Your Engines!

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March 2010 Volume 21, Issue 3

Delivering daily news to Canada’s trucking industry at www.trucknews.com Rules changed for Sask. LCVs

REGINA, Sask. – Beginning in early February,Saskatchewan has made changes that have loosened the regulatory chain on long combination vehicles (LCVs) and improved har- monization with Alberta. Effective Feb. 1, turnpike doubles, triple-trailers and Queen City Triples can be operated at 100 km/h, up from 90 km/h, on designated four-lane highways. LCV operators no longer need to monitor speeds using tacographs or other devices. Trucking companies are still required to make a “reasonable effort” to monitor adverse weather along transport routes. Later this year, B-train gross vehicle weights will be increased to 63,500 kgs from their current cap of 62,500 kgs. The changes came as the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure shifted some of its regulatory components to Saskatchewan Government Insur- ance and also as a result of a recently-signed memorandum of understanding with the province of BACK ON TRACK: The National Professional Truck Driving Championships, derailed last year by a slumping economy, are already being planned by an organizing committee in Manitoba who assure the competition will be held. Alberta. The Saskatchewan Truck- ing Association (STA) applauded the changes. “Our industry’s relationship with the ministry continues to grow,” said Start your engines! STA president,Glen Ertell.“There’s a constructive dialogue going on here and these changes show they’re National Driving Championships to return after one-year hiatus listening.” The changes were also lauded by By Jim Bray are back on track for 2010. say it’s full speed ahead anyway, the Alberta Motor Transport Associ- WINNIPEG, Man. – After an And while the financial world with things looking good so far. ation and Manitoba Trucking Asso- economy-inflicted hiatus of a still isn’t trucking along at a speed “We started getting the ball ciation. The western provinces are year, the National Professional most people would like, the 2010 rolling on this even before we seeking to harmonize LCV regula- Truck Driving Championships event’s organizers in Winnipeg Continued on page 6 tions across the Prairies. ■ There’s a new engine in town InsideInside This Issue... Mark Dalton O/O • Trucks for sale: Is being an owner/operator in your future? If so, the time may be right to consider buying a good used truck. Prices have never been better, some experts say. Page 8

• Border battles: The owner of the Ambassador Bridge has ramped up his battle against a government-controlled second crossing. Page 10

• Over-the-road: A professional over-the-road driver shares his perspectives in a new column. Page 14

See page 16 • End of an era?: An outspoken Navistar executive declares the end of the ‘long and tall’ truck era. Page 22 Page 28

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

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March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 3 group is just asking guys to respect Down in the dumps one another out there and demon- strate a level of professionalism and March 2010, Volume 21, Issue 3 I wrote in a recent blog on courtesy that seems to have been Canada Post Canadian Publications Editorial Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40069240 Trucknews.com that it seems more waning in recent years. “Return Postage Guaranteed” difficult than ever to make a decent Comment There is a precedent for this. The 12 Concorde Pl., Suite 800, Toronto, Ont., M3C 4J2 Sales: 416-510-6892 / Editorial: 416-510-6896 living driving dump truck. Truckers Association of Nova Scotia Fax: 416-510-5143 The observation stems from the James (TANS) is a pretty effective little Truck West, USPS 017-178 is published monthly by growing number of calls I field from Menzies industry group out east that looks BIG Magazines L.P., a div. of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd., a leading Canadian information dump truck operators who say after its members and has even company with interests in daily and community they’ve been forced to park or sell convinced government to agree that newspapers and B-2-B information services. US office of publication: 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd, their rigs since rates have been driv- my there has cooled off, the overca- a certain percentage of trucks on Niagara Falls, NY 14304-5709. Periodicals Postage en down to unsustainable levels. pacity there is as bad as in other any taxpayer-funded job site will be- Paid at Niagara Falls, NY. US postmaster: Send address changes to Truck West, PO Box 1118, There’s little I can do for these folks, provinces and, of course, cue the long to independents. Niagara Falls, NY 14304. besides lend an empathetic ear. rate-cutting. Nova Scotia dump truckers are SENIOR PUBLISHER – Rob Wilkins ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – Kathy Penner One such owner/operator was Overcapacity and rate-cutting is not without their problems, but EXECUTIVE EDITOR – James Menzies Gord Balford from the Barrie area. not a problem that’s unique to con- there’s a level of respect among MANAGING EDITOR – Adam Ledlow He said he has parked his Western struction truckers, of course. You’ll them that’s almost non-existent in CIRCULATION MANAGER – Vesna Moore CIRCULATION ASSISTANT – Anita Singh Star gravel truck and sold his pup find evidence of it in every segment many other parts of the country. CREATIVE– Carolyn Brimer, Beverley Richards trailer because there are simply too of an unregulated industry. Singer says TANS is the model V.P. PUBLISHING – Alex Papanou many guys running their trucks for However, it seems more cutthroat ACTA aspires to. PRESIDENT – Bruce Creighton Circulation inquiries: 416-442-5600 ext. 3553 $70/hr and too many customers ex- in the construction business than We wish Ron and the ACTA well Change of address: Please include subscription ploiting the situation. Some compa- elsewhere. I can’t help but feel dis- in their endeavour to raise the pro- number from mailing label. ■ Subscription rates: Canada (Includes GST) – nies – including major corporations heartened by the current state of the fessionalism of their industry. One year $40.60; U.S. – one year $66.95; – are taking months to pay drivers. construction trucking industry. foreign – one year $66.95 Send subscription orders, address changes (incl. mailing label from Balford had just recently received a Fortunately, there are those out – James Menzies can be reached by latest issue) to above address. On occasion, our subscription list is made available to organizations whose products or services may be cheque in mid-January for work he there who are willing to work to get phone at (416) 510-6896 or by of interest to readers. If you prefer not to receive such information, please write to us. Please allow 8 weeks for changes or corrections. completed in August. their industry back on track. Ron e-mail at [email protected]. PAP Registration No. 11065 The sad thing is, take a look at the Singer of the Alberta Construction You can also follow him on Twitter We acknowledge the financial support of the equipment you see on and around Trucking Association (ACTA) at Twitter.com/JamesMenzies. Government of Canada, through the Canada Magazine Fund, towards our editorial costs. construction sites these days. The has been work- We acknowledge the financial support of the nice iron is getting parked because ing doggedly to Government of Canada, through the Publications the rates are being undercut by have every dump Assistance Program, towards our mailing costs. someone with a 1979 beater that truck operator in spews black smoke at every upshift. that province sign The extent of the problems facing on to a Code Advertising inquiries gravel haulers and construction of Ethics and truckers varies by region. One visi- Standards that Kathy Penner: 416-510-6892 tor to my blog commented that in would encourage Fax: (416) 510-5143 the Ottawa area, a record snowfall ethical business had opportunists running out to buy practices. vocational trucks for snow removal Singer feels contracts. Come summer, the rate that if everyone wars were in full gear as those truck- in the business ers struggled to keep their trucks unites, they can working. Follow that up with a mild force some real winter and – well, you know what change when it Rob Wilkins Kathy Penner Publisher Associate Publisher happens. comes to rates (416) 510-5123 (416) 510-6892 Out in Alberta, as recently as a and working con- rwilkins@ kpenner@ few years ago you couldn’t help but ditions. We’re not trucknews.com trucknews.com make money with a gravel truck. talking about The business was so lucrative, in union organiza- fact, that people from neighbouring tion and we’re provinces flooded to Alberta to cash not talking about in on the boom. Now that the econo- price-fixing – his

Don Besler Brenda Grant three or lower; 45% say their satis- National Sales Mgr. National Account Sales Railways getting off track faction level had decreased over the (416) 699-6966 (416) 494-3333 [email protected] [email protected] past three years; particularly worri- Boy, have the times changed. I re- some is that 62% said they have suf- member when I started writing Viewpoint fered a serious financial impact as a about transportation 20 years ago result of poor rail freight service. truckers used to have a field day Most shipper dissatisfaction was every time a report came out detail- Lou Smyrlis linked to problems with on-time de- ing the shortcomings of the rail- Editorial Director livery of cars at origin and destina- ways. Never was an opportunity tion; timely pick-up of empty cars missed to lob a few verbal grenades after unloading; reliability of car Doug Copeland Laura Moffatt Regional Manager Research at the old RAC (the Railway Trucking still competes with rail but supply, including timely release of Man., Sask. & Alta. Director Association of Canada). now requires a strong rail network cars into the system; consistent tran- (416) 510-6889 [email protected] Were we back to 20 years ago, the to ensure a smoothly functioning sit times; and responsiveness of rail- trucking industry would certainly Canadian transportation network. ways to problems. In other words, TRUCK WEST is a proud member of the following have had a ball with the latest such So a report that shows such a low all the important stuff, except for trucking associations: report reflecting the levels of satis- shipper satisfaction with rail service price.

ALTA. MOTOR TRANSPORT ASSN. faction of 262 shippers with the rail is both an opportunity and a con- Such issues present potential freight service they receive from cern. Shippers were asked to rate service concerns for motor carriers Canada’s Class 1 railways. The their satisfaction using a scale of partnering with railways on inter- SASK. TRUCKING ASSN. MAN. TRUCKING ASSN. B.C. TRUCKING ASSN. report, authored by NRG Research one to seven (with seven represent- modal moves. When something The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents Group, is part of Transport ing very satisfied). goes wrong with an intermodal of any advertisement and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. The Canada’s Rail Freight Service Consider the major findings: only shipment, shippers don’t care which 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 Review and it paints a worrisome 17% of shippers rated their satisfac- mode was to blame. 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 picture. tion level a six or seven whereas The carrier that booked the busi- part, without the written permission of the publisher. But truck and rail make not quite typical customer satisfaction re- ness is held responsible. Seems to From time to time, we make our subscription list so strange bedfellows these days, search generates satisfaction ratings me that Canada’s railways have available to select companies and organizations whose product or services may interest you. and have been warming up to each in the 50-70% range; even worse, some issues to address and inter- If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact our privacy officer via other for some time. Whether it’s only 14% of shippers who had ac- modal relationships can’t continue one of the following methods: ■ Phone: 1-800-668-2374 Fastfrate’s 10-year partnership with cess to only one rail line were very to flourish until they do so. Fax: 416-442-2200 CP Rail, Schneider pairing with satisfied; and just 11% of “captive” E-mail: [email protected] Mail: Privacy Officer. Business Information Group, CSX or JB Hunt’s deal with Norfolk shippers, with access to only one rail – Lou Smyrlis can be reached by 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, Ont., M3C 4J2 Southern, fact is there are many mo- line and limited or no other ship- phone at (416) 510-6881 or by e-mail PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069240 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES tor carriers who view intermodal as ping options, were very satisfied. at [email protected]. TO CIRCULATION DEPT. – TRUCK NEWS, a more efficient way to move freight More than a third (35%) of ship- You can also follow him on Twitter 12 CONCORDE PL., SUITE 800, TORONTO, ON M3C 4J2 beyond distances of 750 miles. pers gave dissatisfaction scores of at Twitter.com/LouSmyrlis. Chevron class 8 Mar 2/17/10 10:02 AM Page 1

Page 4 TRUCK WEST March 2010

The best thing that could be said about 2009 is that it’s over. December’s truck sales, although up from Monthly Class 8 Sales - Dec 09 Historical Comparison - Dec 09 Sales November’s dismal numbers, reflected the reality of the year: sales considerably behind the previous OEM This Month Last Year year’s less than stellar pace, way off the five-year Freightliner 212 344 average and so far behind the record year of 2006 International 411 510 that it’s hard to believe this country can absorb so Kenworth 249 162 many trucks. There were 1,380 Class 8 trucks sold in Canada in December making it the second worst Mack 106 149 December of this decade. That’s more than 400 Peterbilt 214 109 units off the previous year’s pace, about 1,100 units Sterling 26 135 off the five-year average and more than 2,300 off Volvo 74 311 the record year of 2006.This is the worst recession Western Star 88 171 to hit the North American market in the post war era, the industry has excess capacity and monthly TOTALS 1,380 1,891 truck sales reflected those two realities each and every month of 2009. Class 8 Sales (YTD Dec 09) by Province and OEM Historical Comparison - YTD Dec

OEM BC ALTA SASK MAN ONT QUE NB NS PEI NF CDA Freightliner 145 304 109 145 993 562 239 136 3 15 2,651 Kenworth 273 497 122 113 421 499 73 12 0 0 2,010 Mack 46 90 101 55 511 153 42 24 0 0 1,022 International 148 514 78 172 1,731 1,023 148 83 26 74 3,997 Peterbilt 141 284 148 115 281 206 71 35 0 0 1,281 Sterling 104 119 27 11 209 253 17 5 8 38 791 Volvo 63 109 84 163 490 188 62 69 0 8 1,236 Western Star 126 273 39 33 160 140 58 77 0 2 908 TOTALS 1,046 2,190 708 807 4,796 3,024 710 441 37 137 13,896 Following month after month of dismal sales, it comes as no surprise that 2009 closed as 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 the year was so weak that, three months into the year, sales were more than 2,000 off last year’s YTD pace (hardly a banner year in itself), about 3,000 off the five-year YTD average and about 5,000 off the banner year of 2006.And the year ended with an equally weak final quarter. Sales in 2009 were about 10,000 units down from the previous year, almost 16,000 units off the five-year average, and more than 25,000 units off the record year of 2006. Although 2010 should be a bit better, how long it will take the battered trucking industry to post numbers like it did in 2006 is a question that remains to be answered. 12 - Month Sales Trends Market Share Class 8 – Dec YTD

2,000 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200

0 January February March April May June July August September October November December Sales 1,183 1,039 1,456 1,197 1,078 1,038 995 923 1,071 1,405 1,131 1,380

There are many reasons motor carriers were reluctant to purchase new trucks in 2009. Excess International once again captured the market share crown in the Canadian Class 8 market capacity, low freight volumes, depressed pricing for trade-ins and limited access to capital made new in 2009. It ended with a commanding 29% share of the market. Freightliner, a former front truck purchases unlikely for most fleets. The recession did finally end by the fourth quarter but with runner for many years, closed the year with a more than 19% share of total sales. the rebound expected to be slow and volatile and, unlike past recessions, trucking not expected to Kenworth’s market share rebounded in the latter half ending up at 14.5% to round out the lead the recovery, motor carriers remain reticent to take a chance on new truck purchases. top three. Peterbilt finished ahead of Volvo for the 4th spot but neither it nor any other truck Interestingly, our research shows that motor carriers are more pessimistic than their own customers maker could crack more than 10% market share. about the prospects for freight volumes and increases in rates for 2010. Source: Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association

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March 2010 InIn Brief Behind the headlines Truck West revamps Web site, joins Facebook Canada’s most comprehensive any of the blogs, which are all reg- and interactive trucking industry ularly updated. news Web site just got better. Speaking of commenting, you Trucknews.com now boasts a can now comment on any of the new look and new features. All news articles that appear on the features you’ve come to ex- Trucknews.com. pect on Trucknews.com can now Just enter your comments in the be found in the menu bar along window that appears below the the top of the page. article. Keep it clean and appro- New to the site is a prominent priate, and a Truck West editor window displaying Truck West’s will approve the comment in a social media activities, including a timely manner and allow you to Twitter feed and Facebook fan have your say. page which will be updated in The CyberCB message board is real-time. still an important part of The Facebook fan page is new – Trucknews.com. You can find the you can become a fan and interact link in the menu bar at the top of with the Truck West staff, profes- the page or in the Online sional drivers and other industry Networking section. stakeholders on our Facebook A recent change we made al- site. You can also post pictures lows you to read the discussions in of your truck or anything else the forum without registering, but you’ve come across while on the you’ll need to register in order to road. You can find us at post in a thread. Facebook.com/trucknews. There, you’ll find discussions on While at our Facebook page, a range of issues impacting the in- take part in the Truck West dustry and if you don’t find what Facebook Show’n’Shine. Enter you’re looking for, you can create your rig for free or vote on the your own thread. winner. To delve into a topic in more Also new to Trucknews.com is a depth, visit the Knowledge Centre Feature Story section under the section of the site for individual video window which will include modules on items ranging from in-depth feature articles from our truck maintenance to owner/oper- print editions. ator business skills to human re- Don’t forget to check out sources. our award-winning videos. Our And finally, if you’re looking weekly episode of Transportation for a non-driving job in the trans- Matters is prominently displayed portation industry or you’re look- on the home page and you can ing to hire, visit Truck-Ops for a click More Videos underneath to full listing of current job open- visit the complete archives. ings. Another new feature on If you’re a driver, you can Trucknews.com is a poll on the search for jobs by choosing the lower right hand side of the page, Careers tab in the menu bar and which will be updated regularly. selecting Driver Recruitment. Have your say in the online poll Trucknews.com has already won and see how others have respond- its share of awards. It won the ed. Best Video award in the first The Industry Blog will re- ever Canadian Online Publishing main a fixture on the new Awards this year and was a finalist Trucknews.com. This section fea- in the Best Overall Web Site cate- tures blogs from Truck West gory. editors, prominent industry exec- Trucknews.com has also been utives and on-road editor and named one of the top five busi- full-time professional driver ness Web sites in Canada in each Harry Rudolfs. of the past four years by the You can read and comment on Canadian Business Press. ■ Mackenzie Highway pioneer passes away

MANNING, Alta. – One of the reunion near Grimshaw in the late last of the Mackenzie highway pi- 90s,“getting old pioneers from the oneers has died. Mackenzie highway together.” Fred Lorenzen, lately of The annual summertime gather- Grimshaw but more famously ing, Cooper says, included events from Manning, Alta., was laid to such as oil field pipe competitions rest on Feb. 3 after a ceremony in and show and shines. “They ran a Manning. top notch get-together for all the According to Gord Cooper, a old truckers and their families,” he friend who races and collects remembers. trucks from his base a few acres Fred, Cooper recalls, “always east of Chestermere, Alta., Fred had a collection of antique and his wife Bernice were the stuff International trucks and after run- of legend in the area. Cooper ning the reunion for a few years, knew Fred Lorenzen for the bought a place in Grimshaw last 10 years or more, initially where he started up the Mile 0 through the Alberta chapter of Museum.” the American Truck Historical Cooper says the town welcomed Society. the museum, which the Lorenzens “Fred and his family go back to decided to sell a couple of years early days of the Mac highway,” ago. Cooper says. “Real neat folks,” Cooper says Cooper says he, Fred and fondly.“Among the last of the pio- Bernice used to run the truckers’ neers of the north.” ■ pg 1, 6 tw mar v2 2/17/10 11:32 AM Page 6

Page 6 TRUCK WEST March 2010 CanadaCanada Plans already underway to host 2010 nationals in Winnipeg

Continued from page 1 ent dinners and things that we do knew the nationals were cancelled with our members anyway.” last year,” says Susan Green, pro- Sine says the organization com- gram and member services coor- mittee’s main concern is to make dinator for the Manitoba Trucking sure it’s a quality event and that Association (MTA). people “have a great time and “As far as we’re concerned it’s that it meets their expectations. kind of been a long-term project But there’s no worry in our mind that we’ve been working on the about getting this done and meet- entire time, so I don’t really feel ing those expectations.” too much pressure in reviving the Last year’s event, planned for event because there was never British Columbia, was cancelled any question that we weren’t go- due to a lack of sponsorship. Yet ing to do it.” the movers and shakers behind MTA manager Geoff Sine the 2010 event, scheduled for agrees, saying the event is not only Sept. 16-19 this year, aren’t wor- going forward, but that it’s just an- ried. other day at work for the plan- “We’ve done this before,” Sine ners. “From our perspective,” he reports. “We’ve already ap- says, “it’s not really a logistical proached our sponsors and feel nightmare because it’s very simi- very confident that we will have lar to what we do in the provin- the support of the industry.” Sine cials, then you add in a few differ- says they aren’t putting all their GET PRACTICING!: The national championships will once again pit some of Canada’s best professional drivers against each other in a variety of events.

FASTER, EASIER eggs into the sponsorship basket, book time and have their team however. “We’ve also set up real- meetings right in the hotel.” %25'(5 &5266,1* istic expectations and have bud- The reception and “meet and geted accordingly and know that greet” are set for Thursday night. Don't lose C-TPAT, PIP, FAST or CSA compliant loads. if we didn’t have a cent of spon- Friday will be split between a *HW &73$7 FHUWLÀHG ZLWKLQ GD\V sorship, we could still go forward morning session and an afternoon and make a success of it.” during which the teams can meet Green says they have one firm and other folk will be able to just GET 3 MONTHS confirmation for sponsorship so get out and poke around Win- ACE E-MANIFEST SERVICE ABSOLUTELY FREE far, with other pending sponsors nipeg. Don’t let border security threaten your business WHEN YOU APPLY FOR C-TPAT looking positive. “We’re planning an enjoyable profitability. Take advantage of Avaal’s 24x7 Fax WITH AVAAL Avoid safety & service for e-Manifest and customs clearance. compliance audit The venue is in place already, but not too late night on Friday,” headaches and and there’s a chance an even more Green says, noting that since take full control 9OUR.EW#AREER3TARTS(ERE Get The Competitive Edge of operations by desirable one might be available: they’re having to wait for various by Avaal’s certification in: implementing Avaal Canad Inns Stadium, which is schedules to come out they can’t s4RANSPORT$ISPATCH-ANAGEMENT Express, Freight right across from the hotel. The book or announce anything offi- s&AST4RACK&REIGHT&ORWARDING Management/Dispatch software. question of whether the stadium cially yet.The obstacle course and s,OGISTICS-ANAGEMENT will be able to host the champi- the awards banquet will run on onships will be answered once the Saturday, with Sunday set for AVAAL’s professionals CFL football schedule has been “fond farewells and the last meet- can also handle all your transportation authorities, finalized and it’s known if the ing of the team reps,” says Green. permits, renewal and Winnipeg Blue Bombers will play For more information, contact fuel tax filings. at home that September weekend. Geoff Sine or Susan Green direct- Contact Dara Nagra 1-877-995-1313 Green and Sine credit a “really ly at the MTA (204-632-6600) 24-hr Email: [email protected] strong organizing committee that or e-mail [email protected]. Live Support 2 Automatic Rd. Unit #110, Brampton, ON L6S 6K8 includes a number of people who They’ll also be setting aside a sec- www.avaal.com have been involved at the nation- tion of the MTA Web site at al level for a number of years,” www.trucking.mb.ca for National with crafting a schedule that in- Championships information. cludes not only a skills and “The Manitoba Trucking Asso- schmoozing fest but one that’s ciation really feels this is an im- also attractive to potential atten- portant event, a way to recognize dees financially. some of the most important peo- MISSING “With what’s been going on in ple in our industry – the drivers,” the industry we don’t want to be says Green. “There’s not neces- CLAUDETTE OSBORNE making drastic increases,” Sine sarily a lot out there for the driv- says. “We’re planning an event ers and this is a way to recognize 4193-SR based on what we’ve been seeing them, sort of the industry’s way of in the industry, which means we’re saying thank you to them for their Age: 22 (21 at time of her disappearance) planning an event with a budget professionalism and for their A.K.A: Penny in mind.” skills. And for what they do to Missing since: July 25, 2008 He says they plan to hold the keep the rest of us going.” price at the 2008 rate of $450. The return of the National Pro- Missing from: Winnipeg, Manitoba Green reports the Canad Inn fessional Truck Driving Champi- Height: 5' 4" Polo Park hotel has been booked, onships after a year off may not Weight: 130 lbs. with the room rates set last year. be exactly like a phoenix rising “We’ve got really good competi- from its ashes – more like a hic- Eye Colour: Hazel tive rates on the rooms for every- cough, perhaps – and the organiz- Hair Colour: Brown, long one. And everything’s being held ers have no intention of playing it Characteristics: Scar on right cheek at the jaw line. Claudette was last seen near the intersection at the same hotel – the reception, as if it’s the Great New Hype. of Mountain Avenue and McPhillips Street in Winnipeg, Manitoba on July 25, 2008. Anyone with the awards banquet, the team “We’re not reviving it with a big information on the whereabouts of Claudette Osborne is asked to contact the Winnipeg Police meetings, everything.” bang hoopla,” Green says. “We’re Service Missing Persons Unit at (204) 986-6250. Rooms will cost around $110 a just staying the course. This is an www.childfind.mb.ca www.ontario.childfind.ca night, according to Sine, and important event and it’s some- Anyone with information please contact: All Calls Confidential – No Name Required they’ve arranged with the hotel thing we want to see continue. for meeting space to be available Last year, provincially, with every- for the teams. “In the past, I guess thing that was going on our goal it’s been up to the teams or the was to just stay the course and CHILD FIND 1-800-387-7962 team leader to get the room or a keep the event going. That’s sort suite, but this way they can just of our goal with the nationals.” ■ Hankook Tab 2/17/10 10:04 AM Page 1

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Page 8 TRUCK WEST March 2010 UsedUsed Trucks

A CLOSE LOOK: Truck mechanic Ron Martin suggests giving a truck a thorough inspection.

important. So all the better if you were to find something aerody- namic. But beware – the lowest price is not always the best deal. Nevio Turchet, used truck manager for SelecTrucks Toronto, suggests first-time buyers should be thinking about spending around $50,000 for a used truck. “Something that’s three or four BUYER’S MARKET?: If you’re owner/operator material, the time years old tops, with some original may be right to take the plunge. warranty on it – 500,000-600,000 kms, not more than 650,000,” he says. “If you’re working regionally and going to be putting on a lot of miles close to home, you might want to go with a 58-inch bunk in- Used truck market creates opportunities stead of a 70-inch bunk.” When it comes to engines, If becoming an owner/operator is in your future, the time everyone’s got an opinion. It does- n’t matter if you’re a Cummins, Detroit, Volvo or Mercedes fan, may be right to consider stepping into a good used truck there’s a new zeitgeist concerning fuel mileage and smaller light- By Harry Rudolfs ter, depending on your credit rat- made it difficult to back into tight weight engines are in style. TORONTO, Ont. – Used truck ing but the cards are stacked spots. He could have gone with 325 However, many operators still prices have never been lower.If against a young man or woman horses and still had power to spare. prefer big engines with lots of you can find the work, or have just getting into the business. Do you know what you want to power. your eye on a carrier where you’d When applying for a loan so much do with the truck? Most serious “Typically, guys running the like to hang your shingle, this depends on your credit rating, carriers require O/Os to have highway would want at least a big might be the best time to jump your age, your years of experience units no older than five years, and block 475 hp,” says Grant into truck ownership. So go ahead in trucking, and home ownership dealers will often suggest you find Wilkinson, used truck manager at and dream. Make up a wish list certainly helps. the job first and then come look- Kenworth Truck Centre Toronto. and see if you can find the sweet- But do take advantage of a deal- ing for a truck. Be sure to read the “Caterpillar manufactured a very est rig in the world. ership’s financial department. specification sheet carefully and fine engine – the 430-hp C13 that But once you’ve found that ide- “Banks traditionally don’t like find out exactly what the truck puts out 1,550 torque pounds and al vehicle, you’ll have to grapple touching trucks,” according to you’re buying has in it, including is 700 lbs lighter,” he says. “That’s with getting a loan to buy it. Don’t Adam Davy, branch manager of rear-end ratio, transmission type 700 lbs more freight you can put be surprised if the truck you’ve Arrow Truck Sales Canada in and registered axle weight. If on and you’ll get better mileage, picked is too dear for your present Toronto, Ont. “We can accommo- you’re doing tanker or deck work, too.” Cat has discontinued making situation. date prospective buyers and start you’ll want a tractor with a 51-inch these engines but Wilkinson ex- First-time buyers are often daz- the process. We know what will be fifth wheel height as opposed to pects parts will be available for a zled by the glitter and can get acceptable.” the 47-inch standard for dry vans. long time to come. sucked into buying too much The financial advisor can also Most highway drivers prefer 10- Finding the truck truck, or options they don’t need. school you in the fundamentals of or 13-speed transmissions. that’s right for you Your first truck has to be a work- truck ownership, and what it will Automatics are fine and getting horse. The extras are nice but they take to keep your head above the better but I might shy away from Whether you choose to buy from a shouldn’t influence what you’re water. one with a lot of kilometres. If dealer or purchase a unit private- willing to pay. you’re hauling heavy or working ly, it’s good to take someone along Know what you need Another mistake is not spending in the bush you’ll want something when you go shopping. Another enough on a truck. Would-be truck We’ve all seen powerful trucks do- with lots of gears. set of eyes and ears could keep owners see a bargain in an older ing embarrassing jobs: big iron And why get a sleeper if a day you from making a decision you truck but don’t count on expensive shunting containers in a drop cab will do? Unfortunately there might regret later. First-time buy- repair, towing, and downtime costs yard, or an 18-speed with a double are fewer day cabs around than ers often get blinded by chrome. that could potentially sink a new bunk picking up recycling bins. sleeper units, and the operators Overall, the consensus is that it’s business. Before you buy,it’s imper- One Saturday night I covered a tend to hold onto them longer. better to buy from a reputable ative to know how much it’s going friend’s bread run. He’d just City trucks will have a lot fewer dealer – someone you can expect to cost to run, and how hard you’re bought a monster with 500 horses kilometres, have suffered more to be around for a few years to going to have to work to pay for it. and a bunk the size of my kitchen. hard knocks, and have way more come. According to Dennis That’s why it’s recommended first- His contract involved making de- idling time on their engines. But a Sheehan of Sheehan’s Truck time buyers have a couple years’ liveries to grocery stores around well-maintained city tractor can Centre, Burlington, Ont., “When experience under their belt before eastern Ontario, but the loads be functional for better than a we buy a truck or get one in here taking on owner/operatorship. were never more than 20,000 lbs decade, just look at the Louisvilles on a trade, we check it over very Gone are the days when you and usually averaged 12,000. still kicking around. closely,” he says. “There’s ab- could drive away from a dealer- The truck pulled great but was First-time truck owners hauling solutely no way we would sell a ship putting 0% down or less. really unsuitable and unnecessary general freight usually need some- truck to anyone with a bad engine. These days a 15%, or more likely a for the task – the fuel gauge would thing mid-range with a sleeper If we find a truck has issues, we’ll 20%, down payment is pretty stan- drop while you watched it and the that can pull up to 80,000 lbs dump it at an auction.” dard. You might be able to do bet- elongated nose and big sleeper GVW. Fuel mileage is critically One has to be doubly careful pg 8-9 tw mar 2/17/10 10:26 AM Page 9

March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 9

when buying a used truck private- carefully charted out all the ex- ly.Truck mechanic Ron Martin ex- penditures and revenues incurred plained that checking out a truck by the Volvo during the last two is like doing a very thorough circle years. He also shopped around for check. You’re looking for prob- other trucks. lems that may sneak up and bite In the end he bought the truck you later. he was driving, paying the unit off “I’d have a close look at the through his line of credit. These steering and see how the tires are days, he’s a broker for Bison worn. If possible, I’d back under a Transport and traded up to a 2009 trailer and you can check a lot of Volvo. But he put 800,000 miles on things that way,” he says.“Visually the original 2002 and logged a life- inspect the antifreeze – smell the time 6.5 miles per gallon. More antifreeze, if there’s any evidence importantly, he made money on of corrosion you might have a seri- that tractor. ous problem.All the stuff you’d do Rines’ advice for new buyers is in a pre-trip, but more intensely – simple. “Know what you’re buy- cracked or hardened hoses, fan ing.Thoroughly research the truck belts, check for leaks, both air and and find out everything you can liquid. See if the doors line up.” about the truck,” he says. “Ask for Martin thinks you can tell a lot BUYING USED: A used truck can be a lucrative investment for an owner/opera- a record of all the work it did in about the condition of a truck by tor, if you do your homework. the last year and track it carefully the way it’s been treated. He’s against the fuel costs and repair. seen trucks only a few years old ing on behalf of an owner for sion of becoming a company driv- That way you’ll have a good idea where the floors were starting to Highland Transport. The owner er or jumping into owner/opera- of what to expect and won’t get rot out. wanted to get out of the business torship. blindsided when it comes to repair “If there’s an interior light out and Rines was faced with the deci- Rines did his homework. He and maintenance costs.” ■ and the seller tells you it’s just a burned out bulb, it might be the truth and it might not. Pop off one Notice to Truckers – 2010 Spring Load Restrictions of the connectors in the back of the tractor and see if the terminals Under the Highway Traffic Act, the province enforces reduced load restrictions on trucks to protect are green. If they are then you Ontario’s highways during spring thaw, when road damage is most likely to occur. could have a wiring problem that may cost you thousands down the REDUCED LOAD LIMITS PERIOD RESTRICTION ON PERMITS ISSUED UNDER SCHEDULE 1 HIGHWAYS THE HIGHWAY TRAFFIC ACT: road in repair and downtime costs. Pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act, the ministry will impose reduced load limits for those designated parts of All annual and project permits for moving of heavy vehicle loads, objects or structures, in excess of limits the King’s Highways listed in Schedule 1, when appropriate, between March 1, 2010 to April 30, 2010. set out in the Act, unless otherwise specified are not valid on any highways during the months of March and Any small item should be fixed April, in the southern portion of Ontario, and March, April and May in the northern portion. before you buy it,” says Martin. SCHEDULE 2 HIGHWAYS Pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act, the ministry will impose reduced load limits for those designated parts of For purposes of this restriction, the province is divided, west to east, by a line formed by the Severn River Martin also suggests checking the King’s Highways listed in Schedule 2, when appropriate, between March 1, 2010 to May 31, 2010. to Regional Rd. 169; Regional Rd. 169 from Washago to Hwy. 12; Hwy. 12, from Regional Rd. 169 to Hwy. 7, north of Sunderland; Hwy. 7, from Hwy. 12 to Regional Rd. 7B at Carleton Place; Regional Rd. 7B to the colour of the exhaust. “When SCHEDULE 3 HIGHWAYS/ROADS Hwy 15; and Regional Rd. 29 to Arnprior. Pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act, the ministry will impose reduced load limits for those designated parts of Single trip permits, for moving of overloads on highways not designated in Schedules 1, 2 and 3, may be you look at the top of the stack, the King’s Highways/Roads listed in Schedule 3, when appropriate, between March 1, 2010 to June 30, 2010. issued, but are subject to axle controls established by the Ministry of Transportation's Carrier Sanctions and you should see just a shimmering NOTE: Reduced load limits will be in effect where and when signs are posted depending on road and Investigation Office.. haze that’s almost invisible. If the weather conditions. exhaust gas is too white or too SCHEDULE 1 - MARCH 1ST TO APRIL 30TH, 2010 THERE ARE NO HIGHWAYS IN THIS SCHEDULE HAVING A REDUCED LOAD PERIOD. black it’s usually an indicator of ST ST SCHEDULE 2 - MARCH 1 TO MAY 31 , 2010 engine wear.” WHEN SIGNS ARE POSTED, THE FOLLOWING HIGHWAYS WILL HAVE A REDUCED LOAD LIMIT FOR THEIR ENTIRE LENGTH: Engine oil analysis is a good way 510 522 524 525 528 528A 529 529A 538 539A 540A 542A 553 554 558 559 560A 563 564 567 569 570 571 572 573 574 577 579 580 582 585 586 587 591 592 593 595 597 602 603 605 607 607A 609 611 613 615 617 to find out the condition of the 619 621 624 630 636 639 641 645 647 650 651 652 665 667 668 670 671 672 673 801 802 804 805 810 motor and is a relatively inexpen- 811 7036 7037 7041 7042 7044 7048 7057 7059 7069 7072D 7102 7104 7110D 7125 7140 7182 Nungesser Rd. sive procedure. But a person sell- WHEN SIGNS ARE POSTED, THE FOLLOWING HIGHWAYS WILL HAVE A REDUCED LOAD LIMIT FOR THESE LISTED LOCATIONS: ing a rig privately will have proba- HWY.# LOCATION 556 Hwy. 532 to Hwy. 129 634 Cloutierville Road at 3.4 km north of Hwy. 11 to its end 129 16.2 km north of Jct. Hwy. 554 to 48 km south of the 557 2.7 km north of Jct. Hwy. 17 (Jct. of Granary Lake Rd.) 638 2.5 km north of east Jct. Hwy. 17 north to 1.3 km east of bly just changed the oil and you south Jct. of Hwy. 101 north to end of Hwy. 557 west Jct. Hwy. 17 516 30.2 km north of Jct. 642 north to Hwy. 599 566 2.0 km west of the Montreal River at Matachewan to 642 Jct. 516 east to Jct. 599 won’t get an accurate reading. 518 Hwy. 400/69 east to west limits of Sprucedale, and east of its end 643 700 m west of Hwy. 584 to end of Hwy. 643 However, most dealers accepting a Kearney to the Twp. of Perry/Town of Kearney boundary 575 Hwy. 17 to 1 km south of Jct. Hwy. 64 657 0.8 km east of Hwy. 105 east to its end 520 Hwy. 124, north to the Hamlet of Ardbeg 581 Jct. 7181 north for 6 km to Remi Lake Provincial Park 7045 Havilland Shores Drive, west side Hwy. 17, 0.3 km from trade-in or buying a used truck 523 Jct. Hwy. 60 at Madawaska south to Hasting/Nipissing 583S Town limits, 4.1 km south of Hwy. 11 to its end Hwy. 17 west 1.3 km may already have taken an oil County boundary 588 1.6 km south of Hwy. 11/17, west to end of Hwy. 588 7045 Havilland Shores Drive, east side Hwy. 17, from Hwy. 17 527 98 km north of Hwy. 11/17 north to end of Hwy. 527 589 9.6 km north of Jct. Hwy. 591, north to end of Hwy. 589 east 0.6 km sample and already had the analy- 532 6.4 km north of Jct. Hwy. 556 to end of Hwy. 532 594 Hwy. 502, west to Hwy. 17 7045 Macintyre Road, from Hwy. 17 north 1.5 km to Jct. of sis done. A dealer might also let 533 Hwy. 656, northwest to Hwy. 63 596 1 km north of Hwy. 17A, north to its end Trout Lake Road 534 Jct. Hwy. 524 north to the Restoule Provincial Park 599 62 km north of Hwy. 17, northeast to end of Hwy. 599 7082 Jct. of Hwy. 17 to the Regional Municipality of Walden you make the sale conditional on a 535 1.6 km north of Hwy. 17 north to end 600 0.5 km north of Hwy. 11, to Jct. of Hwy. 71 limits (4.6 km) 539 0.5 km north of Warren, north of Jct. Hwy. 64 601 1.6 km north of Hwy. 17 (west leg) to 5.0 km north of Lac La Croix Rd. (Flanders Rd. South) positive oil analysis after the truck 45 km south of Hwy. 11 to its end 540 Hwy. 540B (west entrance), west to Meldrum Bay Hwy. 17 (east leg) (Dryden Airport) has been driven under load for 542 Hwy. 6, west to Jct. of Hwys. 540 and 540B 608 1 km west of Hwy. 61 west to Hwy. 595 546 0.6 km north of Jct. Hwy. 17 north to end of Hwy. 546 612 Muskoka/Parry Sound District boundary, north to Hwy. 69 several thousand kilometres. 548 Maple St. (Hilton Beach) south to southwest limits of 625 0.5 km south of Jct. Hwy. 11, south to end of Hwy. 625 Don’t be afraid to ask for a Richard’s Landing 632 Muskoka/Parry Sound District boundary, north to print-out of what the engine has 551 West Jct. of Hwy. 542 south to Providence Bay Hwy. 141 at Rosseau been doing (a dealer should be SCHEDULE 3 - MARCH 1ST TO JUNE 30TH, 2010 WHEN SIGNS ARE POSTED, THE HIGHWAYS/ROADS WITHIN THE FOLLOWING TERRITORIES WILL HAVE A REDUCED LOAD LIMIT: able to supply this).This is a down- NORTH BAY AREA Lost Channel Savard Havilland S.L.B. Strange Miscampbell load directly from the black box Ballantyne & Laurier Ministic Lake Sheraton Hawk Junction Sunset Lake Mutrie Bidwell Lake Onaping Falls Star Lake Horseshoe Bay Upsala Nanicost Centre and will tell you how many hours Eldee Red Deer Village Watabeag Northland Lake Ware Nelles Ellsmere Robinson COCHRANE AREA Patton & Montgomery White Sand Lake Nickel Lake Shores the truck has on it, how much Rock Lake Peace Tree Pearson Landing Laurier Brower KENORA AREA Lount Trout Lake N. Red Rock Pellatt 2 idling it has done, and the fuel Wallbridge S. Casgrain Sultan Aubrey East Pickerel Lake Marten Lake Coppell/Kendall/Way Bears Passage mileage it’s been getting. Memesagamesing Whiskey Lake Tilley Pratt Willisville Departure Lake Vankoughnet & Aweres Big Stone Bay Red Pine Ridge Mills & Hardy Driftwood Blindfold Lake A high idle-to-drive ratio makes a Patterson NEW LISKEARD AREA Vixen Lake Redditt Dunning Wabos Britton Reef Point truck less attractive. Phelps Anima Nipissing Fournier Clearwater Lake Pringle Wharncliffe Rowell Bayly Marter Frederickhouse Colenso, Redvers E. & Rugby That’s why used trucks with Tilden Lake Beauchamp Hallebourg THUNDER BAY AREA Wabigoon E. Thorne Rush Bay- bunk heaters or APUs are more Bourkes Hanlan Armstrong Cygnet Lake Rd. Woodchuck Bay Wilson & McConkey Bryce Hunta Dawson Rd. - Goldie Dance White Pine Sherwood Lake coveted. If you don’t have an APU Cane Indian-Sand Lake Devon Ena Lake Southshore Wyse & Poitras Cairo & Alma Twp. Kitigan Firehill Engineer Lake Rd. on your tractor, you might want to Yellowstone Southwatten Crystal Lake Nellie Lake (Aurora) Forbes Eton Southworth SUDBURY AREA think of installing one soon after Eby Norembega Fowler Ghost Lake Spohn Armstrong Lake Foleyet Tunis Gorham Gordon Lake Spruce Lake Road purchasing it. Britt Gogama West Riverside Hardwick Inglis Lake Storm Bay Burwash-Hendrie Henwood SAULT STE. MARIE AREA Hicks Lake Ingolf Sutherland Cartier Horwood Inwood Kendall Inlet Tannis Lake Ask an expert Ingram Aberdeen & McMahon Jacques Kenricia Chiniguchi R. Aweres 1 S.L.B. (Gundy Lake) Dawson Lebel (Harvey) Kirkland Lybster Kingsford Van Horne Lebel (King) Kirkland Aweres 2 S.L.B. Lyon Laclu While writing this article, I talked Dill Second Devil’s Lake Wabigoon Redvers West Downes Lake Lorraine Twp. Marks Manitou Rapids FN Wabigoon South East to a lot of knowledgeable people. Marquis Devon Landing Mountain Bay McCallum Point Foster Truman Esher-Como-Healy Wainwright Fourteen Mile Island Marter Northern Light Lake McConnell Lake War Eagle But the most meaningful discus- Mattagami Twp. Fenwick, Pennefather Obonga Lake McIntosh Harris Lake & Vankoughnet West Longbow Lake sions I had were with owner/oper- Hess Ossian Perch Lake McKenzie Portage Zealand No. 1 Otto Galbraith-Morin Polly Lake Melgund Kukagami Garden Lake Zealand No. 3 ators who had made the successful Lang Lake Pacaud & Catharine Sibley Minaki Robillard Gaudette & Hodgins Stirling Mine Centre transition from driver-for-hire to Long Lake Goulais Mission truck owner. Elwood Rines is one such example. His first truck was a 2002 www.mto.gov.on.ca Volvo 770 that he had been driv- pg 10 tw mar 2/17/10 10:28 AM Page 10

Page 10 TRUCK WEST March 2010 BorderBorder Trucking industry eyes cabotage changes to curb carbon emissions By Ingrid Phaneuf CTA is nothing new, just the most as a result of current regulations,” print?” WASHINGTON, D.C. – recent effort on the part of truck- says the joint letter from ATA and Changes to the antiquated cabo- Protectionism continues to beat ing industry insiders to engage the CTA. “Other carriers report simi- tage rules are all tied up with im- out common sense when it comes EPA in their fight to arrange a re- lar figures for wasted fuel. Given migration issues, according to to US cabotage rules, despite ap- ciprocal agreement between the the current state of conservation Margaret Irwin, ATA director of peals to the US Environmental US and Canada to allow a foreign efforts by both the motor carrier Customs, immigration and cross- Protection Agency by both US driver to drop a loaded foreign industry and the Untied States border operations. and Canadian trucking industry trailer, hook up an empty foreign and Canadian governments, this “If it were up to Customs laws, insiders that the rule prohibiting trailer, transport it to a second lo- wasteful approach is unnecessary.” nobody would care,” Irwin says. foreign drivers from moving emp- cation and then hook up a loaded Unfortunately, the joint effort “This is all about people who are ty trailers is wasting millions and foreign trailer for the return trip by CTA and ATA to sick the EPA not US citizens working and get- possibly billions of gallons of home. Currently, Canadian com- on its sister departments has so far ting paid for work in the US.” diesel and emitting thousands of panies must hire a US driver to proven fruitless. Still it’s just a matter of inter- unnecessary tonnes of carbon into move the empty trailer to another “In general, the EPA supports preting the rules, not changing the Earth’s rapidly deteriorating location, necessitating the use of the reduction of empty backhauls them, Irwin points out. atmosphere annually. two tractors instead of one. and deadheading to reduce “According to the rules, once “The American Trucking The original petition to have the greenhouse gas and other emis- equipment and goods ‘come to Association (ATA) and the interpretation of the cabotage rule sions…however, we must defer to rest’ in the US, they have to be Canadian Trucking Alliance changed, submitted jointly by the the US Department of Homeland turned over to a US driver,” says (CTA) both strongly support the ATA and the CTA to US Customs Security with respect to restric- Irwin.“But the thing is, truck driv- energy self-sufficiency goals of our and Border Protection in tions on international goods move- ers from Canada stop at stoplights two great nations,” says a recent February of 2008, and a subse- ment and immigration,” says a let- and stay at motels on their way joint letter from ATA and quent July 6, 2009 letter to ter in response to ATA and CTA down to their US destinations all CTA to top officials at the US Homeland Security Secretary officials from the EPA. This, de- the time. So clearly, there are dif- Environmental Protection Agency Janet Napolitano, containing re- spite CTA CEO David Bradley’s ferent interpretations of what and Departments of Energy, ports of fuel wasted due to the reg- claim that Canadian officials are ‘coming to rest’ means. Canadian Commerce and Transportation. ulation have so far proven fruit- willing to change the cabotage drivers get paid for driving into “Under the present interpreta- less. This despite reports from two rules here if US officials are willing the US all the time, so why can’t tion (of foreign trailer reposition- major US trucking companies at- to do the same. they reposition empty equipment? ing regulations), foreign drivers testing to tens of thousands of gal- “The government of Canada has This stuff is way down in the are not permitted to move or lons of fuel wasted due to the rule. become officially engaged saying weeds,” sums up Irwin. reposition empty trailers within Schneider reported no less than that it would make the necessary “It’s really all about protecting the United States, resulting in a 60,000 gallons of diesel fuel wast- changes in Canada if the US were US labour unions. But the practi- ‘double movement’ – ie. While a ed per month due to the foreign to reciprocate,” says Bradley. cal reality is that supply chains domestic driver repositions the driver restriction, while Celadon “There is an important principle at these days have changed into trailer, the Canadian tractor (with reported using an average of play here – if governments are not more sophisticated pieces of busi- no trailer) is moved by the 50,000 extra gallons of fuel per willing to fix something like this, ness and we need to relook at Canadian driver to the same loca- month due to the rule. how can they maintain any credi- these things and interpret differ- tion – using twice the amount of “These two carriers alone, on an bility in terms of wanting to make ently to serve all of our purposes diesel fuel needed to move one annual basis, needlessly burn 1.3 the North American supply chain better.” trailer.” million gallons of diesel fuel, emit- more efficient and competitive, CTA won’t be giving up on the This latest volley from ATA and ting 16.2 metric tonnes of carbon and with a lower carbon foot- issue anytime soon, says Bradley. ■ Detroit/Windsor bridge battle heats up, second crossing in jeopardy

By Ron Stang contracts for the Gateway Project Ambassador Bridge, one of Centra’s Frame,“Well, it depends on whether WINDSOR, Ont. – The trucking in- expressly anticipated changes,” the many companies is Central they need it and all that. So we’ll just dustry figures in a couple of high company said in a statement after Transport, which specializes in LTL have to see what happens later on.” profile controversies in the ongoing the ruling. shipping. Bridge spokesman Phil Meanwhile, the bridge company battle between the privately-owned Meanwhile bridge management Frame said Central has consolidated has also tried to halt DRIC in two Ambassador Bridge and a proposal have repeatedly stated that the new trucks from other sites at the 175- other ways. It has filed a request for to build a publicly-owned bridge public bridge, known as the Detroit bay Delray facility. a judicial review of a federal envi- across the Detroit River. River International Crossing “Having more bays and doors ronmental assessment allowing con- In early February a US circuit (DRIC), isn’t needed in large part available at a facility can translate struction of the bridge and Customs court judge in Detroit ruled against because of Gateway Project im- into more flexibility,” he said. plaza in Windsor. the Ambassador Bridge for refusing provements.The company stands to The company had a 126-bay facili- And it has offered to turn over to live up to an agreement to build a lose millions of dollars in tolls if a ty in suburban Romulus. Two of its “toll credits” to the cash-strapped designated ramp for trucks coming significant amount of traffic uses the customers – an auto manufacturer Michigan government. from Canada.The ramp would have new bridge. and a parts supplier – wanted to use These credits – in this case $400 taken trucks departing US Customs In another matter,Centra Inc., the that site. million worth of improvements to where they would connect to the company that owns the bridge, has “So the two things came together done to the bridge by the company Interstate highway system. acquired the former Yellow about the same time,” he said. as a toll operator – can be used to Instead the bridge cordoned off a Transportation (now YRC) depot in Frame said he understands “it unlock federal US highway funds. lane on busy Fort Street in south- Delray, Mich., leading to speculation seems”like the acquisition was done But the bridge had one stipula- west Detroit, forcing trucks to use the purchase was made to prevent “to block the DRIC. But there tion: none of the money could be that instead. the DRIC bridge from being built. aren’t a lot of (truck) facilities like used to assist competing projects in- The judge cited the failure to build A sliver of that land is where a this in southeast Michigan.” cluding DRIC. the ramp as one of several agreed-to ramp to the bridge would be locat- Government authorities could ex- “We’re just asking them that they items which the bridge has not lived ed. In addition to owning the propriate the Delray land. Said not use (the money) against us,” up to, as part of its role in the $230 Frame said. million so-called Gateway Project. The Ontario Trucking Association The project, mainly finished, is a Ottawa to buy Ambassador? (OTA) says the aggressive moves by cluster of new ramps and inter- the owner of the Ambassador changes intended to expedite traffic WINDSOR, Ont. – According to a recent report in the National Post, the Bridge have put the DRIC project in on the US side. federal government is considering purchasing the Ambassador Bridge jeopardy. Instead, where the ramp would have from its owner Manuel ‘Matty’ Moroun. “Political maneuvering in the gone, the bridge built a huge duty- The revelation comes as the government-backed Detroit River Michigan Legislature is putting the free store and refueling plaza. International Crossing (DRIC) has been bogged down by government future of the long-awaited second A Michigan Department of stakeholders in the US. bridge crossing between Windsor Transportation spokesman said the “My understanding is that the file is progressing and there are options and Detroit into doubt, creating the court decision was important be- being looked at,” Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon told the Post when very real prospect that the bridge cause it will now remove trucks from asked if buying the bridge from the private sector was an option. will not be built in the foreseeable neighbourhood streets. A deal is not likely to come soon, however. According to the report, future,” the association said in a re- The judge ordered the company Moroun wants $3 billion for the bridge – far more than what the govern- lease.“There is therefore a very real to demolish the store and plaza. ment deems it’s worth. chance that this summer the DRIC But the bridge argues it had the The bridge generates about $60 million per year in toll revenue. ■ process will grind to halt and hope right to make design changes. “The for a new bridge will fade.” ■ pg 11 tw mar 2/17/10 10:45 AM Page 11

March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 11 HealthHealth ten. Or, eat a smaller portion. Or, try You can make simple choices to lower your weight a lower-calorie version. Go light. Substitute reduced-fat ingredients Last month, we considered why it’s cross-country skiing, most competi- for the usual ones. Bake, roast or better for our body frames not to be Preventive tive sports (tennis, football, basket- broil, don’t fry your favourite meats. carrying around an oversized load. Maintenance ball, soccer) and jumping rope. Instead of a cream soup, have a Now, let’s explore some necessary Of course, your level of participa- broth-based one. components of a lifestyle that will Karen tion in any of these activities will af- Now, you’ve got the information, keep our load within healthy spec’s. Bowen fect the actual intensity levels. So, to it’s time to get moving. The formula: ‘Move around more lose weight and keep it off, adjust Tomorrow, when you’re ready to + Eat less = Weight loss’ seems so your diet and exercise. Drop some drop your first load but there’s a simple.Why do so many of us strug- calories and add some activities. half-hour line-up at the dock, you gle with it? As a trucker, this is a spending 2.5 hours in a moderate-in- Drop calories by choosing differ- could: 1. Catch a few winks in your huge challenge as you spend so tensity aerobic activity, or 1.25 in a ent foods, or changing how they are cab; 2. Head out for a coffee or many hours sitting behind the vigorous-intensity aerobic activity prepared. Instead of thinking about doughnut; or 3. Take a quick walk wheel. It’s up to you to look for op- (or an equal mix of the two).This has what you can’t have, concentrate on around the block. It’s your choice. portunities to become more active, been proven as the best way to what you can. You see a lot of snow piled every day. maintain weight levels over time. Enjoy lots of fruits, vegetables, around your drop-off area. You We all know that eating less Since every person is different, find whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat could: 1. Grumble about the situa- makes us lose weight. We’ve done the amount of exercise that works milk and milk products, lean meats, tion; 2. Take out your shovel that and gotten slimmer (over and for you. poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. and improve your health (and over).We also know that being more What is a moderate-intensity aer- Choose foods that are low in satu- attitude). active uses up more calories, helping obic activity? If you’re breathing rated fats, trans-fats, cholesterol, salt You’re at the motel at the end us lose weight. We’ve done that, too faster and your heart rate is faster and added sugars. Remember to of a long day, you could: 1. Grab (temporarily). However, it’s been but you can still carry on a conversa- stay within your daily caloric needs. a bite to eat in front of the TV; proven over and over, that eating tion, you’re at the moderate level. Broaden your palate by adding 2. Take a shower and crash. 3; Use fewer calories combined with in- Some activities in this category are: variety to your fruit choices. Along the pool or gym (if available); or creasing physical activity is the only walking quickly (15 minutes/mile), with traditional fresh apples and ba- 4. Do some stretches and exercises way to lose weight and keep it off. doing light yard work (raking/bag- nanas, why not try mango, kiwi or before you settle in. Being active does more than ging leaves, pushing the lawn mow- star-fruit? You’re parked at a truck stop and make us look better. It also reduces: er), light snow shoveling, playing Pick different vegetables, too! Eat getting ready to call it a night, you high blood pressure; arthritis pain with kids (with enthusiasm), and them raw, or after they’re steamed could: 1. Grab a quick shower and and disability; symptoms of depres- biking recreationally. or gently boiled, spice them up with crawl into your bunk; 2. Take out sion and anxiety; as well as the risk What about vigorous-intensity herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme, your skipping rope and spend a few for: Type 2 diabetes, heart attack, aerobic activity? At this level, your etc.) instead of cream or butter minutes getting your heart pumping stroke, some cancers, osteoporosis breathing and heart rate are really sauces – the simpler, the better! before you shower. and related falls. fast and you can’t converse. Some Start your meal with a large, high- Finally, it’s your health, your Going forward, to maintain your activities in this category are: jog- fiber appetizer.These slight changes choice. ■ weight, slowly increase your activity ging/running, swimming laps, can really reduce your calories but amount until each week you are rollerblading/inline skating quickly, still keep your nutrition level high. – Karen Bowen is a professional What about those foods you love health and nutrition consultant and and can’t live without? Can you still she can be reached by e-mail at About Alzheimer’s disease eat them? Yes. But, eat them less of- [email protected]. Seeing as January was Alzheimer’s month I am going to discuss Back behind Alzheimer’s disease in this month’s the wheel article.Alzheimer’s disease is caused THIS MONTH’S CROSSWORD PUZZLE by the degeneration of healthy brain Dr. Chris tissue which eventually leads to a de- Singh

crease in memory and/or cognition. ©

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Although it is not a common dis- 1 0

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Approximately 5% of the popula- order specific tests to help distin- s o tion between 65-74 years of age has guish it from other forms of n Alzheimer’s. dementia. First, your doctor will or- The symptoms of Alzheimer’s dis- der a blood test to rule out condi- ease can vary from person to person tions such as thyroid disorders or vi- A

however, most people experience tamin deficiencies. n s w e

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the condition.Don’t worry if you oc- such as an MRI to better visualize n

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keys to your truck, this is normal. known cure for Alzheimer’s disease 6 The memory loss associated with at the present time. In most cases, Alzheimer’s disease is much more doctors will prescribe medications to consistent and generally worsens treat the associated symptoms such over time. People with Alzheimer’s as depression, anxiety and sleepless- commonly repeat things,forget fam- ness. In addition, your doctor may ily member’s names and misplace prescribe a drug that will slow the things. As the disease progresses it cognitive deterioration. will eventually lead to irreversible The good news is that recent stud- mental impairment. ies have shown that maintaining a At this time, scientists do not healthy weight and eating healthy Across Down know the exact cause of Alzheimer’s may reduce your risk of developing 1. Truck-repair pro 1. Problem that affected cattle shipments disease. However, it is widely accept- Alzheimer’s.A diet that includes lots 5. “Got your ____ on?” (3,3,7) ed that it is caused by a combination of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole 9. Piloted a Peterbilt 2. Tailgate-party necessities of risk factors which include your grain breads is recommended. 10. Purolator or Canpar driver 3. Venue for Monster Truck show genes, lifestyle and environment. Physical activity and exercise have 11. Really-rural-route sign (3,4) 4. Cubic ____, engine-displacement measure 12. Radio code for T 6. UFO driver Obviously,age is a major risk factor. also been linked with a lower inci- 13. Nevada roadside terrain 7. Western Star ad tagline (7,6) Lifestyle factors such as high dence of Alzheimer’s disease. Don’t 15. Engages like gears 8. Slow-moving creature on car-wax label blood pressure, high cholesterol and forget to exercise your brain as well! 18. Word following drive and crank 14. Relationships between gears poorly controlled diabetes have also Doing crossword puzzles and read- 20. Ball, pintle or ﬁfth wheel 16. Farmer’s preferred pickup, perhaps (4,3) been shown to increase the risk of ing books and articles like this one, 22. Chromed cab-top item (3,4) 17. European truck maker with Swedish HQ Alzheimer’s. This is very important are a great way to keep your mind 23. Van-body portion above cab 19. Song lyric, “Give me 40 ____ and I’ll turn for professional truck drivers as fit. Until next month, drive safely. ■ 24. Right, on a road map this rig around” many of them have one or all of the 25. Certain trucking companies (3,5) 21. Rental-truck company (1,4) above-mentioned lifestyle risk fac- – Dr. Christopher H. Singh runs tors.This is yet another reason to try Trans Canada Chiropractic at the Try it online at www.trucknews.com to maintain a healthy lifestyle while 230 Truck Stop in Woodstock, Ont. on the road. He can be reached at 519-421-2024. pg 12 tw mar 2/17/10 10:50 AM Page 12

Page 12 TRUCK WEST March 2010 NewNew Products Paccar ups North American ante with new 12.9-litre MX engine By Jim Bray MOUNT VERNON, Wash. – Kenworth and Peterbilt customers now have a new, high-tech engine choice in parent company Paccar’s MX diesel. Paccar took the wraps off the North American-spec’ MX at its Mount Vernon, Washington Technical Centre on Feb. 4, inviting media in from all over North America for the occasion. The introduction came after a successful 80 million kilometre test program in which the company says the MX performed up to expectations for power, efficiency and cleanliness. Paccar says the MX offers best- in-class performance, economy and, according to chairman and CEO Mark Pigott, is one more step forward in the company’s plan to offer its own complete powertrain solution. Pigott says that, while the launch of any new product is a momentous occasion,“This introduction is even more so because it’s occurring as our industry continues to confront QUIET RIDE: On the track, the Paccar MX engine impressed editor Jim Bray with its low noise levels – it’s reputedly 1.5 the worst recession in decades.” times quieter than competitors at 88 km/h. He points to the realities of aging fleets that will need to be replaced Cummins ISX. The design and This real-world testing was and low dealer inventories of new construction of the block and rear helped by Paccar customers who and used trucks as positive signs for gear train also contributes to signif- drove the MX in their day-to-day the industry. icantly lower in-cab noise levels, operations, with data-linked trucks “The good news,” Pigott says, “is Brewster says, “resulting in a more sending information to the Paccar that Paccar is in an excellent posi- comfortable driver environment.” Technical Center for analysis. tion to grow when the economy im- Paccar claims a noise level for The engines were also run at the proves.” the MX that’s three times more Technical Center using data The Paccar boss says the compa- quiet at idle and about 1.5 times gleaned from the real-world trials. ny invested a billion dollars into its quieter at 88 and 113 km/h (55 and The commitment to design and engine program over the past 70 mph). manufacturing excellence should decade and has delivered an entire That quiet performance was no- contribute to a long-lived engine: family of engines, two new engine ticeable during a test drive session Paccar claims a B10 engine life for factories, expanded engine test fa- the company offered journalists, the MX, which means 90% of the cilities and “the best engine devel- who were invited to take a couple engines will reach a million miles of opment team in the business.” of laps around the Technical service as compared, they say, with READY FOR CANADA: The MX has A clean sheet design, the MX is a Center’s 1.5-mile high-speed oval their competition’s 50% rate. undergone extensive cold weather 12.9-litre, inline six-cylinder turbo and 1.5-mile durability track. The Though new to North America, testing, in the lab (pictured) and also diesel with four valves per cylinder MX engine-equipped trucks were the MX has been powering in the Northwest Territories. and an in-block cam design that indeed quiet, making conversation Paccar’s DAF trucks for about four not only allows it to be mounted easy at speeds up to about 105 years. And of course it’s only the gine light, and to an illuminated lower, reducing vibration charac- km/h. latest in a series of engines the stop engine lamp.” teristics, but which also reduces its “You can lower the radio volume company has cranked out over the Treasure says the warnings are complexity thanks to fewer moving by half,” Brewster says, noting that past 50 years. “We’ve delivered designed to alert the driver of the parts. “when we heard that from our test more than 900,000 engines to DEF level and provide sufficient “Our goal,” says Paccar presi- drivers, we knew we were on the date,” says Cardillo, “and have time to take action. dent Jim Cardillo,“was to offer the right track. 125,000 MX engines in service The engine will be produced in lowest cost of ownership for The MX engine also uses frac- (outside North America) already. North America at a brand new, Kenworth and Peterbilt customers tured cap technology for the main It’s reliable, quiet, and fuel-effi- $400-million plant near Columbus, and we think we’ve achieved that.” crankshaft bearing, which Cardillo cient.” Mississippi. Ground was broken He cites what he says is the MX’s says results in increased strength It also appears to be building a for the plant in 2007, with construc- best-in-class fuel economy and dri- and contributes to longer power reputation. Paccar says, for exam- tion finished last year. Engines are vability, torque-to-weight ratio and and torque curves across a wide ple, that the MX was named “Best expected to begin flowing from the easy access for maintenance. range of RPMs. Brewster says the Engine of the Year” three years facility this summer, initially via re- The MX engine can be config- flat torque curve gives the MX a running at the Bus World Asia configured European-built en- ured to put out from 380 to 485 more responsive feel and excellent Exhibition in China. gines, with US domestic production horsepower and up to 1,750 lb.-ft. drivability while helping reduce The MX meets EPA2010 diesel to follow. of torque, which the company says downshifting under load. engine emissions rules using Paccar is already taking orders puts it at the upper end of the pow- He also says its integral engine Selective Catalytic Reduction for the MX through its Kenworth er/torque range for Class 8 applica- brake (rated at an industry-leading (SCR) in combination with exhaust and Peterbilt dealer network. tions. Part of its efficiency, Cardillo 460 hp at 2,200 RPM) provides gas recirculation (EGR). It comes with a two-year, says, comes from the use of CGI powerful performance across a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) 250,000-mile standard warranty, (compacted graphic iron), which he broad range of engine RPMs. tanks can be ordered in sizes from with extended service plans avail- says is 75% stronger and stiffer The extensive testing of the MX six to 30 gallons and mounted on able. So far as pricing is concerned, pound-for-pound than gray cast engine for the North American either side of the truck. Paccar will only say that it will be iron. Paccar, Cardillo says, was first market included some 300,000 According to Alan Treasure, competitive, slightly less than a 15- to use CGI for the cylinder head hours of extreme lab testing at Paccar’s director of marketing, litre but offering all the same fea- and is the only manufacturer to use Paccar’s Mount Vernon Technical each MX-equipped vehicle will tures. Paccar is confident its com- it for both the engine block and the Center, where they can simulate a have a DEF gauge on the dash to mitment to engine production and head. variety of driving and environmen- provide an easy to see and under- faith in the future will help the MX Using CGI shaves about 150 lbs tal conditions. stand indication of the DEF level. earn its place in the transportation from the weight, according to Craig The MX also underwent winter “In the event the DEF fluid lev- industry. Brewster, Paccar assistant vice- testing near Yellowknife, extreme els drops below 10% fill level,” “Not many people have built fac- president, while a crankshaft de- heat tests in Death Valley, Treasure says, “there will be a se- tories in North America in the last sign that eliminates counterweights California and the Arizona desert ries of progressive indicators to 18 to 24 months, but we did,” says saves about 25 more pounds. The and high altitude tests above 3,000 alert the driver of the condition, Cardillo.“We’re in the engine busi- result is an engine that tips the metres in the Rocky Mountains of from a warning light on the DEF ness in North America, and we’re scales at about 325 lbs less than the Colorado. gauge to an illuminated check en- proud to be here.” ■ Castrol-Wakefield Canada 2/10/10 10:29 AM Page 1 pg 14 tw mar 2/17/10 10:56 AM Page 14

Page 14 TRUCK WEST March 2010 OverOver the Road Challenge? Oh yes. Many chal- lenges. My dedicated truck is my Trucking: It’s a love/hate relationship home and slip-seating sucks. Spending three weeks living out of I have been employed as a high- spending a few nights in motel a couple of bags when you are ac- way driver for the last 11 years. Over the rooms. Luckily one of our customed to your own living, eat- Truck driving is a catch-22 for me. Road Edmonton drivers was on holidays ing, sleeping and cooking space is I experience the feeling of free- so I had the use of her truck for a stressful. dom and independence one Al couple weeks. As I was rolling down the road minute but I am left with a longing Goodhall Unfortunately, that truck need- trying to focus on getting the for my social network the next. I ed an oil pressure sensor replaced miles, my mind wanted to focus on have experienced some of my a few days after I got into it, so I everything that had gone wrong. highest emotional highs and some In mid-November of last year I had more downtime. I was cursed By the third week I was feeling of my lowest emotional lows while started a trip from southern on this trip. Murphy’s Law. So let’s that everyone I dealt with was at the wheel. I have a love/hate re- Ontario to Vancouver. I planned go back and look at this experi- conspiring to make my life miser- lationship with truck driving as a to be home for a day or two in ear- ence in the context of those three able and prevent me from getting result. But the bottom line is, the ly December and then squeeze in elements I mentioned. home. Sound familiar? trucking industry has me hooked. another trip before Christmas. I Variation in my day can certain- Independence is a good thing to Variation, challenge and inde- was counting my chickens before ly prevent me from becoming have. I don’t have a boss in my pendence. I think those are three they hatched. My truck suffered bored. It can also provide high lev- truck, I don’t have anyone looking ingredients that are always pres- an engine failure. The truck re- els of stress. I still had freight to over my shoulder and I don’t have ent in the commercial driver’s life. mained in the shop for three deliver and a salary to earn. No anyone telling me what to do. Each of these elements possesses weeks until the engine was re- easy task when my wheels are sit- These are all wonderful things. a lot of pros and cons and that is placed. I never made it home until ting in a service bay. But when my workplace comes to where my love/hate relationship Dec. 22. As drivers, we all face situations a grinding halt at one o’clock in with the job is rooted. Let me give So that trip saw me slip-seating like this, or very similar ones, on the morning, there is nobody to you an example. into five different trucks and an ongoing basis. deal with the problem but me. Independence may equal the free- dom to choose my own way but it also gives me the responsibility to deal with all the situations that arise. That includes all the issues I didn’t plan to deal with. We are independents, lease/operators and company drivers. We are teams and singles. Our work- ZENVIRONMENT. place may be the city,the province, the country or the continent. We all have different levels of experi- CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE. ence and skills. The example of my own experience with the breakdown shows that despite our individual differ- ences, we all face the same industry issues and the same personal and emotional fallout that can result. When a group of experienced drivers get together, discussion often turns to the camaraderie and mentorship that existed between drivers in the past and how that is now missing or on the decline in our industry. There is nothing better than getting together for a good jaw session with a few other drivers. The stresses of the open road melt away when you can share them with people that really “get it.” Things have changed rapidly in the last two decades. Technological change continues to speed along. Culture is slow to respond and our trucking culture is no different. I said at the outset that I am left Introducing Yokohama’s breakthrough new Zenvironment technology. With a longing for my social network. Technology has brought the social stronger, more resilient rubber compound that resists cuts and chips, it’s network to our cabs in the form of revolutionizing the trucking industry. Zenvironment offers a longer original Internet access. tread life, better retreadability and lower rolling resistance for better fuel Twitter, Facebook, blogs, smart phones, Internet sticks and net- economy. And the casing comes with a 7 year limited warranty. Plus it’s books. We don’t have an excuse to guaranteed to have a cost per kilometre lower than any major competing brand by at least 15%. not take part. So join the movement. Ask your dealer about it today. Using these tools has become as simple as picking up a phone. Social networking on the Internet does not replace face-to-face com- munication. It makes more of it possible. Join the conversation.That’s how I see it, over the road. ■

– Al Goodhall has been a professional long-haul driver since 1998. He shares his experiences via his ‘Over the Road’ blog at http://truckingacrosscanada.blog spot.com and you can follow him on www.Yokohama.ca Twitter at twitter.com/Al_Goodhall. TO MOVE YOU FORWARD EVEN IN REVERSE

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Page 16 TRUCK WEST March 2010 NewNew Products company says. It’s also available Tool Kit; Guide Pin/Pin Boot site at www.fiberfenders.ca, where with Goodyear’s DuraSeal tech- Service Tool Kit; and the visitors can peruse the company’s nology, which seals punctures up to Complete Kit. For more info, visit line of fiberglass truck fenders.“The a quarter inch in diameter. The www.foundationbrakes.com. new name is representative of exact- wide-base tire is ideal for heavy on- • ly what we do, and we felt it was a and off-road applications such as Meritor Wabco’s patented single needed change as we expand our Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions mixer, dump, pumper and other piston PAN 22 series air disc brake network of dealers into western (BBTS) has introduced a new specialty applications, according to is now available on selected Canada and the US,” said president Bandag drive axle retread for the company, and it’s available in Hendrickson trailer axles and the Danny Campbell. The company al- LTL applications. The new tire three sizes: 385/65R22.5 (load INTRAAX and VANTRAAX sus- ready has more than 40 dealers, was introduced to dealers at the range J); 425/65R22.5 (load range pensions. The company says the air mostly in Atlantic Canada. It recent- company’s Bridgestone Bandag L); and 445/65R22.5 (load range disc brake is lightweight and boasts ly launched a new series of light- Executive Symposium. The L). For info, speak to a Goodyear a long pad life and also features an weight fenders, the Standard Series, Bandag brand BDR-HT3 retread dealer. integral molded friction pad that which the company says are the first is designed for single-axle tractors • virtually eliminates rust-jacking. of their kind. They’re styled to look and features a new tread com- Goodyear has also introduced a Meritor recommends the brake for like metal fenders, but more cost- pound and pattern that resists tears new G296 WHA super-single tire on-highway line-haul axle ratings up competitive, lighter (weighing just and improves fuel mileage, the specifically for refuse applications. to 23,000 lbs with 22.5-inch wheels. 11 lbs) and easier to paint and re- company says.The company says it The wide-base tire is available in For more info, speak to a Meritor or pair, the company claims. For more combats tread chunking and im- 425/65R22.5 sizing in load range L, Hendrickson representative. info, visit the Web site or call Angela proves mileage by using a new at 11,400-lb capacity, the company • Campbell at 902-626-5431. breakthrough tread compound, says. The tire features special com- ArvinMeritor has introduced a new tread design and splice opti- pounding to help resist chunking new line of hydraulic disc brake mization. A bow tie-shaped tread and chipping as well as sidewall rotors with a special coating to pro- block distributes torque evenly to scuff protectors, similar to those tect against oxidation and corro- reduce block stress, the company found on the G289 WHA dual.The sion.The patented coating is called says, while the wider, buttressed G296 WHA single comes with ZXP3 and is initially available shape design strengthens the DuraSeal technology that seals across three part numbers with A long-time professional truck driv- blocks. tread punctures. For details, visit a more models to be released er has authored a 16-page reference • Goodyear dealer. through the year. The aftermarket guide for drivers called Hammer BBTS’s new Firestone trailer tire • solution is well-suited for medium- Down Truck N Trailer. The book in- has been dubbed the Firestone duty delivery and express delivery cludes information on: distributing FT455 Plus. It’s built with fuel econ- vehicles, ArvinMeritor announced. axle weights; strapping and tarping omy in mind without sacrificing re- The new coating will initially be ap- loads; winter driving; checking and moval mileage, the company claims. plied to rotors with a cast-in ABS adjusting brakes; tractor-trailer It’s approved for use on EPA tone ring, and other applications heights; filling out log books; and SmartWay-certified equipment and for the coating are being re- other safety-related subjects.Author is designed for free-rolling posi- searched and developed, the com- Gary Ball said the information is tions, including trailer axles, tax pany says.The coated rotors will be pertinent to all professional drivers axles and converter dollies. available under the Meritor and and includes details on subjects • Euclid brands through aftermarket many new drivers would not have distributors beginning this month. learned in driving school. The book • can be purchased for $28.95 (volume Peterbilt has developed a new discounts are available) and down- Kelly Tires has introduced a new stainless steel, cowl-mounted air loaded from his Web site at Armorsteel KLS steer tire which cleaner and cap the company says www.hammerdowntruckntrailer. the company claims offers uniform improve performance and style com (one word), or you can call wear and long miles to removal. It’s while increasing durability and 250-585-4788. available in 11R22.5, 11R24.5, serviceability. It’s now available on • 295/75R22.5 and 285/75R24.5 sizes, the models 389, 388 and 367, in Quebec-based Robond says it featuring an 18/32-inch trade depth both 13 and 15 inch diameters for has inked a non-exclusive agree- and five-rib design to optimize single or dual side installations.For ment that makes its Talon Tight tread wear performance. For more details, speak to a Peterbilt dealer. locking fuel caps available on info, visit www.kellytires.com/truck. • International trucks. International truck dealers will now have access to a complete line of locking fuel caps, according to the company. It is rugged, attractive and deters fuel theft, the company claims.For info, visit www.talontight.com. Goodyear has come out with a • super-single tire for mixed-service Fleets using Bendix ADB22X air Shell Lubricants has introduced a applications it says will lower oper- disc brakes can now order three new Shell Rotella engine oil for- ating costs and improve perform- new service tool kits to better mulated specifically for natural ance compared to duals. The G296 maintain the components.The Danny’s Custom Truck Fenders out gas-powered engines. Shell Rotella MSA was unveiled at the compa- tool kits are manufactured by of Souris, P.E.I. has come out with a T3 NG Energized Protection can ny’s recent dealer conference. It Ken-Tool and were specifically new name, look and series of fend- be used with both compressed nat- features more wearable rubber on designed to service trucks ers.The company is now called Fiber ural gas (CNG) and liquefied natu- the tread for enhanced mileage, as equipped with the disc brakes. Fenders, which better describes the ral gas (LNG) engines, according well as a special compound that re- The available kits include: The company’s products,it announced in to the company. For more info, sists cuts, chipping and tears, the Tappet and Boot Replacement a release. It also unveiled a new Web visit www.rotella.com. ■ Navistar introduces new mixer business, revamped WorkStar, PayStar

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – With the re- hensive and geographically diverse Changes to the WorkStar include: tory; and aluminum fuel tanks are cent acquisition of Continental dealer networks in the industry.” the 7600 and 7700 models have been standard for lighter weight and bet- Manufacturing Company, Navistar That dealer network will encom- combined into one model with two ter corrosion resistance. The HVAC has rebranded its mixer business pass current Continental Mixers versions, the 7600 SBA (46-inch set- system has also received some atten- Continental Mixers LLC. sales and service locations as well as back axle) and 7600 SFA (30-inch tion to improve its effectiveness and The new look was unveiled about 30 additional locations in the set-forward axle) with both models durability,the company reports. at World of Concrete in early US and Canada to be determined featuring a new 113-inch BBC for The PayStar, meanwhile, receives: February. Navistar acquired within the year. better cooling; a crew cab configura- standard electronic stability control; Continental in December, 2009, The new locations will be affiliat- tion is now available in heavy-duty 8,000-, 13,200- and 20,000-lb lift adding to its portfolio a full line of ed with current International truck diesel models with front axle ratings axles available from the factory; rear discharge mixer products, the dealerships, the company an- up to 18,000 lbs for select applica- 10.25x3/8-inch frame rails are now company announced. The products nounced. tions; all-wheel drive is now avail- standard on the PayStar 5900 SBA; will be branded as Continental Navistar also showcased im- able on models with up to 18,000-lb availability of the MaxxForce 11 and Mixers and CBMW Mixers. provements to its severe-service front axles on mid-range diesel con- 13 diesel engines in the near future; Now, Navistar says it’s setting out International WorkStar and PayStar figurations; steerable 20,000-lb lift and availability of the MaxxForce 15 to create one of the “most compre- trucks at the show. axles are now available from the fac- in late 2010. ■ 10-0201C_Truck_News_Ad.pdf 1 10/02/10 1:10 PM

CMY

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Page 18 TRUCK WEST March 2010 IndustryIndustry Don’t touch that dial: Profile of the Canadian trucking industry will air in 2010

While the effects of the great reces- Solving this problem will not be in production) will be a sion of 2009 may linger for some Industry easy. There is no silver bullet. As featured as a special segment in a time, the trucking industry’s chronic Issues with most things, it will take a host of national broadcast of the award- challenge of recruiting and retrain- seemingly modest measures – and winning informational television ing enough good, quality people – in David some innovative new thinking – to program, The Profiles Series (TPS), a variety of occupations; not just Bradley begin to change the paradigm. which showcases business leader- drivers – to support even modest While ultimately carriers, as indi- ship, innovation, technological ad- growth will become increasingly vidual companies, will have to come vances, etc. acute as recovery becomes more ap- wages, etc. – it is likely to be an even to grips with this or be The series is hosted by well- parent and sustainable. greater struggle for our industry left behind, there is a role known actor Lou Gossett Jr., and is The trucking industry is not the than for others. that groups like the Canadian currently distributed in the US to only industry in Canada that is faced The fact that most other sectors of Trucking Alliance (CTA), the CNN, Bravo, Voice of America, etc., with this challenge, although we all the economy will also be out there provincial trucking associations and and via the Internet. The trucking know that for a variety of reasons – pitching for the best available talent the Canadian Trucking Human profile will be one of TPS’s first ma- aging workforce, public perception – at a whole variety of skill and ex- Resources Council (CTHRC) can jor forays into Canada. issues, depressed freight rates and perience levels – will only make the play in helping to tell the industry’s Funding for the project came competition for labour tougher. story; because we do have a good from CTA, CTHRC, BCTA, one to tell. Also, we are stronger AMTA, STA, MTA, OTA and Due to our dedicated customers and steady freight volumes when we work in partnership. APTA plus a group of seven carriers Arnold Bros. Transport Ltd. is currently hiring for FAST approved Recently, CTA, a group of its car- whose people, equipment and facili- O/O SINGLE & TEAMS rier members, CTHRC and the ties will serve as spokespeople and provincial associations embarked on backdrop for the show. an exciting new joint initiative that In addition to highlighting the will bring a highlight reel of career broad spectrum of careers in truck- opportunities in the Canadian trucking, the production will also high- ing industry to television screens light the technological advances that across Canada and through are driving the safety,environmental 227($069$1&289(502175($/226,1*/(23(1%2$5'&'186$ YouTube, Google Video and other and economic performance of the Internet media to prospective talent industry in the 21st century. O/O’s: See how our fuel cap can REQUIREMENTS: not only here, but around the globe. But of course, it is the people that EHQH¿W\RXULQFRPHSRWHQWLDOSHUPLOH 1Year OTR Experience CDN/USA Eligible While there is plenty of informa- make this industry, so CONTACT: Fast Card tion promoting careers in trucking who better to promote careers KARI RANONIS (Milton) Good Drivers Abstract available in standard paper docu- in trucking but our current H[W Customer Service & Safety Oriented [email protected] or ments or on various Web pages, get- professionals? So stay tuned and as MURRAY DRAPER (Winnipeg) ting the industry’s message out to they say,check your local TV listings the demographic we are after or Google it. ■ [email protected] through the modern media is a next JOHN KERR (Calgary) logical step. – David Bradley is chief executive [email protected] Later this year, the trucking officer of the Canadian Trucking industry’s story (which is currently Alliance.

A new online video information series from Truck News and KRTS Transportation Specialists www.TheDriversSeat.ca

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March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 19

any category is a significant We can all celebrate, even in bad times achievement. The Vehicle Graphics Design While everyone in the trucking ing records of the 35 inductees Awards, sponsored by 3M community is concentrating on Private dating back to 1990. Canada adds the colour and dra- keeping things afloat these days, Links The safety records of these hall ma to our annual awards lunch- here’s a vote for taking time to of fame members are extraordi- eon. This marks the 25th year of acknowledge excellence. Bruce nary and everyone in this indus- these awards and the competition Trucking associations through- Richards try should be proud of them. attracts entries from across the out Canada conduct annual Nomination forms are available country. Awards are presented in awards ceremonies to recognize on the PMTC Web site, along with a number of categories based on those that contribute to the in- the commitment to excellence a description of the criteria for vehicle type, and are shared by dustry and we believe it is impor- of PMTC, its members, and the entry. While the award winners the fleet and its graphics house. tant to continue to celebrate the sponsors that help us maintain are, in the estimation of the The graphics competition is best in class, maybe even more the programs. judges the best of the best, it is open to all truck fleets, private or important that we do it when the Some may ask why bother par- also a mark of distinction for any for-hire, PMTC member or not, as industry as a whole is suffering. ticipating in awards programs driver to be nominated, and we we encourage the entire trucking Thus, we’re pleased to announce such as these when the industry is encourage the participation of all community to put on its finest and that the 2010 awards season of working through what might be our members. show off just a little. Many of the the Private Motor Truck Council the worst recession in decades. The Private Fleet Safety entries come via the graphics in- of Canada is open and applica- The answer is that the current sit- Awards, sponsored by Zurich, are dustry and we welcome their role tions are already coming in. uation, as bad as it is, won’t last open to all private fleets in in making this such a great event. The PMTC awards are present- forever and there are still many Canada. Awards are available for Award winners are featured in ed during our annual conference individuals and companies that fleets in three categories based on the PMTC’s own magazine, The in June each year.This event com- excel at what they do. Their ef- fleet size. Past award winners Counsellor, and other industry bines educational forums and forts deserve recognition and the have not only demonstrated ex- magazines such as Truck News.So networking with people from all state of the economy does not im- cellent on-road safety records, join in and enjoy some free pro- sectors of the industry, with the pact that. but have in place the programs motion, whether a fleet or a presentation of awards that cele- The PMTC awards program that deliver those results. The graphics house, we welcome your brate some of the people and provides an opportunity to reflect awards are as much about recog- entries. Visit www.pmtc.ca and fleets that contribute so much to with pride on the people that nizing the whole package as they follow the links to submit your trucking in Canada. make the trucking industry such are about the on-road perform- entries online. This year’s conference takes an important part of the nation’s ance. It takes a well-managed We look forward to an ever in- place June 18 at Kingbridge output. safety program built on solid creasing participation level and Conference Centre in King City, Here’s a brief overview of the principles to achieve long-term invite everyone to join us at the Ont., just outside Toronto. The awards and how to participate: results. June conference when the awards PMTC’s annual awards are a The Hall of Fame for Simply completing the applica- are presented. ■ feature of the conference, and Professional Drivers, sponsored tion (available at www.pmtc.ca) are recognized as a pivotal event by Huron Services, a CPC will provide any fleet manager a – The Private Motor Truck Council in the trucking community. The Logistics Company inducts up to clear pathway, or a ‘how to’ for is the only national association awards are some of the most four professional drivers each implementing such a safety pro- dedicated to the private trucking prestigious in the industry, and year. The Hall of Fame resides on gram. The awards program crite- community. Your comments or have been offered by the PMTC our Web site at www.pmtc.ca and ria are based on the best practices questions can be addressed to for many years. They represent a visitor can review the outstand- of private fleets and winning in [email protected]. Safety A new online video information series from Truck News and KRTS Transportation Specialists Simple security measures can deter cargo thieves When it comes to cargo theft, and video cameras, meanwhile, will Drivers who are expected to do thieves know what they want. Ask the help to identify any unwanted trac- that will simply need access to facili- www.TheDriversSeat.ca Shipments of electronics and liquor Expert tors that drive into the area. ties such as washrooms or cafeterias have always been popular targets Policies and procedures have a before beginning a journey. because the goods are easy to sell, Dave role to play in security efforts as Even human resources personnel and thefts of copper and aluminum Roth well. Police and insurance providers can play a role in security. While Informative, entertaining, and focused increase with every surge in com- alike have the best chance at track- cross-border drivers need to offer on the safety and compliance topics modity prices. ing down a stolen shipment if they criminal background checks to earn A $45,000 load of aluminum pushed against each other or backed are informed about an incident as FAST cards, the information can be you care about goods can disappear forever once it in close to a building to limit access soon as possible. A load stolen on a reviewed more often than the crosses the scale in a scrap yard. It to the doors. Saturday morning and reported the mandatory five-year cycles. New seems today thieves are able to turn Well-designed pin locks can pres- following Monday will usually be employees who work on cross-docks almost any type of cargo into quick ent an effective deterrent of another long gone. or in the operations centre may re- cash. Recent increases in theft-relat- sort. Some models might shatter un- For the sake of personal safety, quire background checks of their ed insurance claims prove that der the force of a tractor’s fifth drivers should be discouraged from own. In fact, everyone has a role to thieves are more than willing to take wheel, but cone-shaped designs can trying to stop a theft that’s in play in the security of the valuable advantage of any opportunities that keep king pins from aligning with progress, but they can be coached to cargo, largely by limiting access to present themselves – and some op- the fifth wheel’s jaws. record information such as licence information about contents that are portunities are more apparent than And one of the best pin locks of plate numbers or any other details inside the trailer in the first place. others. all comes in the form of a coupled that might help to identify the thief. It is all too easy for someone to While most cargo thefts can be tractor,which presents yet one more The security-minded policies do overhear a discussion between two traced to poorly-secured yards, barrier for a thief to overcome. not end in the fleet yard, either. friends at a truck stop, and a bill of proactive fleets are using a number Technology has also presented a Drivers who are aware of their sur- lading left on an exposed counter of initiatives to discourage thieves new generation of barriers that roundings and watch for suspicious can be read by anyone.Thieves need who would otherwise unload a trail- thieves want to avoid. vehicles are less likely to face a hi- to steal information before they er’s contents or even hook up to the A growing selection of tracking jacking in the middle of the night. have any opportunity to steal the Subscription service starts king pin and drive away. devices powered by solar cells or Dispatchers can help by planning loads that they desire. A commit- at low price of $7.99/month Since thieves tend to show little batteries can be used to locate stolen routes so that high-value loads do ment to security begins by limiting interest in empty trailers, one ap- loads or establish a “geofence” not need to be dropped off in a de- their access in every possible way. ■ proach is to unload valuable freight around the fleet yard, sending an serted yard, and by scheduling trips that needs to be retained overnight alert to a manager’s cell phone as so that those hauling high-value car- – This month’s expert is Dave Roth. or on a weekend. While it can take soon as equipment crosses the invis- go have the chance to travel togeth- Dave is the Ontario regional manag- Boring doesn't an hour to unload 44 skids into a se- ible barrier. er. There will always be security in er of safety and training services for cure warehouse, the move could Visible fences aside, a number of numbers. Markel Insurance Company of protect $1 million in cargo. the features required for the cross- Shippers have their own part to Canada and has more than 20 years work here! Other efforts have focused on lim- border C-TPAT initiative can be play in the process. Fleets can frus- experience in managing safety and iting access to the trailer contents, ei- used to secure any yard. Access trate potential thieves by requiring operations in the trucking industry. ther through the use of high-quality through a gate can be limited by drivers to keep moving during the Send your questions, feedback and Find out more at www.TheDriversSeat.ca padlocks or by dropping each pair of keypads, RF transponders, or per- first two hours after picking up a comments about this column to trailers so that the barn doors are sonnel in the office. Proper lighting shipment. [email protected].

Drivers Seat hor.indd 1 06/11/09 9:16 AM pg 20 tw mar 2/17/10 3:39 PM Page 1

O UR 17th A NNUAL

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ɰȃȐȵȵȐȽȃȐIn addition to a ring fit for a champion, Co-founding sponsors of this award... 2010’s honouree will also receive $3,000 CASH and a VACATION FOR TWO up to $2,500! Nominations must be received by June 1110 , 20 The Owner/Operator of the Year should be…

Name: Address: Town/City: Prov: Postal code: Home phone: Bus. phone: Email: Number of years in trucking/commodity hauled: Primary truck and engine: Number of vehicles: Contracted to (if applicable): How do you maximize fuel efficiency?: My choice is based on: Safe driving record H Industry/community involvement H Heroism H Going "Green" Initiatives H Explain:

(Include additional information on separate paper if insufficient space) Nominated by: Phone: Mail completed forms to “AWARD” Truck News/Truck West, Attn: Kathy Penner 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, Ontario M3C 4J2 FORM MUST BE FILLED IN COMPLETELY AND NOMINEE MUST HAVE CLEAN DRIVER'S ABSTRACT pg 21 tw mar v2 2/17/10 4:45 PM Page 21

March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 21 TaxTax Talk new My Payment service, which lets Processing the process: Tips for filing your income tax return you make payments in one simple Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or turn, you must keep all documents online transaction. You can use this use an accountant to file your per- Tax until 2016. service if you have access to online sonal income tax return, the more banking at a participating financial Talk When do I get my refund? knowledge you have the better off institution.Your payment amount is you’ll be. Tax time induces so much Scott CRA usually processes paper re- subject to the daily limit for online angst because the process is over- Taylor turns in four to six weeks and elec- banking you have established with whelming. Canada Revenue tronically-filed returns in two weeks. your financial institution. Agency’s General Income Tax and Turnaround times are affected by How do I speed up the process? Benefit Guide for 2009 is 62 pages guides and schedules for any when you file. If you submit your re- long – all that to help you complete a province or territory in PDF format turn by mid-March you should ex- File your return electronically five-page income tax return. That and print them out on your own pect at least a two-week faster turn- including a Form T1-DD(1), said, at our office we get the same printer. around than if you’d filed at the end Direct Deposit Request-Individuals. basic questions each year: If you don’t want to use your own of April. CRA will pay interest on Otherwise, set up direct deposit for ink and paper you can order the your tax refund if it takes longer your tax refund (and other tax cred- Where do I live? forms online and have printed than 31 days after April 30 for them it payments, such as GST/HST) us- In an industry where many people copies mailed to you. Or you can to process it. This year the interest ing your My Account service on the literally live in their truck, the ques- pick them up at the nearest post of- rate is at 3% (no surprise here but CRA Web site, or by mailing a T1- tion isn’t so simple. fice or Service Canada office, or call the interest charged to you on over- DD form now to the same tax centre Generally, you use the tax pack- 800-959-2221 to have them mailed due taxes will be 5%). where you send your tax return so it age for the province or territory to you. If you just can’t wait and need to is processed before you file this where you resided on Dec. 31, 2009. know where your refund is you can year’s return. The combination of Can I get forms CRA would have mailed you a tax use the CRA Web site’s My Account electronic filing and direct deposit for previous years? package based on their records. If feature to track its status. If you means CRA can kick out refunds your residency is unclear, determin- General tax guides and forms are aren’t registered to use My Account, much faster today than years ago. If ing factors include where your home available online going back all the you can get immediate access to you file before mid-March you’ll (owned or leased) and personal way to 1985. Yup, you can catch up your refund information using the probably have the money in your property are and where your spouse on 23 years of returns. Quick Access service. Otherwise call bank account in 10 to 15 days. So or common-law partner or depend- CRA’s automated phone service Tax those of you who get the ol’ “instant How long should I keep ents reside. Other ties that may be Information Phone Service (T.I.P.S.) cash back” on your refund through a my documents? relevant include addresses for your at 800-267-6999. tax preparer are giving away hun- driver’s licence, bank accounts, and In general, keep your supporting As proof of identification you will dreds of dollars just to have your health insurance. documents for six years after the have to give: your social insurance money sometimes only two weeks year that the related return was number, your month and year of sooner.Ask yourself if it’s worth it. ■ What tax forms do I use filed. If you file on time every year, birth, and the total income amount and where can I find them? you should have receipts and docu- you entered on line 150 of your 2008 – Scott Taylor is vice-president of The most convenient place is the mentation to support your claims on or 2009 tax return. TFS Group, a Waterloo, Ont., com- forms and publications area of the your 2009 through 2004 tax returns. pany that provides accounting, fuel How do I make a payment? Canada Revenue Agency Web site If you’re filing late you must keep tax reporting, and other business (www.cra-arc.gc.ca). You can down- all your supporting documents for Tax payments are due by midnight services for truck fleets and O/Os. load the General Income Tax six years from the time you file. If April 30.You can deliver a cheque to For info, visit www.tfsgroup.com or Return for 2009 and any related you’re just now filing your 2002 re- your local post office or use CRA’s call 800-461-5970. Opinion about work/life conflict for years, and policy makers turn their atten- Well enough to face the future? but it’s only recently, with tighten- tion to “human factors” in road ing labour markets and studies safety, so too must industry begin The future of trucking – a topic that show how work/life imbalance to pay attention to wellness issues that’s on everyone’s mind as the Voice of affects the bottom line – there’s a that drivers face on the road. industry begins to pull out from the O/O huge cost to low job satisfaction Everyone acknowledges that the worst couple of years in mod- and higher job stress – that em- trucking is a tough and often dan- ern transportation history – was ployers are starting to recognize gerous job. On top of that, many Joanne also the subject of a symposium that it’s not good enough any more drivers don’t eat well, they get lit- Ritchie hosted in Winnipeg Feb. 17-19 by to talk about best practices, you ac- tle meaningful physical activity, the University of Manitoba’s for- tually have to be the best practice. and they often don’t get proper ward-thinking Transport Institute Trucking’s not quite there yet – rest. Making and keeping regular (UMTI). last word, I’d like to have seen hu- it should be – but it’s getting there medical appointments is just a pipe Some of the industry’s biggest man resources – the men and faster as more women get behind dream for many drivers, whose shooters from both sides of the women who’ll be driving the indus- the wheel. Right now, only about personal priorities are almost al- border were there to ponder how try into the future – brought into 3-5% of commercial drivers in ways trumped by compliance and trucking will evolve in response to the discussion a whole lot earlier. Canada are women, but that num- operational realities. changing freight movement pat- Don’t get me wrong, everyone’s ber is growing. Many organizations Wellness should top everyone’s terns, environmental concerns, fuel talking about shifting demograph- and employers are making a con- list of concerns in any discussion price volatility, and labour avail- ics, and the threat of a qualified certed effort to attract women to on the future of trucking. If the ability over the next 20 years. driver shortage has been scaring the industry, as the traditional work, the work environment, or No discussion about the future is the daylights out of truck owners labour pool of drivers dries up. the cumulative effects of the diffi- possible without tackling the very for years. Women are agents of change. cult lifestyle compromise a driver’s large issues of climate change, But trucking has been slow to They simply won’t put up with a lot physical or mental health, then the emerging vehicle technologies, and understand how profound an im- of things that men think they have most technologically-advanced massive investments in infrastruc- pact demographic changes will to live with. Take home time, for trucks, the finest roads our tax dol- ture, but it was the labour question have on our industry. Only a hand- example. Women and men, espe- lars can buy, and the best managed – where do truck drivers fit into ful of enlightened companies have cially if they have young families companies in the country, won’t be the equation? – that enticed me to begun to focus on human resource or aging parents want more home worth the paper your welfare venture to Winterpeg in mid- management as a critical success time, and women are questioning cheque is written on. February. factor, and concepts like retention, why they can’t have it. And let’s A safe workplace, a decent wage, In a session on the future of succession planning, career devel- face it – a lot of things that will at- a healthy lifestyle, and good trucking human resources, with a opment and work-life balance tract women to the job are things life/work balance: these are rea- focus on women in trucking, I had have only recently made it into the that will make the industry better sonable employment expectations, the pleasure of sharing the podium lexicon when we talk about human and safer for everybody. Who and the kind of things that are go- with two of my long-time trucking resources. doesn’t want safer truck parking, ing to attract anyone to a trucking colleagues, Linda Gauthier, execu- Trucking isn’t the only industry laundry facilities, and cleaner toi- career. Want to get – and keep – tive director of the Canadian plagued by the dreaded S-word; al- lets? And what’s wrong with a women and men excited about Trucking Human Resources most every sector of the economy more ergonomic truck and seats a the job of trucking? Change Council, and Ellen Voie, president is facing shortages as the popula- that fit? the job. ■ and CEO of the Wisconsin-based tion of the industrialized world Another critical area employers Women in Trucking organization. grows older, and peoples’ attitudes will have to address is the health – Joanne Ritchie is executive director I was the last speaker, in the last and expectations toward jobs and and lifestyle issues that are driving of OBAC.Are you ready for change? session, on the last day of the event, work changes. – or keeping – many people away E-mail her at [email protected] or call and even though I love having the The gurus have been talking from the industry. As regulators toll free 888-794-9990. pg 22-23 tw mar v2 2/17/10 4:47 PM Page 22

Page 22 TRUCK NEWS March 2010 OEM/DealerOEM/Dealer News Long and tall “dead and gone,” says Navistar’s Hebe

TAMPA, Fla. – Navistar execu- Technical business, while Class 4 to 5 trucks orders in the last 90 days of tive Jim Hebe has proclaimed the have grown to 30% of the market. the year. days of long nose conventional Correspondent He also alluded to the fact that “The concentration of power in trucks “dead and gone” among a the Class 4 and 5 vehicles will this industry is changing dramati- series of pronouncements that John G. have a new manufacturer in the cally,” Hebe said, noting how a suggest North America’s trucking Smith next “couple of weeks.” handful of key buyers can have a industry is about to face a series The lighter vehicle segment will dramatic influence on a specific of radical changes. become even more important if brand’s market share. The outspoken senior vice-pres- regulations have added $25,000 to Hebe is right in predictions that In terms of the equipment that ident of North American sales op- $30,000 to the price of a truck, and would see the trucking industry everyone buys, he referred to fur- erations pointed to the growing the latest 2010 emissions will ask lose more of the long-haul market ther integration, with electronics use of intermodal shipments, for $10,000 more from an industry to railways. and electrical systems becoming a shorter truck hauls, and the that has been unable to reclaim a Railways are now competitive key focus.While he doesn’t expect greater importance of the top 30 dime of these investments in the in hauls as short as 400 to 600 much growth in the use of truck fleets in terms of vehicle value of the used vehicles. miles, which will lead trucks to fo- fuel cells, he did refer to product sales. Equally, he suggested the A $118,000 tractor is depreciat- cus on more regional service, he introductions that are focusing on idea of “phony down payments” is ing $30,000 in a single year, suggested.As a result, the number natural gas. gone in an era where fleets are Hebe said. “What do you think a of Class 8 trucks will continue to There will be further “refine- struggling to deal with the depre- finance company is going to think decline, and those that remain will ment” of technologies to meet ciation on vehicles equipped with about when they look at that be moving higher densities of 2010 emission standards, he costly emission controls. amount of risk?” Owner/opera- freight. added. The next frontiers in terms “We’re in a whole new world tors, for example, might need to “It’s going to be tough on man- of greener vehicles will include today,” he said during a keynote put down $40,000 on a $130,000 ufacturers, it’s going to be tough fuel economy, parasitic losses such address during the annual meet- truck. And as fleets adjust the de- on dealers, it’s going to be tough as the amount of drag in the rear ing of the Technology and preciation rates on equipment, on suppliers,” he added, noting axle, and the ability to recapture Maintenance Council. they will begin to lose more of the how maintenance services will energy.“There’s a lot of heat gen- While classic long-haul conven- competitive advantage they have need to change in the process. erated on that truck and clearly tional trucks accounted for 25% over rail. Truck manufacturers who have we got to find ways to use it.” of Class 8 sales in 2000, the mar- It isn’t the only change to ex- now integrated their own engines “Five years from now, pouring a ket share has since dropped to pect in the truck market. need to establish a service net- second fluid into a truck to meet 5.8%. “It ain’t coming back. That The market for Class 4-8 trucks work that the buyers of Cummins, 2010 emissions will be obsolete,” truck is going to be rather unique – once “normalized” at 350,000 Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel added Hebe. Navistar remains on the highway,” he said, suggest- units a year – is now half that size. came to expect, he added. committed to its in-cylinder solu- ing that traditional buyers of the Last year, North American Class 8 Manufacturers might also be fo- tion, but it is exploring the poten- equipment will have trouble get- sales slumped to around 100,000 cusing more attention on the tial use of a solid-based SCR. ting financing. trucks, while there were less than largest customers of all. Pining for the good old days? Part of the blame goes to the 50,000 of the lighter Class 6 and 7 The 30 largest carriers and two Forget it. cost of emission-controlling options sold. The latter trucks ac- leasing companies accounted for “Don’t look for it to ever go equipment. Since 2002, emission count for less than 20% of the 47% of 2009 sales, and 60% of the back where it was,” he said. ■ SAF-Holland looking to advance the evolution of integrated systems By Lou Smyrlis from a competitor and no axle or systems is the preferred offering WARRENTON, Mo. – Systems braking systems offered. That of the trailer industry today, such as king pins and couplings, evolved to the CB-400 product, OEMs still want various levels of landing gear, suspensions, bumper which had a focus on axle integra- integration and customization to tubes and liftgates make up about tion and increased system content. meet their specific needs. 15% of total trailer costs. The axle, however, was still non- “Regional markets are regional Whether such systems are sold dressed and was available only markets. You have to pay atten- directly to trailer manufacturers with a drum brake. Significant tion to that. You can’t be success- or to fleets and owner/operators in add-ons were required: hubs, ful otherwise,” he emphasized, the aftermarket, it’s a critical part drums, slacks and brake actuator, adding that SAF-Holland is mak- of the North American trucking bearings, oils and seals, tires and ing localized investments in manu- sector to be in and one that has rims and pneumatic control. facturing facilities, such as been moving towards integrated The latest offering, the CBX40, Warrenton, around the globe. The systems. Back in 2006 The Holland however shows how far the com- company’s global design centres CBX40 Group and Germany-based Otto pany has come in terms of axle in- focus on the needs of regional rep- Sauer Achsenfabrik GmbH – tegration and system content. The resentatives who have direct ties disc brake technology.” commonly known as SAF – CBX40 comes with a fully-dressed to customer requirements. Although the SAF-Holland merged operations with a vision to axle and purchasers have a choice The 100,000 sq.-ft. Warrenton merger that is making such new advance their position, direction of either drum or disc brakes. The plant has the capacity to produce product technology possible is rel- and impact on the heavy-duty CBX40 also has complete brake 80,000 axles per year and is basi- atively new, both companies were market employing a strategy of hardware and requires limited cally capable of producing an axle very mature names in the heavy- “global reach but local touch” add-ons (basically the tires, rims every three minutes. Its axle pro- duty markets on their respective in introducing new integrated and brake control valves). duction processes are based on sides of the Atlantic and shared technologies. “All the (part) interfaces are lean manufacturing (the plant similar beginnings. This January the new entity, controlled by our expertise and averages about 14 inventory turns Holland began in 1910 as the SAF-Holland, brought magazine it all works together,” said per year with customers typically Safety Release Clevis Company editors together in Warrenton, Schewerda, adding such integra- receiving their orders in three and shifted its focus to the heavy Missouri to go over the consider- tion makes for improved perform- weeks or faster if necessary), with truck industry at the start of the able progress they’ve made to ance and lower cost of ownership a one-piece flow process. All data Second World War. SAF dates date towards this lofty goal. for trailer buyers. is bar code driven, ensuring each back to 1881 and the invention of Warrenton is home to the compa- SAF-Holland is also banking on part is made to the correct spec’s. the “Zill’sche two-way plough.” It ny’s axle and suspension plant, leveraging its global experience to SAF-Holland holds particularly transitioned into manufacturing which opened in February 2009 migrate advanced axle and brak- high hopes for disc brake axles for heavy-duty trucks by and marked a milestone for the ing systems into the North technology. 1950. company in terms of integrating American market. Outside of “SAF-Holland has an installed The product synergies between new technologies and expanding North America it has a manufactur- base of over one million suspen- the companies at the time of the its footprint in North America. ing presence in Brazil, Germany, sion systems with disc brakes in merger meant the two companies SAF-Holland’s Steffen India, Japan, China, Thailand and Europe. You get a lot of feedback didn’t need to focus their initial ef- Schewerda illustrated the compa- Malaysia. from your customers and we’ve forts on closing redundant plants ny’s evolution with the example of But SAF-Holland’s Sam Martin had 10 years to learn how parts and terminating superfluous prod- an air suspension system. Before cautioned that his company has no work together best,” Schewerda ucts, as is often the case with mega moving to a “systems” focus, its intention of taking a “one size fits pointed out. “We will play a key mergers, and could concentrate on NS-400 air suspension was a basic all across the world” approach and role in managing the North designing new technologies, said product with the slider purchased understands that while integrated American transition from drum to Schewerda. ■ pg 22-23 tw mar v2 2/17/10 4:47 PM Page 23

March 2010 TRUCK NEWS Page 23

Get a ‘no cost’ extended warranty on Kenworth

KIRKLAND, Wash. – Kenworth is demonstrating confidence in its EPA2010-compliant trucks by offering Canadian customers a three-year extended warranty at no cost, if they finance their truck through Paccar Financial. The no-cost extended warranty program covers Class 8 trucks purchased over a short time period, effective beginning Jan. 26, 2010, the company says. The deal is available retroactively on vehicles sold after Jan. 26, the company notes, but quantities are limited. The extended warranty covers three years or MACK’S CLEARTECH SCR 480,000 kilometres. “Kenworth and Paccar Financial stand firmly behind new Kenworth Mack shows off ‘ClearTech’ SCR system Class 8 trucks ordered from the factory and equipped with the new environmentally-friendly, 2010 emission-compliant engines,” said Gary LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Mack Trucks yet,” said David McKenna, Mack’s Moore, Kenworth assistant general manager for marketing and sales.“In showcased its ClearTech emissions director of powertrain sales and Canada, our Extended Warranty Program’s bonus two years of warranty control system with selective cat- marketing. “It reduces NOx emis- coverage carries a value of more than $5,700 per eligible truck. For de- alytic reduction (SCR) at the re- sions to extremely minute levels, tails, visit a Kenworth dealer or call Paccar Financial at 800-777-8525. ■ cent World of Concrete show. while effectively eliminating DPF Mack says its ClearTech SCR active regens. That means better technology has been proven to fuel efficiency and reduced operat- Great Dane acquires Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies improve fuel economy by up to ing costs.” 5% while reducing active diesel Mack says its ClearTech emis- SAVANNAH, Ga. – Great Dane tribution, parts and service centres. particulate filter (DPF) regenera- sions systems have completed Trailers has acquired Johnson “Great Dane is pleased to join tions. The company has been pro- more than five million miles of Refrigerated Truck Bodies, a manu- Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies ducing trucks with ClearTech field testing in North America. facturer of insulated fiberglass rein serving the complex needs of re- emissions control technologies “ClearTech doesn’t change the frigerated bodies and an all-electric frigerated customers,” said Great since November 2009, months design or operation of Mack’s refrigeration solution. Dane president and COO Phill ahead of the stringent EPA2010 great MP Series engines, and Johnson was founded in 1932 in Pines.“Both our companies and our emissions standards, the company we’ve actually been able to in- Rice Lake, Wis. Great Dane an- customers will benefit from this claims. crease horsepower ratings,” said nounced the acquisition in early partnership.” The World of Concrete show fea- McKenna. “Plus the improved fuel February, saying the purchase rein- “This is an exciting milestone for tured Mack Granite concrete mix- economy shrinks the trucks’ car- forces the company’s commitment our company, and we look forward ers with ClearTech. Those trucks bon footprint, reduces operating to the food service industry. Great to scaling our growth as part of also participated in the Mack costs and cuts the need for import- Dane plans to support and expand Great Dane,” added Johnson presi- Driving Skills Safety Challenge ed oil.” Johnson’s business while sharing dis- dent, Ron Ricci. ■ outside the show hall. Mack claims the diesel exhaust “Mack’s ClearTech does it all – fluid required by the SCR system and does it better than other sys- will only need to be topped up once tems which aren’t even available for every two to three refuels. ■ Ryder opens massive used truck facility

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Ryder has an- are honoured to provide business- nounced the opening of a large re- es with quality used trucks to sup- tail used vehicle centre for the port their fleet needs, especially Greater Toronto Area (GTA) locat- during these challenging economic ed in Oakville.The centre is located times.” at 3422 Superior Court at Highway The facility is located on more 403/QEW and Burloak Drive. than four acres to showcase 300- “The Greater Toronto Area is an plus vehicles, including panel vans, important and developing market light- and heavy-duty straight for us,” said Tony Tegnelia, Ryder’s trucks, and tractors. Each vehicle is president of global fleet manage- Ryder Road Ready certified and ment solutions. “This is the second comes with a 30-day warranty and retail used vehicle location Ryder complete vehicle maintenance CUSTOMIZED: The Chrome Shop Mafia had its way with this Freightliner has built in Canada within the last history. To view Ryder’s complete Coronado, converting it into a show truck to be proud of. year.This mega retail centre will be used vehicle sales inventory at one of Ryder’s largest used truck the Oakville retail centre, Chrome Shop Mafia tricks out Cascadia, Coronado retail centres in North America visit www.ryderusedtrucks.ca or and the largest one in Canada. We www.ryder.com. ■ PORTLAND, Ore.–Freightliner said Joe “Lil’ Joe” Overfelt. “The recently turned two trucks over Coronado’s traditional styling and Navistar to develop natural gas-powered MaxxForce 13 to Chrome Shop Mafia to have modern upgrades make it an all- them tricked out. Included were around crowd pleaser.” WARRENVILLE, Ill. – A new partnership will allow Navistar to build nat- a Freightliner Cascadia and a The Coronado’s interior received ural gas-powered International MaxxForce 13 engines for the North Coronado. upgrades such as custom details on American market, the company has announced. Navistar inked a concept “Both the Cascadia and the the seats and dash. development agreement with Clean Air Power which will result in a Coronado are great looking trucks The Cascadia, meanwhile, was giv- MaxxForce 13 engine that runs off natural gas, according to the company. with first rate performance – we en a ‘hot rod’ appearance. The “This agreement supports Navistar’s strategy of product leadership, offer- couldn’t wait to see how the Chrome Chrome Shop Mafia team gave it a ing our customers differentiated products merging the unique skills of Clean Shop Mafia would blend style with multi-colour “sunburst” paint Air Power in natural gas combustion and the knowledge Navistar has in diesel efficiency, and take the trucks to the scheme and added custom rear combustion,” said Jack Allen, president of Navistar’s North American Truck next level,” said Melissa Clausen, fenders, axle covers and light panels. Group. “The volatility of global diesel fuel prices and the significant natural director of product marketing, Inside, the Cascadia received cus- gas reserves available in the United States make natural gas an attractive op- Freightliner Trucks. tom-embroidered seats and floor tion for customers focused on managing their fuel costs.” The Coronado was given a custom mats, painted dash panels that match “As we assess changing market conditions, the ability to offer customers four-colour paint job and stainless the trucks’ exterior, and additional choice is important not only in our US markets, but in our global markets steel sun visor as well as hub covers, driver comfort accessories. as well,” added Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group. “As we fiberglass double hump fenders and “This truck has a modern new age develop this product for our International brand truck customers, custom frame covers. look that everyone is sure to love,” we will also be able to leverage the technology in other markets and prod- “This new Coronado is a pleasing said Overfelt.“The Cascadia’s aero- ucts as appropriate.” sight for any owner/operator – and dynamic features not only improve The natural gas-powered MaxxForce will initially be marketed to the re- we simply enhanced its good looks,” its styling but saves at the pump.” ■ gional haul tractor market with hopes it can run 400 miles between fills. ■ pg 24 tw mar v2 2/17/10 4:49 PM Page 24

Page 24 TRUCK WEST March 2010 FleetFleet News Canadian fleets among ‘Best Fleets to Drive For’ Day & Ross picks up Saskatoon food hauler ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Canadian fleets once again fared well in the SASKATOON, Sask. – Truckload in Saskatoon which opens up new Truckload Carriers Association (TCA)/CarriersEdge Best Fleets to Drive food hauler G. Edwards lanes in western Canada for our For survey. Of the 17 winners, seven hail from Canada including: Bison Enterprises has been acquired by truckload network and we gain ca- Transport; Brian Kurtz Trucking; Laidlaw Carriers Van; MacKinnon Day & Ross Transportation Group, pacity to grow our LTL,small pack- Transport; MSM Transportation; Shulist Trucking; and Yanke Group of the companies have announced. age and dedicated businesses.” Companies. Now in its second year, the annual survey aims to recognize “Day & Ross is committed to the Jeff Edwards will remain with for-hire trucking companies that provide the best workplace experiences for growth of its business throughout the company, joining the Day & their drivers. To qualify, carriers must operate 10 or more trucks and be North America for the benefit of Ross management team, the com- nominated by at least one of their drivers. our current and future customers, pany claims. CarriersEdge conducts the survey and compiles the results, measuring and this acquisition will place us G. Edwards Enterprises was each nominee’s range and depth of offered programs and overall effective- closer to that goal,” says John founded in 1977 by Garry ness of those programs as well as the response of surveyed drivers. Doucet, president and CEO.“With Edwards. Today, it primarily hauls “This is the second time the survey has been conducted, and the data that the addition of Edwards we are produce, meat and other fresh and has emerged from it has been very useful to the industry in terms of identi- able to make a number of enhance- frozen food items. Day & Ross says fying trends and where things are headed,” said Chris Burruss,TCA’s presi- ments across our group of busi- it will integrate its newest acquisi- dent.As an example, CarriersEdge president Mark Murrell pointed out that nesses. We gain a modern terminal tion with its Fastrax division. ■ “the survey reveals that fleet sizes went down overall last year, but a number of the Best Fleets actually grew in size. Many of the Best Fleets also took Meyers group passed down to daughters advantage of low prices and interest rates to invest in new equipment.” This year’s survey indicated that many fleets cut down their contribution BELLEVILLE, Ont. – Meyers Transport, Mortrans and Mosaic to employees’ 401(k) and RSP plans. Transportation Services (MTS) Logistics, Evan and Larry have de- However, respondents also noted an increase in investment in ‘green’ Group owners Evan and Larry cided the time is right for their technologies. Meyers have announced they are daughters to take over, the company “More and more bonus programs seem to be tied directly to environ- passing the torch to their daughters said in a release. mental initiatives like fuel efficiency and idle time,” Murrell noted. ■ Jacquie and Natalie. Jacquie Meyers is the daughter of After 37 years of running Meyers Evan. She’ll assume the role of president of the MTS Group of G Companies. Larry’s daughter E T Natalie Meyers will be serving as P chairperson. The company says A Y P O Jacquie will be focused on growth, E U R R sustainability and logistics. She has worked in the industry for more than eight years, focusing on pricing, operations and sales. She has also managed Mosaic Logistics for the Western Canada’s Trucking Newspaper and Equipment Buyer’s Guide past two years, the company says. Chairperson Natalie Meyers will focus on operations, safety, administration and finance. She joined the company in 1995 and most recently served as vice-president of eastern operations. Meyers Transport was founded in 1927 and SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBE has been family-run ever since. “Transferring the control of the MOVING? company to the fourth generation READING SOMEONE is a rare milestone for any family ELSE’S COPY? REQUALIFY! business, and one we are very Send us your new address proud of,” the company said in a re- Have your own! in writing on this form. lease. “Evan and Larry will contin- NOW!NOW! ue to support the new leadership as Company ______directors of the company.” ■ Name ______Title______Address ______TST Overland City ______Province ______Postal Code______Express expands Telephone: ( ) ______Fax: ( )______cross-dock capacity E-Mail ______CHANGE OF ADDRESS ONLY MISSISSAUGA, Ont. – TST 1 1 4 Overland Express has expanded Serial # from code line on mailing label its Mississauga terminal to improve cross-dock operations. Canada USA Foreign Charge Card Cheque Enclosed The upgraded facility features $ $ $ Visa No 114 doors (20 more than before) 41.28 99.95 99.95 and higher ceilings, providing 1 Year Mastercard No (38.95 + 2.33 GST) the carrier with greater flexibili- Amex No ty in serving its customers, TST 2 Years 65.66 Overland Express has an- (61.95 + 3.71 GST) Expiry Date Signature Date nounced. TST’s primary cross- NB, NS & NF Add 14% HST to Price / Quebec Residents Add QST (7.5%) To Total dock serves as the carrier’s hub CLIP and MAIL for most long-haul linehauls be- DO YOU WISH PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS tween eastern Canada and the TO RECEIVE OR 1) How many vehicles are based at or controlled from 5) Indicate your PRIMARY type of business by checking US or western Canadda. this location? Please indicate quantities by type: ONLY ONE of the following: With a) ■ For Hire/Contract Trucking (hauling for others) (CONTINUE TO — No. of Straight Trucks _____ No. of Trailers “We made the decision to move ■ _____ No. of Buses b) Lease/Rental forward with the investment in RECEIVE) — No. of Truck-Tractors _____ No. of Off-Road Vehicles c) ■ Food Production / Distribution / Beverages Payment to d) ■ Farming 2) Does this location operate, control or administer one this expansion to ensure that we or more vehicles in any of the following Gross Vehicle e) ■ Government (Fed., Prov., Local) Weight (GVW) categories? Please check YES or NO: f) ■ Public Utility (electric, gas, telephone) are ready for the increased busi- 14,969 kg. & over (33,001 lbs. & over)... ■ YES ■ NO g) ■ Construction / Mining / Sand & Gravel ness generated by the rebound in 11,794-14,968 kg. (26.001-33,000 lbs.). ■ YES ■ NO h) ■ Petroleum / Dry Bulk / Chemicals / Tank 8,846-11,793 kg. (19,501-26,000 lbs.)... ■ YES ■ NO i) ■ Manufacturing / Processing 12 Concorde Place, the economy,” said Rob O’Reilly, ■ YES ■ NO ■ ■ 4,536-8,845 kg. (10,000-19,500 lbs.)..... YES NO ji) ■ Retail Under 4,536 kg. (10,000 lbs.)...... ■ YES ■ NO Suite 800, president,TST Overland Express. jii) ■ Wholesale 3) This location operates, controls or administers: k) ■ Logging / Lumber “We have commitments to our ■ ■ Toronto, Ontario Diesel powered vehicles...... YES NO b) ■ Bus Transportation Signature Refrigerated vehicles...... ■ YES ■ NO current customers plus goals to m) ■ Other (Please specify) ______Pickups or Utility Vans...... ■ YES ■ NO M3C 4J2 continue our growth path. This Propane powered vehicles...... ■ YES ■ NO 6) Are you involved in the purchase of equipment or replacement parts? ...... ■ YES ■ NO 4) Do you operate maintenance facilities facility is key to our success in at this location? ...... ■ YES ■ NO 7) Are you responsible either directly or indirectly both areas.” ■ Date IF YES, do you employ mechanics?...... ■ YES ■ NO for equipment maintenance? . . . . ■ YES ■ NO TODAY! How do you thrive despite hostile driving environments and brutal economic conditions? Get a smarter tire program. With premium, bes t-in-class retreads. Backed by legendary service. Bandag. The company that has been leading the precured retreading industry for over 50 years. ROLL SMART. XFIND OUT HOW BANDAG COULD SAVE YOU 10% OR MORE ON TIRE COSTS. SEE BANDAG.COM/SAVE.

Bandag.indd 1 17/02/10 3:19 PM pg 26 tw mar v2 2/17/10 4:58 PM Page 26

Page 26 TRUCK WEST March 2010 MailMail Common sense: One very good Thank goodness for CBs! Dear Editor: the overheated bearing hub ran out reason not to support EOBRs of oil and the fire went out on its After reading several negative let- own. I would like to take this oppor- Dear Editor: his 10-hour break is up. ters regarding the OPP, I think it’s tunity to thank the Kapuskasing With an EOBR, he would be in only fair to let the readers know OPP detachment, the Val Rita fire Here we go again with the atti- violation, by the simple act of the OPP do more than just pick on department, and Murray’s O.K. tude that anyone against a new moving the truck 200 yards. us. On Jan. 9, 2010 I was westbound Tire in Val Rita, who had me back government incentive must be op- In reality, he’s far better rested approximately seven kilometres on the road by 1:15 p.m. Sunday erating illegally, or are at the very than someone who did not go west of Harty, Ont. when the guy afternoon! least, wrong in their thinking. I straight to the job; who instead behind me told me on the CB that Everyone involved was a great grew used to this “holier than stopped for a very poor night’s my trailer was on fire. In my right help but I would like to say a special thou” attitude from the OTA dur- sleep in a noisy, fume-filled truck mirror I saw what looked like a thank you to the driver on the CB. I ing their extensive speed limiter stop, then fought morning rush blown tire sparking on the road, so did not have time to notice who he campaign but I really didn’t ex- hour to get to the job. We use I thanked the driver on the CB drives for and he kept on going pect it from Evan MacKinnon in common sense, something that and pulled over onto the shoulder. when I pulled over – I can’t blame the February article on EOBRs. doesn’t seem to be recognized by Once I was stopped, I saw him as I had flammable liquid plac- In it, he states “If you’re not run- the governing bodies anymore, re- flames shooting approximately one ards on the trailer! Please feel free ning them, there’s only one reason sulting in more productivity, and foot into the air. Having 44,000 lbs to forward this e-mail to the govern- and its not a very good reason...” usually, better rested drivers. of isopropanol solution in the trail- ment of Ontario, if their CB ban had I have only one reason, Mr. As we noticed with the new er, I dollied the trailer off and been in effect, who knows what kind MacKinnon, and it’s a damned hours-of-service a few years ago, drove approximately a quarter of disaster could have happened? ■ good one. The bulk of our work such rules are usually drafted us- kilometre down the road and involves delivering building sup- ing the assumption that all drivers called 911. Kevin Brulotte plies direct to US job sites, most of are on a long-haul application, Luckily while talking to the Val Caneda Forest Product Sales which are in or near heavily-pop- and never spend the night any- Rita, Ont. fire chief on the phone, Calgary,Alta. ulated areas.When our guys travel where but a truck stop. to these jobs, it usually takes most, We do not encourage driving if not all, of our available hours- tired, or illegally. In the scenario It’s time to pay drivers hourly of-service to get there. I’ve just described, our drivers are Dear Editor: We travel to the job, unstrap the more apt to be tired and/or stressed load, and go to bed. It’s not usual- out with the addition of an EOBR. I was reading an article in Truck West about computer logs. My husband and ly a full 10 hours before unloading If these are to become law, could I have been driving team for about 16 years and that damned log book is begins (usually only a 20-minute we please allow slight “common pain in the kilt. But after reading that article I agree that it is a good idea to procedure). By the time the driver sense” indiscretions? I think I have on-board computer logs, providing that the carrier pays the drivers $15 gets dressed, the trailer is empty. know my body’s needs better than an hour from the time the driver leaves the terminal until that driver gets He needs to only get his bills a Washington bureaucrat does. ■ back to his or her home terminal. signed and move the truck to the That way we can only drive six or seven hours a day if we so desire and still other end of the job, out of the Bill Cameron get a good pay. The miles system as it is now is what’s obsolete – not the log way. At this point, he can walk to Parks Transportation book. And since that article came from Ontario, I can just imagine the guy at the local diner for breakfast, until Via e-mail MacKinnon Transport wanting that. Is he willing to pay his drivers by the hour? Get a survey going around and ask drivers if they would like to be paid $15 from start to finish.You would see an approval rate of almost 100%. ■

M. Moreau Via e-mail Bigger is not always better Dear Editor:

Regarding your recent article ‘Bigger is better for Alberta log haulers’ (January 2010). When will we ever learn as truckers that more axles never translates to more money? The first year is good then the net weight to make rate just goes up and you’re hauling more for less. Your expenses go up and your rate goes down.The biggest picture here is lack of safety. Having only 65% braking efficiency and more weight increases stopping distances. How many people are going to be hurt or worse? I for one am not willing to sign on for the added liability. ■

Richard Melvin Via e-mail

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Try it online at www.trucknews.com pg 27 tw mar v2 2/18/10 12:14 PM Page 27

March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 27 PeoplePeople Mark Diamantopoulos has been the age of 19 when he took it over named vice-president of sales de- after the sudden death of his father. velopment for Provincial Trailer • Rentals (PTR). The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Diamantopoulos will play a key Association (APTA) has a new ex- role in develop- ecutive director. ing solutions that Jean-Marc Picard, a native of LIST OF ADVERTISERS integrate the full Edmunston, N.B., joins the associa- scope of the com- tion to manage its affairs and help Arnold Bros. Transport...... 18 pany’s services advance the interests of its mem- with select ac- bers. He replaces Peter Nelson, Avaal Technologies...... 6 counts across who vacated the position Aug. 26. Bandag...... 25 Canada, the com- Picard graduated from the pany announced. University of Moncton in 1995 Bridgestone ...... 2 Diamantopoulos with a Bachelor in Business Career Opportunities ...... 18,26 most recently Diamantopoulos Administration. He then worked Castrol/Wakeﬁeld Canada...... 13 worked for for CN in Montreal and transferred Wabash Trailers Canada, where he to its operations in Winnipeg and Chevron Global Lubricants...... 4,29 served as vice-president of sales and then Calgary, where he spent 10 Child Find ...... 6 marketing. years. Picard has held various roles He now boasts 15 years of sales within CN’s transportation and lo- Crossword ...... 11,26 management and industry experi- gistics operations and also worked Edge Transportation ...... 26 ence. PTR says Diamantopoulos for a major fertilizer manufacturer. Great Dane Trailers...... 31 will work closely with regional • vice-presidents Steve Nash Julie Tanguay, former president of Hankook...... 7 (Ontario), Richard Harvey L.E. Walker Transport has stepped Mack Canada...... 15 (Eastern) and Craig Goodmurphy down as chairperson of the Ontario (Western). Diamontopoulos can Trucking Association (OTA). Michelin...... 32 now be reached at [email protected]. Tanguay had served as OTA Ministry Of Transportation ...... 9 • chair since November 2008. L.E. Bill Buckham, owner of Buckham Walker Transport was acquired by Owner/Operator of the Year Award...... 20 Transport, passed away Feb. 3 at the MacKinnon Transport in August, Sirius Canada...... 17 age of 52 following a battle with but Walker was placed under cred- Truck-Ops...... 30 cancer. Buckham was active in the itor protection on Dec. 8. industry and once served as an “I do not want the recent changes Truck West – DriverLink ...... 27 Ontario Trucking Association board in my business circumstances to be- Truck West - Subscription ...... 24 member. Condolences can be sent come a distraction for OTA and I to: Catherine Buckham; 1660 am therefore stepping aside as the Truck West – The Driver’s Seat ...... 18 Mount Pleasant Road; Cavan, Ont.; OTA chairperson,effective immedi- Volvo Trucks...... 5 L0A 1C0; [email protected]. ately,”Tanguay said in a release Jan. Yokohama...... 14 According to a tribute in the 19. The OTA says Mark Seymour, Peterborough Examiner, Buckham president of Kriska Transportation owned his trucking company since will serve as acting chairman. ■

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FICTION Part 3

Mark Dalton: Owner/Operator look like now. “Well, what do you know?” Mark muttered. This Child Lost keys, found hope Find group, and others like it, must By Edo van Belkom be set up across North America. THE STORY SO FAR: “It won’t be happening to me again, After fuelling, At a truck stop Mark misplaces his ever. At the next truck stop I’m getting Mark parked keys. He retraces his steps but no keys made and hiding them in the Mother Load and luck, the keys are nowhere to be truck.” headed for the kiosk found. Just when he thinks that losing “Good, cuz I’d hate to have you inside the truck stop his keys is the worst thing that could lose your keys in Texas.” that cut keys. He de- happen to him he sees a Child Find “Sacramento load’s been taken?” cided to get two poster and realizes there are always “Yeah, but Texas is still far enough. keys cut for the out- worse things in life. They’ve made a couple of arrests in the side of the cab and The driver of the Child Find truck truck yard murder. They’re also looking two for the inside. strikes up a conversation with Mark into something about some truck driver He was getting old- and tells him all about the program. stopping by the widow’s home. Too er and he’d proba- Basically, the purpose of Child Find is bad she didn’t get the guy’s name.” bly forget where he to educate people so fewer children “Who was that masked man?” hid a single key so it go missing in the future. When Mark Mark said, in his best deep radio an- was good idea to mentions his keys are missing, the nouncer voice. have a back-up, or man suggests he check inside his “Nobody knows.” three. more going on here, something sinis- truck. Mark does, and finds his keys “Let’s keep it that way.” “You want little magnetic cases to ter. Either way, it wouldn’t hurt to see in the ignition… “You want the information on this hide the keys?” what was going on. • load, or what?” Bud asked. “You’re not “They have that sort of stuff?” Mark Mark walked over to the girl and Mark stared at his keys in the ignition the only driver I dispatch, you know.” asked. Apparently he wasn’t the only said, “Is everything okay?” of Mother Load, dumbfounded. Keys in “Go ahead.” driver to misplace his keys. The man glared at him with eyes like an unlocked truck was a bad situation Bud gave Mark the details. She showed him a display with all lasers. “Mind your own business, – of that there was no doubt – but • sorts of devices to store spare keys in buddy, I’m her father.” worse still was how it had been possi- A few hours later Mark was hauling a inconspicuous spots just about any- “Daddy, no,” cried the girl. ble that he’d left the keys in there to be- trailer of zinc that had originated in a where on the truck. “Or I could sell you “It doesn’t seem like she wants to go gin with. It wasn’t like him, but after so mine in northern Ontario. Mark had no a roll of electrical tape so you can tape with you,” Mark said. many years on the road he really idea what the zinc was used for or a key to part of your engine.” A crowd was appearing now and couldn’t fault himself for being careless what was made with it but he was Mark liked that idea, figuring a the man seemed less sure of himself. this one time. headed to a pharmaceutical company piece of electrical tape on a length of “Like I said, mind your own busi- If it started happening on a regular in San Antonio and he was pretty sure black hose or wiring would be virtually ness.” He turned to the girl. “Let’s get basis, he’d be in trouble, but for now someone there would know what it undetectable. out of here.” he was determined not to let it happen was for. Then again, he’d probably never “No,” she said again, jerking her again. And now that he was back on He crossed the border in Windsor find the key, especially if he had to arm. “Mommy!” she cried. the road, it was time to give his dis- and was relieved to find that the ship- look for it at night in the middle of a “April?” a voice called out in the patcher Bud a call and tell him the per’s papers were impeccable. The snowstorm…which was probably ex- distance. good news. Customs guy had told him zinc was actly when he’d misplace his keys The man suddenly let go of the girl’s He pulled out his cell phone and di- one of Canada’s biggest exports to the next. “I’ll take the magnets,” he said. arm and headed for the exit. aled Bud’s number. US, and this company sent shipments • “Mommy!” the girl ran toward the “Hello?” south on a regular basis...who knew? After dinner Mark contemplated seeing women’s washroom and her mother’s “Hey Bud, it’s Mark.” Now with the border behind him a movie and taking a long hot shower waiting arms. As the mother hugged “Mark who?” and several days on the open road before turning in for the night. As he the girl she pointed in Mark’s direction. “Mark this day on your calendar. I ahead of him, Mark was able to relax was exiting the restaurant, he heard “Thank you,” the mother said to found my keys.” a little. In a few days, or maybe a some commotion over by the rest- Mark. “Where were they?” week, the police will have caught up rooms. He glanced in that direction “I didn’t do much, just asked a “You’ll never guess.” with the rest of the people involved in and saw a young girl crying loudly, the question.” “Under Mother Load’s left front tire,” the truck yard murder and it’ll be safe sort of cry you hear in a grocery or de- “It must have spooked him.” Bud said. for him again in Ontario. Still, a few partment store when a parent says “Is he the girl’s father?” “What kind of guess is that?” loads to the US, maybe across to “No” to a piece of candy or new toy. “We’ve been divorced six months,” “You said I’d never guess, so I California and up through Washington Next to the restroom was a conven- she said. “When I got full custody he thought I take a flyer and try the last State with a return east from British ience store with a large display of toy said he might try something like this, place they could possibly be.” Columbia might be a good idea, just trucks and stuffed animals, so that but I never thought...” “Well, they weren’t under the to be sure. seemed a likely fit. As she continued talking, Mark wheels... they were still in the ignition.” And while he was on the subject of But as the man tried to lead the girl thought too, about Child Find and one “You’re kidding? That sounds like being safe, he saw a full-service rest away, she resisted and began pulling poster that would never see the side of something my nephew Jimmy might station ahead and decided it was as against his hand. a truck. ■ do, not you. Not Mark Dalton.” good a place as any to stop for fuel Normally, Mark would have looked Jimmy was a new driver Mark had and stay the night. away from the awkward situation. He – Mark Dalton returns next month in an- trained on a cross-Canada trip that As he fueled Mother Load’s tank he didn’t have children himself but he other exciting adventure. also had them drive south into idly watched as ads for gas and a knew how difficult it was for parents to California. Jimmy was on his own bunch of the truck stop’s services deal with spoiled or unruly kids. It was now, driving for a company in New flashed onto the screen just above the tough enough for them without the Did you know that there are two full-length Brunswick and doing well for himself, pump. There were laundry facilities, a added pressure of strangers staring. novels featuring Mark Dalton?: Mark Dalton according to his uncle. theater, a games room, showers, and “No, no,” the girl kept saying. “SmartDriver” and Mark Dalton “Troubleload.” “Yeah, well, even Mark Dalton then... the face of a missing child ap- ‘Unless’... thought Mark. Unless this For your free copy register with ecoENERGY for screws up now and then.” peared, aging before his eyes into a situation wasn’t as innocent as it Fleets (Fleet Smart) at fleetsmart.gc.ca “Just now and then?” best-guess as to what the boy might seemed. Maybe there was something

The continuing adventures of Mark Dalton: Owner/Operator brought to you by MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA (CANADA) INC. pg 29 tw mar 2 2/18/10 9:20 AM Page 29

March 2010 TRUCK WEST Page 29 OpinionOpinion A lot has changed since 1977, but many themes remain the same

We currently have an issue of ing truck shows, and my favourite, black-and-white and looked like Canadian Road Knight floating Publisher’s legislation brought in by “dozy fat they were designed on a cocktail around the office. You may have Comment wallet jobs.” napkin. never heard of the publication Sound familiar? It should. I suppose I shouldn’t be sur- since it was published in the 70s Rob The real eye-opener (so to prised, when I first broke into the and is now long gone. Wilkins speak) was the photo coverage business in 1980 it was the norm Flipping through the pages they gave the wet T-shirt contest to meet clients at the local pub. brought back a lot of memories – at Cayuga Dragway Park. I counted We reasoned at the time that they were my formative years. place would have to walk past. 15 brave participants, all of whom our creative juices flowed more Afros were the all the rage and They did, unfortunately on most looked very bored with the whole freely with beer-in-hand, so I sup- the wider the bell-bottoms, the nights they kept on walking. thing. pose that’s where the cocktail better. Anyway, back to the magazine. I can’t remember the last time I napkin flair design originated. In I spent Thursday and Friday It was published in October of attended a wet T-shirt contest but a bar, go figure. nights at the “Jolly Miller” located 1977. The editorial content fo- then again, I probably wouldn’t Magazines have come a long in Hogg’s Hollow here in Toronto. cused on the usual news of the admit it if I did. way and so has our industry. My buddies and I would get times. Needless to say, you won’t see Many of the same issues you are there early so we could grab the New technology included a “fat this type of sexist coverage in facing today, your parents faced “primo” table. tire” (known today as a wide- Truck West anytime soon. yesterday and your children will That table was “primo” because based tire) and the improved I think half the staff would walk face tomorrow. Like it or not, it’s it was located at the top of the mileage it rendered, how Canada out if you did. just the way it is. ■ stairs. had not seen such unemployment I also don’t feel like spending Those stairs led to the girl’s levels since the Great Depression, days on the phone fielding your – Rob Wilkins is the publisher of washroom and we reasoned that complaints about the high cost of complaints. Truck West and he can be reached at eventually every female in the insurance, the high cost of attend- Most of the ads appeared in 416-510-5123.

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Page 30 TRUCK WEST March 2010 TSQTSQ BOWMANVILLE, Ont. – It’s they’re sitting there and they’re tex- been about four months since the Truck Stop ting and they’re playing with the stu- government of Ontario installed its Question Have driver habits pid thing, and they’re swerving in ban on handheld devices while traffic. It’s not good. I wouldn’t be driving. While the law has been improved since the cell doing it while I’m driving, but an- more or less universally accepted Adam Ledlow swering the phone and taking a by members of the trucking indus- Managing Editor phone ban began? phone call, to me, it’s just like pick- try – unlike the hotly contested ing up the CB and talking on the forthcoming ban on the CB radio – CB. It’s part of my business – I’ve have truckers actually seen any im- got to be on the phone.” provement in road safety? • With a bird’s eye view from their main thing. I think that people are truck cabs, truckers have a unique – more aware of what is going on and literal – window into the habits around them now that they don’t of other drivers. Truck West asked have that distraction,” he told Truck truck drivers at the Fifth Wheel West.“I wish they’d pass a law every- Truck Stop in Bowmanville, Ont. if where…all over the world, not just they’ve noticed an improvement in the United States and Canada. ” driving habits since the handheld • John Don devices ban began. Anderson Lee Ingratta, an owner/operator • from Gravenhurst, Ont., doesn’t McLean John Anderson, a North Carolina- really pay attention to other driv- based trucker who often travels ers’ habits, so he can’t tell much Ontario’s roads, says he hasn’t seen become universal. difference. However, he thinks the much of a difference since enforce- “It makes the highways safer – law itself is a great idea – especially Don McLean, a driver with Robert ment of the law began Oct. 26. He people have got their minds on what for cars. Transport, says any changes he’s would, however, like to see the law they’re doing: driving. That’s the “I’ve seen it all the time where seen have been minimal. “Not too many people change their habits, no.There are still a lot of people with their cell phones on their ear. I’ve talked to a lot of friends and they’ve pretty much geared themselves with a Bluetooth *8(66:+2)281' $1(:-2%" or hands-free device.” •

Les Mullins

Les Mullins, a driver with Best Choice Eggs in Blackstock, Ont., says the majority of the lawbreakers he’s seen lately have been four- wheelers, not truckers. “I see lots of people in ordinary vehicles using cell phones and fid- dling around with this and that. I haven’t really noticed (truck drivers). Everybody is wearing the ear- piece – hands-free. I think the law is fantastic.I see people on cell phones and they’re in another world, especially if it’s a 1-900 number,” he said with a laugh. • :::WUXFNRSVFD Getting a new job is life-afﬁrming! Are you stuck in a job, and looking for something new? Well, you too can ﬁnd Gene a job in 2010 on www.truckops.ca, a job website Martel for transportation and supply chain professionals. www.truckops.ca is brought to you by: Gene Martel, a driver with Ryder Transport in Pickering, Ont., says he’s seen at least one change in Motortruck habits – but not a good one. FleetCANADA’S BUSINESSExecutive MAGAZINE FOR FLEET OWNERS “People are holding their cell phones on their lap,” he admits. “You have to pay attention to your Attention Employers – Job Postings Are FREE! driving. I don’t answer my phone. I keep it off. It’s peaceful in the truck, Your ad will appear simultaneously on three jobs websites: and I leave it that way,” he says. ■ www.truckops.ca, www.transportplanet.com and www.hirelogistics.ca – Adam Ledlow is now on Twitter! Join today and follow his tweets at twitter.com/adamledlow. pg 31 tw mar 2/17/10 3:46 PM Page 1

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pg 323 tw mar.indd 16/02/10 2:21 PM 1