the extra pay isn’t thing else, the success of Rob Wilkins Kathy Penner Publisher Associate Publisher worth the added responsibility and the Ontario LCV pro- (416) 510-5123 (416) 510-6892 [email protected] [email protected] scrutiny. Many drivers say that even gram hinges on the pro- with a small per-mile premium, pulling fessionalism and abilities LCVs is a losing proposition when you of the drivers. They are factor in the reduced speed and extra being touted as the elite, time spent hooking up and inspecting the cream of the crop. So

Brenda Grant Don Besler Don’t break out the bubbly just yet National Account National Account Sales Sales Manager (416) 494-3333 (416) 699-6966 Is your head spinning yet from all levels of government stimulus that [email protected] [email protected] the economic volatility and second- jump started the North American guessing about what it all means Viewpoint economy will run out before busi- about our industry’s future? After nesses are ready to tackle the re- spending the last few days immers- Lou Smyrlis covery on their own, plunging us ing myself in the economic turmoil Editorial Director back into the economic abyss; the taking place in Europe and what it ed that the Canadian economy cre- financial markets, perhaps spooked could mean for our fragile recov- ated 108,700 jobs in March – more by another Greece, could freeze ery, I travelled to Ottawa to listen to than four times as many as expect- the availability of credit, choking Doug Copeland Laura Moffatt the economic predictions from the ed and the largest monthly gain on off business growth in the process; Regional Account Manager Research (416) 510-6889 Director menagerie of economists gathered record. Industrial growth is looking commodity prices are higher than [email protected] at the Chartered Institute of Logis- good again and the GDP gains of market fundamentals would justi- TRUCK WEST is a proud member of the following tics and Transport’s annual Outlook the first quarter were impressive. As fy and a sharp correction to their trucking associations: Conference. And I can assure you, Peter Hall, vice-president and chief pricing could hurt the economy; the my head is spinning. Are we ever economist for Export Development Bank of Canada could get overzeal- ALTA. MOTOR TRANSPORT ASSN. going to get a handle on this thing? Canada, told the conference: “This ous about controlling inflation and It seems every second person has a is the stuff of optimism.” Carl Son- stifle the recovery with higher in-

SASK. TRUCKING ASSN. somewhat different take on what is nen, president of the respected re- terest costs; while protectionist sen- MAN. TRUCKING ASSN. B.C. TRUCKING ASSN. shaping the recovery, if we are even search group, Informetrica, went as timents south of the border could The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and all representations or warranties made in such in a real recovery. far as to say the near term proba- start driving trade legislation. advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. The Just last month I wrote in this bility of a “V” shaped recession is Hate to be the bearer of bad publisher is not liable to any advertiser for any misprints in advertising not the fault of the publisher and in such an event the limit of the publisher's space that it seems we’re stuck in moderately high. news – would much rather believe liability shall not exceed the amount of the publisher's charge for such advertising. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or in a prolonged in-between phase with Sounds like it’s time to break out the positive first quarter results are part, without the written permission of the publisher. the recession technically over but the bubbly. You’ve survived the an indisputable sign of economy re- From time to time, we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations with the recovery nowhere near as worst economic downturn since covery – but it sounds like the next whose product or services may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be robust as would have been hoped. 1961 (multiplied by a factor of sev- six-month period will be critical in made available, please contact our privacy officer via I mentioned that many of the mo- en to be precise, in terms of sever- determining if the recovery is real one of the following methods: Phone: 1-800-668-2374 tor carrier executives I spoke to in ity). Ah, but if it only were that sim- or not. n Fax: 416-442-2200 E-mail: [email protected] January and February were tell- ple. The economic forecasters are Mail: Privacy Officer. Business Information Group, ing me they’ve seen little in terms spinning several qualifiers into their – Lou Smyrlis can be reached by 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, Ont., M3C 4J2 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069240 of growth in freight volumes. But forecasts. It seems there are several phone at (416) 510-6881 or by e- RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES then March and April appeared to risks that could push us back into mail at lou@TransportationMed- TO CIRCULATION DEPT. – TRUCK NEWS, 12 CONCORDE PL., SUITE 800, be much better in terms of freight recession, according to Hall. ia.ca. You can also follow him on TORONTO, ON M3C 4J2 volumes and the government report- There is a risk the unprecedented Twitter at Twitter.com/LouSmyrlis.

pg 05 tw june 3.indd 5 14/05/10 1:14 PM Page 6 TRUCK WEST June 2010 fEATURE Are energy drinks a loaded gun for young drivers? Contents may do more harm than good

By Ingrid Phaneuf turers) is intense…While there are TORONTO, Ont. – So-called en- exceptions (Red Bull and SoBe’s ergy drinks: The new generation of line of juices, elixirs and teas), the truckers is increasingly relying on energy drink segment is dominat- them, instead of coffee, to get from ed by sales to males, most notably point A to Z without the ‘Zs.’ But the 20-30 age range. These energy are they really an effective cure for drinks are generally high in sugar, white knuckle driving: Can too much reliance on energy drinks make drowsiness? Or is consumption a caffeine, taurine and other booster drivers a road risk? One school of thought suggests so. loaded gun for drivers who rely on ingredients that claim to increase them too heavily? energy and alertness.” Researchers at the Transporta- As the market for young men using to give you a perk-up when thing when driving a rig. For me tion Research Board appear to be becomes saturated, states the re- you have a lull, it’s going to be it’s a safety issue, I don’t want to asking the question, but are unwill- port, and “as the older generations very short-lived,” says Bob Half- have any kind of high – whether ing to provide any answers as yet. pay more attention to their energy yard, director of safety and compli- it’s caffeine or not. I have known “We don’t even have a first draft needs, it creates an opening for new ance for Challenger Motor Freight, some drivers who used them (en- yet,” was all research project man- marketing techniques or new en- headquartered in Cambridge, Ont. ergy drinks) and I would see them ager Donna L. Vlasak would say trants with differentiating product “And what you have to know is that, standing there with shaking hands when asked what preliminary re- claims. Targeting mature consum- if you try to artificially heighten at the truck stops. I had to wonder sults are showing. Still, the study, ers based on time pressures may your energy or alertness with caf- to myself, are they in need of a fix? sponsored by the Commercial be beneficial for new energy drink feine or sugar, you’re going to get I don’t want that guy out there on Truck Safety Synthesis Program, brands or product launches. An a big bounce for 20 minutes or a the road.” and titled Chemical Substance example is the introduction of half hour and then when you come Smith’s concerns mirror White’s. Effects on Driving Performance: energy shots (a new category of down, you’re going to come down “More aggressive driving is de- Stimulants, Hypnotics and Nutri- energy drinks) into the market.” harder.” finitively a possibility,” says White, tional Aids would seem to indicate Indeed, it appears that, thanks Still, everyone is going to have based in Illinois. “Caffeine speeds there are concerns. to the “shot,” energy drinks have a cup of coffee from time to time, you up, you become less patient in Indeed, scientists from the already become more attractive to says Halfyard, who himself admits traffic and you’re not alert the way John Hopkins University School an older audience, one not just in- to having cut down from up to 15 you need to be as a driver. You can of Medicine in Baltimore have terested in studying or partying, ac- cups of coffee per day to three cups make erratic lane changes, take un- called for prominent labeling for cording to the report, which states per week. necessary chances, and it all hap- energy drinks listing caffeine dos- that the market for shots increased “The only way to combat fatigue pens unconsciously. Drivers need es and warning of potential risks. 100% in 2008 alone. According to is to rest,” Halfyard says. “You sustained alertness, not the kind They’re also recommending doc- the report, “the shots target the can try to use artificial means, but of hyped up sudden alertness you tors become familiar with signs older adult market and a wide eventually it will catch up with you, get from caffeine.” of caffeine intoxication, a syn- variety of occupations with non- in terms of your health and in terms Health concerns were also a ma- drome recognized by the Diag- traditional hours of work such as of your ability to drive.” jor driver behind White’s creation. nostic and Statistic Manual of truck drivers, nurses, and office Indeed, the increased health- “Truckers suffer from things like Mental Disorders (psychiatry’s workers. Overall, these products and safety-consciousness of older high blood pressure and obesity, official guidebook of mental ill- are pushed by a much tamer ad- and more experienced consum- so drinks with lots of caffeine and nesses) whose symptoms include vertising campaign, more generic ers (and truck drivers) has energy sugar just aren’t good for them. nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, packaging, and promoted by fig- drink manufacturers scrambling to Truckers need a healthy source of insomnia, upset stomach, tremors, ures that are respected outside of create healthier, less caffeinated energy.” tachardia (rapid heart beat) and the traditional energy drink celeb- alternatives. In response, White and his agitation. rity sphere (ie. Lance Armstrong).” One such manufacturer, new to chemist-for-hire came up with a In other words, drinking too The good news is that brand name the US market and hoping to make drink that has only 70 calories per many energy drinks may actually shots like 5-Hour Energy, which, at in-roads in Canada, is a working 16-ounce serving, sweetened with increase fatigue by depriving driv- the time of the report had 60% of independent owner/operator him- stevia (an organic sugar substi- ers of rest when they turn off the the market share in convenience self. Danny White is the proud cre- tute) and chock-full of ingredients engine and cause them to drive stores (including truck stops) and ator and owner of Big Ol’Trucker as crunchy-granola sounding as more aggressively when they turn with sales reaching $169.7 million, Energy Juice, coming soon to a hawthorn berry, “recognized for its it on. Those are serious side effects claim to not just rely on caffeine truck stop near you. contribution to the cardiovascular when you consider that aggressive for their kick. In fact, there is less White’s drink, developed in col- system which may contribute to the driving actually caused five times caffeine in a two-ounce 5-Hour En- laboration with a chemist he hired enlargement of blood vessels, the more highway crash fatalities on ergy shot than there is in a cup of with money from his own pocket, is lowering of blood pressure and the US highways in 2006 than drowsy coffee, a substantial decrease from rapidly gaining press in the states. strengthening of the heart muscle,” driving (30,731 versus 5,464), drinks like Red Bull, which contain In fact, trucking blogger Allen according to a brochure endorse- according to recent figures from the equivalent of several cups. But Smith has even reviewed the drink, ment from naturopath Sherin Lee. a National Cooperative Highway can you drink just one? touted as a healthy, low-cal, no- Birkenstock-wearers aside, the Research Program. And when It all comes down to whether caffeine energy drink for health- drink is fast headed towards being you consider that the use of ener- drivers over-consume energy drinks, conscious truckers, on his popular a hit with truckers, at least accord- gy drinks is growing, not shrink- no doubt a question that will be AskTheTrucker.com Web site. ing to White’s marketing man, Mike ing, among younger and yes, even addressed by the Transportation “I actually enjoyed it,” wrote Carr, a former sports drink shill. Canadian drivers, despite the dan- Research Board study currently Smith, who is not a fan of energy “When I began to look at the gers, those side effects become underway. drinks in general, due to the caf- branding, it made perfect sense,” even more alarming. For now, the data is largely feine and sugar content as well as says Carr. “There’s nothing like A recent report from Agriculture anecdotal. According to industry what he calls “other ingredients” it out there – drivers are eating and Agri-Food Canada indicates insiders, age and, to a lesser degree, (like taurine – also present in red and drinking so poorly and they that since energy drinks broke into health-consciousness, is the deter- wine) which tend to make him need a healthy drink to help them North America in the early 2000s, mining factor. leery. stay awake while driving. That’s their use, especially among young “A lot of drivers use energy how Big Ol’ Trucker Energy Juice Older = wiser? males and time-conscious con- drinks,” says Smith. “The 5-Hour was born.” sumers (ie. truck drivers) has in- According to older, more seasoned Energy shot seems to be the big one The nescient company has a Web creased dramatically. According trucking industry professionals, the they like, but they like it because site flush with trucker video testi- to the report Market Update: En- caffeine and sugar kick provided by you don’t have a crash afterwards monials to prove its popularity, ergy Drinks in North America re- most energy drinks, shots or even – they tell me there’s no after-ef- points out Carr. (Never mind the leased in August 2009, “With over coffee is a temporary fix and may fects – you don’t come crashing pin-up girls, also stimulating, and 210 brands in the North American even get in the way of good driving down and feel totally exhaust- also non-caffeinated). market alone and a value growth and good health. ed after they wear off. As for me Now if only someone could in- of 43% from 2003-2008, competi- “Our fatigue training emphasiz- personally, I think it’s a bad thing vent a way to allow drivers to get a tion (among energy drink manufac- es that, regardless of what you’re and don’t need to be high on any- good night’s sleep. n

pg 06 tw june v3.indd 6 13/05/10 11:29 AM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 7 book review

“I froze as I listened to his words. I felt fear and panic Roll On throughout my entire body, ‘Oh my God,’ I thought, ‘he wants By James Menzies to die, he wants to die to be with his dad. What am I going to do? TORONTO, Ont. – On Sept. 12, Does this mean he would commit suicide? Could he?’ 1993, Claudia Belair lost her husband and best friend Jean-Claude. He was In his grieving state, I believed he would be able to go that far. a born trucker who worked hard I had to do something, but what? I was struggling to keep my to provide for his family. His sudden death of a heart attack stunned own grief under control, how in God’s name was I going to the family and left them swimming in grief. save my son if I could not even save myself?” Consumed by her own grief, Claudia realized she needed help in comforting her children, particu- The highlight of the trucking indus- The book includes a list of all the larly 12-year-old Marc. Not know- try’s generosity came in the form of a people who wrote Marc including ing where to turn, she sent a letter to special day dubbed Marc Day, provid- several pages of letters that he re- the editor to then Truck News edi- ed by local fleet Big R Express. The ceived. Claudia said she wrote the tor Brenda Yarrow (now Truck News company invited Marc to visit their book as a way to give back to the sales rep, Brenda Grant). operations, let him sit in the trucks, industry and recognize how caring What happened next forever presented him with a company jacket and compassionate its professional changed the lives of Claudia and her and took him to lunch. He was basi- drivers are. son Marc and is the subject of a new cally able to live his dream of being “Truck News is one of the main to the Breakfast Clubs of Canada, a book called Roll On. a trucker for a day. reasons for my book. If they hadn’t charitable organization that has helped The letter to the editor, which ap- Claudia describes her book as: printed my letter at the time, the her through the years. peared in Truck News shortly before “A true story about a young moth- chain of events would never have Claudia will begin marketing the Christmas 1993, struck a chord with er’s struggle dealing with grief and happened and who knows where our book in earnest this summer, first many readers. Like a scene out of loss, and how the Canadian truck- family would be right now?” Claudia with an appearance at the Truck a movie, the Belairs’ postal worker ing industry came to her rescue and told me. “Through the thoughtful- News booth at the Stirling Truck began showing up at their door with the amazing events that took place ness and kindness of your readers, Show June 19. bags of letters, postcards and gifts, to help her young son deal with the they gave us our strength and cour- The book can be purchased at mailed to Marc from truckers and loss of his father.” age to not only go on in our lives, but the show, or ordered directly from industry suppliers all across Canada. In a world where the trucking in- to go on knowing that people really Claudia for $20 + $2.35 shipping and There were hats, jackets, mod- dustry is often villianized, or at least did care about other people.” handling by sending payment to: el trucks, pictures and everything misunderstood, it’s a refreshing read. Publishing the book has proven C. Belair; 600, 16th Avenue; LaSal- imaginable. Those who’ve been around the in- to be a struggle. Claudia spent years le, QC; H8P 2S3. You can also find “Almost every day became a new dustry may even recognize some of working on it and then published it Claudia online via the Truck News day of surprises,” Claudia writes in the characters – folks who took the herself. The purchase price of $20 is facebook page at www.Facebook. her book. “We never knew what to time to write and are still involved just enough to cover her printing costs com/TruckNews or you can e-mail expect.” in the industry today. and she’s donating $1 from every sale her at [email protected]. n

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pg 07 tw june v3.indd 7 13/05/10 3:02 PM Page 8 TRUCK WEST June 2010 feature The ice man

Continued from page 1 the fact he has no record of what one of his grandfathers, who he would suggest that if they wanted says was shot by a firing squad in a real character they should get a Auschwitz, looked like: “So my hold of me.” kids will get the other extreme; He says the producers eventu- they can just watch me on TV.” ally did come around to his place As Ice Road Truckers has and “I teased the pants off the evolved, it has moved from its lady in charge and they decided origins in the NWT to Alaska they liked it, I guess.” and, though he moved with the So began yet another new ca- show, he thinks it was a mistake reer, one that has taken him from for Canada to have lost out on the the Northwest Territories to Alas- production. ka and elsewhere as a TV person- The reasons for the move are ality and ambassador, not only of the stuff of rumour, and Debo- the show itself but, as he puts it, gorski says he isn’t supposed to “The trucking industry in North talk about such things, but he is America.” willing to say “The mines up here Life for Debogorski began in don’t like the show.” Berwyn, Alta., between Peace And that’s a shame, he says, River and Fairview, and includ- because the show (which accord- ed time in the bush trapping bea- ing to his publicists is the Histo- ver and muskrat. ry Channel’s most watched series “We had 1,200 acres,” he re- and is syndicated in over 20 coun- calls, “and lived in a log house tries) is an excellent introduction where we didn’t have power or to Canada’s north and would ben- water.” efit not only the NWT, but the He spent a year taking General routes through Alberta people Studies at the University of Ed- take getting there. monton, planning a career in law, “We have people coming to Yel- but marriage and family sent him lowknife, Inuvik and Fairbanks,” looking for work instead and he he says. ended up at a coal mine in Grande “And they don’t want to shoot Cache for about four years. animals, they don’t want to smell “I did everything including the flowers – they just want to shop steward for the steelwork- meet an ice road trucker or be ers for a couple of years,” says the where the ice road truckers are. self-described rebel. What better thing could you have up next…a book?: Alex Debogorski says his next move in the public spot- “I ran coal trucks coming down for tourism than something like light will be to publish a book about his experiences. the mountain and ended up in a that, where someone’s just going wreck, broke a leg and ended up to spend money and not do any in the hospital.” damage?” Each character also has a chase 60 people have gone through the Upon healing and returning to He says it would have been to truck now, and they’re all driv- ice over the years in the Territo- the mine for a while longer, he everyone’s advantage to have the en by local people. In all, Debo- ries, “The guy doing the talking decided to go looking for gold show stay in the NWT because gorski says only two local driv- never went through the ice and around Barkerville, in the Cari- “it has put Canada on the map. It ing jobs were lost: his and fellow probably wasn’t in a situation boo region of British Columbia. has put Yellowknife on the map.” driver Hugh Rowlands. where that would happen be- The Klondike it wasn’t. Debogorski does see some lon- “We were there two-and-a-half cause these roads are prepared so “I lost my pants,” he says. When ger term benefits from the show months,” he says, “and by the end there’s no possibility of anyone he returned from his personal anyway, thanks to reruns. “I trav- of the season there were fewer and going through unless you break gold rush, his family was “very el all around the States and all of fewer people who were upset.” the rules and do something real- happy to see me for about a week a sudden everybody knows where Debogorski also attributes the ly stupid.” and then they decided I should go Yellowknife is, they get to see the declining animosity from the lo- As for the special effects shots and get a real job.” north of Canada – it really did cals to the fact that he and Row- showing a truck going through the And that’s how he ended up in make a difference in what people lands can, indeed, do the job. ice, Debogorski points skeptics Yellowknife, working four jobs for think of the country.” “You’re going up and down the to the History Channel Web site, the first couple of years until he Moving the show to Alaska also road meeting the guys, you’re do- where they explain how they did got “burned right out.” meant parachuting Debogorski ing the job, you didn’t kill any- the shots. It was during this period when into a new venue, one in which body, you’re getting the load “It’s not like they claimed it was he spent time as a bouncer and he could have been seen as tak- there, you’re driving through the real,” he says. cabbie, as well as starting Eagle ing business away from truckers storms,” he says. Recording the show only takes North Contracting, which he’s run who’ve been there for years. “As long as you have over 50% up part of Debogorski’s year, since then. And it did cause some angst, he of the people supporting you, all leaving him plenty of time for “I dig dirt and I’ve got dump says, at least in the short term. it makes for is a good argument other activities. trucks,” Debogorski says. “I had “When you show up with three between themselves at the coffee “I spent four months last year a number of men for a while but or four truck drivers and movie table over whether we’re bums in the lower 48 out of Manito- went back to working by myself cameras and say ‘We’re going to or not.” woc, Wisconsin, about a half-hour most of the time.” show everybody how to drive,’ Debogorski has a reality check south of Green Bay,” he says. He has also hauled on the ice what do you think they’re going for the folk who say the show is From his base there, he ap- for different operators, mostly to say?” he asks, rhetorically. more Hollywood than reality. peared at county fairs and con- small ones, “Blasting rock and On the upside, however, “you “Driving a truck back and forth ventions in such places as Las trying to get gold out of it,” he gotta remember we came in there is usually not very exciting and Vegas and California – including says. Then he starting hauling to last year at the beginning of the if you just show the truck going one at a native casino out of Al- the mines and, as they say, the rest economic crisis so the idea that back and forth then who’s going buquerque. is history. we’re (interlopers) is kind of sil- to watch 13 hours of just seeing With Season Four a wrap, De- One of the reasons Debogor- ly because we bring with us half that?” bogorski says he’s negotiating ski took the show, he says, is be- a dozen to 20 jobs and the show’s That’s the reality of trucking, some things, but he isn’t at lib- cause he figured if it worked out got maybe a couple of hundred though, he says, and if that’s what erty to talk about them. it would make a nice time capsule people employed.” you showed, “They’d say you told He will say he’s contracted for for him, a record his grandchil- Factor in all the rental cars the truth, but nobody’d watch a couple of truck shows on this dren could watch after he’s dead. and hotel rooms, he says, and it the show.” continent, and one at Peterbor- He claims the desire stems from adds up. And while he admits that some ough, England. “After that I’m

pg 01, 08-09 tw june v3.indd 8 13/05/10 3:54 PM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 9

not sure,” he says. But, he says, “If a guy’s going to “I’m Roman Catholic,” he says, ferent things, we’ve lived through Much of his time at trade die, I want him to die in front of “and for years I’ve gone to the jail it all and I’ve been blessed that I shows is spent being a goodwill a doctor, not in front of me.” on Sunday or when asked to and can touch other people sometimes ambassador. As larger than life as he seems, pray with the inmates.” in a constructive fashion.” “Last year we had a big line- one might think that TV stardom Debogorski’s abundance of As for what he’ll do after Ice up of people and I signed auto- has gone to Debogorski’s head. opinions, undoubtedly coupled Road Truckers heads down mem- graphs and had my picture tak- “I always thought I was fa- with his rebellious streak, also ory lane, he professes to not be en with people,” he says with a mous,” he says with yet another shows up in the printed word. concerned. laugh, “Shaking babies and kiss- “When you’re born,” he says, ing hands, trying to portray a pos- “the government gives you 27,000 itive image of truckers and the ‘If a guy’s going to die, I want him to die in front of days to live, so over time I’ve giv- industry.” en less and less concern over plan- When asked what was the most a doctor, not in front of me.’ ning. I want to pay my bills, I’d exciting thing that has happened Alex Debogorski like to help my family be more to him in his varied careers, he constructive because then they’ll points to a time when he had to have a bigger impact on this coun- perform first aid on a driver north try and this world. Otherwise, I’m of Yellowknife. big laugh, “and now everybody He writes an occasional col- sure that the good Lord or what- “Two tankers collided, one was else has found out.” umn for a Yellowknife newspa- ever’s out there is going to put lots stopped and an empty one behind He considers giving back to be per and says that, at one time, he of stuff in front of me.” it hit it,” he says. among his responsibilities. had the whole city “Standing on Then there’s the book he has “It broke off the fifth wheel, “I’ve been quite touched that their head because I called them coming out, possibly in Novem- the door came off the truck and I’ve touched people in a con- a bunch of Communists.” ber. “We haven’t come up with a the driver’s shoulder went down structive way,” he says, “and that In the grand scheme of things, name but I expect it’ll be lots of the side of the tank until his truck I made an impact on some of fame can be fleeting – and even personal stories. I don’t know how came to a halt. I had to get him them.” Gunsmoke didn’t last forever. Yet much trucking will be in it, but I out of the truck.” These include groups of stu- the thought of being a “former have lots of interesting stories.” He puts it down to another day dents he spoke to at a high school TV personality” doesn’t seem to Whatever the stories may be, at work. in Manitowoc, as well as people bother Debogorski a whit. it appears that this father of 11 “That’s always a concern be- who are “sick or lonely.” “I’ve lived life fully,” he says. and grandfather of nine (with the cause if you drive, you’re going He also runs a ministry in “We have a big family and while tenth on the way), will definitely to come along those situations.” Yellowknife. we’ve had some disasters and dif- not be shy about telling them. n

border Canada offers to cover Michigan’s share of new crossing By Ron Stang has already started in Windsor on WINDSOR, Ont. – Now it will be the nine-kilometre Windsor-Essex up to the state of Michigan to de- Parkway – a sunken, six-lane free- cide – and decide soon – whether way connecting Hwy. 401 to the to accept Canada’s offer to provide bridge. up to $550 million to fund the cash- In Michigan, the current debate strapped state’s share of the pro- hinges on a bill to approve public posed Detroit River International private partnerships (P3s) for high- Crossing (DRIC) project. way construction. Federal Transport Minister John That bill was passed by the state Baird said his government, frustrat- transportation committee April ed by decades of fighting and delays 29. Now it goes to the state sen- over the proposed Windsor-Detroit ate, where Republicans, who hold crossing, decided to come up with a majority, are reluctant to pass it, the April 29 offer, which he told especially if it includes a project on Truck West was not unprecedented. DRIC’s scale. “This project is tremendously im- “I’ll tell you, number one, take portant for Canada,” he said. “It’s the DRIC project out, you’ll have a the most important infrastructure lot more support,” Representative two better than one?: Canada wants a sec- project in the country. It’s desper- Marty Knollenberg said. ond crossing badly, and is willing to pay to get it. ately needed. And it’s been worked The legislators fear taxpayers will on literally for 20 years.” be on the hook for financing if a P3 The Michigan state legislature investor defaults. They also question has set a June 1 deadline to endorse whether estimated traffic volumes a proposed new six-lane span – to traffic from the bridge, the Wind- funding for DRIC. The $550-mil- for the DRIC bridge are sufficient handle future border traffic. sor-Detroit tunnel and the Blue Wa- lion offer could help sway that vote. to recoup investors’ money. Bridge president Dan Stamper ter Bridge between Sarnia and Pt. But the vote might not come The legislators say the $550-mil- accused Michigan Governor Jen- Huron. easily. lion Canadian offer would not pay nifer Granholm of having “caused “The Canadian government is State Republicans, for example, for the bridge itself. It would only Canada to offer to buy Michigan’s using its power inappropriately to have long argued against the spend- cover costs on the Michigan side future for $550 million...Michigan coerce the Michigan Legislature ing of tax dollars on the project, es- of the river for constructing a Cus- is not and should not be for sale.” into adopting legislation neces- pecially in a state ravished by job toms plaza and access road to In- He also said the governor was aim- sary to ensure the implementation losses and that in March had the terstate 75. ing to “destroy” the company “that of the DRIC project,” it said in a highest unemployment in the US State Representative Paul Op- has paid state taxes since the early statement. at 14.1%. sommer said the $550 million offer 1920s.” Transport Minister Baird said They also argue the project would was “clouding” the debate. He said And, for the first time, the race he was “not going to speculate” be redundant because the state has the offer should not influence the card was introduced. about what would happen should contributed the lion’s share towards P3 issue, “just because Canada now Bridge lawyer Patrick Moran ac- the Michigan legislature reject P3 the new $230-million Gateway Proj- wants to loan us $550 million dol- cused the Canadian government of financing and therefore whether ect, streamlining freeway access lars – money that it will make back “using its legislative power inappro- his government would offer more on the US side of the Ambassador by tolling our drivers.” priately to discriminate against an money to cover bridge construction Bridge. State representative Tom Pearce Arab-American businessman who costs. This debate takes place against also noted: “The $550 million has has owned and operated the Ambas- He said he will be travelling to the the backdrop of Ottawa, Wash- nothing to do with the building of sador Bridge for more than 30 years.” Detroit area in the next few weeks ington, Ontario – and Michigan, the bridge.” The owner is Matthew (Matty) to lobby for DRIC. in principle – years ago, having In a separate matter, the offer Maroun, born in Detroit and who Asked if his government would joined extensively in the planning was also slammed by the compet- is of Lebanese descent. compensate the Ambassador Bridge of DRIC. The connecting freeway ing Detroit International Bridge Meanwhile, the Ambassador should DRIC get built, the minister links, the locations of the new Cus- Co., which owns the Ambassador Bridge has also filed a NAFTA gave an emphatic “no” saying there toms plazas, and the bridge location, Bridge, and has long argued it has complaint over the $550-million are other examples where the pub- have all been chosen. Construction sufficient capacity – especially with offer, saying DRIC would divert lic and private sectors compete. n

pg 01, 08-09 tw june v3.indd 9 13/05/10 3:55 PM Page 10 TRUCK WEST June 2010 awards Wheeler Transport repeats as top petro products hauler

By Jim Bray frequency is a very important as- CALGARY, Alta. – Call it a twofer pect throughout the whole indus- for Wheeler Transport. try, and is taken very seriously.” The Port Moody, B.C.-based Thompson responded by compli- hauler snagged the Canadian Pe- menting the “remarkable team” troleum Products Institute West- she works with at Petrohaul. ern Division’s 2009 Best Carrier As for what Stoner referred to Performance award, the second as the “Grand Poobah” award giv- year in a row it was awarded that en out each year, he said it went to particular honour. “The best overall carrier who ex- Other CPPI Western Division celled in all safety areas” and not- Fuel Carrier Safety Awards went ed with satisfaction that it was the to companies from Alberta, Brit- second year running that Wheeler ish Columbia and the Yukon. Transport had earned it. At a luncheon ceremony in Cal- Tony Spring and Kelly Stead, gary on April 22, CPPI’s West- who had flown in that morning ern Division v.p. Ted Stoner noted for the awards luncheon, accepted that the CPPI’s benchmark target the plaque and obelisk and hard for incidents was lowered for 2009 hat stickers on behalf of Wheeler. in recognition of a declining fre- “Our employees are a real as- quency of incidents overall. repeat: The CPPI's Ted Stoner (left) congratulates Tony Spring (middle) and set to the company,” Stead re- Yet, he pointed out with satis- Kelly Stead on winning the top safety award for CPPI petroleum haulers for the marked, “and one of the things faction, the carriers’ actual per- second year running. we really strive to do is reinforce formance came in below that, with all our training. At the end of the 0.34 incidents per 1,000 deliver- common carriers for reducing the Speaking to the Most Improved day we just want them to all go ies compared to the new bench- frequency of incidents compared Mixes award, which was given out home safe.” mark of 0.4. to the previous calendar year. It first, Stoner pointed to the varied Stoner said the CPPI hopes “CPPI members certainly con- also stresses overall safety perfor- nature of the liquids CPPI mem- to expand the awards through- gratulate and appreciate the car- mance and promotes driver and bers contract to ship and applaud- out all of Canada and challenged riers’ work, and it’s showing up fleet safety within the transpor- ed carriers who ensure there’s no the carriers in the room to be- in their performance through- tation industry. unintentional mixing of products come national winners when that out the year,” Stoner said at the Awards were also handed out to for delivery to the various sites. happens. ceremony. ECL Transportation for Most Im- Accepting the award for ECL “Western CPPI division has “These awards are our appreci- proved Mixes, Denwill Enterpris- Transportation, Don Bietz said been a little bit advanced over the ation in recognition of that.” es for Most Improved Spills, Man- “Mixes are a big part of our cost, rest of the country,” he said af- The Common Carrier Awards tei’s Transport for Most Improved and I think I can pretty safely say ter the festivities had wrapped up. Program was started by the CPPI Vehicle Accidents and Petrohaul that we won’t have many of them “Since we’re in the west and we Western Division in 2004 to en- for Most Improved Personal this year.” Their target, he said, don’t have the large population of courage and recognize contracted Injury. is zero. Quebec or the Golden Horseshoe Stressing the importance of around Toronto it was quite obvi- the Most Improved Spills award, ous that we could use the western which is given for the greatest provinces as a base to get good improvement in reducing prod- calculations about incident per- THIS MONTH’S CROSSWORD PUZZLE uct spills, Stoner said “Obviously formance, which is what we’ve the public is very aware of any hy- done.” drocarbon products that’s on the The awards program has borne

© ground or any other place where fruit over the years since its in- 2010 M. Jackson it doesn’t belong.” ception, Stoner says. In accepting the award for Den- “Just look at the incident fre- will Enterprises, Dale Tsuruda quency and how it’s improved noted that the company had no over the years.” spills last year, down from two the He points out the CPPI uses year before, and he credited safe- such data when selecting carri- ty supervisor Gord Morley and ers to contract with and that “It “fearless cap- works out as an Answers on page 26 tain” and gen- ‘At the end of the day, advantage to eral manager the carriers and Jeff Salmon for we just want them to all the CPPI mem- making it hap- bers.” pen. go home safe.’ The Awards Speaking to Kelly Stead, Wheeler Transport Selection Com- the award for mittee (ASC) Most Improved was made up of Vehicle Accidents, Stoner noted three members, one each from that reducing vehicle accidents Husky Energy, Shell Canada and lowers carriers’ insurance rates Suncor Energy. and “certainly improves the safe- Each member serves a maxi- ty performance of the employees mum two-year term. themselves,” while also lowering To be eligible for an award, Across Down costs of repairs, etc. a carrier must be contracted to 1. Trucked goods, generically 1. Diesel-dispenser type (4,4) Glenn Dougan, on behalf of the haul petroleum products for one 4. Eighteen wheelers (3,4) 2. Trip-odometer button winning Mantei’s Transport, said or more CPPI companies but not 8. Used-truck transactions 3. Engine incontinence (3,4) “I think this is a direct result of be a CPPI member branded car- 9. Monster Truck show venue 4. Bean Town the safe and defensive driving cul- rier (such as Chevron, Petro-Can- 10. Canadian pumps’ diesel-fuel unit 5. New Hamburg, ON-based carrier ture that we promote at our com- ada, etc.). 11. Non-standard item on new truck 6. Seasonal northern route (3,4) pany on a continuous basis.” The carrier must also have been 13. Halifax-based transport company 7. Device placed on in-bond trailer 12. SoCal’s Ventura, Harbor and Hollywood Any time vehicle accidents can under contract to a CPPI mem- 15. Cab and chassis without powertrain be reduced, he said, the risk of ber company for at least two years 18. Chassis and wheel-bearing lube 14. Ford’s top ‘96 Class 8 offering 20. Canadian-flag leaf 16. Speed ____, engine-control device people getting hurt is also cut in a row and have no fewer than 17. Diesel counterpart to gasoline octane 23. Daily log, a.k.a. ____ book back. 4,000 contracted deliveries to a 19. An aluminum-wheel brand 24. Sterling model launched in ‘99 “That’s our top priority, to keep CPPI member company during 21. Labour’s partner on truck-repair invoice 25. Purolator hub location in GTA our people safe, so this award that time. 22. Gross combined weight rating, briefly 26. Succumbs to corrosion (1,1,1,1) means a lot to us.” Nominations must be made by While introducing Kate Thomp- a CPPI member company and son on behalf of Most Improved are made at the CPPI’s last Joint Try it online at www.trucknews.com Personal Injury-winning Petro- Distribution/Carrier Task Force haul, Stoner said “Personal injury Meeting before a term ends. n

pg 10 tw june v3.indd 10 13/05/10 3:10 PM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 11 over the road industry to recover from the shrink it has experienced over the last Remember to stop and smell the roses couple of years. Employers will have no choice but On the Wednesday following Easter There are many ways to cope with to find creative ways to control costs I found myself in Edmonton enjoy- stress and it is up to each of us to as they rebuild their market share. ing a day off. find our own path. I think the changes we have seen The sun was out and the mercury Over the Road The path starts with a commit- in the first decade of the new mil- would climb up to 15 degrees before ment to take some time for yourself lennium will pale in comparison the day was out. I was clawing my Al Goodhall each day. It sounds so easy, but it to what we will see in the coming way back into the routine of getting is anything but. It’s a personal life- decade. Drivers will face many new some regular exercise and this was helps keep the body and mind style issue. We have all heard that challenges, good and bad. the perfect day to go for a run. I had healthy? Do I feel that exercise can there is an impending driver short- I am certain of the fact that fac- changed into my running gear and help a person cope with the stresses age, that employers will be scram- ing those challenges is much more was on my way out of the yard when of daily life? bling to find qualified drivers in the enjoyable when you are healthy and I bumped into Art and Sherry, one Certainly I do. But I have come near future. I don’t think we should at ease in your own mind. of our teams. to that belief out of my own experi- take that for granted. Finding that good health and ease It had been months since I had ence over a period of years. It will take a long time for this in your life starts with taking a lit- seen them and we took the oppor- tle time each day to stop and smell tunity to catch up on personal news, the roses. n company gossip, and small talk. ‘I think we (drivers) are our own worst enemy when it We spent a lot of time talking comes to taking a little personal time during the day. Stop- – Al Goodhall has been a profes- about how busy this trucking life is. sional long-haul driver since 1998. Teams are always on the go and we ping to smell the roses isn’t about waiting for a jaw drop- He shares his experiences via his were soon on the topic of things you per to come along and grab your attention. It’s about taking 'Over the Road' blog at http://truck- see on the road that make you stop ingacrosscanada.blogspot.com. You and pause from your hectic routine. the time each day to do something of benefit to yourself.’ can also follow him on Twitter at ‘Jaw droppers,’ as Art called them. Twitter.com/AlGoodhall. One of these jaw droppers was the recent show of the Northern G Lights across the prairies. E T We were soon relating experienc- P A Y es of some of the incredible scenes P O E U we had witnessed while travelling R R through the night away from the light pollution of the cities. As our conversation came to a close, we agreed that we don’t take the time to stop and smell the roses Western Canada’s Trucking Newspaper and Equipment Buyer’s Guide as often as we should. We are often so caught up in where we have to be that we don’t take the time to appreciate where we are at that moment. I think we (drivers) are our own worst enemy when it comes to taking a little personal time during the day. SUBSCRIBE Stopping to smell the roses isn’t SUBSCRIBE about waiting for a jaw dropper to come along and grab your attention. READING SOMEONE MOVING? It’s about taking the time each day REQUALIFY! to do something of benefit to your- ELSE’S COPY? self. This is what my daily run or Send us your new address Have your own! in writing on this form. walk is all about. NOW!NOW! The poor economy has intensified Company ______the normal stress factors in a driv- Name ______Title______er’s daily life and added additional ones. It has become more important Address ______than ever for me to take some time City ______each day to deal with those stresses. Province ______Postal Code______Income and home time are where I have felt the most pressure over the Telephone: ( ) ______Fax: ( )______last couple of years, but there have E-Mail ______also been sweeping changes across the industry. CHANGE OF ADDRESS ONLY 1 1 4 Combine the fact that I’m not get- Serial # from code line on mailing label ting any younger with the issues of Canada USA Foreign Charge Card Cheque Enclosed the day and it is no wonder I have $ $ $ been feeling the blues of late. Visa No Allowing yourself some person- 1 Year 41.28 99.95 99.95 Mastercard No al downtime each day often goes (38.95 + 2.33 GST) against the grain and can add stress Amex No 2 Years 65.66 to your day if you don’t keep it in (61.95 + 3.71 GST) Expiry Date the right perspective. Signature Date A number of years ago, when NB, NS & NF Add 14% HST to Price / Quebec Residents Add QST (7.5%) To Total I first started getting some regu- CLIP and MAIL lar daily exercise, I had to force DO YOU WISH PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS myself to do it. At first it was just TO RECEIVE OR 1) How many vehicles are based at or controlled from 5) Indicate your PRIMARY type of business by checking this location? Please indicate quantities by type: ONLY ONE of the following: With a) I For Hire/Contract Trucking (hauling for others) another task to squeeze into my al- (CONTINUE TO — No. of Straight Trucks _____ No. of Trailers ready busy day. I don’t view it that _____ No. of Buses b) I Lease/Rental RECEIVE) — No. of Truck-Tractors _____ No. of Off-Road Vehicles c) I Food Production / Distribution / Beverages Payment to d) I Farming way any longer. 2) Does this location operate, control or administer one or more vehicles in any of the following Gross Vehicle e) I Government (Fed., Prov., Local) The repetitive nature of running Weight (GVW) categories? Please check YES or NO: f) I Public Utility (electric, gas, telephone) or walking at a steady pace takes 14,969 kg. & over (33,001 lbs. & over)... I YES I NO g) I Construction / Mining / Sand & Gravel 11,794-14,968 kg. (26.001-33,000 lbs.). I YES I NO h) I Petroleum / Dry Bulk / Chemicals / Tank my mind away from the issues of 8,846-11,793 kg. (19,501-26,000 lbs.)... I YES I NO I 12 Concorde Place, I YES I NO i) Manufacturing / Processing 4,536-8,845 kg. (10,000-19,500 lbs.)..... I YES I NO ji) I Retail the day and recharges it. Under 4,536 kg. (10,000 lbs.)...... I YES I NO jii) I Wholesale Suite 800, I started to exercise to improve 3) This location operates, controls or administers: k) I Logging / Lumber Diesel powered vehicles...... I YES I NO b) I Bus Transportation Toronto, Ontario my physical health but in time found Signature Refrigerated vehicles...... I YES I NO m) I Other (Please specify) ______it was a greater benefit for my men- Pickups or Utility Vans...... I YES I NO M3C 4J2 Propane powered vehicles...... I YES I NO 6) Are you involved in the purchase of equipment or replacement parts? ...... I YES I NO tal health. The physical benefits are 4) Do you operate maintenance facilities now more of a side effect. at this location? ...... I YES I NO 7) Are you responsible either directly or indirectly Date IF YES, do you employ mechanics?...... I YES I NO for equipment maintenance? . . . . I YES I NO TODAY! Do I think exercising every day

pg 11 tw june v1.indd 11 13/05/10 3:38 PM Page 12 TRUCK WEST June 2010 canada

By Jim Bray points out that “they have (them) CALGARY, Alta. – Could natu- for manufacturing equipment to- ral gas capture mainstream accep- day, so certain types of manu- tance as a fuel of choice for Cana- A natural solution? facturing equipment that meet da’s transportation industry? environmental criteria receive It depends on many things, in- Producers, industry look to government very favourable tax treatment and cluding whether or not natural gas that encourages investment. I think remains abundant and affordable to help ease gas pains – naturally that’s what you need with alterna- and if the conversion to natural tive fuels and engines and I think gas equipment can be made at- the government does have to step tractive enough to the industry. corridors along the 401 through type of capital incentive or an up and take a role here.” Thanks to breakthroughs in de- Ontario and Quebec in the east operating incentive for the car- Perhaps governments could just velopment and drilling technol- and between Edmonton, Calgary riers to move toward this type of reduce taxes overall, leaving more ogy, coupled with discoveries of and Vancouver in the west – the equipment.” in the corporate account for own- major new gas sources, there’s routes with the heaviest commer- EnCana’s Boras envisions a ers and operators to do with as fits plenty of the stuff available. cial traffic. couple of possible incentives. their priorities. “We’ve got all this gas,” says “We looked at the main trans- “Government funds could go to “I do think there may be some Alan Boras, spokesman for nat- portation corridors where the the cost of converting existing who advocate that,” Laskowski ural gas producer EnCana, “so large populations are in Cana- trucks or to the purchase of new says. “But if you want specific the question becomes, what do da,” Boras says, “and we have ap- vehicles with engines built to run measures and specific actions you we do with it? Our view is to ex- proached the federal government on natural gas,” he says, “and in- need specific approaches within pand the use of natural gas in our with the idea of coming up with vestment could go to people who the tax system.” economy.” a policy that would support de- want to establish the infrastruc- As for natural gas itself, “we A gas producer pushing gas velopment of the infrastructure.” ture, namely the fueling stations currently have no board posi- may not surprise the least cynical Such a “pipe dream” would re- along those corridors.” tion,” Laskowski says. “Typical- among humanity, but arguments quire the establishment of facili- Boras points out that the nat- ly, every alternative fuel or pro- can be made that a move toward ties to compress the gas and then ural gas piping network goes to pulsion system technology has its natural gas could make business fuel up the trucks at key locations all major cities in the country own unique challenges and the sense. along the long-haul corridors. already, so it’s just a matter of market should decide.” Natural gas – whether com- And it would probably have to adding “the fueling component Positive reaction pressed (CNG) or liquefied happen before fleet owners show and the vehicle – and you aren’t (LNG) – has been little more much interest in converting their building a whole new vehicle, just Boras says the reaction from gov- than an interesting novelty in equipment over to natural gas. changing the powerplant and the ernments so far has been positive, the transportation industry. Bo- Still, it’s an idea whose time fuel that’s used.” though no commitment has been ras says heating and electric pow- may come. In the meantime, there’s no rule made. He says EnCana has been er generation are the major mar- According to Stephen Laskows- that says natural gas fueling sta- speaking to the federal and provin- kets for natural gas currently and, ki, vice-president of the Ontario tions have to appear as if by magic cial governments in Canada as well while he thinks there are oppor- Trucking Association, the indus- at all service centres at once. as the federal and state governments tunities there, the area with the try is already looking into various “That may be something you in the US. most growth potential is trans- alternative propulsion devices – do down the road,” Boras says, “It’s one of those cases where portation: of the 250 million ve- whether they be hybrid-electric, “but in the shorter term when you people are learning about it, try- hicles Boras estimates are on fuel cell or gas – as well as tweaks don’t have an infrastructure, you ing to understand what it’s about, North American roads today, only such as new tire and aerodynamic look to fleet vehicles that return what it would take, how it would some 100,000 or so are fueled by technologies. home every night – taxi cabs, gar- fit their business and how it would natural gas. But there are many speed bage trucks and the like.” fit government policy. In our view bumps ahead. Boras also sees natural gas as they’re very receptive.” Lower emissions “You’ve got to look at it from a way to lower one’s carbon foot- And of course the Obama ad- Depending on where you live and the carriers’ perspective,” Las- print, which could make it attrac- ministration is all ears when it work, moving to natural gas could kowski says. “They’re in the busi- tive for government participation. comes to green things. also be a proactive way to keep a ness of return on investment so “If you convert your home to “We’re a member of a group step ahead of The Man. Boras says if they’re going to spend more on more energy-efficient applianc- that has been active in Wash- alternative fuels such as LNG are capital pieces of equipment they es, such as your furnace and win- ington, talking about the bene- being pushed in California even as need to know the return on that. dows,” he says, “there are govern- fits of natural gas, contributing you read this. That’s probably the role of gov- ment programs to support you. funds and talking to legislators “They wanted to address some ernment, to shorten that return This is the same kind of thing. down there about how to expand of the air issues around the Port on investment, especially in the If the government decides it’s the use of natural gas in the US,” of Los Angeles,” he says, “So they early stages.” important to do this, then they Boras says. called for the use of LNG vehicles to Laskowski says government could come up with programs that Government participation or clean up the air and have far lower could help facilitate a natural gas would support it.” not, a conversion to natural gas emissions compared to diesel and alternative by providing “some And the OTA’s Laskowski is obviously not going to happen gasoline.” overnight, yet Boras is confident. Boras claims the emissions “Sooner or later you have to re- from natural gas vehicles are 25- place your trucks,” he says, “and 30% less than those of conven- if this concept is up and running tional vehicles and particulates and feasible then why not look are way down as well, “so the ad- at it? If you have the facilities in vantage is you get a very competi- place – for example you return to tive price, you get better environ- a central fueling place each night mental benefits and then there’s and you want to convert some of the economic spin-off.” your fleet incrementally – it could The economic spin-off of which be very beneficial.” Boras speaks is a plentiful, North The OTA’s Laskowski says that America-based energy source as if natural gas is going to be a long- an alternative to buying foreign term answer, there are short-term oil. Boras says “the dollars that issues that have to be dealt with would go to buy oil would then to carriers’ satisfaction before go into endeavours here, with jobs they’re likely to put their money staying on the continent.” where their trucks are. Ah, but there’s the chicken and These include the reliability of there’s the egg, and which came the gas network itself, the return first? Natural gas vehicles and a a carrier can expect on its invest- natural gas infrastructure are un- ment and what operating chal- likely to spring from the ground, lenges there are. fully formed. “Even if the tax policy was Existing vehicles may have to changed the way we’d like,” he be retrofitted, new vehicles cre- says, “no-one’s going to go out to- ated, and places to refuel offered morrow and retrofit their whole before we’re awash in a natural fleet of vehicles. They’re going to gas-powered future. ready to roll: Natural gas-powered trucks, like this Pete Model 384 LNG test them and use it as a testing EnCana envisions natural gas are already in production. Now, all that’s needed is the fuel. sounding board.” n

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Goodyear.indd 1 17/03/10 11:56 AM Page 14 TRUCK WEST June 2010 opinion Looking for political leadership If you listen to the most recent reports from economists, speculators and forecasters, Canada is leading Constructive the G20 with a swift, positive recov- Dialogue ery from the worst economic recession since the Great Depression. ron singer Now the banks, mortgage companies, finance companies and loan and anti-truck legislation has not sharks are lining up to make it hard- improved safety, has weakened our er for you to get financing and jack- economy and has destabilized the ing up the interest rates. health of the trucking industry, liter- The oil companies are anxious to ally driving some of the best people raise fuel prices to cushion the blow out of the industry without enough to their profits over the past year. suitable replacements. couraging out-of-country contrac- elled through flood zones, snow The politicians have their hands Non-trucking special interest tors to come and flood the market storms and power blackouts to get out, topping up their salaries, ex- groups have way too much input with cheap rates and poor-quality to Grande Prairie, Fort McMur- pense accounts, pensions – and do- into legislation and regulations. work. These contractors are now ray, Edmonton, Red Deer, Leth- ing whatever it takes to get elected. They are clueless on how their rec- coming from the US. They bring bridge and Calgary. These meetings Out governments and political ommendations will work where the their own workforces, equipment, were not held to fix rates or to plot parties (at all levels) are out of touch rubber meets the road, and who will trucks, trailers, asphalt plants, etc. against resource producers, proces- with taxpayers and their concerns. compensate our industry for all the They don’t use the local restaurants, sors or infrastructure contractors. They all need a shake-up and a com- productivity losses? hotels or mom-and-pop businesses These meetings were held to con- plete overhaul so we can get back Enforcement personnel will be or truck and trailer dealers, as our sult with the participants and re- on track. very actively pursuing your wallet local contractors and truckers do. quest they fill out and return our an- Our legislators have been misled in the coming months. Roadside in- When they’re done, they take nual survey so we can be informed and do not understand how their spections and enforcement will be their money back to where they of their priorities and concerns. legislation changes are not working their primary objectives. come from to spend it in their local They will be included in our 2010 in the real world to make a positive In Alberta, we don’t have to just US communities, denying our local Strategic Action Plan. impact on safety. worry about non-local or out-of- communities of the positive finan- There are 13,000-plus trucking Their pursuit of deregulation, province trucks working on our cial impacts. How’s that for an Al- companies operating in Alberta. At hours-of-service, speed limiters, oversupplied industry, we now have berta Advantage? least two-thirds of them earn their EOBRs, restricted truck routes to worry about our governments en- If we were to try to do the same living from the construction indus- in the US, we wouldn’t ever get a try. It never ceases to amaze me of chance to see the tenders, it just the sheer number of truckers who wouldn’t happen. Their government bitch, complain and whine about would protect its own contractors the people and problems in our in- and truckers. dustry, but when it comes time to We have advised our government ante up for membership dues for a of these concerns. They respond by professional association, they just boasting of the Alberta Advantage, don’t get it. the free market enterprise system The suppliers to our industry have and the benefit to Alberta taxpay- an equal responsibility to show their ers. I don’t think so. They have in support for those that are trying to fact contributed to a serious over- make this a better industry. Now Hiring! supply of infrastructure contrac- Finally, I get a chance to talk Canada only O/O Teams tors and truckers, creating a nega- about the positive and that is most Canada / U.S. O/O Teams and Singles tive effect on the industry’s ethics important. Ice Road Truckers – and standards. Driving the Dalton Highway in Our government is not listening Alaska is a series that should be a Contact us: 1-800-567-3656 and they just don’t get it. The most re- mandatory watch for everyone who Or visit us online: www.arnoldbros.com cent environmental disaster in the US drives a motor vehicle of any kind should be a wake-up call to all of us. on a public road. Why? Kari Ranonis (Ontario) John Kerr (Alberta) Murray Draper (Manitoba) 8100 Lawson Rd., Milton 5300 - 55th St S.E., 73 Lagimodiere Blvd, I just completed a two-month tour The people who put this series to- 1-866-228-9952 Calgary Winnipeg of public meetings with our direc- gether should be rewarded for cre- or 905-693-1667 ext. 243 403-235-5333 1-800-567-3656 tors, members and invited guests ating the best educational tool for [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] in six regions of Alberta. I trav- anyone driving a motor vehicle. To develop their level of respect for the road, conditions, common sense and the people that drive them safely. Even the Canadian ice road trucking veterans like Hugh and Guess Who Found A New Job? Alex learn a thing or two from the Getting a new job is veteran Alaskan drivers as they are groomed for the Dalton Highway in life-afﬁ rming! their jump seats. Are you stuck in a Finally, ACTA secretary treasurer job, and looking for Jennifer Singer and I took the opportunity to attend Truck World in something NEW? Toronto in April. If you want to be Well, you too can ﬁ nd in touch with what’s happening in a job in 2010 on the Canadian trucking industry, that www.truckops.ca, was the place to be. This show is a job website for a ‘must do’ for everyone who owns and operates a trucking business. transportation and supply Well, it’s time to batten down chain professionals. the hatches for the rest of 2010. It www.truckops.ca will be a challenge indeed. Keep your head up and your stick on is brought to you by: the ice and drive safe. We’ll catch www.truckops.ca you later! n Attention Employers – Job Postings Are FREE! – Ron Singer is owner of Ron Singer Truck Lines and president of the Your ad will appear simultaneously Alberta Construction Trucking on three jobs websites: Association. He can be reached Motortruck at 403-244-4487 or by e-mail at www.truckops.ca, www.transportplanet.com and www.hirelogistics.ca FlCANADA’See BUSINESSt Ex MAGAZINEecu FOR FLEETti veOWNER S [email protected]. ACTA’s Web site is www.myacta.ca.

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Castrol.indd 1 11/05/10 2:00 PM Page 16 TRUCK WEST June 2010 tax talk

they file a VDP application before the CRA starts an investigation Four takeaways from tax season or audit. So far, VDP has result- ed in $575 million in additional It’s early May as I write this, a This owner/operator isn’t a reg- assessed taxes. couple of days after the federal ular client so I don’t know that There are lots of reasons to income tax filing deadline, and we had all the information we come clean. The VDP can save I have to admit I’m tired and Tax Talk needed or that what he provided you from an audit or criminal a little cranky. But I am clear- was 100% correct. Maybe the car- investigation, which can result headed enough to make some Scott Taylor rier made a simple mistake. Still, in penalties, fines, and even jail observations about dealing with there’s no other way to explain a time. Maybe your conscience gets Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) finally issued his HST refund on thousand-dollar difference: the to you. Or maybe it’s the fact that over the past few months. Here May 5, three months and two days owner/operator was ripped off. CRA has hired so many more au- are some lessons learned: from the date of the claim. It’s tough for owner/operators ditors lately. We sure have seen It’s ridiculous. If you have an to find time to review and orga- an increase in the number of The squeaky wheel gets the grease unpaid tax balance with CRA, nize statements and receipts – and owner/operators coming to us tot- If you’re not getting a reasonable it charges 5% interest until the to act when something doesn’t add ing banker’s boxes of past years to response from CRA, enlist your amount is paid. But if your refund up. This guy did the right thing in be done because CRA has been accountant to review your return takes longer than normal to pro- asking for qualified help. sniffing around. and help you complain about it. cess, CRA pays you just 3%. How And yes, he moved on to an- HST starts July 1 A client of ours did just that. come their money is worth more other carrier that I hope will treat He bought a new truck and on than ours? him and its other owner/opera- Finally, HST is coming to Ontario and Feb. 3 we filed a claim to refund In the end, our client got $73 tors better. B.C. starting July 1. This will af- the HST, a pretty good chunk of interest, not even close to ade- fect everyone who lives or drives VDP is a BFD change. By April 15, CRA still quate compensation for the sweat, there. Just remember that when hadn’t assigned the claim to an anxiety, and effort involved. Not long ago, CRA actually sent price comparing from province auditor for review. Our client was Thank goodness for an under- out a news release saying, “When to province for repairs and other getting anxious. standing finance company. it comes to your taxes, a clean expenses, HST is the same tax as We checked the paperwork for slate means a clear conscience.” GST and is fully refundable. Check the math mistakes or missing information Nice propaganda, eh? Which reminds me: Did you see – everything looked good – and A few months ago I was contacted Apparently, it’s working. In that Ontario PST auditors will get talked to the finance company, an by a Truck West reader looking for the 2008-2009 fiscal year, 11,400 a severance package even though industry specialist who patient- fuel tax help. This owner/opera- people filed applications under their jobs are guaranteed as they ly allowed our client to delay the tor was on with a US-based car- CRA’s Voluntary Disclosures move from provincial to federal em- balloon payment on his loan. rier and his fuel tax charges didn’t Program (VDP). That’s up from ployees? No wonder I’m cranky. n If step one is to review the re- seem right, so I asked him to send 7,300 in 2005-2006. turn, and step two is to talk to any- me all the details he could. We VDP allows taxpayers to come – Scott Taylor is vice-president of TFS one who might be affected by the ran the mileage and fuel through forward and correct “inaccurate” Group, a Waterloo, Ont., company CRA sitting on your money, step our system. The carrier said the or incomplete information, or to that provides accounting, fuel tax re- three is to make yourself heard. owner/operator owed fuel tax of disclose information they never porting, and other business services Between my yelling on the phone $1,026.12. According to our re- reported during previous deal- for truck fleets and owner/operators. and my client jumping up and port, he should have received a ings with CRA. They won’t be For information, visit www.tfsgroup. down at his local tax office, CRA small refund. penalized or prosecuted as long as com or call 800-461-5970.

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Drivers Seat hor.indd 1 06/11/09 9:16 AM pg 16 tw june.indd 16 13/05/10 12:12 PM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 17 health

However, if the cataracts become to read. Make your reading areas Take good care of your eyes completely white and opaque (over- brighter by using stronger light ripe cataract) it may cause pain, bulbs. Wear sunglasses when you’re As a professional driver, taking care inflammation and a headache. outside or driving to reduce glare. of your eyes is essential. Regular Definitely, if a cataract causes dis- Limit your night driving. eye check-ups can help you stay on Preventive comfort, it must be removed. These steps will help for a while, top of any deterioration in your Maintenance A person may get cataracts for a but once a cataract has formed, if sight. They can also discover unusu- variety of reasons. Aging is consid- will continue to develop. Surgery al conditions that may affect your karen Bowen ered the main cause, although what is the only way to eliminate them. eye health itself, such as cataracts. actually happens to the lens of the If you don’t have cataracts form- A cataract is a clouding of the parallel in both eyes. eye during the aging process is un- ing yet, here are some ways to re- clear lens of your eye. Looking Since cataracts are usually not clear. It may be that the lens be- duce your chance of getting them. through an affected lens is like painful, you may not even know comes less flexible and the protein Don’t smoke. Smoking causes free- looking through a frosty or foggy you have them. fibers within the lens itself begin to radicals which damage your eyes. window. The severity of the cata- Some common signs and symp- clump together. Eat well, including plenty of fruits ract determines just how much you toms of cataracts are: clouded, Or, free-radical damage may be and vegetables. can see. Cataracts develop slowly. blurred or dim vision; deteriorat- the cause. Smoking and UV expo- Protect your eyes from the sun. When they begin to develop, they ing night vision; halos around lights sure may also play a part in their Use sunglasses that block UV rays. don’t initially affect your eyesight. (especially at night); sensitivity to development, along with general Manage your overall health. Follow But as the lens becomes cloudier, light and glare; fading or yellowing wear and tear. your doctor’s treatment plan for any your vision increasingly gets worse. of colours; double vision in one eye; In addition to the regular aging ongoing health conditions. At the beginning, better lighting a need for brighter light when do- process, the following increase your Then, if you do ever have to have and prescription glasses will help ing finer activities (reading, work- risk for getting cataracts: diabetes; cataract surgery, your body will heal you get along, but as the condition ing with small tools); and a fre- a previous eye injury or inflamma- well. progresses, you may need to have quent need to have your eye glass tion; previous eye surgery; a family If you do end up having cataract the cataract removed just to main- prescription renewed. You may find history of cataracts; prolonged use surgery – replacing your cloudy lens tain your regular lifestyle. Fortu- that you blink more often to clear of corticosteroids; exposure to ra- with a clear one, rest assured – your nately, getting a cataract removed your vision. diation; too much exposure to light; vision should remain constant after is usually safe. Certainly, when these symptoms and/or smoking. the surgery. As well, the new lens As a cataract develops, the cloud- occur, your driving will be adversely In fact, 75% of North Americans should remain clear. If it doesn’t, iness may only affect a small part affected. Time to see an eye doctor! who are 65 years old have some only laser treatment and not surgery of the lens. However, as it grows, it Because even if you are experienc- amount of clouding in their lenses. will be necessary to fix it up. affects a larger portion of the lens. ing these symptoms, when you look By the age of 75, 70% will have se- As a professional driver, your The increasing cloudiness distorts at your eyes in the mirror, you prob- vere enough cataracts to significant- good eye health protects you and the light passing through the lens ably don’t notice anything unusual. ly reduce their ability to see. the thousands sharing your roads. more and more, eventually causing Usual eye complaints, such as If you have cataracts now, but it’s It’s nothing to wink at. n blurred or distorted vision. pain, itching, redness, aching, ir- not time yet to have them removed, A cataract may or may not affect ritation or an eye discharge, don’t you can deal with the symptoms in – Karen Bowen is a profession- the entire lens. Although cataracts usually happen with cataracts. the following ways: al health and nutrition consul- can develop in both eyes or inde- In fact, cataracts don’t really af- Keep your eye glass prescription tant, and she can be reached at pendently, usually they develop in fect your eye in those ways at all. up to date. Use a magnifying glass [email protected].

a tick and experience any symptoms There are precautions you can take A warning about Lyme disease as the treatment of Lyme disease is to decrease your risk of getting Lyme most successful if administered early. disease. Firstly, wear long pants and During the summer months, many Lyme disease is treated by anti- sleeves when walking in wooded or people venture outdoors to partici- biotic medications. Oral antibiotics grassy areas. Also, use insect repel- pate in activities such as hiking, bik- Back behind are the standard treatment protocol lents which contain DEET with a ing and camping. Spending time in for the early stages of the illness. A concentration of 10-30%. Lastly, heavily-wooded or grassy areas in- the wheel 10- to 14-day course of antibiotics check yourself and your pets for creases your chance of contracting Dr. Chris singh is usually sufficient. In cases where ticks and shower as soon as possi- tick-borne conditions such as Lyme the disease has progressed, intra- ble when you return inside. n disease. I recently treated a patient ing the brain. In rare cases, people venous antibiotics are effective in whom I suspected to have this illness. experience heart problems, eye in- eliminating the infections however, – Dr. Christopher H. Singh runs According to recent statistics, flammation, hepatitis and severe fa- may causes side effects such as lower Trans Canada Chiropractic at the Lyme disease is the most common tigue. It is important to seek medical white blood cell count and mild to 230 Truck Stop in Woodstock, Ont. tick-borne illness in Europe and attention if you have been bitten by severe diarrhea. He can be reached at 519-421-2024. North America. Lyme disease is caused by bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. In most cases in North America, this bacterium is carried and transmitted by deer ticks. These tiny ticks are about the size of a pin head and are brown in colour. Deer ticks mainly feed on the blood of mice, small birds and deer but may also feed on the blood of humans and other animals. Often, they live in small bushes or tall grass. In order to contract Lyme disease, you must be bitten by an infected deer tick. The symptoms of Lyme disease can vary greatly from person to person. This is due to the fact that this illness can affect different parts of the body. The most common symptom is a rash that begins as a small red bump. This rash, which may grow up to 12 inches in size, often resem- bles a bull’s eye, with a red ring sur- rounding a clear area and a red cen- ter. This rash is called an erythema migrans and affects about 70-80% of infected people. In addition to a rash, Lyme disease can cause other symptoms such as joint pain, flu-like symptoms, and neurological problems. The latter is caused by inflammation of the membranes surround-

pg 17 tw june.indd 17 13/05/10 10:17 AM Page 18 TRUCK WEST June 2010 new products

and it also features a stabilizing solid calendar include cast mandel winch- shoulder design to protect against es, E/A series beams, StrapPak and side forces that can cause irregular half barrels – bulk chain. To order a wear. The latest Greatec offering is catalogue, call 800-268-3530 or visit available in the445/50R22.5 size with www.kinedynecanada.com. A new Nord-Lock wheel nut is now an “L” load rating. For more info, Alliance Parts has come out with a • available, with the promise of re- see a Bridgestone dealer or visit line of EZ-Assist clutches, which the Daimler Trucks North America ducing the risk of wheel-off inci- BridgestoneTruckTires.com. company says require 35% less pedal (DTNA) is now offering customers dences. The company’s distribu- • effort compared to a standard angle e-mail notifications to keep them tor says the Nord-Lock wheel nut Accuride has come out with two spring clutch. The clutches can reduce up to date on special offers includ- eliminates unintentional loosening new sizes of its Gunite Opti- leg fatigue as a result, the company ing instant savings on common- of wheel nuts, which is the main mum Lightweight Drum which says. They’re available in three torque ly-used parts. The e-mail alerts cause of wheel-offs. The nut fastens will help fleets meet impending ratings from 1,400 lb.-ft. to 1,850 lb.- will also provide useful tips and easily to flat-faced steel rims, the new stopping distance require- ft. They’re manufactured from 100% industry news, the company says. company says. It secures the wheels ments. The new regulations go new components, the company says, You can sign up for the e-mails by maintaining a high clamp force, into effect Aug. 1, 2011. The new and they also meet all standards set online by visiting either the Freight- even under severe operating condi- 16.5x8-inch (9020X) and 16.5x8 out by Daimler Trucks North Ameri- liner, Western Star or Detroit tions, according to the company. 5/8-inch (9019X) Gold drum ca and are compatible with all makes Diesel Web site. For more info, call 954 677 8056 or sizes round out the line-up and and models. The EZ-Assist clutch- • visit www.nord-lock.com. allow fleets to meet the new stan- es come with a one-year, unlimited Cummins Filtration has introduced • dards with drum brakes. Accuride mileage warranty and are available an environmentally-friendly Fleet- says the Gold version also allow through more than 1,000 locations in guard Compleat Organic Acide fleets to save 76 lbs compared the US and Canada. For more info, Technology (OAT) Coolant in a to full cast drums, offsetting visit www.alliancebrandparts.com. nitrite-, amine- and phosphate-free the weight penalties associat- • formulation. The company says ed with running larger front and Glacier Bay, manufacturer of the its NAP-free formula offers solid rear brakes. For more info, visit ClimaCab all-electric cab comfort liner pitting protection and better www.accuridecorp.com. system, says it has teamed with Tro- aluminum protection than conven- • jan Battery Company to offer im- tional OAT coolants containing Webb Wheel Products has added proved battery performance. The nitrite. The coolant comes with two aluminum trailer disc wheel company developed the Over- a 300,000-mile (500,000-km) hubs to their OEM product offering. Drive AGM 31 battery exclusively service interval and provides The new Webb aluminum hubs have for ClimaCab to make the system protection in temperatures as cold Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions been rated for 25,000# axle gross more efficient, the companies joint- as -34 F, the company says. (BBTS) has come out with a new vehicle weight (GVW), matching ly announced. Glacier Bay says the • Bridgestone Greatec M825 wide- or exceeding competitive alumi- new battery provides a steady cur- Roadranger is now offering base single tire offering extended num hubs, and weighing 1 to 3 lbs. rent over extended periods of time comptuer-based training mod- life and low cost-per-mile. The wide- less. Part number 4023 for TN axles while the truck engine is off. For ules for commercial vehicle ser- base drive tire is deeper and wider weighs 31 lbs complete with studs more info, visit www.climacab.com. vice providers who are interest- for longer tire life and offers weight and bearing cups and the TP axle • ed in expanding their knowledge savings compared to duals, the com- hub, part number 4343, weighs in at Wheel Monitor has introduced the about drivetrain and hybrid sys- pany claims. The tread is 29/32" deep 33 lbs, the company claims. Proviso electronic lift axle control tems. The online courses are rea- system, which it says lifts and locks sonably-priced and accessible in reverse like its RM-50 and RM- 24/7, Roadranger claims. Modules 60 products but also has automatic are available for: Fuller trans- lift capabilities based on axle load mission preventive maintenance; weight. It can be set to lift or lower Spice driveline PM; Fuller clutch the axle based on the trailer’s load PM; hybrid electric power system and it monitors the position of the lift service; and Fuller automated axle, providing an in-cab light and transmission service and diag- lift axle switch for axle position mon- nostics. Yearly subscriptions are itoring and lift control. Wheel Moni- available in addition to individ- tor says the automatic lifting and the ual modules. For more info, vis- ability to lock the steer axle can re- it www.roadranger.com or call duce tire wear and mechanical wear 800-826-4357. of the axle. It meets logging trailer • requirements set out by the Alber- ta Ministry of Transportation, the company adds. For more information, visit www.WheelMonitor.com. • Thermo King has added to its T-Series line of temperature control units for straight trucks with the T-600R and T-800R. The new reefers boast increased capacity over previous models as well as what Thermo King has dubbed “industry- leading high ambient temperature operations.” The units also use the TSR-2 control system. The TRUs Cole Hersee has unveiled a new can be spec’d with electric standby SureStart Low Voltage Disconnect so they can be plugged into a power (LVD) Switch 48513, which it says source, saving fuel, Thermo King senses battery voltage and conserves announced. For more info, see a starting power by disconecting non- Thermo King dealer. critical loads, prolonging battery life and preventing damage caused by excessive discharge. The switch is intended for utility and delivery trucks and vehicles with ancillary on-board equipment such as snow- plows, hoists, pumps, floodlights, Kinedyne has published a Cana- etc. or in-cab amenities such as air- dian catalogue of cargo control conditioning. Cole Hersee says cus- products. The 60-page catalogue tomers can use the switch to avoid features detailed product informa- costs associated with downtime, ve- tion and high-resolution images, the hicle recovery and battery damage. company says, making it easier for The switch has a rating of 100A at customer to find what they’re look- 12V or 24V DC. For more info, visit ing for. New additions to the 2010 www.colehersee.com. n

pg 18 tw june v3.indd 18 13/05/10 3:28 PM YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO THIS FAR TO SAVE UP TO 3%* ON FUEL…

...WITH TOTAL FUEL ECONOMY LUBRICANTS Our ﬁ eld-proven Fuel Economy lubricants can reduce your fuel consumption by up to 3%* while lowering CO2 emissions. Using TOTAL RUBIA FE engine oils combined with TOTAL Synthetic Gear and Axle lubricants translates to a saving of over $1,000* per truck per year! www.total-fe.com * Results veriﬁ ed by both US and European labs, in comparison with standard lubricants. Figures may vary depending on multiple factors. Simulations use fuel cost at $0.95/L, 125 000 Km/year, average fuel consumption of 43L/100Km. See www.total-lubricants.ca for further details. Credits: lxb.ca and glennpykestudio.com

The right choice in lubricants

Total Lubricants.indd 1 11/05/10 1:53 PM TOTAL LUBRIFIANT Nom (000) 8469_Ann_truck_news_CAN_EN_Juin_vfin.indd Nom (000) 10,875” x 16,5” (bleed) Nom (000) FIN 4C Marie (239) DATA:LIVE:Studio_MTL:TOTALLUBRIFIANTS:8469_Pub_camion_Solaire:DOCUMENT_FINAUX:CANADA:TRUCK_NEWS_MAGAZINE:JUIN:8469_Ann_truck_news_CAN_EN_Juin_vfin.indd 22/04/10 à 16:11 Page 20 TRUCK WEST June 2010 safety Most driver-related out-of-service Every inspection report will count under CSA 2010 issues also tend to include Hours-of- Service violations. If a fleet spots a It would be difficult to underesti- file inspection reports by state will problem before CSA 2010 becomes mate the growing role of safety-re- have the opportunity to identify ju- a reality, however, it will be able to lated data in the business of truck- risdictions where they haven’t been initiate the corrective actions that ing. Shippers are analyzing more of Ask the Expert given credit for favourable inspec- will be seen in a favourable light. this information than ever before tions. (Equipment that tends to re- Equipment-related out-of-service when deciding who should carry Rick GellEr cord an out-of-service rate of 4% rates can be analyzed in a similar freight; insurers are using similar shouldn’t suddenly fail 90% of in- way. When most of the violations factors to calculate risks; banks are lem that can be fixed on the spot. spections as soon as it crosses a par- appear to be linked to problems digging through the data to iden- And the profiles that emerge will be ticular state line). It is all part of an that should be caught during a pre- tify emerging financial troubles; published for the whole world to see, ongoing commitment to evaluating trip inspection, it’s safe to say that and regulators are using it to tar- making it particularly important to the quality of the data behind the regulators will want to see proof of get sanctions. ensure the data is as accurate and reports. retraining initiatives to correct the Every one of these groups will favourable as possible. Once information like this is in issues. It proves that the data from soon have access to a new source The process of managing the data hand, it is a matter of establishing CSA 2010 is about more than a pa- of information thanks to CSA 2010 begins by educating drivers and oth- the procedures that will lead to posi- per-pushing exercise. It is a tool – a system that will monitor the ac- er fleet employees about the new tive results. If an anomaly in the data which will offer insight that a fleet tions of fleets and drivers who travel system, and by tracking the related is discovered, the odds of a success- can use to become as safe and prof- in the US. information that it can offer. ful challenge are actually in a fleet’s itable as possible. Everyone should Despite recent delays, the associ- The CSMS reports hardly need favour. Looking at the 41,000 situ- welcome that. ated Carrier Safety Measurement to be a surprise to anyone. With ations that were reviewed between System (CSMS) went online in the help of an insurer, fleets al- February 2004 and September 2008, – This month’s expert is Rick April, while enforcement person- ready have the chance to analyze the FMCSA revised its data 64% of Geller. Rick is the director of safe- nel are preparing to use the reports 30 months of existing violations, the time. ty and signature services for Markel to draft warning letters and schedule identifying issues that need to be Meanwhile, drivers can play their Insurance Company of Canada on-site compliance reviews as early addressed before enforcement per- own role in the paper shuffle of CSA and has more than 25 years expe- as this November. sonnel ever make a call. Carriers, 2010 by requesting a copy of a fa- rience providing loss control and Rather than simply counting the meanwhile, will have the oppor- vourable report every time they pass risk management services to the number of collisions and out-of-ser- tunity to track any changes in the a roadside inspection. Sometimes trucking industry. Markel Safety vice violations, the data in this sys- records by monitoring the Federal it will just be a matter of making a and Training Services, a division tem focuses on seven ‘Basics,’ in- Motor Carrier Safety Administra- polite request, and enforcement of- of Markel Insurance Company of cluding reports of unsafe driving, tion’s (FMCSA) Web site or by sign- ficers will likely finish the document Canada, offers specialized cours- fatigued driving, driver fitness, use ing up for automatic updates. if they learn that the driver earns a es, seminars and consulting to fleet of controlled substances and alcohol, These are not the only ways that bonus for that simple piece of pa- owners, safety managers, trainers vehicle maintenance, cargo-related record-keeping procedures will play per. But even if an officer refuses to and drivers. Markel is the country’s issues, and crash indicators. Results an important role. fill out the paperwork, drivers can largest trucking insurer providing from each roadside inspection will A commitment to check every re- still give safety managers the infor- more than 50 years of continuous also be used in the various calcula- lated violation report, for example, mation they need, recording details service to the transportation indus- Truck Newstions, Recruitment_Driverlink even when findings are favour5/7/10- 11:47will AM help Page to spot1 the inspection re- about the time, date and location of try. Send your questions, feedback able or limited to an issue like an sults that actually belong to anoth- the inspection as well as the related and comments about this column to overweight axle or mechanical prob- er fleet. And safety managers who patrol number and badge number. [email protected].

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First Name Last Name Address City Prov/State Postal/Zip E-Mail Home Tel Cell Best way to contact me: I Home Tel I Cell I E-Mail I Other Work Preferences: I Owner Operator I Hwy Team I Hwy Single/Company Driver I Local I Lease Purchase I Driver Trainer I Moving I Other

Owner Operator? Manufacturer Year/Model Engine/Size Preferred Trailer Type (check all that apply): Trailer Type Experience (check all that apply) I Flatbed I Heavy Hauling/Specialized I Moving Van I Flatbed I Heavy Hauling/Specialized I Moving Van I Tanker I Straight Truck I Super B I Reefer I Tanker I Straight Truck I Super B I Reefer I Van I Other I Van I Other Current Drivers License: Do you have a Commercial License? I Yes I No License # Exp. Date Prov/State Issued Type Has your license ever been suspended? I Yes I No Total Truck Driving Experience /yrs Last Employer Name Company City Prov/State Tel Start/End Date Job Description Reason for Leaving Certification/Training: I Doubles/Triples I Air Brake Adjustment I Over-Size Loads I Hazmat I Air Brake (Drive) I Tankers Name of School Name of Course Completed City Prov/State Start/End Date Can you lift 50lbs? I Yes I No Cross Border Travel: I am able to cross the Canada/U.S. border to haul International loads I Yes I No I am willing to cross the border I Yes I I am FAST approved I Yes I No Would you like to contacted by driver agencies? I Yes I No By filling out and signing this application, I agree to abide by Driverlinks’s terms and conditions and consent to the use of personal information according to the Driverlink privacy policy. Careers On-Line www.trucknews.com Signature Date Driverlink is proud to protect the privacy of your personal information as required under federal privacy laws. If you would like By Mail: 6660 Kennedy Road, Suite 205, By Phone: By Fax: to see a copy of our privacy policy, please go to www.driverlink.com. If you would like a printed copy of our privacy policy, 800-263-6149 866-837-4837 please call us at 1-800-263-6149 and we will be happy to mail one to you. Mississauga, ON L5T 2M9

pg 20 tw june v3.indd 20 13/05/10 10:52 AM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 21 fleet news As economy improves, Challenger revs up Fleet wants bigger piece of western LCV pie

By James Menzies The first of Challenger’s Ontario- CAMBRIDGE, Ont. – Dan Ein- based LCVs hit the road last month wechter has seen the future, and running Cambridge-Montreal, and the future is long. That’s the con- Einwechter is hopeful the pilot clusion one could arrive at following project will be expanded. a recent visit to Challenger Motor “That’s our big hope,” he said. Freight headquarters. Parked in the “Otherwise, we’ll be restricted to yard was a 2011 Volvo VN hooked doing it from Manitoba to Alber- to two shiny new 53-ft. Stoughton ta, but we’re hoping based on the trailers. performance the government has In mid-April, Challenger took seen so far, that we will continue for delivery of 300 identically-spec’d the rest of this year in Ontario and Stoughton trailers supplied by they’ll follow through (after that), Trailers Canada. Each one comes because it makes so much sense in going long: Challenger has purchased 300 new Stoughton trailers, with 300 equipped with side fairings, wide- so many ways and we’ll have a mar- more to come later this year, in an effort to bolster its long combination vehicle base tires and, not insignifcant- ket that we can go from Windsor to (LCV) fleet. Two LCV configurations are now on Ontario roads, while the remain- ly, a pintle hook. Einwechter said Riviere du Loup, in essence, or from der will be deployed in Western Canada. Photo by James Menzies he’ll have 300 more such trailers by Winnipeg to Calgary.” year end, providing capacity of up Challenger has also been buy- to 1,200 long combination vehicle ing new tractors to pull those trail- tle stronger. That has helped,” he (LCV) trailers if he should deploy ers. The company has taken deliv- said. “The acquisitions have all been each one as the lead trailer of an ery of 150 Volvo VNs (with a mix done, not because there’s big money LCV configuration. And it sounds of pre- and post-EPA2010 engines) changing hands, but rather because like he may do just that. and will soon be placing orders for it was time for those other players “From our perspective, we know as many as 486 tractors to replace to exit the industry. They were good we need to become a bigger play- those coming due for replacement companies, just the wrong time.” er in the LCV business out west,” over the next 18 months. So should Challenger’s ambitious Challenger CEO Einwechter told Meanwhile, Challenger has also spending spree be taken as a signal Truck West. “We needed some new been investing in new equipment the Canadian trucking industry has trailers and because the trailer infor its specialized divisions to haul finally turned the corner? dustry is still in a depressed state, it windmill blades and other oversized “It signals I’ve lost my mind,” was the right time to buy the equip- equipment for an emerging industry. Einwechter joked, before adding: ment at the right price.” “We have spent millions of dol- “We need to make investments Current pricing may not last long. lars to buy equipment for the wind in the future. At the end of the According to the latest State of the turbine industry,” Einwechter said. day, I tell everyone when times Industry: US Trailers report from “We have quite a few nine-axle trail- are tough it’s not the end of time, ACT Research, commercial trailer ers, some blade trailers being deliv- it’s a point in time. We definitely ease of entry: Challenger’s new net orders rose 165% year-over-year ered shortly, tri-drive tractors and delayed our equipment trade cy- trailers come with a clever customiza- in March, with dry van orders up we’re buying tandem tractors with cles for quite some time but it was tion, an extra step and grab handle. 233% year to date. Conny Weyers, pusher axles, so we have a lot of time to do it.” president of Trailers Canada told stuff going on this year.” Still, Einwechter isn’t ready to de- be as a Canadian carrier. Do I see Truck West the Canadian trucking Even during the downturn, Chal- clare the difficulties of the past few we have some uptick, some positive industry is sitting on a lot of older lenger has made some key special- years officially over, as excess ca- improvement? Absolutely. We think trailers and is being forced to reju- ty acquisitions and the diversity has pacity remains an issue. there still needs to be some tighten- venate itself. He also pointed out helped the company weather the “There’s still too many trucks,” he ing of supply here and the high Ca- the strong Canadian dollar means storm, Einwechter said. said. “I’ve talked to a bunch of US nadian dollar doesn’t help, but I still a new trailer today costs less than “When one area of the compa- dealers and carriers and they’re all feel pretty optimistic about the bal- it did in the ’90s. ny suffers, another may be a lit- much more optimistic than I would ance of this year and next year.” n APPS makes special delivery By James Menzies APPS president Rob McDonald TORONTO, Ont. – A generous was also on-hand for the hand- donation of 128 GM engines to off. But when he stepped to the Toronto high schools has been mic, it was McDonald doing the matched by an equally generous thanking. offer from APPS Transport. “I’d like to thank the Toronto GM donated the engines to the District School Board and GM Toronto District School Board, for including us in this project,” for distribution to 19 high schools he said. “We’re proud to be a across Toronto. Problem was, get- partner in the initiative and we ting the engines to those schools look forward to completing the in downtown Toronto would re- task with any new ones that come quire the services of a transport on-board.” company, and those services McDonald added “We believe special delivery: Warehouse manager Lance Lund (left) and APPS driver could be costly. that education is the pillar of soci- and OTA Road Knight Guy Broderick prepare to unload some new GM engines That’s when APPS Transport ety and the foundation of our fu- at Central Technical Institute in Toronto. Photo by James Menzies stepped up and offered to deliver ture. Having relevant equipment the engines free of charge. The en- to work on in the schools is key gines were picked up at GM’s St. to making a better transition to tic and could hardly wait to be- are in pristine condition, essentially Catharines plant and the first of the future for our students. We gin working on the new engines, cutting edge technology. Students those powerplants reached their hope that our donation of some a combination of V6s and V8s. will leave our program with expe- new home on May 4 at Central time and equipment really helps “The value of this donation is rience working on state-of-the-art Technical Institute in Toronto. and that our contribution to this immense in the automotive teach- engines which will help them in Making the delivery was profes- project helps make these students ing area,” said Tony Rende, auto- their career path.” sional driver and Ontario Truck- successful in the future.” motive co-op teacher at Central The transportation of the engines ing Association Road Knight, Students assembled at the cer- Technical Institute. required two 53-foot trailers, engine Guy Broderick. emony were genuinely enthusias- “The engines that GM is donating hoists and forklifts. n

pg 21 tw june v3.indd 21 13/05/10 3:12 PM Page 22 TRUCK WEST June 2010 road test More than the sum of its parts Volvo makes strong case for vertical integration with VN780, D13 EPA2010-compliant engine, I-Shift transmission and integrated safety systems

By James Menzies cab multiple times as he or she frame for support. Volvo helped fective on our drive, however, GREENSBORO, N.C. – In the completes the walk-around. Ac- develop the fifth wheel (hence the since we were pulling a lowboy months leading up to the launch tivating the system will cause it exclusivity), which turned out to trailer with a Volvo loader that of EPA2010-compliant engines to cycle through (left signal, right be a nice marriage since Volvo’s was not exactly aerodynamic, or using selective catalytic reduc- signal then four-ways as well as frame has a consistent stiffness lightweight, for that matter. We tion (SCR), much was made of the high and low beams) so the driv- from front to back, Bio pointed grossed 80,000 lbs on the but- driver’s role in ensuring compli- er can check all the lights in a out. The integrated fifth wheel is ton as we pulled out of the Volvo ance by monitoring and maintain- single lap around the vehicle. It’s suitable for on-highway applica- parking lot. ing diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) important to note, the Pre-Trip tions and is one way to gain back Inside the cab, the Volvo we levels. Assistant is just that – an assis- some of the payload lost to the were driving was equipped with As if to apologize for imposing tant. It’s not designed to replace new SCR-related components. an optional battery-powered no- that minor inconvenience on driv- a walk-around and complete in- Another interesting feature on idle cab comfort system that pro- ers, Volvo has added several en- spection, just to help streamline the exterior was an adjustable vides heating and cooling. It also hancements to its EPA2010 truck the process. trim tab roof fairing extender came with the Bendix SmarTire and engine combo that will more The new feature also includes mounted to the back of the cab tire pressure monitoring system than compensate for the time and an air leak monitor that helps the which can be raised or lowered to which has been integrated into energy spent periodically replen- driver complete an air brake sys- optimize air flow over the trailer. Volvo’s driver information dis- ishing DEF. Several new features tem check. It instructs the driver Bio explained the system is de- play. will introduce new efficiencies to depress the brake and then it signed for companies that can’t The VN also had a heated wind- into the driver’s day while also provides a one-minute countdown optimize their trailer gap, which shield, designed to prevent snow benefitting the owner’s pocket- and displays the pressure and the in a perfect world would be less and ice accumulation while driv- book. pressure drop between the prima- than 40 inches. ing – another option that’ll be Chief among them is a handy ry and secondary systems, Volvo “As the air passes over the roof useful in Canada if not on our new Pre-Trip Assistant, which au- Trucks’ Frank Bio explained be- of the vehicle, this pulls the air five-hour drive through the roll- tomates cumbersome parts of the fore we headed out on the high- down and matches the top of the ing hills of North Carolina. pre-trip inspection process, mak- way for a test drive in North Car- trim to the top of the trailer,” Bio ing it a simpler one-person job. olina. explained. A diagram on the back On the road “It would show you how much indicates which groove the trim Pre-Trip Assistant the pressure went down in that tab should be set at, depending From a performance perspec- one minute and whether it passed on the trailer height and the gap tive, the transition to EPA2010 When activated, the Pre-Trip As- or failed the test,” Bio said as he between the cab and trailer. will be pretty much seamless for sistant first checks the tractor and demonstrated the system. “You “A lot of people think what the driver. The VN I was driving trailer’s entire lighting system for don’t have to watch the gauge, it you’re trying to do is push the air had a gauge on the dash that dis- any electrical faults. It then noti- will tell you all that information.” over the top of the trailer, but in played DEF fluid levels. If not for fies the driver if a problem is de- Before we hit the road, I no- reality what you’re trying to do is that, it would be impossible to de- tected via the in-dash driver mes- ticed a couple interesting items bring the air down to the trailer termine it had a 2010 engine un- sage centre. on the exterior of the VN (a VN- so it flows evenly across the top der the hood. The needle on that The system will also notify you L64T780, to be precise). of the trailer,” Bio explained. “If gauge, incidentally, barely budged if a lamp is out, but not the spe- One item of interest was a new you push it up high, it goes up and over the course of several hours cific bulb – the driver will have to integrated fifth wheel from Fon- then tumbles along the top of the of driving. get out of the truck to determine taine, available as an option ex- trailer and that creates drag.” While Volvo engineers were which bulb needs to be replaced. clusively through Volvo– at least The adjustable trim tab is an in- busy developing their EPA2010 The Pre-Trip Assistant will also for the next year. The fifth wheel expensive option, costing about a solution, they still found time to cycle through the lights so a driv- saves about 100 lbs by eliminating couple hundred bucks. It would build some new enhancements er doesn’t have to return to the parts and using the existing truck be rendered pretty much inef- into the engine.

pg 22-23 tw june v1.indd 22 12/05/10 3:09 PM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 23

Volvo engines now come with a When DEF levels dip below the feature called Eco-Torque, which quarter tank mark, drivers will automatically switches between receive an alert via Volvo’s stan- two torque outputs in the top two dard in-dash message centre and gears, depending on driving con- a lamp on the dash will light up. ditions. The pop-up alert on the driv- The 500-hp D13 I was driving, er message centre can be pro- for instance, was rated at 1,550- grammed to appear in French or 1,750 lb.-ft. torque. In the lower English and will be accompanied gears it always had the full 1,750 by an audible alert, making it dif- lb.-ft. of torque but in the top two ficult to miss. It will remain there gears where the upper range was until the driver acknowledges it no longer required, the engine by pressing the Escape button on utilized only 1,550 lb.-ft. of the the control stalk. available torque. When driving If the driver chooses to ignore situations necessitated a boost, these warnings, the engine will like when pulling a long grade, eventually be derated by 25% – Eco-Torque kicks in, providing a enough to get the driver’s atten- 200 lb.-ft. boost and making the tion but not render the vehicle un- full 1,750 lb.-ft. available. drivable. The driver will also be Volvo’s powertrain manager Ed warned that a 5 mph maximum Saxman, describes Eco-Torque speed will be imposed if DEF as a “new software personality.” isn’t soon added. But even when An attentive driver will be able Cruise (VEC) – Volvo’s version SCR inducement strategies the 5 mph major inducement is to feel when Eco-Torque has been of the Bendix Wingman Active armed and loaded, it won’t be ac- engaged and may even notice the Cruise with Braking system. VEC The fact I was driving an tivated until triggered by the ad- needle jump slightly on the boost provides audible alerts when fol- EPA2010-compliant vehicle was, dition of diesel fuel, Saxman ex- pressure gauge. Saxman said Eco- lowing a vehicle too closely. The quite frankly, forgettable, since the plained, so in theory DEF should Torque saves fuel by allowing the warning point can be customized, SCR system went about its busi- be readily available. transmission to remain in top gear but the default following distance ness completely transparently. “The mere fact you just put die- under conditions that would nor- is 2.8 seconds. Much has been made about how sel fuel in the truck means you mally warrant a downshift. I admit I triggered a few alarms, regulators would ensure truck- are either at a truck stop or per- When the extra torque is no but it wasn’t my fault – I swear! ers keep their DEF tanks filled, haps at your home facility. Either longer required, the engine re- It was mostly due to aggressive thereby allowing the SCR system way there’s likely DEF on-site,” verts back to its normal operat- motorists pulling in front of me. I to do its job. Volvo has gone to Saxman explained. “Not only do ing characteristics; in our case can see how VEC would improve great lengths to ensure that when we not shut the truck down, when it once again becomes a 500-hp, truck safety, especially when the an engine is derated due to insuf- we get a major inducement on a 1,550 lb.-ft. engine. driver is drowsy, the eyelids are ficient DEF levels, it will only do Volvo truck, it happens at a truck getting heavy and the attention so where there’s DEF available. stop. But by this time, the driver On an Eco-Roll span is waning. But if you ever find yourself in a has ignored a whole lot of clues that he needs to add this stuff. So During my drive through the far, we haven’t had anybody run beautiful rolling hills of North out of DEF on a highway.” Carolina, there were plenty of opportunities to experience the Conclusion Eco-Roll feature built into the I-Shift transmission. Eco-Roll, Somewhere along I-40 near active only when cruise is set, Greensboro, it occurred to me saves fuel by allowing the engine that this was more than just a to free-roll in certain situations, test drive, it was also a lesson in such as when descending a long, the benefits of vertical integra- gradual grade. It’s ideal in ter- tion. Some of the more advanced rain with rolling hills and kicked The high-pitched alarm is derate situation, you may be bet- features offered in the I-Shift are in frequently during my drive. enough to jolt a driver from a ter served parking the truck and only possible as a result of the You can tell Eco-Roll is func- restful state – and probably even throwing the key into the near- high level of integration between tioning when the needle on the a sound sleep. The shrill beeps est river, because you probably engine and transmission. tach drops and the engine noise may not be appreciated by the shouldn’t be driving in the first And the safety systems such cuts out. Miles run with Eco-Roll sleeping member of a team, es- place. You’d have to willfully ig- as Volvo Enhanced Cruise, or active are basically free miles. Vol- pecially when the alarms are in- nore a whole lot of audible and for that matter the tire pressure vo likens the feature to riding a bi- evitable such as when navigating visual warnings before the truck monitoring system on the truck I cycle downhill – why spend energy heavy traffic. It would seem VEC is actually derated. drove, were also fully-integrated pedaling when simple physics will is best-suited for single drivers at The first line of defense comes into the vehicle with messages ap- work in your favour and get you this point. In addition to provid- in the form of that new gauge on pearing on Volvo’s in-dash mes- down the hill effortlessly? ing audible alerts, VEC can also the dash that displays DEF lev- sage centre, thus reducing the po- With Eco-Roll active, I some- intervene with active braking els at all times. The VN780 we tential for driver distraction. times had to avoid the temptation when a collision is imminent. drove was fitted with an 18.5-gal- Even the fifth wheel, built to get back on the throttle a lit- Fortunately, I didn’t have to lon DEF tank that weighs about by Fontaine by fully integrated tle sooner than the engine want- put that particular functionality 160 lbs when full and should last into the Volvo chassis, provided ed to kick back in. It seemed to to the test. about 4,000 miles before requir- benefits such as weight savings, me that we lost a little too much The VN I drove also came with ing a refill. A blue cap ensures which will be ever-important go- momentum before the engine re- the Vorad radar side-detection drivers don’t mistakenly fill the ing forward as manufacturers try engaged. I mentioned this to Sax- system that sounds an alarm if the DEF tank with diesel fuel and in to claw back payload lost to the man and he assured me otherwise. right turn signal is activated while case they should try, the neck has hefty SCR system, which, while A great deal of engineering went there’s a vehicle alongside the truck been designed so it’s too narrow packaged cleanly, still adds sev- into determining when the engine or trailer. This blind side detector to fit a standard diesel nozzle. eral hundred pounds. should re-engage, he told me. provides peace of mind just by be- Someone, somewhere will inevi- Now that Volvo can finally Why must we always try to out- ing there, provided of course, that tably put diesel in the DEF tank move beyond preparing for 2010 smart the electronics? the driver is signaling lane changes. but there’s really no excuse. and focus on developing new en- Another noticeable improve- hancements and exploring how ment is that the Volvo’s cruise is they can mine further benefits less aggressive than it once was. from the sophisticated integration It used to charge back up to the The Spec’s of their powertrain products, I’m set cruise speed quite aggressive- Tractor: Volvo VNL64T780 excited to see what they’ll come ly, now it makes the climb more Engine: Volvo D13 500 hp, 1,750- up with next. n gradually, saving fuel as a result. 1,550 lb.-ft. Eco-Torque EPA2010 Transmission: Volvo I-Shift Want a chance to drive the same ATO2612D 12-speed Safety features Steer Tires: Bridgestone R280, truck I drove? You’ll get your 295/75R22.5H chance when the Volvo Driving The truck I was driving was Drive Tires: Bridgestone Greatec Success Tour reaches Canada later equipped with several safety sys- singles, 445/50R22.5L. this year. For a complete schedule, tems, including Volvo Enhanced visit www.volvotour2010.com.

pg 22-23 tw june v1.indd 23 12/05/10 3:10 PM Page 24 TRUCK WEST June 2010 industry Setting national fuel economy standards for trucks requires unique understanding Recently, Canada’s Minister of En- The current vehicle standards United States. vironment, the Honourable James were developed in the early 1980s It is conceivable that the US Prentice, indicated through the me- and while they have served the trucking industry could meet new dia that the government of Canada, Industry Issues country well (indeed they have fuel economy targets by “coming perhaps in conjunction, or at least allowed for more fuel-efficient up” towards the Canadian stan- consistent, with the federal govern- david Bradley goods movement in Canada ver- dards already in existence. ment of the US, will be unveiling sus the US in many respects), they This would place an added bur- draft regulations to introduce new tive thing. But, there is still a lot were not developed with environ- den on the Canadian industry fuel economy standards for heavy of water that needs to go under mental concerns in mind. Con- to adopt additional measures to commercial vehicles. that bridge before we can give the sequently, in many instances they achieve similar order of magnitude The announcement, we are led thumbs up or the thumbs down to now represent a barrier to adopt- fuel efficiency gains. to believe, could even come by the whatever the minister is thinking ing some of the technologies that While enviroTruck has many time you read this article or short- about doing. will be required to comply with parallels with the US Environmen- ly thereafter. The Canadian truck- If, for example, anyone thinks new fuel efficiency standards. tal Protection Agency’s SmartWay ing industry has always been the you can basically follow the same Transport Canada’s manufac- Transport initiative and with the leader in North America in terms thought processes for establishing turing standards have also recently recently introduced California of fuel efficiency. a fuel economy standard for trucks been identified as being similarly Air Resources Board regulations For a number of years now, as for cars, they would be sadly problematic (ie., impeding the use aimed at improving truck fuel effi- CTA has been promoting the en- mistaken. The trucking industry of rear trailer aerodynamic devices ciency, it also takes account of the viroTruck initiative for reducing is not a homogeneous entity. commonly referred to as boat tails). uniqueness of the equipment used air contaminants and greenhouse Trucks are used as the convey- Third, CTA is extremely con- in the Canadian heavy truck fleet. gases (GHG) from trucks. We ance to ship all types of commodi- cerned that the above issues are Again, in principle, CTA does foresaw the day when fuel econo- ties and products, from the light- not well understood and if the not oppose the setting of fuel ef- my standards would become a re- est of weights (ie., potato chips) thought is to simply adopt Made- ficiency standards for heavy trucks ality and wished to be proactive to the heaviest (ie., industrial in-USA standards, the Canadian in principle. However, we need to on that front. machinery) and any number of trucking industry could be placed ensure that it is done properly and It is hard to respond to some- products requiring specialized at a competitive disadvantage com- in a way that is fair to Canadian thing you have not seen – and to tractor and trailer equipment. A pared to US carriers and ultimate- motor carriers. We have already date there has been virtually no one-size-fits-all fuel efficiency reg- ly, shippers who rely upon trucks seen policies created in the ab- consultation on this – but CTA’s ulation will not work. for getting their goods to market, sence of a basic understanding of knee-jerk response is not to op- This was highlighted in a recent or for receiving much-needed in- the complexity of the trucking in- pose measures that can assist the paper from the National Academies puts into their business processes, dustry and the uniqueness of the industry in improving its fuel ef- (NA) entitled: Technologies and could be negatively impacted. Canadian industry in particular. ficiency. Approaches to Reducing the Fuel The prevailing truck weights We can’t afford to see it hap- Indeed, a regulation that is con- Consumption of Medium- and and dimensions standards in the pen in the setting of fuel economy sistent with the equipment and Heavy-Duty Vehicles. US and Canada are quite different. standards. n technologies promoted by CTA’s Secondly, heavy truck weights In general, the Canadian prov- enviroTruck initiative and which and dimensions standards in Cana- inces have adopted a more liber- – David Bradley is president of is accompanied by appropriate da fall principally under provincial alized weights and dimensions the Ontario Trucking Association financial incentives, regulatory jurisdiction, which complicates the regime than what exists un- and chief executive officer of the flexibility, etc., could be a posi- setting of national standards. der federal and state law in the Canadian Trucking Alliance. opinion the amount of work done per gallon comes to trucks, it’s not that simple. of fuel. With trucks, would we be forced into Gauging fuel efficiency Another method of measuring “fuel a ProStar with an 11-litre engine when economy” would be to rate engines we really need (or want?) a W900 with Whenever some government or another on their thermal efficiency, or their a 600-hp ISX? A genuine need exists proposes standards and targets for im- competency at turning diesel fuel for the high output engines in some ap- provements or reductions, I get a little Voice of into useful energy. But the technolo- plications, but is it government’s place nervous. All too often, it’s the old ‘day gy to increase the thermal efficiency of to determine that need? And by what late and a dollar short’ scenario. the O/O today’s best engines by even 10% is criteria? Would truck makers be held Take our failed commitment to Joanne Ritchie at least a decade away, certainly not to the CAFE standards (Corporate the Kyoto Protocol. Canada was one within Prentice’s time frame of “later Average Fuel Economy), where com- of the first countries to sign on to standard, Prentice and his standard- this spring.” pliance is determined by the number Kyoto, agreeing to reduce greenhouse setters need to understand that what Other possibilities for improving of fuel-efficient vehicles offered and gas emissions by 6% over 1990 levels passes for suitable fuel economy stan- heavy-truck fuel efficiency would be sold? Or would carriers be required by 2012. But by 2006, four years after dards (GHG reductions) for American wide-scale adoption of energy-sav- to have a percentage of high efficiency formally ratifying the Protocol, our heavy trucks might not be achievable ing technologies such as aerodynam- vehicles in the fleet? GHG emissions were up by 24%. in Canada. ic fittings on trucks and trailers, re- Or how about the owner/operator So much for targets. When Stephen But there’s a much larger ques- ducing or eliminating idling through whose truck is overpowered for a par- Harper’s newly-elected Conservatives tion that would need to be addressed truck stop electrification and anti-idle ticular application? Maybe the last job tabled their first budget that same year, first: how can you possibly set a fuel equipment, and using more fuel-effi- was hauling lumber on Super-Bs, but it contained no mention of the Kyoto economy standard for a vehicle pop- cient wide-base single tires. the current carrier hauls mattresses in Protocol. It pledged instead to develop ulation as diverse as this industry’s? Were Prentice and his provin- dry vans. Would the owner/op be pe- a “made-in-Canada” climate change Could Prentice be foolhardy enough cial counterparts to think in prac- nalized for running too big a truck for program, and there’s been little mean- to adopt US heavy truck fuel economy tical terms like these – or of lifting the job? Setting so-called fuel econo- ingful progress to report in the inter- standards as our own – and in such a weights and dimensions restrictions, my standards for heavy trucks is no vening four years. ridiculously short timeframe? or letting trucks be as efficient as simple matter, and given that Prentice’s But just a few weeks ago, our That’s why I get nervous when I they can be like, say, opening up ministry has done no consultation with Environment Minister, Jim Prentice, hear governments are about to start HOV lanes to trucks – we might industry up to now, I’m thinking that announced that Canada would intro- setting standards. The problem lies in get somewhere on the fuel econo- whatever emerges “before summer” duce mandatory vehicle emissions the measurement. Fuel economy stan- my front. Or – here’s a novel idea – should get tossed right back at him reductions – fuel economy standards dards for cars – the typical X mpg, or X how about freeing up some money to before Canada Day. I think it would – for passenger vehicles and light-du- L/100km – cannot be applied to trucks help fleets and owner/operators over- be to this industry’s advantage to ty trucks. These rules would mirror because of the tremendous variation come the capital cost hurdles of go- have some means of gauging effi- regulations recently unveiled in the in vehicle size, weight, power require- ing green? There’s little money left in ciency, where the smart operators US, so we’ll effectively have North ments, and the number of different industry’s pockets; we’re still reeling are credited for their efforts and in- American fuel economy standards applications. An 80,000-lb, five-axle from the $15,000 upcharge resulting genuity. But simple fuel economy for cars. Yahoo! combo would do well to get 7 mpg from EPA07 and 2010. standards aren’t the way to go – es- And Prentice, like the Americans, US. But you’d never see a number like The other dilemma that Prentice pecially if the measurement tools has said he’ll also introduce plans to that with a tri-axle, a quad, or a will have to resolve is who to regulate: aren’t even our own. n set fuel economy standards for heavy- Super B-train. truck maker, engine maker, or end duty trucks – possibly within the next A better way to measure truck fuel user? The auto consumer has a choice – Joanne Ritchie is executive director couple of months. Whoa! economy is load-specific fuel con- between, say, a Prius and a Lincoln of OBAC. Do fuel economy standards While there would be certain ben- sumption or gallons per tonne-mile. Navigator. Either will get you to work measure up? E-mail her at jritchie@ efits to building cars to a continental With this method, you’re measuring and back, but at what cost? When it obac.ca or call 888-794-9990.

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ART DIRECTOR COPY WRITER CREATIVE DIR. PRINT PROD. STUDIO MGR. ACCT. MGMT. Page 26 TRUCK WEST June 2010 new products superior suspension technology ArvinMeritor unveils new trailer suspension series and reliability.” The suspension offers a five-year, By Adam Ledlow 500,000-mile warranty. FRANKFORT, Ky. – Determined “We’ve listened closely to our cus- to push any lingering thoughts of tomers,” said Frohock. “The time is “recession” behind, ArvinMeritor has right, the technology is honed and unveiled an all-new series of durable, proven, and as our customers con- trailing-arm air-ride trailer suspen- sider purchasing and specifying trail- sions: the Meritor Trailing-Arm Air ers, they must closely consider the (MTA) suspension series. Meritor MTA series suspension.” Coming on the heels of its Meri- “The Meritor brand stands for tor 14X tandem drive axle launch strength and dependability that tran- at the Mid-America Trucking Show scends to the company’s commer- in March, the manufacturer invit- cial vehicle axles, brakes and sus- ed both trade media and customers the mta: ArvinMeritor is pensions, products which carry some back to Kentucky to get a close-up moving forward with a new of the toughest loads imaginable on look at the MTA series, designed for suspension series. roadways all across North America,” North American truck-trailer opera- Frohock added. tors in vocational markets – including The company says its district man- platform, tank, grain, dump, chassis, agers located across the Canada and bulk, specialty, lowboy, livestock and performance for our customers.” brakes, automatic slack adjusters, the the US will assist fleets and dealers specialty vans. The five subsequent models will be SteelLite X30 drum and lightweight with specifications, technical support, The series was revealed in Frank- unveiled in the last quarter of the year hub, and the MTIS (Meritor Tire In- and training and service of the new fort, Ky., at the heart of the compa- and through summer 2011. flation System) by PSI. trailer suspension series. ny’s US trailer products operations, Officials say the suspension series “This new suspension series pro- For after-the-sale support, officials and though the struggles the econom- features three technology advance- vides customers an engineering- say the company’s aftermarket busi- ic downturn created were discussed ments with distinct operational bene- proven solution in our suspen- ness, complete with parts inventory by ArvinMeritor executives, the over- fits. The first is a patented pivot bush- sions portfolio. Our track record and service specialists in Florence, whelming sentiment conveyed was one ing which is designed to absorb road of serving OE and fleet custom- Ky. and Brampton, Ont., is prepared of rejuvenation, renewal and a sense of input resulting in a softer ride, more ers with specifications – quality to supply the aftermarket channels moving forward. cargo protection, and reduced torsion- manufacturing – and ‘after the with comprehensive service parts to “We’re standing here because we al stress on the vehicle’s structure. Pat- sale’ support is unsurpassed,” said support the new suspension for mini- survived,” said Joe Mejaly, president of ented steel interleaf shims in the bush- Frohock. “It’s another way we can mal downtime and maximum operat- aftermarket and trailer for ArvinMeri- ing are designed to provide improved help provide our customers with ing time. n tor, while also mentioning the strides fore-aft stiffness aiding in dynamic forward the manufacturer has made axle alignment, better tire wear, and in other markets such as India, China controlled roll steer. and South America, post-recession. The second advancement is larger, PeopleNet to offer tire pressure monitoring And with those strides forward, the more robust shock absorbers which MTA series of top-mount and low- have been specifically tuned to Meri- MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – PeopleNet has partnered with PressurePro to mount models completes the compa- tor suspensions with three times the offer tire pressure monitoring capabilities. ny’s line-up of air suspension solutions, damping power over competitors, The partnership makes tire pressure monitoring available through according to officials. according to the company. Larger bore PeopleNet’s legacy systems beginning with BLU In-Cab PC, the The first model of the group to design for greater suspension control, companies announced. be launched, the MTA23, will have and more consistent tire contact with “As the first PeopleNet system with fully-integrated tire pressure any kinks with customer integration the ground also assist in reducing tire monitoring, BLU In-Cab PC will provide fleets with yet another tool for and manufacturing readiness ironed tread wear, improved braking and optimizing vehicle performance efficiency with greater MPG, improved out this summer, with its production enhanced handling, ArvinMeritor safety and lower maintenance costs,” said Randy Boyles, vice-president launch slated for the fall. claims. of integration with PeopleNet. “We are focused on and commit- Lastly, the series’ products feature “Partnerships with leaders in complimentary technologies help us ted to providing only the highest qual- a unique, patent-pending axle wrap provide our customers with an increasingly comprehensive array of tools ity suspensions,” said Craig Frohock, design for a secure and durable axle they need for minimizing cost drivers across their businesses.” general manager of trailer products connection. It also contributes to su- Tire pressure monitoring will be available from PeopleNet by the end for ArvinMeritor. “Over the coming perior suspension durability, according of the second quarter, the company announced. months, we’ll work closely with our to company engineers. PeopleNet is also now offering new services to help the trucking customers, our supply chain, and our The integrated design includes Mer- industry prepare for and comply with CSA 2010 and electronic on-board manufacturing and quality teams to itor trailer axles and brakes, and is recorder (EOBR) requirements in the US. ensure flawless delivery and product available with Q Plus cam or air disc PeopleNet’s EOBR bundle is touted as a low-cost fleet management offering that will provide electronic driver logs and improve hours-of- service compliance. The company is also offering a more comprehensive CSA 2010 bundle that includes electronic logs, on-board event recording, speedgauge, engine fault code monitoring, speed alarms and more. MISSING The company is confident its offerings will allow fleets to improve their score under CSA 2010. n JUSTIN RUTTER 5636-V Date Of Birth: May 6, 1995 This month’s Missing since: October 8, 2009 CROSSWORD Missing from: Ottawa, Ontario Height: 5' 4" SOLUTION Weight: 110 lbs. is brought to you by Eyes: Brown Hair: Light Brown Characteristics: Justin Rutter is believed to frequent the Market/Lowertown/Overbrook areas of Ottawa. When last seen, he was wearing a brown/white patterned hooded coat (seen in photo), dark blue jeans, brown t-shirt and white/black Adidas running shoes. Phone Ottawa Police: 613-236-1222 www.ottawapolice.ca www.ontario.childfind.ca Anyone with information please contact: All Calls Confidential – No Name Required CHILD FIND 1-800-387-7962 Try it online at www.trucknews.com

pg 26 tw june v3.indd 26 13/05/10 10:44 AM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 27 industry statistics and to understand mem- the industry was established, the door bers’ views on a variety of subjects. opened a little to allow us to express Surveys: Boone or bane? Effective analysis requires sound in- what we needed if the industry is to formation and the source of that in- remain effective in providing the ser- Have you ever been asked to com- formation is the people who work in vices Canadians have come to expect. plete a survey?Okay, that was a rhe- the industry. Another type of survey is the one torical question. I’m not suggesting that anyone of- that consolidates information on op- We are all regularly inundated Private Links fer up privileged information such as erational best practices. If adopted with requests that we complete sur- a company’s revenues or customer more broadly, these best practices veys on all manner of topics: which Bruce Richards contact lists. I’m referring to more could make the trucking industry newspapers we read and why?; what generic information that would help even more effective than it is today, do we think of the services provided alone in my thinking on this one. shed light on the demographic of an which in turn would make it interest- by the cities or towns in which we Recently, with a fairly innovative industry such as ours. And there is ing to the bright and energetic young live?; are we in favour of a nuclear approach, one such survey that ar- value in that information. people that we want to attract for our energy plant in our neighbourhood? rived at home included a twonie that For example, absent a clear picture future. These are the types of sur- As often as not, these surveys ar- I was invited to use to ‘enjoy a cup of the magnitude and importance of veys that PMTC periodically con- rive through the postal system de- of coffee while I answered the ques- the trucking industry, there would be ducts among private fleets because spite the ‘No Junk Mail Please’ no- tionnaire.’ Well, it was a nice touch, little reason for government to sup- we, and the participants, think the tices that we post on the box. (I but as it happens, I don’t drink cof- port proposals for regulatory change, results are helpful at ground level. wonder when a spam filter for postal fee and in any event the time it would or initiatives designed to improve con- We know that in the private truck- deliveries will be invented?) have taken to answer all the survey ditions and help the industry prosper. ing community, fleet operators are And there are the telephone sur- questions would have required more Fortunately, many in the truck- willing to share information on op- veyors who want to elicit our opin- than one cup of anything. ing community do respond to in- erational practices with each oth- ion on the state of the economy or At the office, there is no end of dustry-related surveys from reer. Since these fleets don’t general- your views on current affairs. Of consultants calling for information sponsible parties. The information ly compete on a trucking level and course if you’re really lucky there about the industry, and they all want gathered has, in many cases, been since they are all looking for ways is a trip to Florida on offer if you it for free. They, in turn, sell that used to drive improvements. Some to make operations more efficient answer a few questions. information to their respective cli- examples are the surveys conducted and effective, sharing information Now, if you are like me, for the ents, so as much as I understand that by the Canadian Trucking Human and ideas on best practices is actu- most part the paper-based surveys everyone needs to eat, I seldom re- Resources Council. Over the years ally good for everyone. that arrive at home end up in the spond to those folks on principle. these surveys have identified needs So, if it sounds like I’ve come blue box on collection day, while But – and there always is a but – for improved training for entry-level full circle on the subject of surveys, the telephoned approaches engen- sometimes we’ve just got to partic- and professional drivers, dispatch- that’s only partly the case. I’ll still der a polite (as polite as I can be on ipate. Information is critical when ers, and owner/operators. That in ditch the ones that don’t matter to a Tuesday night at supper time, or you work in an industry as diverse turn led to support from the federal me, but I will definitely pay atten- during Saturday morning’s leisurely and dynamic as trucking, with its government for the development of tion to those that can help move the breakfast), “Thanks, but I’m not in- enormous economic and social im- training tools that the industry had industry forward. n terested,” type of response. pact. The ability to analyze such in- identified as critical. I simply can’t generate enough en- dustries is critical to industry watch- Without solid information on the – The Private Motor Truck Council thusiasm about most of these issues ers, to investors, to suppliers, and impact of trucking on the economy as is the only national association ded- to make me take the time to express particularly to government. And in- a first step, I doubt that the support icated to the private trucking com- my views (assuming I even have one) clude in that list the associations to mentioned above would have been munity. Direct comments and ques- to strangers and I’m certain I’m not which you belong that need to gather made available. Once the value of tions to [email protected].

opinion Don’t count out long-nose conventionals just yet It appears as though Jim Hebe has stirred things up yet again. Mr. Hebe is a well-known exec over at Navistar Publisher’s Arnold Bros. Transport ...... 14 who reported recently that long-nosed Comment Class 8s are losing market share. He is Avaal Technologies ...... 17 correct, market share for these beau- Rob Wilkins Bison Transport ...... 7 tiful beasts is on a constant decline, but that doesn’t mean you’ll stop see- They argue that there are many Career Opportunities ...... 7,14,18 ing them anytime soon. factors that contribute to fuel effi- You see, owners of these machines ciency, and just because it’s a long- Chevron Global Lubricants ...... 4 are a passionate lot. They eat, drink nose conventional doesn’t mean it’s Child Find ...... 26 and sleep long-nose and to even sug- not fuel-efficient. gest changing to a more environmen- One could compare this debate Crossword ...... 10,26 tally-friendly truck would, at the very to the classic muscle cars of the 70s. Goodyear ...... 13 least, result in a long-winded heated They were all the rage back in the debate (a debate that will probably day, but slowly lost market share as Great Dane Trailers ...... 31 go on for years). gas prices ramped up (remember 39 I, for one, love to see these rigs cents a gallon? Me neither, but it did HWT ...... 18 rolling down the road. You just exist). Anyway, 40 years later they Mack Canada ...... 32 know the person behind the wheel is are back and a growing segment of a trucker in the purest sense. I sup- the new car market. Michelin ...... 2 pose it’s something that I absorbed I love the new Camero, great lines at a very young age. In those days, and it goes like stink. It’s a perfect Owner/Operator of the Year Award ...... 3 as I’d watch our old RCA, it seemed example of why the classics, despite P.M.T.C ...... 29 that whenever Hollywood needed what some perceive as ancient tech- a truck, they’d feature a long-nose nology can survive and prosper when Total Lubricants ...... 19 driven by a John Wayne-type guy. fueled by the passion of their owners. Truck-Ops ...... 14 (Sorry ladies, there weren’t any Mrs. The long-nose conventional will John Wayne-type girls driving way survive as long as the passion remains. Truck West/DriverLink ...... 20,25 back when). I’m betting that the majority of Bragging rights may have a lot to future long-nose owners will be the Truck West – The Driver’s Seat ...... 16 do with why someone runs a long- sons and daughters of today’s long- Truck West – Subscription ...... 11 nose. I’d think there’d be very few nose owners. It gets in your blood, who would deny the beauty of a or so I’ve been told. n Wakefield Canada ...... 15 washed and waxed traditional-style tractor. Sure, they may drink more – Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Yokohama Tire ...... 30 diesel than others but their owners Truck West and can be reached at know this going in. 416-510-5123.

pg 27 tw june v3.indd 27 List of Advertisers Apr.indd 1 13/05/1012/05/10 10:20 3:32 AM PM Part 2 FICTIONFICTION Part 3 Mark Dalton: Owner/Operator MarkLicence Dalton: Owner/Operator renewed LicenceBy Edo van Belkom renewed ByThe Edo story van so Belkom far… right now, but his birthday’s coming up Mark is looking for a load. Bud has a in a month, and he’s scared to death of Thesweet story one so tofar… California that won’t be forelosing your his road licence. test.” That isn’t going to Markready isfor looking a few days.for a load.In the Budmeantime, has a happenCharlie is sighed. it?” “I don’t like written tests. sweetBud asks one toMark California to help that an won’t older be driver, ready I didn't“Not like if themhe renews when I hiswas licence.” in school, and forCharlie a few Knowles, days. In theget meantime,his licence Bud re- I certainly“This year?” don’t like them now.” asksnewed. Mark Charlie’s to help ana real older character driver, Char and- “You“And want every me year to go after through 65.” the book lieMark Knowles, agrees getto help his licenceout. renewed. with“That you?” doesn’t Mark asked. seem “Youfair. know,He hasn’t help Charlie’s a real character and Mark agrees youhad study?” a problem in years…in fact he’s • to help out. neverHe shook had an his accident head. ”I’ve in hisbeen life.” through MarkAfter had a call agreed to the to MTO help to prepare get an the “That’sbook half admirable a dozen times. sir, butI know research every- ideaCharlie of what’s Knowles needed for toall renew the tests an A/Z he thinghas shown that’s in that there older by heart. drivers It’s justare somemore- licence,needed toMark complete meets in up order with toCharlie. get his thinglikely about to develop sitting down medical and being conditions tested Thecommercial man is as driver’s abrasive licence as ever renewed, and is thatthat makes affect metheir nervous. ability I getto drive.so worried After I worriedbut what Mark that meant,will be Markcharging didn’t him have for can’t65, driverssleep, and are on one-and-a-half the day I just know times I’ll hisa clue. help. OtherWhen thanMark a tells physical Charlie every he’s bemore so flusteredlikely to I won’thave rememberan accident a thing.” than doingfew years, a favour Mark for hadn’t Bud beenand there’s tested noon driversMark betweencould understand 45 and Charlie’s64.” fears. charge,his driving Charlie ability starts since making he’d demands, first re- He’dShe had knew similar her troublesstuff, that in was high for school sure. testingceived Mark’shis licence patience. and that had been andAnd never Mark did could well onconcede math tests the no fact matter that “Meters?” ity in Brampton and parked in the Home some 15 years ago.• How could he pre- howas drivers much he got studied. older So they Charlie’s had probmore- “Yeah, how many?” Depot parking lot next door. As Charlie “Beforepare someone we begin,” for Marksomething said, “Ihe want didn’t to lemhealth wasn’t issues. so much So learningan eye thetest material and a “How should I know?” readied to leave Mother Load, Mark hand- knowknow ifanything you've got about? the preliminaries taken asphysical it was gettingwere probably through thea good test. And idea, if “You should know because you're go- ed him a few slips of paper – all blank – careSo of.” he logged onto the Internet and thatbut thatwas didn’tthe case, explain then theMark rest had of it.a few“So ingsenior to be citizen. tested on it.” toon slip Charlie’s under his face. sleeve. “Then the price is checked“What areout you the talkingOntario about?” Ministry of ideaswhy doabout they how have to help. to be road-tested “The“You number Mark Dalton?”of meters?” Charlie asked right,”“Wish he me said, luck,” continuing Charlie said, to stare getting at Transportation’s“Well, have you Web had site,your butphysical?” was un- too?”“If you’re going to have that much trou- in “Yes.”his thick Scottish accent. out.Mark through narrowed eyes. “And able“Aye.” to find anything about driver li- bleShe with paused,the test, weas couldif thinking. cheat.” “The li- He“You said don’t nothing remember more, obviouslyme?” think- what“You about won't needusing any.” your truck for the cence“And?” renewals for commercial drivers cence“Eh?” renewal process has been devel- ingC hard.harlie looked at him strangely. test? You’ll be charging• me for that, I 65“What and over. do you Although think?” Charlie Mark wasn’tsaid, an a- oped“I could with dothe up help some and cheat consultation sheets with of “ShouldMark decided I?” to try and help the man Justsuppose?” over an hour later, Charlie returned noyed.computer “I passed genius, it withhe’d flying used colours.the Internet The allthe the people answers in sothe you industry could lookto enhance at them findMark the answer smiled he and probably related already the story knew. of to theAgain, truck, Mark a sheet hadn’t of paper thought in his about hand doctorbefore told and me could I’m as usually fit as a 35-year-old...Ifind what he duringtruck safety.the test.” That includes re-assess- “Trythe earlythis,” hedays said. of his“Imagine truck drivingputting theca- andwhat a big truck grin on Charlie his face. would use. betwas I’m looking in better for, shape so thanhis resultsyou.” were mentCharlie of a beamed. person’s “Now driving you’re ability.” talking.” flaresreer when out on he’d the beenroadway... recently and divorced then es- Obviously“How'd the you man do?” had Mark no truck asked, of his as puzzling.Mark didn’t There doubt was ait. sectionCharlie for was driv- a MarkMark grabbedsighed, knowingthe training he booklet, probably a timateand he’d how let far his they personal are from appearance the back of Charlieown and climbed would into have Mother to rent Load. one to do small,ers renewing wiry man their who couldlicences probably over 80,run padwasn’t of paper going and to get a pen. anywhere Then he with opened this theget trailer.” out of hand. He’d looked like a the“Near test. perfectRenting score.” a truck was a costly farther,and all faster kinds and of help longer with than renewing Mark could ex- itwoman. up to a page“You on know, road signsa lot andof drivers began bum,“Aye, but I Charliecan do hadthat.” called Charlie him closed a los- endeavour,“What about especially the cheat when sheets?” it would Mark onpired the bestlicences of days. and booking appoint- makinghave to notes. rent trucks and trailers to take hiser. eyes“Do youa moment, remember then that?” said, “I’d guess asked.be for just a few hours. “I guess I could ments“You for need new to tests, stop but eatin’ nothing those about sau- their“You’re tests, a costinggood teacher,” them money Charlie and said. a 100Charlie’s feet... that eyeswould narrowedbe about what, as 30 he let"Didn’t you use need my truck.”them. I knew all the an- sageswhat Markand bacon wanted so you to know.can be Marklean day“How’s off work that?” just Mark to keep didn't their look licence.” up from metres?”looked Mark over. “Aye, I remember. swers“For and free?” when you know the answers, andwondered mean... if likehe’d me.” missed Charlie something punctuat on- his “That’spaper. unfortunate.” YouMark were looked a loser at Charlie,then. You and still smiled. could the Marktest is easy.”didn’t like the word free. He edthe his site, words but byto grittingthe best his of teeth, his abilities balling “I“And feel if better a driver about has taking been theon testthe “See,be. I don’t you knewknow thethat answermuch about the whole you.” was“What’d doing you a favour do with for them?” Bud and that hishe handscouldn’t into find fists anythingand flexing about his arms the already.”road 40 years without a problem, why time.”Mark had considered thanking the implied“Tossed that them Bud in the would garbage return on my the andMTO’s shoulders. licensing policy regarding old- shouldA while he later have they’d to foundprove a he quiet can coffee still man“Is forthat shaking the right himanswer?” up enough to get wayfavour out. some I didn’t day. want But to as have far them...as Charlie you er Markcommercial tried to drivers.watch what he ate, and shopdrive? around That theseems corner like and age – sitting discrimina across- his“One life back flare on30 track, metres but in itfront didn’ andt seem one know,was concer in casened, I got thestopped use of or truck something.” would didMark some hadexercises hoped to keepthat thein shape, Web sitebut fromtion toeach me.” other – went through the book, 30the metres right time to the for rear it now.of the vehicle,” Mark indeedMark putbe afree. hand “Yes,” on the he man’s said shoulder. at last. itwould was tough help stickinghim understand to a routine the when reason- he page“The by page.ministry As regularlyMark questioned reviews Char the- said,“How writing much the answer you gonnaon a narrow charge slip “I“Free.” knew you could do it.” wasing behindon the roadthe policy all the, but time. the But fact while that lie,renewal it was obviousrequirements. to Mark Ifthat you the have man conhad- ofme?” paper Charlie would be able to tuck “OfCharlie course nodded. I could,” “Good. Charlie But said, you chest bet- Charliehe couldn’t didn’t find seem anything to have – anyeven trouble using acerns great –deal as ofyou driving obviously experience. do – He then had I away“What?” in his sleeve. Mark said. He hadn’t outter andget alooking trailer. like I can’t he might exactly call Markdrop aa keepingthe site’s fit, own he did search wear aengine pair of –glasses. made roadsuggest smarts writing by the trailer to load, the but Ontario came thoughtCharlie to was charge smiling. anything. “Maybe As it farwon’t as losertrailer at on any the moment. day of “I’ve the testbeen if drivingthere isn’t for “Whathim think about that your perhaps eye test?” the program upTransport with less-than-a-load Minister, or yourwhen member it came toof behe soknew bad.” he was doing Bud a favour. 45one years. attached It’ll take to the more truck than now a, weecan I?”writ- was“My too eyesight’s new, or not the the ministry best, I’ll wasn’tadmit. theprovincial book-smarts parliament.” department. “DidThey Bud carried tell you on you’dfor another have hourto pay?” until ten Speakingtest to get meof tests,off the Mark road.” had been Butvery I’ve proud have of the it, sameor it was prescription just another for For“Write example…“When a letter?” you’ve experi- they’d“He gone didn’t, through but I’ve the calledentire book.around to interactingMark smiled. with Charlie Charlie had for everyall of right five glassestax-grab for kindthe last of 10program years and like nothin’s Drive enced“Yes, a breakdown sir.” on a roadway,” Mark the“I schoolsthink you’re and ready,” some Markof them said charge at last. tominutes be pleased, and he but felt it likewas he a wasbit too the soon one changed.”Clean. There had to be some real rea- asked,Mark “how hung far upback the from phone. the end ‘So of be your it,’ $3,000...“You really and think that’ so?”s just for a refresher towho be wasoverconfident. being tested “Now – most all that’s of all left his is sons“So driversyou had were your eyesrequired tested?” to jump trailerthought must Mark. you placeIf there’ thes roada test, flares?” then it course.”Mark nodded, looking at his watch. thepatience. road test,” “I’ll hemake said. sure,” he sighed at throughCharlie all looked sorts of annoyed hoops just again. because “Of was“What?” his job to make sure Charlie “There’s“That’ stills a time.lot of Why money don’t.” I drive over last.“Oh yeah, the road test,” Charlie coursetheir most I did. recent I have birto havethday them was tested their passed“How it.far?” to the“You DriveTest bet it’s afacilitylot of money,so you canespecial- take sighed,“Right his then! spirits Let’ comings get star backted.” down I to now,65th? don’t Mark I?” wanted to know what they “What do you mean?” thely whentest.” I’ve been driving truck twice earth in a fireball of uncertainty. “Thanks • were,“Right,” so heMark decided said, somehow to call them feeling up Mark didn’t think he could ask the ques- as“What? long as Today?” the snot-nosed boy who’ll for– reminding Mark Dalton me.” n returns next sillyand forask. asking. He almost didn’t want to tionMark any met more Charlie simply, in butthe heparking tried. “Howlot of be“Right teaching now!” me has been on the plan- month in Part 3 of Licence askIt the took man a any while more before questions, he gotbut therecon- fara truck back yard do you out put by yourthe airpor flares?”t. Charlie et.”“I don't know,” Charlie said, his voice –Renewed. Mark Dalton returns next month in the werenected still to aspects a human of the being licence who renewal could wasCharlie sitting shook in his his pick-up head. at “Far the enoughfar end suddenlyMark wasedged aware with fearof the and insult, self-doubt. but he conclusion of Licence Renewed. heanswer had to his get questions, through. “What but whenabout the behindof the yardso people and comingwhen Mark up the pulled road can in, couldn’“You knowt help the but answers,” smile. Charlie Mark said.was Did you know that there are two full-length writtenright woman test?” finally came on the line seehe wastedthem.” no time getting out of his “Andsuch evena character if you don’t...”. Who He else held could the cheatinsult Did you know that there are two full-length novels featuring Mark Dalton?: Mark Dalton sheCharlie was both didn't pleasant answer. and profession- truckIt was and a goodhopping answer, into andMother he’d Load.prob- sheetssomeone in the who air and was waved doing them something back and novels featuring Mark Dalton?: Mark Dalton “Well?” ably place them the right distance apart if forth. “You’ve got these.” “SmartDriver” and Mark Dalton “Troubleload.” al. He scaled the cab so easily and nice for them? “Bud asked me to do “SmartDriver” and Mark Dalton “Troubleload.” “I“How haven’t can done I help that you?” yet,” he said, soft heslipped ever had in athe breakdown, open passenger but the test side re- this.“Right,” I wasn’ Charliet going nodded. to charge “Let's you do anyit.” - For your free copy register with ecoENERGY for For your free copy register with ecoENERGY for spoken...Mark decidedalmost timid. to start slowly. “Yeah, quireddoor so the effor answertlessly, to be Mark a bit wouldmore specif have- thing.”“Now you’re talking.” Fleets (Fleet Smart) at fleetsmart.gc.ca my“Why dad not?is a You’vetruck drivergot to get and it donehe’s be64- ic.never “I’m lookinghave guessed for the distance the man in meters.” was a MarkWhat took passed Charlie for to a the smile DriveTest appeared facil- Fleets (Fleet Smart) at fleetsmart.gc.ca

The continuing adventures of Mark Dalton: Owner/Operator brought to you by MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA (CANADA) INC.

pg 28 tw june.indd 1 12/05/10 3:42 PM June 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 29

CONFERENCE FEATURES:

n EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS ON CURRENT INDUSTRY ISSUES n PMTC – Huron Services Driver Hall of Fame Luncheon n PMTC – 3M Vehicle Graphics Design Awards n PMTC – Zurich Private Fleet Safety Awards

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 PMTC 2010 ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM

8:00 a.m. Registration and Coffee 2 WAYS TO REGISTER: 9:00 a.m. Seminar I: Driver Wellness Part I: Obstructive Sleep Apnea – What You Need to Know 1. FAX COMPLETED FORM TO 905-827-8212 In our first seminar of the 2010 annual conference we present a timely seminar on a topic of 2. EMAIL COMPLETED FORM TO [email protected] or importance to all fleet operators: Obstructive Sleep Apnea. We will explain what OSA is, how 3. COMPLETE FORM ONLINE AT PMTC.CA it can affect your operations and efficiency, and describe the pro-active approach that one premier private fleet has taken to deal with the problem. REGISTRANT INFORMATION 10:30 a.m. Seminar II: Driver Wellness Part II: Professional Health Advice for Your Name: ______Driving Team Title: ______The benefits of a healthy lifestyle are well known but often fall victim to the work life of a truck Company: ______driver. A team of health experts from St. Mary’s Cardiac Centre will discuss how you can help Address: ______your drivers (and yourself) to avoid pitfalls that lead to poor health, and enjoy a happy and productive work life. City:______Province:______PC: ______Phone: ______Email: ______12:00 p.m. PMTC – Huron Services Driver Hall of Fame Lunch Additional registrants: Inductions into the Hall of Fame for Professional Drivers have become an important part of PMTC’s recognition program. Sponsored by Huron Services Group, the Hall of Fame ceremonies 1. ______3. ______recognize drivers with truly incredible safety records, accumulated over many years. 2. ______4. ______1:45 p.m. Seminar III: Managing the Business Part I: The Business Excellence Model INDICATE HOW MANY WILL ATTEND EACH EVENT The Business Excellence Model, developed in the U.K., provides a step by step approach ______Seminar I: Driver Wellness Part I: Obstructive Sleep Apnea – What You Need to Know to creating a culture of safety in an organization. The process involves utilizing a cultural ______Seminar II: Driver Wellness Part II: Professional Health Advice for Your Driving Team diagnostic tool, and implementing and monitoring the new safety culture. This unique and thought-provoking approach to safety will give you lots to consider and plenty of good ideas ______PMTC - Huron Services Driver Hall of Fame Lunch to bring home to your operations. ______Seminar III: Managing the Business Part I: The Business Excellence Model ______Seminar IV: Managing the Business Part II: Preparing for a Facility Audit 3:15 p.m. Seminar IV: Managing the Business Part II: Preparing for a Facility Audit ______Chairmanís Dinner and Awards Presentation This seminar will take a practical look at the facility audit program. This promises to be an excellent primer for any fleet that may be about to undergo an audit or simply wants to ensure CONFERENCE FEES that its house is in order. Following a full explanation of the facility audit program, a roundtable of fleet operators who have recently undergone an audit will explain its inner-workings. The PMTC Member Full Registration Non-PMTC Member Full Registration candid assessment of the process by these fleet managers will provide some practical insight $445 + GST = $467.25 $495 + GST = $519.75 to the process, some lessons learned and perhaps even some tips that will help your fleet pass Fee includes all events and meals Fee includes all events and meals an audit with flying colours. Hall of Fame Luncheon Only Chairman’s Awards Dinner Only Spousal Plan 4:30 p.m. Chairman’s Dinner and Awards Presentation $150 + GST = $157.50 $150 + GST = $157.50 $150 + GST = $157.50 We’ll close this busy day over dinner while we present the PMTC Fleet Safety Awards sponsored by Zurich, and the Vehicle Graphics Design Awards sponsored by 3M. The Private Fleet PAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS Safety Awards recognize superior and sustained performance by fleets in three categories, and ❏ Visa of course the Vehicle Graphics Design Awards, easily the most colourful awards program in Card #: ______Expiry: ______trucking, celebrates excellence in marketing creativity and imagination. ❏ MasterCard

ROOM RESERVATIONS Or make cheque payable to: Private Motor Truck Council of Canada Note: Those cancelling prior to June 1, 2010, will 1155 North Service Road West, Suite 11 be entitled to a refund less a $50.00 processing fee. Kingbridge Conference Centre & Institute – King City, Ontario No refunds will be offered after June 1, 2010. Reservations can be made by calling the Kingbridge Centre directly at 1-800-827-7221. Oakville, ON L6M 3E3 The room rate is $180.00 per night plus tax. Rooms are allocated on a first-call, first-served basis, so reserve your room as soon as possible. If you have any questions regarding room reservations, please contact Kingbridge directly. Questions? Call 905-827-0587

PMTC.indd 1 12/05/10 11:54 AM Page 30 TRUCK WEST June 2010 TSQ BOWMANVILLE, Ont. – The announcement that Canadian Tire will become fuel provider and con- Truck Stop How will Canadian Tire venience store operator for all of perform as fuel provider at Ontario’s 23 service centres along Question the 400-series highways has stirred Ontario’s service centres? up a variety of reactions in the trucking industry. adam ledlow – Managing Editor Some have expressed confusion ? Rob about the choice, while others re- just want the service centres back main cautiously optimistic that open to help lessen the disruptions McLaughlin the retailer will keep truckers’ in- of the past several months. “There’s a terests in mind. Others are simply lot of dead time now; you have to pull pleased they’ll be able to collect off the road and just sit and wait until that immediately or if it’s going Canadian Tire money at the loca- your appointment time because they to be a learning process,” he told tions. Harry Rudolfs, who once won’t take you 15 minutes prior, and Truck West. “We are to the point drove for Canadian Tire, explores if you’re late by an hour they won’t right now where we’re almost the issue further in this month’s Clyde take you at all,” he says. desperate for rest areas because cover story, but for now, let’s head Huycke • of all the closures at once, so any to the Fifth Wheel Truck Stop in Rob McLaughlin, an owner/op- news is welcome news, but I’m Bowmanville, Ont. and see what erator with New Brunswick-based not so sure (how Canadian Tire drivers there had to say. Belle Tran Limited, says the whole will do) because I’m familiar with • improvements that could be made process of the ownership change Canadian Tire as an old gas bar in Clyde Huycke, a driver with LMB to the service centres, Huycke sug- will be a learning experience both New Brunswick for small vehicles, Transport in Belleville, Ont., says gests the availability of parts, tires for Canadian Tire and for truckers. but not in the commercial traffic that an organization as renowned and proper equipment to clean “The big fuel outlets now have application.” as Canadian Tire will likely do your truck. a system in place. I’m not sure if • well running the facilities. As for In general, Huycke says, truckers Canadian Tire will be able to do Ty Alexander, a driver based out of Trenton and Belleville, Ont., says he could care less who actually runs the new service centres so long as they get them up and running again. “I have no idea what kind of job they are going to do. I think just as long as somebody gets the damn ZENVIRONMENT. things up and running again, because I think it’s ridiculous that CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE. they’ve got them all closed down at the same time. It’s a real pain not having them there.” As far as improvements are concerned, Alexander says bigger and more parking spaces for trucks would be ideal so there’s more room to maneuver “so it’s not so crowded that you’re sleeping on the highway.” • Paul Shandz, a driver of 34 years who works for an Ontario-based feed and supply company, says he’s lucky enough to not need to use the service centres much because of his schedule, but does have sug- gestions for improvement. “I know before they shut them down there were quite a few of them that could have used a lot more parking space. There’s not nearly enough parking space for trucks in those service plazas and when they’re rebuilding them I don’t know if that’s going to be included in that or not, but that’s a big thing.” • Introducing Yokohama’s breakthrough new Zenvironment technology. With a stronger, more resilient rubber compound that resists cuts and chips, it’s revolutionizing the trucking industry. Zenvironment offers a longer original tread life, better retreadability and lower rolling resistance for better fuel economy. And the casing comes with a 7 year limited warranty. Plus it’s guaranteed to have a cost per kilometre lower than any major competing brand by at least 15%. So join the movement. Ask your dealer about it today. Wayne Armstrong

Wayne Armstrong, a driver with Meyers Transport out of Belleville, Ont., says he thinks Canadian Tire will do a pretty good job. “They do a pretty good job with everything else they do,” he says. Armstrong says that most of the service centres he visits have just www.Yokohama.ca about everything you need, especially the presence of another renowned Canadian franchise – Tim Horton’s. n

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