CalContractor - 2020 Owner/Operator

Issue 9

2020

MAGAZINE

HARRIS BACKHOE & DUMP TRUCK SERVICE, INC.

RUIZ DEMOLITION & EXCAVATION, INC.

AMSWED, INC.

BURROS BACKHOE SERVICE, LLC

Page 6

Page 14

Page 10

Page 18

YOUR CHOICE OF 0.9% FOR 60 MONTHS WITH ZERO DOWN + A CAT CUSTOMER VALUE AGREEMENT* OR 0% FOR 60 MONTHS WITH ZERO DOWN ®

**

Apply on Cat Attachments too!

Because your business never stops, we want owning new Cat® compact equipment to be simple and hassle-free. Right now, you can take advantage of low interest rates with unmatched support from your local Cat dealer. Plus, with a Cat Customer Value Agreement, you get 3-year comprehensive coverage and up to 50% longer component life with the use of genuine Cat parts that are conveniently provided for planned maintenance. This finance rate can also be applied to attachment purchases, helping you get even more done for less.

Just a few of the new ways we say, “Hello and welcome to the California Cat Dealers.”

www.hawthornecat.com San Diego County 858-924-0526

www.quinncompany.com Central & Southern California 888-842-2155

*Financing offer valid from July 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. 0.9% interest for 60 months financing with zero down payment available only on the following new Cat machines manufactured by Caterpillar Inc.: Skid Steer Loaders, Mini Excavators, Compact Track Loaders, Compact Wheel Loaders, Backhoe Loaders, Small Dozers, Small Wheel Loaders, and Telehandlers and when purchased with a qualifying Cat Customer Value Agreement (CVA). A qualifying CVA includes the Maintenance Parts Kits for 3 years/1,500 hours (exception: the Small Wheel Loader includes a parts kit for 3 years/3,000 hours); TA1 Inspection; Product Link™; and a Powertrain, Hydraulics and Technology Equipment Protection Plan (EPP) for 3 years/3,000 hours on Skid Steer Loaders, Mini Excavators, Compact Track Loaders, Compact Wheel Loaders, Backhoe Loaders, Small Dozers, Small Wheel Loaders and Telehandlers. The maintenance parts included cover the first 1,500 hours (estimated 3 years) of machine utilization. The kit contains one set of parts for regular planned maintenance under normal operating conditions. In some severe applications where maintenance parts need to be replaced more frequently, the additional parts will be at the customer’s expense. Excludes dealer labor, wear parts, S•O•S and fluids (final drive oil is included for Compact Track Loaders, and Mini Excavators). The fluids not included are oils, grease, coolant, friction modifiers, additives, etc. All excluded items are available at participating dealers at an additional cost and should be negotiated with the dealer. For details on the exact parts list for your specific machine, please contact your local dealer. Financing, zero down, and published rate terms are only available through Cat Financial for customers meeting credit approval and subject to Cat Financial offered terms and conditions. Not all buyers will qualify. Higher rates may apply for buyers with lower credit rating and lesser qualifications.

Offer available only at participating Cat dealers. Flexible payment terms available to those who qualify. Offer is available to customers in the USA only. Offer subject to machine availability. Offer may change without prior notice and additional terms and conditions may apply. Contact your Cat dealer for details.

SM

**Financing offers valid from July 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. 0.0% interest for 60 months financing with zero down payment available only on the following new Cat machines manufactured by Caterpillar Inc.: Skid Steer Loaders, Mini Excavators, Compact Track Loaders, Compact Wheel Loaders, Backhoe Loaders, Small Dozers, Small Wheel Loaders, and Telehandlers. Financing, zero down, and published rate terms are only available through Cat Financial for customers meeting credit approval and subject to Cat Financial offered terms and conditions. Not all buyers will qualify. Higher rates may apply for buyers with lower credit rating or lesser qualifications. Offer available only at participating Cat dealers. Flexible payment terms available to those who qualify. Offer is available to customers in the USA only. Offer subject to machine availability. Offer may change without prior notice and additional terms and conditions may apply. Contact your Cat dealer for details. © 2020 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow”, the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission. www.cat.com / www.caterpillar.com

COASTLINE Equipment

See Coastline Equipment for Your Compact Equipment Needs

0

% APR for up to* 60 MONTHS

TAKE DELIVERY OF ANY OF THESE MACHINES BY OCTOBER 31, 2020 AND RECEIVE UP TO 0% FINANCING FOR UP TO 60 MONTHS! *Offer ends October 31, 2020. Prices and models availability may vary by dealer. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. Available at participating dealers.

California

Long Beach, CA (562) 242-7400 · Bakersfield, CA (661) 399-3600 · Oxnard, CA (805) 485-2106 · Santa Ana, CA (714) 265-5500 · Santa Maria, CA (805) 922-8329 · Sylmar, CA (818) 890-3353

Idaho

Jerome, ID (208) 324-2900 · McCall, ID (208) 634-3903 · Meridian, ID (208) 888-3337

Nevada

Elko, NV (775) 777-7070 · Las Vegas, NV (702) 399-2700

www.coastlineequipment.com

OWNER

CONTENTS

OPERATOR Issue

Feature Articles 06 10

HARRIS BACKHOE & DUMP TRUCK SERVICE, INC. Choosing to Work, Grow and Succeed Alongside the Best Operators and Equipment in the Industry

06

RUIZ DEMOLITION & EXCAVATION, INC. - Where a Strong Work Ethic and Treating People Right Has Brought Continued Growth and Prosperity

10

14

AMSWED, INC. - Has a Long and Storied History with Volvo

20

BURROS BACKHOE SERVICE, LLC - Mobile Operated

26

INDUSTRY NEWS

Construction Equipment and Holds the Honor of Owning and Operating the Longest Working Volvo Articulated Truck in North America

14

Excavator and Backhoe Service Now Offers On-and-Off-Site Equipment Moving Services

30

ADVERTISER INDEX

20

CalContractor Magazine / www.calcontractor.com PUBLISHER: Kerry Hoover khoover@calcontractor.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Brian Hoover, CMS, LLC Ian Hoover, CalContractor Magazine Yadi Rodriguez, Sonsray Machinery

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Aldo Myftari

CalContractor is published twelve times each year by Construction Marketing Services, LLC. Copyright © 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

P.O. Box 892977, Temecula, CA 92589 / Phone: 909-772-3121

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Please call: (909) 772-3121

Bakersfield Bakersfield, CA 661.387.6090

Corona Corona, CA 951.277.7620

Fresno Fresno, CA 559.834.4420

Sacramento Sacramento, CA 916.504.2300

San Diego Lakeside, CA 619.441.3690

San Leandro San Leandro, CA 510.357.9131

Turlock Turlock, CA 209.410.6710

facebook.com/volvoces instagram.com/volvoces twitter.com/volvoces

Construction Equipment & Services

www.vcesvolvo.com

Volvo performance. at any size.

Your equipment fleet should be scalable to meet any job site needs. Good thing Volvo power and productivity come in a full range of sizes. Volvo compact equipment brings the same engine performance, well-matched hydraulics, and ease of operation as their larger siblings. All Volvo, all sizes.

Harris Backhoe & Dump Truck Service Inc. Choosing to Work, Grow and Succeed Alongside the Best Operators and Equipment in the Industry

By Brian Hoover, Senior Editor

Left: Ron Harris, Owner, Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc. Above: Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc. uses their Case CX145D-SR excavator to dig electrical trenches at the multi-million dollar Richards Boulevard Office Complex in Sacramento.

E

ach individual choice is capable of shaping a person’s identity and destiny. Little choices become habits, and more important choices can change the course of our everyday life. Ron Harris chose to go into the field of plumbing when he was a young man, and he made a good living for several years doing it. He found out that what he loved about his line of work was the opportunity to jump 6

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

on a piece of equipment and dig some trenches. So, he made a choice and decided to start an excavating business in 1993 and incorporate in 1999. “I was almost immediately awarded a nine-month contract at Travis Air Force Base.

That job allowed me to go out and buy a new Case 580 Super E backhoe, and it all just took off from there,” says Harris. “I was also fortunate to go right to work for the same plumbing company

that I had been working with and performed his backhoe work until the day he retired.”

As the owner and president of Harris Backhoe & Dump Truck Service, Inc. (Harris Backhoe), Ron Harris remained a one backhoe operation for several years, until he realized that the time had come to choose to grow and expand.

“I realized that I was giving a lot of work away to my friends and colleagues in the industry, so my C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Above: Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc. utilizes their Case CX80C midi excavator at a project for Living Spaces in Manteca.

Left: Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc. is using their Case CX145D-SR excavator to dig electrical trenches and the structural footings for the multistory parking garage on-site at the Richards Boulevard Office project.

wife, Wendy, and I decided to get into brokering,” says Harris. “We also joined the Local 3 Operating Engineers and began hiring the best operators and buying new Case backhoes for their use.”

Harris Backhoe now has 11 employees with nine operators out in the field and two office staff.

Armed with both a C-36 and an A contractor’s license, Harris Backhoe works within a 100-mile radius of their headquarters in Acampo.

CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

They will travel as far north as Redding and south to Bakersfield.

According to Harris, much of their business is focused on work for the unified school district, warehouse and industrial contractors, and the military and other institutions like hospitals and colleges. “Amazon is going off the hook right now, building one to 2 million square foot tilt-up warehouses, and we are getting our share of that work,” says Harris. “We are also currently

out at the Naval Air Station in Lemoore, digging trench for the Hangar 5 upgrade project serving the F-35C Lightning II platform.”

Harris Backhoe is also currently on two projects for the Livermore Unified School District and recently finished others for the Stockton, Sacramento and Pittsburg school districts. “School work is our bread and butter, and we take on all sizes, big and small,” continues Harris.

“We have four or five operators at the Table Mountain Casino in Fresno. We will be out there working for Berg Electric for close to a full year. We are digging miles of trench for dry utilities on that massive multi-million dollar project.”

Another exciting job for Harris Backhoe would be the work they are doing out at the multi-million dollar Richards Boulevard Office Complex in Sacramento. “We are working for Howe Electric and doing their electrical trench work. We are also working for Hensel Phelps, digging the structural footings for a multistory parking garage on-site,” says Harris. “It takes a heck of a crew and the best equipment to handle jobs like these. I like to say that we have the best operators around and the best late model Case machines at their disposal.”

OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

7

Right: Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc.’s Case CX145D-SR excavator pictured at the ground-breaking ceremony for the Turlock Public Library expansion and remodel project.

Harris Backhoe currently has 11 pieces of heavy construction machinery in its fleet. Eight of those machines are Case units purchased from Sonsray Machinery and their representative, Mike Titus. They also own and operate an end dump, a low bed, 10-wheelers and bobtail dump trucks, among other ancillary equipment. “We get our work done with backhoes, excavators and skid steers,” continues Harris. “My favorite machine is the Case 580 Super N backhoe, and we have several in our fleet. They are cab units equipped with all the bells and whistles, and our operators appreciate the exceptional comfort and performance.”

Specifically, Harris Backhoe owns Case Super N backhoes, a Case CX80C midi excavator, a Case CX145D-SR full-size excavator and a Case skip loader. They also own and operate other brands, specifically a couple of other excavators and skid steer loaders. “I have been

running Case equipment since I was a kid, and they have never let me down. Case is the most user-friendly owner-operator machine available on the market. Our operators love them, and Sonsray has been there for me whenever I have needed anything. They care about the little guy, unlike some other brands, and work hard to keep me as a customer.”

Ron Harris has been buying Case equipment from Mike Titus of Sonsray Machinery since 2011.

“Mike is a very good friend of mine. It goes beyond a business relationship,” says Harris. “He goes the extra mile for me as he would for anyone else and I appreciate the support I get from both Mike and Sonsray Machinery.” Harris says that he has a brand-new 2020 Case 580 Super N on order and will need to order yet another unit very soon. “We just keep growing and I will also be adding to our great group of operators soon,”

says Harris. “I keep them working and take care of them even when things slow down because they have always been there for me. I also have the honor and privilege of working with my wife, Wendy and my daughter, Amanda Harris.

Both are invaluable to our daily scheduling, dispatching duties, and they do a great job keeping up with the endless piles of red tape and paperwork that goes along with this business.” Ron Harris still gets in a machine every day, working right next to his crew members. “I love what we do. It never gets boring. A new job, a new scene, and a new challenge almost every day. I look forward to many more years of growth and success.” concludes Harris. For more information on Harris Backhoe & Dump Truck Service, Inc., please log on to www.harrisbackhoe.com or call their Acampo office at (209) 369-2470. Cc

Left: Harris Backhoe and Dump Truck Service, Inc. displays two of their Case Super N backhoes at the Table Mountain Casino jobsite in Friant.

8

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Bare and Operated Heavy Equipment for the Southern California Construction Industry

EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE • Track excavators

• Rollers/Compactors

• Mini excavators

• Backhoes

• Loaders

• Blades - GPS ready

• Dozers - GPS ready

• Skiploaders

• Scrapers

YEARS

24 Hour Emergency Service 800.672.8252 | 949.552.1859

CARB Compliant DBE – WBE

Serving: Los Angeles, Ventura, San Diego, Orange, San Bernardino, & Riverside Counties 16402 Construction Circle East, Irvine, CA 92606 | 26340 Lester Circle, Corona, CA 92883

SAVALA.COM

RUIZ DEMOLITION & EXCAVATION, INC. Where a Strong Work Ethic and Treating People Right Has Brought Continued Growth and Prosperity

B y Br

ian

r, Se Hoo v e

nior E

di t or

Rafael Ruiz, Owner, Ruiz Demolition & Excavation, Inc.

R

afael Ruiz immigrated to the United States in 1986 with a belief that if he worked hard and treated people right, he would succeed and prosper. He started taking on whatever work he could get and eventually became a delivery driver. After getting married and having children, Rafael knew that he would need to find a way to make more money to support his growing family. His answer to this was to buy a truck and start his own hauling business in 2011. He named his new venture, Gladys Trucking, and eventually incorporated it in 2014. Business was good, but Ruiz knew that he would need to continue to grow and find a way to bring in more revenue. He decided to start taking on grading, excavating and 10

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

demolition projects. This meant getting his C21 demolition license, which he just recently accomplished, while officially changing his company name to Ruiz Demolition & Excavation, Inc. Ruiz Demolition and Excavation, Inc. now works in both residential and commercial demolition. Rafael has added both of his sons, Rafael Alexander Ruiz Jr. and Miguel De Jesus Ruiz, to the payroll. “My sons both work for me full time, and together we primarily do jobs in the San Fernando Valley and other areas in Los Angeles County,” says Ruiz. “We stay busy doing demolition, foundation, and trench work and have been purchasing a lot of equipment to keep up with our growth.”

Ruiz purchased his first piece of equipment in 2015, a skid steer

loader to help load the trucks and work on small commercial grading and residential projects. He made his first Cat purchase from Quinn Company Cat in 2016, when he bought a brand-new Cat TC680 dump truck to enhance his hauling capabilities. Then in 2017, Ruiz added a new Cat 303E CR mini excavator and a new Cat 249D compact track loader, as his company continued to take on more excavating and backfill work. “The addition of our Cat equipment has allowed our small company to grow faster and more productively than I ever expected. The Cat 303E CR mini excavator is small and compact and perfect for our residential work and the Cat 249D with tracks allows us to work on any terrain and in any conditions,” says Ruiz.

“I like dealing with Luis Fragoso C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Above: Rafael Ruiz Jr. and Rafael Ruiz Sr. standing in front of their Cat fleet in the Sylmar yard.

Above left: Rafael Ruiz Jr. of Ruiz Demolition and Excavation, Inc. uses their Cat 249D track skid steer to load demoed materials into one of their trucks.

Above right: Rafael Ruiz Sr. of Ruiz Demolition and Excavation, Inc. uses their Cat 314C LCR excavator to load their Cat TC680 dump truck.

and the rest of the team at Quinn Company Cat. They have been there to help me choose the right machine with great financing options and I appreciate their support.”

Ruiz continued his impressive development through 2017, so he decided to add another Cat machine in 2018. “We were using our Cat 249D track loader so much that it made good business sense to add another machine in 2018,” continues Ruiz. “We also just added a brand-new 2020 Cat 301.7 CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

next-generation mini excavator from Quinn Company Cat six weeks ago. This new mini excavator has some cool features, and it drives and operates like a skid steer loader.”

Ruiz’s transition to the demolition business is already paying off as they recently completed the demolition and removal of four West Hollywood homes. They are also staying busy in the excavation end of their business, recently completing digging and compaction on 105 feet of trench line in Lancaster. “The reliable Cat

equipment that we have added is a big part of why we have grown so much in the last few years. We also purchased a used 2007 Cat 314C LCR and another mini excavator for getting into backyards and those really tight spots,” says Ruiz. “We trust Cat because they are built strong and have the best resale and support in the industry. Cat equipment is also extremely easy to operate and maintain, and both the boys and I love running them out in the field every day.”

OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

11

Above: Rafael Ruiz Sr. operating their Cat 314C LCR excavator on a jobsite in Los Angeles.

Rafael Ruiz is confident that his company will continue to grow, and he looks forward to leaving behind a legacy for his sons to take to the next level. “I love what we do and that every day is different.

We will continue to expand, and we will buy more Cat machines. As

soon as I get these last few units paid off, I will be looking at adding a Cat track dozer and even a Cat 320 excavator in anticipation of the larger jobs we will be starting soon,” concludes Ruiz. “We are living the American dream, where if you work hard and treat others

properly, you will succeed and prosper. I am excited to see what the future holds for my family and me as we push our dream further forward every day.” For more information on Ruiz Demolition & Excavation, Inc., please call their Pacoima office at (818) 310-1235. Cc

Below left: Rafael Ruiz Jr. operating their brand-new 2020 Cat 301.7 next- generation mini excavator on a jobsite.

Below right: Miguel De Jesus Ruiz operating their Cat 314C LCR excavator on a jobsite in the Valley.

12

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

SAFE, SIMPLE & STRONG PROTECTION

Long-lasting Over Multiple Uses, Unlike Single-use Plywood

NEW Lightweight Trench Covers During almost 50 years, Trench Shoring Company has supplied steel trench plates to meet heavy load requirements. Our Oxford LowPro 15/10 Trench Cover delivers a lightweight yet sturdy alternative for driveway board and pedestrian trench cover applications. Perfect for sidewalks, driveways and small trenches up to 4’. And, it’s the ideal solution for municipal underground sewer/water/pipeline repairs, as well as outdoor events.

Advantages of Our New Composite Trench Covers: • Unlike steel plates, Lightweight LowPro 15/10 covers are installed in seconds with easy two-person lift; no need for specialized heavy equipment to deliver or install • LowPro 15/10 composite cover’s patented Flexi-Edge system eliminates need to anchor down or cold patch, reducing trip hazards

We offer same day service from our 10 locations to Southern California, Bakersfield, Fresno, the San Joaquin Valley and the Las Vegas, Nevada areas.

• Saves time and money • The Infill Strip connects several covers in a line, preventing drifting Trench Shoring Company staff is available prior to your project to recommend the best product for each application. Engineering, consulting, inventory, fast turnaround. © 2020 Trench Shoring Company

800-423-4411

TrenchShoring.com

Amswed, Inc.

By Brian Hoover, Senior Editor

Has a Long and Storied History with Volvo Construction Equipment and Holds the Honor of Owning and Operating the Longest Working Volvo Articulated Truck in North America

T

he Volvo articulated truck commemorated its 50th anniversary in 2016 and Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) decided to celebrate by holding an attentiongrabbing contest. As part of their yearlong celebration, Volvo CE decided to scour North America in search of the oldest Volvo articulated hauler still actively working. After careful review and a thorough investigation, they determined

the winner to be Tom Stenvall of Amswed, Inc. out of Chula Vista.

Stenvall had been running the 1968 Volvo DR860 on an almost daily basis at his recycling/diversion plant in Chula Vista since the early 90s.

Tom Stenvall had no idea that this contest was going on until Mike Burrell from Volvo Construction Equipment & Services (VCES) decided to visit him in 2016. Burrell knew that Stenvall had been

operating an old Volvo articulated truck, but just how old remained a mystery. “I knew his (Stenvall) DR860 was the oldest that I had ever seen; we just didn’t know how old,” says Burrell. We couldn’t find any serial numbers stamped in the frame but eventually found an identification plate on the transmission. We sent the number to Volvo, and it came back within the range associated with the 1968 production year. That’s when we

Top right: Tom Stenvall, Amswed, Inc. Below: Oldest working Volvo articulated hauler shown here in Amswed, Inc. yard in Chula Vista. Pictured with the Volvo 4,000 gallon articulated water truck is Mike Stenvall (left), Tom Stenvall and Mike Burrell of Volvo Construction Equipment & Services.

Amswed replaced their 1968, 4,000-gallon Volvo water truck with another newer Volvo 8,000 gallon truck in 2018.

decided to enter his Volvo into the “Still Hauling” contest.”

Stenvall was, of course, surprised by all of the attention he was getting over one old Volvo articulated truck. “If this had been a beauty contest, we wouldn’t have made it very far, says Stenvall. “I would say that we put at least 1,000 hours per year on our Volvo for 25 years, and it was already 23 years old when I bought it. If there was an hourmeter, it stopped working long before I took ownership. Our Volvo continued going strong up to when we donated it to Volvo in 2017.”

To Volvo CE, it was much more than just an old articulated truck; it was a testament to the 50-year legacy of a machine that would ignite an entirely new range of construction equipment. Volvo CE launched its first DR 632 articulated hauler out of Braås, Sweden, in 1966. It was a 10-ton class hauler that they nicknamed “Gravel Charlie” and is considered the first purposebuilt articulated hauler in the industry. Volvo CE has produced tens of thousands (90,000) of articulated haulers since 1966, and many are still working on job sites all-around the world. It seems CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

that it is difficult to kill a Volvo articulated hauler, exemplified by the DR860’s years of service in Europe and in Stenvall’s yard in Chula Vista.

Mike Burrell was pleased and excited for Stenvall concerning his chances to win the contest. “Sure enough, he had the oldest working hauler,” says Burrell. “Tom is just one of those guys that never stops working and it was so great to see him win a trip back to the Volvo factory in Sweden, and to his homeland where it all started.”

Stenvall was joined by his VCES sales representative, Mike Burrell, and a good friend, as they all enjoyed the weeklong 50th-anniversary celebration back in July 2016. “To be back and to get a chance to visit the Volvo facilities was quite an experience,” continues Stenvall.

“There were big customers from all over the world, and some were buying 30 to 40 haulers at a time.

Even so, I was the one getting the royal treatment, and all because I had an old Volvo truck. It was outstanding.”

When Stenvall emerged from high school in Sweden back in the 60s, he immediately got involved

in a comprehensive apprentice program sponsored by Volvo CE. He finished the program in three years and began fabricating trucks for Volvo with his certificate in hand. Stenvall then decided to purchase a Volvo dump truck and went into business for himself.

Another major life decision was then made in 1978 when he decided to immigrate to the United States to escape the wet and cold weather and seasonal working limitations. In stark contrast to what he had been accustomed to, Stenvall made the move to Southern California, where he started Amswede Corporation (later changed to Amswed, Inc.).

The name commemorated and recognized Stenvall’s previous life in Sweden and what the future could hold for him in America.

Once settled into the San Diego area, Stenvall began purchasing equipment for his new bare and operated equipment rental venture.

He incorporated in 1982 and eventually evolved into a grading and demolition company, before making another change in the early 90s to get into the trending debris processing business. “The OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

15

Above Left: Tom and Mike Stenvall with their Volvo Construction Equipment & Services (VCES) representative, Mike Burrell.

Above Right: Tom Stenvall (center) with Volvo representatives in Sweden in 2016.

Bottom: Volvo wheel loaders hard at work at Amswed, Inc. yard in Chula Vista.

construction business climate is fluid and constantly changing, so you learn to follow the money. In the 80s, equipment rental was hot and when that died down, we transitioned into contracting since we already had the equipment,” says Stenvall. “Then we realized that with the roll-off equipment we already had in our fleet, we could get into hauling building debris. One thing led to another, and tipping fees were so high that sorting and diverting construction debris became a viable and primary business model.”

After purchasing a property in Chula Vista in 1995, Stenvall went

16

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

all-in and began putting all of his efforts into recycling and diversion.

He added a concrete crushing plant, several screening units, five Volvo wheel loaders and a Volvo 40-ton, 8,000-gallon articulated water truck. Additionally, Amswed owns and operates seven Volvo trucks with roll-off containers, a compact excavator, backhoe, and more than 100 various sizes of container bins. “We make more than a dozen trips to the dump each day, but only 40% of what we bring in can be sent to the dump.

This means that we have to find a place for the 60% that remains,” continues Stenvall. “We accept all

kinds of building and demolition debris, from wood waste and drywall to concrete, red brick, green waste, tires, electronics and even dirt.”

Sorting, loading and generally diverting all of this waste material requires dependable heavy equipment and specialized attachments. Amswed has five Volvo wheel loaders and a Volvo articulated water truck in its fleet to keep the diversion process flowing. “We originally purchased the (Volvo) DR860 from a tunneling company in Sweden, because there was nothing like it in the United { Continued on page 18 }

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

T R U S T U S ‌W E K N O W R E N TA L !

L O A D E R S

54 Years In Business

G

RER Top 100 Rental Company

R A D E R S

E X C A V A T O R S

225 Tier 4 Machines

B A C K H O E S

Over 50,000 Rental Transactions

D O Z E R S R O L L E R S

562.595.6655 www.rjlalonde.com

Industry Leaders in Heavy Equipment Rental since 1966

Right: Amswed, Inc. owns and operates three Volvo semi-trucks equipped with sidedump trailers and four Volvo roll-off hauler trucks.

Bottom: Volvo exhibit at 2016 Volvo celebration in Braås, Sweden.

{ Continued from page 16 }

States at the time. I needed something more agile than a typical water truck and not as clumsy as a water wagon. So I spent $7,000 on the DR860 and had it shipped over in a container. We reassembled it, lengthened the frame, and put a 4,000-gallon water tank and ag pump on it. We only recently traded up for our Volvo articulated hauler with an 8,000-gallon water tank because our operation has grown to a 190-ton daily capacity, and we needed the larger unit to keep the dust under control.”

Volvo has had quite an influence on Tom Stenvalls entire life. “I have been dealing with Volvo Construction Equipment and Services for many years and Mike Burrell and his (VCES) crew have been there for us with fast and reliable parts and service whenever we call,” says Stenvall. Tom Stenvall has passed on all of his knowledge and passion to his son, Michael, who is now the owner and president of Amswed, Inc. “Michael has been around the

18

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

business since he was a little kid and has worked his way up through every aspect of this business,” says Stenvall.

“He got his commercial driver’s license when he was 18, making him one of California’s youngest.

He knows this business inside and out and will take it to an entirely new level.” Tom Stenvall still works at Amswed seven days a week, and like that energizer bunny, he just keeps going and going. For more information on Amswed, Inc., please call their Chula Vista recycling and diversion yard at (619) 425-9450. Cc

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU WITH PRODUCT PLACING SOLUTIONS

CSS CAN PLACE 20 YARDS OF MATERIAL IN JUST 8 MINUTES! • BACKFILLING WALLS

• LANDSCAPING

• BRIDGE WORK

• MSE WALLS

• FUEL TANK INSTALLS

• SLOPE WORK

• TRENCH BEDDING & BACKFILL

Call CCS For Your Backfilling Needs 559-400-0222

CAStoneSlingers.com

By Ian Hoover, Editor

BURROS BACKHOE SERVICE, LLC – MOBILE OPERAT ED EXCAVATOR AND BACKHOE SERVICE NOW OFFERS ON-AND-OFF-SITE EQUIPMENT MOVING SERVICES

20

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

M

ark Burros started his construction career as a laborer right after he graduated high school in 2002. Since that time, he has paid his dues working for large and small contractors, eventually joining the Local 12 (International Union of Operating Engineers) in 2004 to become a heavy equipment operator. He started his Union equipment operator career at R.J. Noble Company, before being hired at Savala Equipment Rentals in 2012. With an eye toward personal advancement, Burros began to envision going out on his own as an independent owner-operator. Then in 2018, while at Quinn Company Cat in Riverside, Mark saw the machine that would convince him to take the plunge. It was a Cat 450 backhoe loader and as he puts it, “the backhoe just seemed to speak to me.” Burros filled out the necessary paperwork and in less than an hour, he was the proud owner of the shiny new Cat machine.

Mark and Stephanie Burros started their new venture, aptly named Burros Backhoe Service, LLC (Burros), with small jobs that quickly led to more significant projects. Burros now performs most of its work for large Union contractors, Caltrans and other public works agencies. The company can provide any machine from backhoes and excavators to dozers and water trucks. Their specialty, however, is with the backhoes and excavators and they have built their reputation with those machines. Burros has four full-time exceptional operators equipped with just the right machine and attachments.

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Burros is now taking its original 24-hour mobile backhoe service to the next level. When Mark and Stephanie Burros started out, they had their Cat 450 backhoe and a customized mobile trailer setup that assured they would have anything and everything they needed for the job at hand. Now they have taken that concept and applied it to the 50,000 to 80,000 lb. excavator niche. The husband and wife team purchased a brand-new 2020 Peterbilt semitruck with a 605 HP Cummins engine, 18-speed transmission and heavy haul rear axle setup.

Mark Burros

did the design customizing himself and added a new 2020 Aspin 16 tire lowbed trailer to the mix to begin hauling heavy equipment up to 80,000 lbs. “There is limited space on many of these jobsites.

Many of the companies we work

for are required to move the heavy equipment to a centralized holding yard at the end of each shift.

Traditionally, these contractors have brought in a trucking company, and they would take care of these moves,� says Burros.

Above: Burros Backhoe Service on the 405 freeway filling slope on a ramp widening in Fountain Valley.

Below: Burros 2020 Peterbilt semi-truck and 2020 Aspin 16-tire lowbed trailer moving an excavator offsite to a holding yard.

his company is still out on the 405-freeway project where they are performing overexcavation and digging abutment for the lane extension and bridgework. “This is another long-term job for us and one that we are performing our mobile trucking services on each night. I work my shift and then begin moving whatever machines the prime contractor deems necessary, then return the next evening and start it all over again. It’s a win/win for everyone involved.”

Burros recently hired another operator to keep up with the workload. “When I first started in this business, I thought that I would just remain a true owner operator, but that quickly changed when I was forced to turn down several jobs,” says Burros. “I rethought the situation and realized that I am a young guy that needs to keep his name out there. You can’t

“Now, with our new semi-truck and trailer setup, we can get this done much more conveniently and efficiently for our customers and save the headache in the process. It just makes sense to use our services. We are already on the site and fully licensed and insured, so it works out for everyone involved.”

Burros has a long list of jobs on the books right now for both their excavator and backhoe mobile operated services. “I have an 18-monthlong project that we just started on the 101 freeway where we are removing the existing barrier rail from Hollywood to Camarillo,” says Burros. “We are working for OHL and using our John Deere 210G LC rubber tracked excavator. This is one of our more interesting jobs where our operator wiggles out the barrier rail and loads it on to the trucks.” Burros says that

afford to say no and you never stop proving your ability, availability and versatility.”

According to Burros, there is undoubtedly plenty of variety in the operated equipment rental business. “One day, we are working out on the freeway for Caltrans or some other public works company, and the next, we are digging trench for an electrical contractor. It is never boring, but working nights can be a challenge because I have to make time to promote our business while keeping a watchful eye for honest, hardworking and reliable operators. But it is our willingness to go above and beyond that keeps our customers calling back.

It is not uncommon to get a last-minute call where they need us next week or even the next day, and we do everything we can to respond with, ’no problem.’” { Continued on page 24 }

Below left and right: Burros using their Cat backhoes to remove overexcavation on local road and freeway projects.

22

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

{ Continued from page 22 }

Burros also stays busy at the Port of Los Angeles, where they are digging thousands of feet of trench and excavating drainage ditches for an electrical contractor. They are also performing excavating work on the $870 million Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility Project at Port of Long Beach.

“The Port projects keep us busy, and we have a new 2-year contract coming up very soon,” says Burros. “The demand for our services is very high right now, and I expect that to continue for at least the next two years. That will mean adding a few more machines and

operators in 2021. Time will tell, but we are ready and willing to take on any and all challenges.”

Stephanie Burros is the majority owner of Burros Backhoe Service, LLC, a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). She has a degree in Business and knows all of the ins and outs of running an operated equipment rental company. This includes certified payroll, DIR, and the mounds of other red tape and paperwork that keep it all organized and legal. For more information on Burros Backhoe Service, LLC and their 24/7 mobile, operated heavy equipment rental services, please call (714) 313-9387. Cc Burros recently purchased a new swivel bucket for its Cat 450 backhoe shown here on a curb and gutter project.

S erving S o u th ern Califo rnia

24/7 MOBILE OPERATED HEAVY EQUIPMENT RENTALS LOCAL 12

burrosbackhoeservice@gmail.com @burrosbackhoe 24

burrosbackhoeservice

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Full-Size Performance, Short-radius Agility and Quiet Operation

COMPACT YET TOUGH MINI

Model : SK35SR-6E Program : 0% for 54 months and 90 Day deferral options for qualifying customers WORK SMARTER – NOT HARDER

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S PREMIER EQUIPMENT DEALER Fontana / 909-822-2200

www.scottequip.com Serving California For 50 Years!

CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

SALES • RENTALS • PARTS • SERVICE

14635 Valley Blvd., Fontana, CA 92335

Santa Fe Springs / 562-777-0775

10918 Shoemaker Ave., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

MINI EXCAVATORS / SKID STEERS BACKHOES / SKIP LOADERS

OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

25

Renting Equipment During a Worldwide Pandemic By: Yadi Rodriguez, Marketing Manager, Sonsray Machinery

C

onstruction continues to operate amid the current pandemic in many states. These are dire times, and committing to a new machine purchase may or not be the best decision for some companies experiencing a negative economic impact. However, the construction industry is an ‘Essential’ business, and construction projects must remain in operation until completion. If purchasing a new machine is not the best option right now, renting equipment is an excellent alternative.

Many local businesses remain open and are offering heavy equipment rentals. In

26

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

fact, companies like Sonsray Rentals have gone above and beyond their typical processes with sanitizing rental returns.

Sonsray Rentals has multiple locations in California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

They are consistently taking the necessary precautionary measures to protect the health of their customers and employees. “Safety is of utmost importance as we continue to provide equipment for rental and services,” says Matt Moses, vice president of Sonsray Rentals.

As the COVID-19 outbreak spreads, the construction industry is on high alert. The coronavirus has delayed supply chains from Asia and around

the world. This means importing steel or parts may become more difficult for manufacturers.

If you’re in the middle of a construction project and one of your machines goes down, contact your local full-line distributor rental company.

Full-service rental companies have everything you need, from large machines like excavators to smaller equipment for landscape projects. Don’t let downtime hurt your business or delay your construction project.

Partnering up with a local dealership who has equipment for rent has its benefits.

Whether you’re looking for backhoe rentals or to rent a skid steer, you can count on

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

Renting heavy equipment can provide a safeguard for your company during economic downturns.

a local machinery dealer who has a specialized rental division. Heavy equipment dealers are equipped with the latest and greatest products and have direct access to authentic manufacturer parts and attachments for your rental needs. Local dealers like Sonsray Machinery, a CASE CE distributor, employ master-certified technicians who consistently maintain their rental machinery fleet.

“A standard machine in our rental equipment fleet is always ready to work and has proven its worth out in the field. We also provide 24-hr support and on-site service when needed,” says Patricia West, Regional Rental Manager for Sonsray Rentals in Northern CaliforniaSan Francisco Bay area.

Like Sonray Rentals, official equipment distributors want your business to be successful, especially in trying times. Renting equipment is an excellent solution, so contact your heavy equipment rental company today. These CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

manufacturer-backed rental companies can help you identify the machines that will give you the greatest utilization and help navigate your construction projects forward during this challenging time. Cc References: -CASE CE was founded in 1842.

In 1957 CASE CE introduced the landmark CASE Model 320, as the industry’s first factory-integrated tractor loader/backhoe.

-Sonsray Machinery, is the largest authorized CASE CE distributor on the West Coast with 13 locations stretching from the borders of Mexico to Canada equipped for new and used sales, parts and service.

-Sonsray Rentals, is a division and sister company of Sonsray Machinery specializing in offering rental equipment solutions for the construction industry.

OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

27

JOHN DEERE ANNOUNCES INDUSTRY-FIRST GRADE CONTROLREADY OFFERING FOR THE L-SERIES TRACTOR LOADERS A first in the construction market, the John Deere 210L and 210L EP Tractor Loaders are now available with grade control-ready and grade indication factory options, allowing for faster and more accurate fine grading. The grade technology options combined with an updated box blade result in increases to productivity and efficiency when completing site prep, road building and landscaping jobs, especially in tight areas.

“We’re excited to facilitate grade control solutions for customers involved in fine grading applications,” said Brian Hennings, product marketing manager, backhoes and tractor loaders, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “When utilizing grade control technology, operators can finish jobs faster with fewer passes and less rework.

This results in less fatigue and more productivity, ultimately boosting the business’s bottom line.”

The grade control-ready machines are designed to support 2D or 3D grade control technology solutions, automatically controlling the box blade’s lift and tilt cylinders.

Additionally, the factory-installed grade control-ready solution requires no hydraulic hose disconnections or bracket welding, and is designed to minimize technology installation. When adding grade control capabilities in the field, the customer simply selects their preferred technology provider (e.g., Topcon, Trimble or Leica) and works with their dealer to install the finishing kit on the machine.

These tractor loaders are also available with a factory-installed grade indication option. It provides 28

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

Left: John Deere Announces Industry-First Grade Control-Ready Offering for the L-Series Tractor Loaders.

Below: 210L and 210L EP models available with grade control-ready and grade indication.

an on-board readout of the machine cross slope and main fall slope in real time, all within the existing machine’s display. This simple, integrated solution requires no additional hardware or software.

The 210L and 210L EP machines are also equipped with an updated box blade, providing a single attachment solution designed to both cut the grade and spread materials accurately with great visibility. The increased clearance of the ripper mechanism on the box blade allows rock and gravel to more readily pass through the frame. It also features fewer moving parts, increasing reliability, while the ripper hook has improved locking in the working position.

The 210L is equipped with a 93-horsepower PowerTech™ Plus diesel engine, while the 210L EP boasts a 69-horsepower Yanmar engine that requires no aftertreatment components needed to comply with Environmental Protection Agency emissions regulations, resulting in lower total cost of ownership and enhanced uptime. Both models feature a four-speed PowerShift™ transmission for smooth, no-clutch, fingertip shifting.

The on-the-fly mechanical front-wheel drive can be engaged to give extra traction in poor job site conditions or to move heavy loads. An optional limitedslip front axle delivers 65% of available power to the tire with the best traction for true all-wheeldrive pulling power. Additionally, compared to the K-Series models, loader lift cycle times and loader lifting capacity were increased by 26% and 17%, respectively, increasing productivity.

Additionally, when the ride control option is activated, the front loader hydraulic cylinders act as shock absorbers with or without full loads, smoothing box blading over rough terrain to help get sites to grade and reduce operator fatigue.

For additional information and specifications, visit your local John Deere dealer or www.JohnDeere.com. Cc C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

916.440.8090 www.coastlinecd.com

Crane Division

Headquartered: Sacramento, CA cranesales@coastlineequipment.com

“Your Crane and Boom Truck Headquarters” 2014 MANITEX 2892C 28 TON STK# 39361 - $196,000 NEW 26101C & 30100C’S IN STOCK

SALES | RENTAL | PARTS & SERVICE

2016 TADANO GR1000XL 100 TON STK# 44711 - $545,000 NEW UNITS IN STOCK

2019 TADANO GR1200 120 TON STK# 76548 $765,000

2020 MANITEX 2281T 22 TON STK# 80859 – CALL FOR PRICE RENTAL PURCHASE OPTIONS

2020 MANITEX 22101S 22 TON STK# 86989 – CALL FOR PRICE PETERBUILT POWER – AUTO TRANS

2020 ELLIOTT L60R STK# 90386 – NON CDL MODEL AUTO TRANS – CALL FOR PRICE

2016 TADANO GR750XL 75 TON STK# 43667 - $435,000 NEW & USED UNITS AVAILABLE

SALE – RENT RPO – CALL

2020 MANITEX 40124SHL 40 TON SWING CAB MACHINE STK# 85974 – CALL FOR PRICE

2020 MANITEX 1970C STK# 90766 – CALL FOR PRICE FORD F750 – AUTO TRANS

2017 TADANO GR550XL 55 TON STK# 45188 – $345,000 NEW & USED MACHINES IN STOCK

Check out our Digital Edition at CalContractor.com Call Kerry Hoover at

(909) 772-3121 for advertising information CALCON TRAC TOR.CO M

OW N E R/O PE RATO R / 2 0 2 0

29

IN DEX

ADVERTISER Burros Backhoe Service, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 24

Nixon-Egli Equipment Co . . . . Back Cover

California Stone Slingers . . . . . . . . . . . .

Slingers . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 19

Quinn Company Cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Clairemont Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 25

Savala Equipment Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . .9 .9

Coastline Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Scott Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 25, 30

Coastline Equipment Crane Division . . .

Division . . . 29 29

Sonsray Machinery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 31

Graniterock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Graniterock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 29

Trinity Equipment, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 23

Hawthorne Cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Trench Shoring Company . . . . . . . . . . .

Company . . . . . . . . . . . 13 13

LaLonde Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 17

Volvo Construction Equip. & Services . . . . . . 55

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S PREMIER EQUIPMENT DEALER

NEW HOLLAND L228 SKID STEER • • • •

FONTANA / 909-822-2200

14635 Valley Blvd., Fontana, CA 92335

800.316.0327

SALES • RENTALS • PARTS • SERVICE MINI EXCAVATORS / SKID STEERS BACKHOES / SKIP LOADERS

No payments for up to 120 days 2.99% for 60 months Titanium & Platinum credit customers only Eligible Units: – 200 Series Skid Steer Loaders – 200 Series Compact Track Loaders – Compact Excavators

SANTA FE SPRINGS / 562-777-0775

10918 Shoemaker Ave., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

WORK SMARTER – NOT HARDER

Serving California For 50 Years!

30

OW N ER/O P ER ATO R / 2 0 2 0

C A LCO N T R AC TO R .CO M

MACHINES THAT WORK FOR YOU

™

™

™

4 EquipmentWatch Awards are the only data-driven equipment awards for the Construction, data records to determine which model series retain the highest percentage of its original value and lowest five year total cost of ownership.

NEW & USED SALES RENTALS, PARTS AND SERVICE

SonsrayMachinery.com San Diego, CA Fontana, CA Santa Fe Springs, CA Sacramento, CA Stockton, CA San Leandro, CA Redding, CA Reno, NV Las Vegas, NV Salem, OR Portland, OR Auburn, WA Marysville, WA

In Stock and ready to go to work!

Great capacity! Great reach!

2 overflow loads!

175-Ton |150 mt All Terrain Crane    

42.7-197.3FT (13-60.1M) SIX SECTION PIN AND LATCH BOOM ALL NEW OPERATOR AND DRIVER CABS HIGHLY MANEUVERABLE, COMPACT 5-AXLE DESIGN CLASS-LEADING 15-LITER DISPLACEMENT ENGINE

Driver's cab features • Ergonomic, heated and ventilated air ride driver’s seat with lumbar support • Automatic climate control • Tire pressure and temperature monitoring • Automatic ride height adjustment • Vision package includes left and right side cameras plus rear view cameras

Efficient use of the overflow loads saves money • Efficient boom over the front and dolly configuration transport proposals for all markets • Only two overflow loads to get all counterweights and attachment to the job

1

2

• • • • •

Swing out ramp

“CDS” Counterweight Detection System • Pulse 2.0 automatically detects the amount of counterweight and selects the appropriate configuration.

• PULSE 2.0 prompts the operator to verify the selected counterweight configuration.

• Discrepancies between operator selection and PULSE 2.0 detection result in configuration mismatch on the RCL.

81 V-CALC outrigger positions Real-time 360° charts Live capacity preview mode Outrigger position sensing Incorporated swing arrest

Fly assist cylinder

Pivot point speed screws

Boom head speed screws

Simplified fly erection

Integrated 3m (10 ft) heavy lift fly

• Efficient one-man operation • Limited ladder climbs • Reduced exposure to work-at-height

Lexington, Kentucky, USA | www.linkbelt.com

California’s Largest General Line Construction and Municipal Equipment Dealer So. California: 20144 S. Vineyard Ave., Ontario CA 91761 • (909) 930-1822 No. California: 800 E. Grant Line Rd., Tracy, CA 95304 • (209) 830-8600 www.nixon-egli.com