June 2006 Edition
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Contractor Frank Ivy and his new 2007 Volvo

New models are in!
If you’re thinking of upgrading - do it soon!

Are you thinking of upgrading your truck? If so, you might want to do so before the year 2007 rolls around. That’s because compliance with changing United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules will increase the cost of new trucks by $3,000 or more, and they will cost more to maintain.

The EPA is moving forward with its rule to make heavy-duty trucks and buses run cleaner. So between the years 2007 and 2010, engine manufacturers will be using a “phase-in” approach to introduce new engines that meet stricter emission standards.

In 2007, trucks will be equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF) to reduce emissions. These filters use a wall-flow type filter to trap particulate matter from exhaust gas as it flows through.

The DPF is estimated to remove up to 85 percent of particulate matter emissions, but they aren’t cheap. The DPF costs thousands of dollars, and they require regular maintenance, needing to be cleaned about every 150,000 miles.

Bottom line: Engines and emission control technology will cost you more.

Upgrade now, before the prices increase! Highway Sales, Inc. has many models available to Dart contractors at low, low prices. Choose from 2006 Columbias, 2007 Volvos and 2007 Internationals. Pick your favorite.

Call Phil Marston at 1-800-366-9000 ext. 1821 for details.
 

Billy Smith

Contractors of the Month

Billy Smith - Dallas Operating Center
Cathy Aydelott, Staff Writer

Billy Smith has been with Dart for ten years and in the trucking industry since 1988. He worked with other large companies before contracting with Dart.

The biggest changes he’s seen in the trucking industry are hours of service rule changes and the increase in the number of drivers on the road. He currently contracts in the Super South and is very happy. “It works for me,” he says.

Billy and his wife, Stephanie, have been married for over 20 years. They have three daughters, one grandson and one granddaughter. Billy lives in Corpus Christi and enjoys fishing and bird watching in his spare time.
ents, and teachers alike.

Eugene Sims

Eugene Sims - Eagan Operating Center
Kristin Ries, Staff Writer

Hard working is just one way to describe Eugene Sims, who is a long-time contractor of Dart and hauls for the Target account. Gene gets home every night because he works hard. In the first quarter of 2006, Gene delivered 393 loads, averaging seven loads a day.

Dedicated is another word for Gene. He has contracted with Dart for 12 years. Gene learned to drive a truck on his family’s dairy farm, and started his professional driving career after separating from the military in 1969.

Successful is a final way to describe Gene. He and his wife have been married 37 years, and have a successful union because they think alike and resolve all of their problems. They have two children and four grandchildren.

Dwayne Chambers

Dwayne Chambers - Dallas Operating Center
Cathy Aydelott, Staff Writer

Dwayne Chambers has been a Dart contractor for six years and in the trucking industry for about fifteen. Dwayne got his truck through the Highway Sales, Inc. program and is very happy.

I asked his opinion about changes in the trucking industry. “The hours of service has made it more difficult, but I’m happy,” he responded. Dwayne believes trucking is still a good opportunity for anyone who wants to be self-employed as an owner-operator.

In his spare time, Dwayne enjoys time with his wife, Lessa. They have been married for 12 years and live in Marlin, Texas. Dwayne has three kids and three grandkids. When he’s not in his truck he enjoys fishing and camping.

Juan B. Rivera

Juan B. Rivera - Eagan Operating Center
Kristin Ries, Staff Writer

Juan Rivera is one owner operator who is happy where he’s at in life. His uncle was a truck driver and Juan grew up wanting to be just like him.

Well, his dream came true, and he loves every minute of being an owner operator and it shows.

Juan hasn’t refused a load since 1986 when he first contracted with Dart. Juan contracts with Dart and hauls for the Target account. He said he has contracted with Dart for so many years because everyone treats him like family, and he gets paid right away.

Juan said he misses his family when he’s out on the road, but when he takes a lot of time off he said he misses the road, and can’t wait to drive again! Juan thanks his family and his wife for helping him get to where he is today.