American Towman Magazine - April 2010 by dortiz-towman

Cross Training at Tow Expo Int’l in Houston

Ready Ready to to expand expand your your business? business? Need Need more more capability capability in in your your recoveries? recoveries? ® ® CENTURY CENTURY has has the the power power you you need need with with the the industry’s industry’s number number ONE ONE selling 60- 75-ton and 75-ton capacities. selling line line of of rotators rotators in in 30-, 40-, 40-, 60- and capacities. But But CENTURY CENTURY®®knows knows you you need need more more versatility versatility in in your your rotator rotator beyond beyond tough tough recoveries, recoveries, so so we we design design and and build build our our rotators rotators using using components components fabricated fabricated with with high-tensile high-tensile steel steel for for maximum maximum strength strength without without excess excess weight weight that that decreases decreases your your towing towing capabilities. capabilities. Our Our lightweight lightweight aluminum aluminum body body design design provides provides ample ample storage storage for for both both your your towing towing and and recovery recovery equipment. equipment.

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The Century 1130 (30-ton) rotator provides the versatility of a rotator for recovery applications with a weight-conscience design for increased towing payload.

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The Century 1140 (40-ton) rotator fits most applications, with options such as a 2- or 3-stage recovery boom, dual 35,000-lb. 2-speed winches, LDU underlift and a combination of auxiliary winch and outrigger systems.

The Century 1060S (60-ton) provides 360-degree continuous boom rotation, a 3-stage recovery boom, optional turretmounted and deck-mounted winches, your choice of outrigger package, and the proven SDU-4 underlift.

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The Buyers Report page 28

FEATURE CONTENTS

Don’t Get Burned Towing a vehicle that burned can burn you back in more ways than one, either at the scene or on your lot. by Larry Styba

The Right Tow Garage Looking for a new tow yard... here’s what you need to consider and look for, according to AT’s Op’s Editor. by Randall Resch

Departments Low Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Beacons On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 News Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Road Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Ad Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 My Baby. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Towman’s Market . . . . . . . . . .58 Adventures of A.T. . . . . . . . . . .60

Rotator Rescue, Recovery Mission This recovery and rescue by Big Wheel earned the Towman Commendation. by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

Photos by: Jim “Buck” Sorrenti, Randy Resch, Pitt Meadows Fire Department, Maple Ridge Towing, Jamie Sivecki, G. Gravel Cover Design by: Ann Marie Nitti

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 5

When it comes to wreckers, no one oﬀers you more. 49 y yy

Rush Towing Systems is your new Jerr-Dan dealer in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. More chassis. We oﬀer the widest range of heavy and medium duty chassis available in the towing market including the brands you know and trust – Peterbilt, Ford, Hino, GMC, Isuzu, Dodge, Chevy and UD. Choose from our extensive inventory or let our skilled sales specialists help spec your next truck.

More bodies. We carry the full line of Jerr-Dan bodies, including standard-duty wreckers, 14 to 60 ton wreckers, 60/70 and 85 ton rotators and aluminum and steel carriers.

More expertise. Rush Towing Systems is staffed by highly knowledgeable sales people as well as skilled, factory-trained, ASE-Certified service professionals armed with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology for all makes and models of heavy- and medium duty trucks and equipment. Our parts professionals have easy access to electronic parts catalogs with key drawings and comprehensive component lists for nearly every make and model. Come see why no one offers you more.

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The Words Of The Buyer by Steve Calitri

hat struck me about The Buyers Report in this issue was how valuable their words are to thousands of tow business owners. For example, Bruce Davis of Davis Towing & Recovery in Rushville, Ind. explains how Matjack air cushions function when raising a tractor trailer, how its tapered head was engineered to keep the pressure on the trailer’s side as it arcs upright. This buyer has used other air cushions but says none perform like this brand. A striking endorsement and powerful information for towers shopping for air cushions. Suppliers are typically so immersed inside the cocoon of their facilities and tend towards wishful thinking that the marketplace knows about their products just as they do. Of course they are enlightened to just how untrue that is when they exhibit at trade shows and meet face to face with towers who tell them, “I didn’t know you guys existed,” or, “I didn’t know that…it’s good to know.” Communicating to an industry of near 40,000 companies is a challenging and ongoing task. Like us all, tow business owners are up to their eyeballs in running the operation with never enough minutes in the day. Keeping abreast of products and services in the marketplace is important, but it isn’t what demands their attention day after day. It takes an event, like the monthly arrival of American Towman, and special sections like The Buyers Report to garner their total attention while sipping coffee at their desks, or, as one tower told me, while brewing coffee in the kitchen at three in the morning after

returning from a highway recovery. In an industry where towers seldom communicate with the towers they compete with close to home, the trade magazine continues to be the guiding light for most. The internet is a great resource for information, but it doesn’t arrive like AT does. Many of the tow bosses contacted for this report told how they had first found out about the product through AT’s pages or at AT’s Expositions, Baltimore or Houston, and other shows. Each year we attempt to give our readers the skinny on products they may be considering, or may not even know about, from their peers who are using them. There’s some good information to be had from this report and most importantly, the “thumbs-up” worth noting. Many thanks to the towers who gave me and you a moment to speak of these products and services. Also in this issue, we have introduced a new department, Beacons On! Here industry veteran John Borowski, and others, will be discussing issues covering two major command groups that towers encounter at the incident scene, fire fighters and police officers, and the working relationships towers have with them, or don’t. I know you’ll find these articles valuable reading material. By the way, Borowski is part of the Xtreme Team training taking place at the end of April in Houston at Tow Expo Int’l. Check it out on page 8. Lastly, check out Randall Resch’s article on searching for the appropriate real estate for your tow facility in case you’re looking to upgrade, or, in the event you have just sold your land to McDonald’s.

***************************************************** Publisher Dennie Ortiz-Sorrenti Editor-In-Chief Steve Calitri Operations Editors Terry Abejuela Randall Resch Chassis Editor David Kolman Contributing Editors Jim “Buck” Sorrenti Larry Styba John Borowski Editorial Board Tommy Anderson, Dallas, Texas Roy Carlson; St. Paul, Minn. Gary Coe; Portland, Ore. Frank Child; Cody, Wyo. Belinda Harris; Greensboro, N.C. Amado Llorens; Hialeah, Fla. Ron Mislan; Warren, N.J. Chuck Swider; Chicopee, Mass. ********************************************************** Art Director/Production Manager Ann Marie Nitti Graphic Manager William Burwell Advertising Sales Manager Dennie Ortiz-Sorrenti Senior Account Executive Ellen Rosengart VP of Accounts Norma Calitri VP of Communications Neila Kennedy Internet Developer Henri Calitri ***************************************************** American Towman Network, Inc. President Steven Calitri ***************************************************** Headquarters 7 West Street, Warwick NY 10990 800-732-3869 or 845-986-4546 Fax: 845-986-5181 ***************************************************** E-mail: Publisher: dsorrenti@towman.com Editor-In-Chief: scalitri@towman.com AT’S Digital Edition: itowman.com Weekly Industry News: towman.com Copyright ©2010 American Towman Magazine is published 12 times a year by American Towman Network, Inc. U.S. Subscription: $50–1 yr; $95–2 yrs • US $65 and $105 • International Editorial Policy: the act of mailing or delivering a letter or article to American Towman Magazine, shall constitute permission to publish that letter or article or any portion thereof. American Towman Magazine reserves the right to edit any and all material submitted.

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 7

Ships Passing In The Night

s you recap your day’s happenings, you start to realize that your business is very much relationship oriented. For whatever reason, it never occurred to you before. But now, it is becoming very apparent that it truly is. You begin to wonder about some of your regular accounts and their frequency of utilizing your service. Suddenly it strikes you that you never really have had a relationship with the police and fire departments. They typically call and you respond, perform your service and then leave. You have often wondered why when there is a major wreck they just call you when the casualties are ready to be towed. You’re never called earlier! Many times you arrive at an accident scene before being called, and are advised by incident command to wait until their finished and then you can perform your work. Like any other tower, you would evaluate what they are doing and wonder why wouldn’t they want help? Well, I can tell you that it bothered me! So, the first thing I did was get in touch with the fire chief and explained that when an accident of significance comes in I would be willing to help them however I could. The chief explained to me that these firefighters are trained and have a protocol to follow. First, they determine the condition of the patient and then stabilize the vehicle to help insure that there are no further injuries to the victim. They don’t want that vehicle to move whatsoever because of possible spinal injuries. Once the victim is stabilized as best as possible, extrication begins. This is where they use the Jaws of Life for either cutting or spreading to free the victim. I don’t think I have to tell you that no two accidents are the same, however, the techniques utilized by fire departments will eventually free their victim. Then, of course, there are times that the typical protocol or procedures just don’t work or simply take enormous amounts of time. Time is against injured 8 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

by John Borowski

victims that are pinned. Fire fighters attempt to observe the “Golden Hour Rule.” In cases of severe trauma, especially internal bleeding, nothing can replace surgical intervention. Complications such as shock may occur if the patient is not managed appropriately and expeditiously. It therefore becomes a priority to transport patients suffering from severe trauma as fast as possible to specialists, most often found at a hospital trauma center for definitive treatment. Because some injuries can cause a trauma patient to decompensate extremely rapidly, the lag time between injury and treatment should ideally be kept to a bare minimum; over time, this lag time has come to be specified as a now-standard time frame of no more than 60 minutes known as the “Golden Hour,” after which time the survival rate for traumatic patients is alleged to fall off dramatically. When I was owned a towing business I decided that I needed to train with the fire department and work on cutting down the time to extricate victims and so should you. The more practice the more proficient the practice becomes. After a period of time of donating junk vehicles for the practice sessions you will start to build a relationship with your fire department. They will start realizing that you have knowledge of what you do and that you’re not just a chain slinging operator. Integrate your services and

your knowledge to those sessions. Explain to them that when you’re on scene that there are more powerful tools at their disposal. A tow truck can perform many functions in assisting with extrications, sometimes faster and better than the tools they’re using. But remember, they have to be comfortable with your abilities. Once you have accomplished this relationship you will reap the rewards. You’ll have that entire department talking about your services and expertise to many local residents and their family members. Let’s face it, it’s always nice to have people who are admired bragging about your company, in an industry that more times than not, are looked down upon. Not only will your private calls increase but when the next serious accident happens you may get called to assist. Keep in mind that fire departments have the luxury of calling directly for your service in the name sake of public safety, no matter who is next up on rotation. That’s right; every contract reserves that right for the city. So, the next time you’re thinking about relationships, keep in mind that they’re all important but the ones with your police and fire departments are extremely important. Unfortunately, you probably don’t have one. Many operators have said to me that they are fearful of getting involved. They fear liability, if

continue to page 15

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Rush Towing Systems // Florida Tow Show // Transformers Truck Premium 6-Ton Carrier // Interview with Harriet Cooley, TRAA

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on Blyton Sr. started D.J.’s Towing, a towing and repair shop in Laurel, Maryland in 1984. Within six years he grew the business to include five lightduty trucks, one medium-duty and one heavy-duty truck. Several years later when he began thinking about moving back to his home state of Montana, he found a Montana company for sale that was also named D.J.’s Towing. In 1998, Blyton purchased the assets of D.J.’s Towing, which had been renamed Billings Towing and Repair. After operating both companies for two years, he sold the Maryland company and moved some equipment to Montana. Today Billings Towing and Repair operates two flat-bed carriers; a light-duty wrecker; two medium-duty wreckers; three heavy-duty wreckers; a tractor/repower unit; a heavy haul towing unit; and a step-deck trailer. The company also has support equipment, including a bobcat, loader and air bags. “Our first flat-bed truck was a 19-foot Jerr-Dan aluminum on an ’88 Ford Super Duty Chassis. It served us well,” said Blyton.

“Our newest unit is a 2005 International 4300 with a Jerr-Dan steel carrier with a 21-foot deck. It also serves us very well.” Blyton has long been sold on the value of Jerr-Dan equipment, and as he thinks about upgrading his heavy equipment, Jerr-Dan is high on his wish list. However, he has decided to wait for business activity to stabilize before upgrading his fleet. Although Blyton has gone back to his Montana roots, he also returns to Maryland periodically to attend the American Towman Exposition – the Tow Show – in Baltimore. In addition, he has attended two Captains of the Industry dinners held in conjunction with the Tow Show. The Captains of the Industry dinner is a conclave that brings together the industry’s top business leaders, largest tow fleet owners, tow truck manufacturers and association leaders. The group’s open forum facilitates discussions on the

latest industry trends and issues, including sharing information, techniques and best practices. “The sharing of information on unique and once-used methods of towing or recovery through the Captains of the Industry dinner has been the biggest benefit,” added Blyton. “Also, it’s great to meet different people and observe how they improve the industry’s image by raising awareness of how dangerous or complicated a recovery/tow can be.” Blyton also believes that to survive in a down economy, towers need to eliminate or minimize unnecessary expenses while maintaining an aggressive business sense. And customers must be the service provider’s main concern. “Without customer service in today’s market, you won’t be in business long,” cautioned Blyton. “A lot of tow rates are being cut to try to maintain business, but I don’t agree. We try to achieve a most reasonable rate, yet still maintain a profit on every tow. We’ve also aggressively sought new avenues of towing, including motor clubs.”

Harriet Cooley, Executive Director of the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA), is an educator at heart and a strong advocate of lifelong learning. Since joining the TRAA in 1993 as Director of Education, Cooley has worked tirelessly to enhance professionalism within the towing industry. Cooley holds a BFA Education in English, has done postgraduate work in Psychology and Adult Education, and has spent most of her professional career in educational activities. For the past 13 years, Cooley has been Director of Certification for TRAA, where she has served as Executive Director since 1998. “I see my job as an educator,” said Cooley. “The Association is in a unique position to educate towers on what they need to be compliant, how to become better integrated with their local business and community leaders, and how to raise their company profile and be seen as an important resource in their communities.” Cooley is proud that TRAA has the only national certification for towers. She wrote the Cooperative Agreement that TRAA received from the Department of Transportation/Federal Highway Administration to develop a National Driver Certification Program for tow truck operators in light-, medium- and heavy-duty modules. Since the certification program was implemented in 1995, TRAA has tested more than 13,000 drivers nationwide. She is also instrumental in TRAA’s current effort to develop a national training standard that will be incorporated into the National Driver Certification Program. This will be a huge step in unifying the towing industry and will serve to elevate it among other responders including law enforcement, fire, EMS, Transportation and Public Safety. TRAA also created the Law Enforcement Vehicle Identification Video and V-ID card. This system of communication between

law enforcement personnel, dispatchers and towers has resulted in enhanced efficiency by helping ensure towers arrive at an incident scene with appropriate equipment. Cooley was instrumental in the concept and is most grateful for the efforts of the safety committee and Tow Times for its evolution. The TRAA’s 13th Annual Legislative and Leadership Conference held a panel discussion of industry leaders in March to discuss important issues, including updated training standards and tower invoicing to improve payment communications. Panel members included towers who have succeeded in securing payment based on liability coverage in insurance policies, and others who have used videos, DVDs and photos to illustrate their invoices. Approximately 100 top industry influencers attended, including towers, manufacturers and insurance representatives. At the conference, Jerr-Dan also made a financial contribution to support the association’s mission. “Jerr-Dan strongly supports the Towing and Recovery Association of America’s efforts to continually share best practices and improve the industry’s professionalism,” said Brent Yohn, Jerr-Dan Vice President and General Manager. “The towing industry plays a vital role in our communities, and we endorse TRAA’s work with law enforcement agencies to improve efficiency and safety at the incident scene.” Cooley is proud of TRAA’s work in the towing industry. “We are the organization that helps everyone connect as a team – law enforcement, EMS, hazmat, fire departments and towers,” she explained. “Our members serve important roles and TRAA helps unite these groups.”

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P R O F I L E :

NEW Rush Towing Systems Serving Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico

ush Towing Systems is the exclusive Jerr-Dan dealer in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Rush Towing Systems provides sales, service and support for the full line of Jerr-Dan light-, medium- and heavyduty carriers and wreckers. Rush Towing Systems is operated by Rush Enterprises, and features 22 locations, 400 service bays and an extensive parts inventory across its three-state Jerr-Dan service area. The company also offers a wide range

of truck chassis brands, including Peterbilt, Ford, Hino, GMC, Isuzu and UD. Rush Enterprises operates the largest network of heavy- and medium-duty truck dealerships in North America. Its current truck operations include a network located throughout the southern United States. Rush Towing Systems and Rush Truck Centers represent industry leading brands, and it makes sense for Rush to represent Jerr-Dan, the leader in the towing and recovery market as well.

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“We’re extremely pleased to have the opportunity to represent Jerr-Dan wreckers and carriers through Rush Towing Systems and the support of Rush Truck Centers in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico,” said David Orf, Rush Towing Senior Vice President. “Rush has a reputation for offering industry-leading brands and Jerr-Dan is no exception.” Rush Towing Systems offers the full line of Jerr-Dan bodies, including standard-duty wreckers, 14- to 60-ton wreckers, 60/70 and 85-ton rotators and aluminum and steel carriers. Its network

of 22 state-of-the-art service, parts and collision centers offers exceptional service support for all makes and models. Because the sales force at Rush Towing Systems understand trucks, not just bodies, they can create the optimum combination and spec to serve Jerr-Dan customers. And thanks to Rush’s reach and scale, they can work with Jerr-Dan to adapt and develop products for specific market demands. “Oshkosh and Rush have shared visions and missions to be the premier provider to the specialty industry in

products and services,” added Orf. “The Oshkosh and Jerr-Dan reputation for designing and building the world’s toughest specialty trucks, bodies and access equipment compliments Rush’s network of knowledgeable sales specialists and exceptional service support.” pt l

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when they see Superman or Spiderman arrive on the scene and take charge. “Our Jerr-Dan heavy wreckers do a great job for us,” said Leipziger. “We just became the heavy tower for the Philadelphia Police and Parking Authority on Interstate 95, and Jerr-Dan trucks are especially valuable on tight highways and cloverleaf ramps where space is at a premium. With our two main and two auxiliary winches we have the ability to recover a vehicle out of a ditch and hold back the contents for a very smooth recovery.”

“The 85-ton Transformers truck can reach 42 feet in the air. It’s capable of retrieving 80 000 pounds and can rotate

approach, and we do whatever it takes to help our customers be more productive and be able to focus on their business.

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See us at the 2010 Florida Tow Show. April 15 –18 Orlando Hilton • Walt Disney World www.ﬂoridatowshow.com Or check us out at www.jerrdan.com

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TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 9

Tow Crackdown The city of Pittsburgh is set to clamp down on towing businesses in the wake of overcharging claims from motorists. The Pennsylvania city's crackdown reflects a trend of regulating that is sweeping the nation. New legislation would make towing companies and drivers register for a business license, enabling the city to examine their sales and payroll records. The Department of Public Safety would approve or deny license applications, which would also create a mechanism for enforcing the oft-ignored current ordinance, said City Councilman Doug Shields, the legislation’s author. The current city ordinance that regulates towing from private parking lots was enacted in 2000. It disallows companies from charging more than $110 for towing a car and requires them to accept credit cards. Mr. Shields said the current law is ineffective because there is no agency designated to enforce it. Some towers have admitted to charging more than the $110 limit, stating it is simply too low. Source: post-gazette.com

Town to Restrict Access to Scene At the request of Hyde Park police Chief Don Goddard, the New York town has drafted a proposal to establish a rotational tow list. Except for the tow truck dispatched or requested, no others would be permitted within 300 feet of a traffic accident. The proposed regulations have raised objections from tow truck operators. Some say they frequently perform valuable services at accident scenes before ambulances and police arrive such as assisting injured or trapped victims and directing traffic which the 300’ buffer zone would prevent. Hyde Park is not the first town to consider such a restriction. The Town of Poughkeepsie has a policy that establishes a tow list and restricts trucks not at the top of the list from entering a zone around the accident scene. The arrival of multiple tow trucks at times has hampered the efforts of rescue personnel and impeded police investigations, police said. Source: Poughkeepsie journal.com 10 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Bill Prohibits Towing the Handicapped A bill that would restrict the towing of vehicles with display handicapped-parking placards or license plates was approved by the New Jersey State Assembly. The legislation stems from a recent New Brunswick incident in which the city towed the car of a Rutgers student, even though the vehicle had a handicapped-parking placard. The spot the student's car occupied was reserved for a handicapped homeowner. The student's father said the handicapped-parking spot was not clearly marked. The student's car was towed on a Saturday night and she could not get it or the medicine she had inside it until Monday. Assemblywoman,Joan Quigley (D-Hudson), a sponsor of the bill, said in a news release,

"There's no legitimate reason for what happened. They're never supposed to tow cars with handicapped placards unless they're blocking a fire hydrant or creating some obstruction." The bill, which the Assembly passed 70-3 with two abstentions, requires any towing company that has a contract with a public entity to provide towing or storage services to give owners of impounded vehicles round-the-clock access to them. The legislation goes to the Senate for further consideration. Source: nj.com

Tower Challenge

Halts Rangers A Florida “Road Ranger” program is to put civilian patrol trucks on I-95 to offer stranded motorists a free helping hand with gas or minor mechanical work. The program is to help get stranded vehicles out of the way on the high-speed highway said Gaetano Francese, a Road Ranger project manager with the State Department of Transportation. But one of the five companies that unsuccessfully tried to get the job is challenging the application of the company that won out. The state administrative officer in Tallahassee now is not expected to rule before May, further delaying the start of the program in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties.

In November, the FDOT selected Anchor Towing, of Miami, for the $1.5-million-a-year, three-year contract. Sunshine Towing of Miami is challenging the contract. Once started, the Treasure Coast will have nine road rangers patrolling 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday. Eight rangers would each be assigned to a zone along the 70 miles of I-95 on the Treasure Coast. The ninth ranger would roam throughout the region. Source: tcpalm.com

Tow Expo Ups Ante On Training And Seminars . . . Education Venue In Houston Tow Expo International in Houston, Texas will feature the nation’s largest educational opportunity for towing professionals outside of Baltimore, Maryland, home of AT Expo and the American Towman Academy. American Towman Magazine also produces the seminar series in Houston. The seminar program in Houston features experienced presenters like Dan Messina, president of SouthWest Tow Operators (STO), Al Stoeberl, SSCS Digital Dispatch, John Borowski, Extreme Team, and DJ Harrington, aka the Tow Doctor. Harrington will present “Driving Business Through Your Dispatcher.” Borowski, aka Mr. Industry, will present “Municpal Rotations – to Contract or Not.” Messina will present a new seminar on “Reinventing Your Towing Business,” and “Succeeding With Private Tows.” Stoeberl’s seminar will show towers how today’s computer and internet technology can help them manage their towing business. The Houston program features a dozen seminars covering both management and recovery topics. Tow Expo International will also feature towing and recovery training by STO trainers and Cross Training for firefighters and tow operators by John Borowski.

Montana Farewell Friends, family and peers honored a big name in the Montana tow truck industry; about 20 tow truck drivers from Butte, Great Falls, Missoula and Kalispell drove in a processional down Russell Street to honor Bill Sparr. The 61-year-old ran Sparr’s Towing for over four decades in Missoula. The Montana Tow Truck Association organized the processional which was captured on video and aired on the local news channel, News Channel 13 this past February. Sparr’s father was one of the original founders. Bill Sparr was one of the towers who helped write the Tow Truck Act, which outlines basic rules for towing in Montana.

Chicago Awarded Again to URT The Daley administration has awarded a $31.5 million towing contract to United Road Towing. Shortly after taking office in 1989, Mayor Daley turned towing over to Environmental Auto Removal, a newly-formed company. The firm and its new parent company, United Road Services, held onto the business, even after the contract was re-bid in 2003. The new contract calls for the company to manage and secure four streets and sanitation auto pounds, release Denver boots, tow abandoned vehicles within 24 hours of written notification and tow illegally parked vehicles within 90 minutes of city requests. United has been paid $36.3 million since 2005 alone, $4.5 million of it since last June, records show.

Shannon Andrews, a spokeswoman for the city's Department of Procurement Services, said United was chosen because it has a "dedicated fleet of 97 pieces" of towing equipment and sufficient personnel resources to do the job. The only other bidder, Tegsco, "relied on sub-contractors to perform all towing services." Source: Chicago Sun Times

California Checkpoints Create Tows Impounds at California highway checkpoints in 2009 generated an estimated $40 million in towing fees and police fines – revenue that cities divide with towing firms, an investigation by the Investigative Reporting Program at the University of California, Berkeley, with California Watch has found. Additionally, police officers received about $30 million in overtime pay for the crackdowns, funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety largely with federal dollars. In dozens of interviews over the past three months, law enforcement officials and tow truck operators say that vehicles are predominantly taken from minority motorists – often illegal immigrants. Police across the state have ratcheted up vehicle seizures. Last year, officers impounded more than 24,000 cars and trucks at checkpoints. That total is roughly seven times higher than the 3,200 drunken driving arrests at roadway operations. Source: Sacbee.com TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 11

TRUCKS

Group Company

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Visit one of these participating Hino dealers Conventional Medium Duty Engine n and

CALIFORNIA FONTANA Rush Truck Center 888.362.1133 www.rushtruckcenter.com camarenaj@rushenterprises.com ARIZONA PHOENIX Rush Truck Center 602.272.7611 bankst@rushenterprises.com

UNION CITY/HAYWARD Monarch Truck Center 510.476.0680 www.monarchtruck.com sales@monarchtruck.com

to learn more about the trucks that rank "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with

Transmissions , Two Years in a Row. "

FLORIDA FT. MYERS Tri-County Truck & Equipment 239.690.4900 www.tricountytruck.com trucksales@tricountytruck.com •Dynamic, Miller

FLORIDA continued POMPANO BEACH Tri-County Truck & Equipment 954.971.4022 www.tricountytruck.com trucksales@tricountytruck.com •Dynamic, Miller

JACKSONVILLE Rush Truck Center 813.361.1199 www.rushtruckcenter.com shafferd@rush-enterprises.com •Jerr-Dan

WEST PALM BEACH Tri-County Truck & Equipment 561.712.1190 www.tricountytruck.com trucksales@tricountytruck.com •Dynamic, Mille

MIAMI TruckMax 305.777.9000 www.truckmax.com dshelow@truckmax.com •Century, Challenger, Champion, Vulcan, Holmes, Chevron, Eagle

ILLINOIS ALSIP Chicago Truck Sales & Service 708.371.7010 www.ustrucksales.com gherdzina@ustrucksales.com

ILLINOIS continued CHANNAHON Mack of Joliet 815.521.1900 www.ustrucksales.com gherdzina@ustrucksales.com SUMMIT Chicago Mack Sales & Service 708.594.5151 www.ustrucksales.com gherdzina@ustrucksales.com MAINE PORTLAND O’Connor Motor Company 800.464.6225 www.oconnorwheels.com dan.doiron@oconnorwheels.com •Jerr-Dan, Century

Number 142 on Reader Card

MASSACHUSETTS LUNENBURG Chapdelaine Truck Center Inc. 800.395.5800 www.chaptruck.com askus@chapdelainegm.com •Jerr-Dan

NEW JERSEY ATLANTIC CITY Quality Truck Center 609.965.9200 www.qualitytruckcenter.com corinned@qualitytruckcenter.com •Jerr-Dan

MINNESOTA MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL ALLSTATE SALES & LEASING CORP. 877.343.HINO (4466) www.allstatepeterbilt.com

LYNDHURST Frank’s Truck Center 201.939.7708 www.frankstruckcenter.com ckoumoulis@frankstruckcenter.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE ROCHESTER Rochester Truck 800.335.2085 www.rochestertruck.com hulk@rochestertruck.com •Miller, Chevron, Jerr-Dan, NRC

TEXAS SAN ANTONIO Rush Towing Systems 877.5RUSHTOW www.rushtowingsystems.com wilkinsong@rush-enterprises.com •Jerr-Dan

continued from page 8

Check Out What’s NEW and HOT! Dynamic Introduces SV-100 All-Purpose Service Vehicle Dynamic Towing Equipment and Mfg. has introduced the newly designed Dynamic SV100 service vehicle that will add flexibility to any tow business, improve vehicle fleet management, and improve profitability. This new all-purpose truck is targeted for motor club contract towers, as well as auto repair facilities, and municipal highway assist programs. The SV-100 has storage areas for batteries, floor jacks and emergency repair equipment. It also comes equipped with an optional Dynamic Stealth Wheel-lift. “ When the service call comes in, the dispatcher needs to dispatch just one truck and one driver,” says Dynamic President Anthony Gentile. “ The SV-100 allows tow operators better management of their tow truck fleet in order have their wreckers and carriers out on calls where they are really needed.” The Stealth Wheel-lift adds to the flexibility of the vehicle so that when a broken down vehicle really needs to be towed, the SV-100 has that capability as well.

www.dynamictow.com Number 200 on Reader Card

Century RXP Front Pivoting Stabilizer Century has introduced a new front pivoting stabilizer leg option for its 1130 and 1140 rotator. The innovative RXP Front Stabilizers are similar in design and function to the SP 850, which has been popular with Miller Industries' heavy-duty integrated models that provide plenty of side recovery capabilities but with minimal lane blockage. The new RXP Stabilizer incorporates dual 35,000-pound, two-speed planetary winches, as well as 212 inches of spread for more stability when lifting. Ideally matched with the 1130 and 1140, the RXP provides additional front-axle weight for towing heavier loads. The new RXP option also gives operators countless rigging possibilities for those difficult recoveries, thanks to the two additional winches.

www.millerind.com Number 201 on Reader Card

Isuzu Truck Introduces 2011 N-Series NPR ECO-MAX low cab forward truck, offering up to 20% improved fuel economy and increased payload capacity compared to previous NPR models. The new 2011 model year truck is powered by Isuzu’s next-generation 4JJ1-TC diesel engine, which has operated globally in Isuzu’s N-Series models for the last five years. The 4J engine family dates back to 1984 and is the highest volume engine produced by Isuzu. This is the first time the engine will be utilized in the U.S. market. The turbocharged, 4-cylinder, 3-liter engine delivers 150 horsepower and 282 lbs.-ft torque. The 4J engine is 2010 EPA and CARB OBD compliant. It offers a B10 engine life rating of 310,000 miles, which means 90 percent of the engines should reach this mileage before needing an overhaul. The engine is mated to an Aisin heavy-duty, sixspeed automatic transmission with double overdrive and lockup PTO function. The cab of the NPR ECO-MAX is the same size as the previous NPR and offers 3-across seating. The cab tilts for easier servicing of the engine and transmission. Wheelbase choices of 110 inches, 134 inches and 151 inches accommodate bodies up to 16 feet in length. In addition to the NPR ECO-MAX, Isuzu is also pleased to introduce the 2011 model year NPR-HD (14,500 lbs GVWR), NQR (17,950 lbs GVWR) and NRR (19,500 lbs GVWR) models.

www.isuzucv.com Number 202 on Reader Card

14 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

something went wrong that they could be sued. When fire departments invite you to an incident, the liability falls on them, not you. Fire departments for the most part are exempt, unless of course in the case of gross negligence. Case in point; after donating cars every month for many years I developed a very close relationship with the entire fire department. I had assisted with many recoveries over the years but 3 accidents were exceptionally rewarding in the fact that I definitely saved lives. It became automatic that if a serious accident happened I was called right away. I enjoyed not only a great relationship with the fire department but a very lucrative one. I became the authority on towing to them. Several years ago when I started cross training with the EX-Team in Florida, we had duplicated a multi-vehicle wreck that had happened on the interstate. The same firefighters were there that actually worked the wreck. It took over 4 hours for all of the extrication to take place. In our remake of the original accident it took only 45 minutes. You won’t believe why there was such a big difference! It actually came down to a language barrier. The firefighter wasn’t speaking tower talk. The firefighter asked if that big tow truck could pick up that tractor and trailer and swing it out of the way. The tower looked at it and said “No sir I cannot.” Well, given the position that his rotator was in and the boom angle and reach, he could not possibly swing that unit around. I asked incident command why was he requesting that? It turns out that he was trying to extricate a victim in a car that was under the unit and he was only looking at it as, this truck has to go. All he had to say was can you get me into that car? We took and swung the boom over to the unit and lifted it 6 inches and then ran a separate line under everything and after deflating all four tires we pulled the car out from under ever so slowly and were able to rescue the victim in minutes. We learned then that the tower can only do what he is asked. The firefighter doesn’t know the capabilities of a trained and seasoned tower. So, in essence the firefighter needs to tell the tower just exactly what he is trying to accomplish and let the tower come up with the rigging solution. Remember as towers we are working many jobs a day where we have to come with the best solution. The firefighter works on putting out fires, they may get called for a vehicular accident maybe once in a month. Remember the more practice the more proficient the practice becomes. Author’s note: I have developed my own way of cross training but the Team puts it into perspective. Now, the EX-Team has rolled into the next level and is operating as XtremeTeam. The Xtreme Team consists of seasoned professional instructors from their respective field totaling over 330 years of actual experience.

Editor’s note: John Borowski is a two time recipient of the American Towman Medal for heroism. Having owned and operated his own towing business for 19 years, John’ s 40 years of industry experience includes account sales for a coporate towing concern, equipment sales, training and presiding over two towing associations. He was inducted into the Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame in 2002. After a two-year hiatus from the pages of American Towman, John is back with this monthly department, writing about issues that involve the relationships towers have with fire, police, and DOT agencies.

SCRANTON (THROOP), PA COMPLETE LIQUIDATION

AUCTION Bolus Truck Parts & Towing 15 LATE MODEL TRUCK WRECKERS, 25 TRUCK TRACTORS, 160 VAN TRAILERS, 25 CONTAINERS

iI' 4

** Enormous Amount of Engines, Transmissions, Rears & Large Quantity of Parts Trucks.

Saturday, APRIL 24 @ 9:00 A.M. NOTE: The owners of Bolus Truck Parts have decided to liquidate this fine, long time established business and pursue other interests to keep them occupied.

HILITES:

13 WRECKER TRUCKS: 2008 Peterbilt 389 (tri.), 2000 Peterbilt 379 (tri.), 2007-1988 Peterbilt 379 (t/a), 1995 Peterbilt (t/a), 2007 Kenworth W900 (t/a), 2000 Kenworth T800 (t/a), 1988 Freightliner (t/a), Volvo White (s/a), 1986 Int’l. (t/a),1980 Ford 9000 (t/a), 1977 Ford F350 Custom (s/a), (t/a) w/ dual Garwood Winches, ROLLBACK TRUCKS: 2005 GMC C5500 (s/a), 1995 Int’l. 4700 (s/a), 10 DUMP TRUCKS: 1995 Peterbilt 379 (tri.), Peterbilt (tri.), Mack (tri), Mack (t/a), (2) Ford 9000 (t/a), International 210 (t/a), Autocar (tri.), 1988 Marmon (tri.), 23 TRUCK TRACTORS: 2007 Peterbilt (tri.), 1995 Peterbilt 378 (t/a), Mack CH612 (s/a), 2000 Kenworth W900 (t/a), 2005 Kenworth T800 (t/a), Kenworth T600 (t/a), Kenworth T2000 (t/a), 2008-2003 Freightliner Columbia (t/a), 2000 Freightliner FLD12064ST (t/a), 1998 Freightliner (t/a), 1996 Freightliner (s/a), 2000 Int’l. 9200 (t/a), 1996 Int’l. 9200 (s/a), Int’l. 9200 (s/a), 2006-2000 Volvo (t/a), (2) Volvo (t/a), 1997 Volvo (s/a), Volvo White (s/a), 3 VAN TRUCKS: 2001 Freightliner FL70 (s/a), Mack Cab Over 24ft., 1995 Chevy Kodiak LoPro (s/a), 6 SERVICE TRUCKS: 1999-1998 Ford F550XL Super Duty (s/a), 1997 Ford F Super Duty (s/a), Ford F Super Duty (s/a),1995-1994 Chevy Cheyenne (s/a), 5 PICKUPS: Ford Ranger XL, Chevy 1500 Silverado (4x4), Chevy Silverado (4x4), Chevy Custom Deluxe 20, Chevy (4x4), VANS: 2003 Ford E250, CAB & CHASSIS: Int’l. 4700 (s/a), Nissan UV (s/a), AUTOMOBILES: Volkswagen Passat, (2) Volkswagen Jetta, MOTOR HOMES: 1978 Winnebago D26RT 26ft., 167 VAN TRAILERS: 1990-1987 Fruehauf FB9 (t/a), 1983 Fruehauf FT8 (t/a), (2)1987 Fruehauf PG9 (t/a), Fruehauf 48ft. (t/a), Fruehauf (t/a), Fruehauf (s/a), (6) 1995 Strick 48ft. (t/a), (29) 1994-(30)1993 -(4) 1992-1991-19901986-1985 Strick 48ft. (t/a), (4) Strick 48ft. (t/a), 1993-1992 Strick 45ft. (t/a), Strick 45ft.(t/a), 1993-1982 Strick 30ft. (s/a), Strick 30ft.(s/a), (8) 1994 Strick 28ft. (t/a), 1994-1992-(2) 1991 Strick 28ft. (s/a), Trailmobile 53ft., 1984-1978 Trailmobile 48ft. (t/a), 1974 Trailmobile 45ft. (t/a), 1990 Trailmobile 42ft. (t/a), Trailmobile 42ft. (t/a), 1997-(2) 1992-1991 Wabash 53ft. (t/a), (2) Wabash 53ft. (t/a), (2) 1996-(2) 1995 Wabash 48ft. (t/a), Wabash 48ft. (t/a), (3) Wabash 30ft. (s/a), (4) 1998-(6) 1997 Wabash 28ft. (s/a),Wabash Remanufactured 28ft. (s/a), 1993 Great Dane 53ft. (t/a), Great Dane 53ft. (t/a), 2000 Stoughton 53ft., (2) Stoughton 53ft. (t/a), 1993 Stoughton 48ft. (t/a), 1996 Pines 53ft. (t/a), Pines 53ft. (t/a), (3) Pines 48ft. (t/a),1989 Pines 30ft. (s/a), (6) Pines 30ft. (s/a), (2) Pines 28ft. (s/a), 1993 Dorsey AIDTLS (t/a), 1973 American Trailer 42ft. (t/a), 1986 Theurer 48ft. (t/a), 1995 Hyundai 48ft. (t/a), 1983 Kentucky 48ft. (t/a), (3) 1996 Monon 48ft. (t/a), Evans Monon 48ft. (t/a), 1991 National P102, 1993 Road Systems 30ft. (s/a), (2) 48ft. (t/a), 28ft. (s/a), 14 REFRIGERATED TRAILERS: (2) 1998-1997 Great Dane 7211 48ft. w/Thermal King Units (t/a), 1992 Great Dane 701 w/ Thermal King (t/a), (4) Great Dane 48ft. w/ Thermal King Units (t/a), Dorsey LPGARD (t/a), 1996 Wabash RSA10215 (t/a), 1984 Timpee Inc. (t/a), 1996-1990 Utility VS2R w/ Thermal King (t/a), Utility 48ft. w/ Thermal King (t/a), 9 EQUIPMENT TRAILERS: 2009 Dorsey 35ton (t/a), 1999 Landoll 660W (t/a), Landoll 48ft. (t/a), 1999 Ravens 48ft. (t/a), Ravens 48ft. (t/a), Ryder 48ft. (t/a), 2000 Take Three Trailers Inc. (tri.), Trailmobile 45ft. (t/a), 1984 48ft. (t/a), 5 TAGALONG TRAILERS: Load Trail (t/a), 2001 John Pepper Welding 14ft. (t/a), 16 1/2ft. (t/a), 14ft. (t/a), 12ft. (t/a), 2 UTILITY TRAILERS: 1994 Silver Eagle CST20W (s/a), (t/a), FLATBED TRAILERS: 1999 Ravens (t/a), TANKER TRAILERS: 1985 Polar Tank (t/a), STORAGE TRAILERS: 2000 Trailmobile (t/a), 2 DUMP TRAILERS: City 27ft. (t/a), 40ft. (t/a), PARTS TRUCKS: (2) Peterbilt 378 (t/a), Peterbilt 377 (t/a), 1984 Peterbilt 359 (t/a), (2) Peterbilt (t/a), (6) Peterbilt (parts), 2001-1997-1996-1995 Freightliner (t/a), (2) Freightliner (t/a), 1993 Freightliner (s/a), Freightliner Cab Over (t/a), Freightliner Century Class, (5) Freightliner (t/a), (2) Freightliner (Parts), Kenworth T2000 (t/a), Kenworth T2000, Kenworth W925 (t/a), Kenworth W900 (t/a), Kenworth T600D (t/a), Kenworth (t/a), Kenworth (parts), Intl. 9900 (t/a), Int’l. 8600 (t/a), 1995 Volvo (t/a), (4) Volvo (t/a), Volvo (s/a), Volvo (parts), Western Star (t/a), White/ GMC (s/a), Ford Bronco (4x4), GMC General (t/a), TRUCK PARTS & Misc. ACCESSORIES: (5) Various Cab Assemblies, (24) Various Truck Tractor Cabs for Peterbilt-Freightliner-VolvoInt’l., (20) Stripped Truck Tractors- Dump Trucks- Service Trucks-Wreckers, Tandem axles, (30) Stripped Volkswagen Passats-Jettas-Golfs, Qty. Hoods- Fenders- Exhaust –Doors- Window Frames, Aluminum Wheels, Water Pumps, Running Boards, Tool Boxes, PARTS MACHINES: Unic Corp. K30P, ENGINES: Cat 3176-3406 Diesel, Cummins N14 Diesel, Detroit 60-B6 Diesel, Mack EM7 – 6 cyl. Diesel, RUBBER TIRED LOADERS: JCB 416, Michigan 125, CRAWLER LOADERS: Cat 973, TELESCOPIC FORKLIFTS: Cat TH350B, 12 FORKLIFTS: Cat GC25, (2) Komatsu FG20, (2) Toyota 42-6FCU25, (2) Mitsubishi FGC20, Clark GCS20I, (2) Daewoo GC25S, Hyster H330B, Yale 4,000lb., WELDERS: Hobart TR500, ATTACHMENTS: Excavators: New 3500-4800-5600 Thumbs, Skid Steers: Hay Spears, Grapples, Tree boom, New Stump Buckets, Forks, Buckets, OFFICE EQUIPMENT: Chairs, File Cabinets, Desks, SUPPORT EQUIPMENT: 4500lb. jack, Carrier & Thermal King Refrigeration Units for Trailer, Elston Catalytic heater, Pressure Washers, Poulan- White Snowblowers, Shelving, Doors, Pallet Racking, Acetylene Hose, Tarps, Portable gas Tanks, Misc. Hardware, New & Used Tires for Trucks. DIRECTIONS: From I-81 South: Merge N Blakely St./ PA-347 S via exit 188 toward Dunmore, left at Jessup St., right on N. Apple St..,

right on Sherwood Ave., right on N. Blakely St./ PA-347 for 1.3 miles. Continue to follow PA-347 N. Slight right on Sanderson St.. Sale site is on the right.

Address: 922 Sanderson St., Throop, PA 18512.

PENNSYLVANIA LICENSE #: AU-003051-E

ALEX LYON & SON Sales Managers & Auctioneers Bridgeport, NY Phone: (315) 633-2944, Fax: (315) 633 -8010

www.lyonauction.com

Number 155 on Reader Card

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Page # RS# 1 800 I’M STUCK 48 Access Tools 47 Akins Body & Carrier Sales 43 Alex Lyon & Son 15 Atlas Flasher 19 Bailey’s Towing 17 B/A Products 27 Century 2, 3 Chevron, Inc. 31 Copart 19 Cross Country Auto. Services 4 Custer Products 39 Danco Products 49 DewEze Mfg. 26 Dynamic Towing Eq. & Mfg. 32, 33 Equipment Sales & Services 57 Equipment Sales & Services 39 Ford Commercial Trucks 50, 51 GPS on Sale 26 Hino Motor Sales USA 12, 13 IGTC McManus Pearld Gesl 49 Intek Truck Eq. Finance & Lease 18 Intergrated Vehicle Leasing 57 16 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

213 102 126 155 184 216 108 143 154 101 114 128 110 147 165 150 152 176 169 142 175 145 135

Page # RS# itowman.com 39 Jerr-Dan Corp. After page 8 Landoll Corp. 38 Lift & Tow 27 Lodar/Skidmore 26 Matheny Motor Truck Co. 25 Matjack/International Wreckers 17 Minute Man Mfg., Inc. 18 Motorcycle Towing Service 24 National Automobile Club 39 New England Truckmaster 55 Purpose Wrecker Sales 48 Recovery Billing Unlimited 48 Rush Towing Systems 6 RV Cams 24 Steck Mfg. Co. 27 Superior Signals 17 Tiger Tool 55 Vulcan 64 Warn Inds. 9 Western States Tow Show 62, 63 Whelen Engineering Co. 54 WreckMaster 9

—— 124 174 139 163 194 186 166 130 178 171 212 155 198 159 132 119 141 107 120 122 113 100

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TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 17

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The Towing Network announced that it has launched a nationwide service as a new partner for the heavy duty towing industry. The Towing Network, which operates a nationwide call center located in Brunswick, Ohio, has chosen the towSearch Commercial software platform from towPartners to assist in building its network of service providers, as well as to manage work orders and to connect the motor carriers and towing companies through web portals to create new efficiencies in towing dispatch. The towSearch Commercial product was specifically designed for commercial clients and utilizes the highly developed towPartners database system. The Towing Network is looking for partner towing companies with a solid reputation and the ability to serve large motor carrier customers with heavy duty towing, recovery and road service. “We are a company made up of towers supporting towers,” said President Jeff St. Pierre , “We provide a quality product for a fair price that has been established by a board of towing experts who are like minded and want to promote a professional image for the towing community.”

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Check out AT’s new digital edition at itowman.com 18 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

The tragedy that took the lives of Darien, Ill. tower Jeff Kramer, his wife, Lori, and son, Michael, last month, calls up the horrors of the Cruse family tragedy of seven years ago, when a crazed former boyfriend wiped out four of the five family members. According to the Chicago Sun Times, prosecutors say one of the surviving children, Angela Kramer, was the fourth intended target of alleged killer Jacob Nodarse, who is accused of breaking into the Kramer home on the 8900 block of Kilkenny Drive in Darien on March 2 and killing them on the orders of her ex-boyfriend, Johnny Borizov.

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TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 19

Don’t Get Burned Towers and Vehicle fire

An exploding bumper shock represents a very dangerous situation. You may literally be in the “line of fire.”

“This is Sonitrol. We have just detected a vehicle fire in your yard and we have contacted the Fire Department and the RCMP.” 20 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

by Larry Styba

his was what the voice on the other end of the telephone line told Dena Sorley of Maple Ridge Towing in Maple Ridge BC when she answered a call in the early hours of November 16, 2009. Sonitrol is the company Maple Ridge Towing contracts for the video monitoring and security system for their compound. It’s the type of call that every manager hopes they never have to field.

Dena replied to the voice on the line, “Are you sure? Are our trucks or buildings on fire?” “We are currently monitoring the real time video in camera No. 14. The fire is contained to the cab of a pickup. Your tow trucks are parked close to the incident but are safe at this time.” When Dena arrived at the towing yard the fire department was set up and ready to battle the fire as soon as the gate was opened. The firemen quickly coated the fire with bio-degradable foam and contained the damage to only the pickup truck involved. Bumper shocks can explode outwards and if the operator is hooking up a j-hook to the vehicle his head may be right in the kill zone.

Hours earlier, Maple Ridge Towing had received a call from the police to tow a partially burnt, stolen and recovered truck. It is unclear which one, but one of the agencies involved apparently suggested that they would like the vehicle parked inside Maple Ridge Towing’s secure building. The operator tactfully discussed the situation with the different agencies, referring to the company’s policy that all burnt vehicles must be left outside, as they emit toxins. This resulted in the appropriate choice being made. As it turned out, the same fire and police crew attended the second call at the tow yard for this same vehicle. The surveillance video recording provided the RCMP officer with the information he needed to rule out arson, allowing him to close his investigation. The video showed that a hot spot was not cleared on the initial call and when combined with a wind storm with 70 to 90 km/h gusts, caused the fire and the ensuing anxious moments for the crews and employees. Rob Cook, assistant manager of Maple Ridge Towing said that they have since set a few new policies in place to enhance the one that saved the business from going up in smoke. “We will no longer park burnt vehi-

cles in the regular car rows,” explained Rob, “but we will now park them in the designated ‘Scrap Area’ of the yard. We will also give the car ‘room to breathe’ a buffer zone around the car in case of a flare up. Maybe then after a couple of ‘cool down’ days we will treat the vehicle as one of the regulars.” Chuck Felix of Mill Bay Towing on Vancouver Island is all too familiar with the hazards of towing burnt out vehicles. Chuck has experienced three incidents involving vehicles that have caught fire while under tow. Two occurred while he was towing them to his compound and one incident resulted when an (ex-)employee tossed a cigarette butt out the window. The first incident occurred back in 1997 when Chuck attended a call from the police involving a car fire in the early morning hours. Chuck loaded and secured the charred remains of the car onto his new flat deck and towed it to his compound 14 kilometers away. During the trip Chuck noticed smoke coming from the car, but at first he dismissed it as steam. It turned out to be a small fire that started with the combination of a hot spot and the wind which was created by driving down the highway. Chuck is very familiar with his call area and called 911 to request that local volunteer fire department be prepared at their hall No.2 because he would arrive there within minutes with a burning car. When Chuck arrived he tilted the bed back and down and the firemen made quick work of the fire. Chuck later found out that the fire department had not been called out to the initial scene of the fire, which had extinguished itself except for the hot spots. The second incident involved a former employee who was towing an already-burnt Firebird convertible (engine fire) from the salvage yard to an auto wrecker in Duncan BC. The driver, a smoker, (company policy is no smoking in the trucks) threw a live cigarette butt out the window and it landed in the back seat of the car. Upon arrival at his destination the back seat was engulfed in flames. The staff of the auto wrecking company

put out the fire with two extinguishers. The driver claimed innocence! The third incident occurred as Chuck towed a pickup truck that had struck a power pole. It was damaged extensively in the front end and needed a sling tow due to a missing front wheel. Chuck loaded the truck and drove toward his compound. At one point, when he checked his rear view mirror he saw smoke coming from the engine compartment of the derelict truck. The culprit was the battery. It had not been disconnected at the scene and the hood was grounding out on the terminals.

Chuck called 911, requested the fire department that services his towing yard, advised them of the fire and that he would arrive at the yard in three minutes. On arrival, he parked in an empty gravel parking lot near his yard, away from other vehicles, power lines and any other items that may catch fire. Chuck unhooked the truck, leaving only his J-hook chains attached and moved the wrecker out of harm’s way. He then went over to the car and emptied his fire extinguisher into the engine compartment, but to no avail as the fire was too far advanced. The volunteer fire department once again made easy work of extinguishing it. The culprit was the battery. It had not been disconnected at the scene and the hood was grounding out on the terminals.

Chucks’s Fire Tips •All towing operators and dispatchers should familiarize themselves with the locations of the fire departments in their call area. •Keep a fire extinguisher on board your truck and check it weekly. •When you place a call to 911 stay calm and give clear, precise information on your location as well as a contact number. •Check the casualty in your rear TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 21

Burning vehicles, big or small, all have hidden dangers and towers must be cautious. The recovery of this burnt vehicle faced the challenging negotiation of this ditch...both a wrecker and carrier were used; see page 5. Top photo by G. Gravel, Photo right by Jamie Sivecki

view mirrors more often when you are towing a burnt vehicle.

Battery Terminals Rob Chatton, assistant chief – training, Pitt Meadows Fire Department in Pitt Meadows BC says, “Any car with significant damage that requires towing should have the battery terminals removed and folded away from the posts or cut.” If the cables are disconnected at the accident scene rather than cut, when back at the yard, the tow truck driver has the opportunity to reconnect them in order to secure the sunroof or electric windows that may be open. Of course, this will help prevent possible further damage from being exposed to the weather. Furthermore, if the electrical system is disabled it will lessen the chances of 22 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

the air bags activating when you least expect it, such as when the towing operator goes inside the passenger compartment to release the emergency brake or to put the car into neutral.

What should the driver do if the towed vehicle catches fire enroute? Find a safe location to pull over. Try not to park under power lines, near trees or other vehicles, buildings or flammables (all known as “exposures”). A parking lot is a suitable open space most times. If the wrecker is at risk, off load the vehicle, provided it is safe to do so.

Does parking a burnt vehicle outside in the elements hinder an arson investigation? Rob Chatton says, “It does not nec-

essarily hinder the fire department’s investigation as we don’t investigate them as closely as we used to. Insurance companies have more of an interest and may follow up more closely. “If a criminal act is involved it is turned over to the police, so in that sense it may hinder the police department.” (This might not be the case in all areas, but this is common in many areas of BC). Rob Chatton also states, “The burnt vehicle should never be in an inside storage area because of further fire issues. As well, [a burnt vehicle] releases toxins days after the initial fire.” Keeping a burnt vehicle outside eliminates the possibility of a fire erupting inside your building, and as we can see, it can happen easily.

When the fire department gets a call to a vehicle fire and the fire is located in the engine compartment they need to check the passenger and trunk areas to ensure there is no fire extension. It is a no-brainer that you must check the passenger space. There are throttle cables, emergency brake cables, heater hoses and wiring harnesses as well as air conditioning lines that go between the two compartments and the fire can easily spread via these components. The fire department should not leave until a thorough inspection of the vehicle is done to be sure they have cleared all hot spots. Rob Chatton adds, “The ‘overhaul’ normally takes two to three times longer to do than it takes to put the fire out.” If the fire department is on scene at the same time as the tow operator, the operator should talk to the incident

Fire Classification

commander to ask if the hot spots are all out and if the car is ready for loading. This will bounce the liability ball onto the fire department to make sure they have done the overhaul correctly.

What other hazards exist when a car has been burnt? There are many other dangers that most operators rarely think about when attending a car fire. Rob Chatton advises, “The gas shocks in the suspension as well as the gas shocks that hold up the hood and the trunk lid or tailgates of vans can easily explode without warning. Bumper shocks can explode outwards and if the operator is hooking up a j-hook to the vehicle his head may be right in the kill zone.” Rob also mentions that some fuel tanks are made of high grade plastic and a fire could melt the top away, leav-

Combustibles

Ordinary

Class A Fire

ing it breached. This hole can be an issue when you load it up and as you drive, fuel may slosh around and spill out of its basin. Rob Chatton recommends an ABC dry chemical extinguisher for tow trucks, as they cover a wide range of fire types that towers may come across.

How often do fire extinguishers need to be checked and serviced? Rob states, “An annual inspection by a fire equipment company is recommended for portable extinguishers. A daily check is part of the pre-trip inspection to ensure the ABC dry chemical is sealed, pressurized and ready for service. Weekly, invert the extinguisher several times (shaken, not stirred!) as the powder settles with the vibration of the vehicle. If left [unshaken] it will get to the point where it doesn’t discharge.”

Examples

Extinguisher

Wood, Paper, Cloth and Plastics

Water/Foam/Dry Chemical/Water Mist

Class B Fire

Flammable Liquids

Gasoline, Petroleum, Oils and Paint

Carbon Dioxide/Foam/Dry Chemical/Clean Agent

Class C Fire

Energized Electrical Equipment

Motors, Transformers and Appliances

Dry Chemical/ Clean Agent/Water Mist

Potassium, Sodium, Aluminum and Magnesium

Dry Powder

Animal Fats, Vegetable Oils

Wet Chemical

Class D Fire

Class K Fire

Metals

Cooking Oils & Greases

The difference between steam and smoke will tell you whether you have an active fire or not. Steam

Smoke

white

white/grey/black/orange

dissipates quickly

does not dissipate quickly like steam

This article first ran in Tow Canada magazine. Check it out at www.arapublishing.com/towcanada.html TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 23

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TOWERS REPORT ON PRODUCTS & SERVICES THAT HELP THEM SUCCEED Access Tools “ We’ ve been dealing with Access for 12 years. We began as a locksmith in ’79 and got into road service in ’97. Never had problems, they’re always friendly. Most importantly, they back their products. The only time I recall there was an issue they took care of it right away. 99% of the cars can be opened with their tools” Stuart Hornik, Lightning Roadside, Levittown, N.Y.

see ad on page 47

Akins Body & Carrier Sales “ We get 99% of our equipment from Akins. They’ve got reasonable pricing. We deal with Phil Pigwill. He’s very good, very accommodating. He specs what you want, not whatever he has on the lot. The Chevron is twice as strong as any other bed I’ve bought. We have nine trucks. We do a lot of transport – cars to auction. We work our 4-car carriers. And for rotation work with the police deprtment the Chevron holds up the best.” Jimmy Galous, Coben Towing, Winder, Ga.

see ad on page 43

B/A Products “ The only straps and chains we buy are B/A, whether from our local distributor or AW Direct. The straps are durable and reasonably priced and the hardware is durable. More so than the competition. The nice things about both straps and chains is that they come tagged with safety ratings and load limitations. I have been to the facility and I know Chip – good fella. I want to support local manufacturers, particularly with American made products.” Rick Chambers, Silver Spring Towing, Silver Spring, Md.

see ad on page 27

Bailey’s Towing Accessories “ Very good invention, I can do single lane recoveries with it off the side of the bed–takes the place of a side puller. We just did a car under a tractor trailer–winched it out and right up onto the bed. It locates anywhere along the bed. I have four of these Side Recovery Guides.” Jerry Barbour, Barbour’s Towing & Truck Repair, Raleigh, N.C.

see ad on page 17

28 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Products and services in this section relate to participating advertisers in this issue.

Century “Our 75-ton rotator is a strong truck, does any job you put it up against. A nitrogen gas trailer weighing 84,000 lbs rolled over on Joy Mountain. Very risky. We normally would have needed at least three wreckers and the rotator did the job by itself. We did 100 recoveries with it last year.” Tim Moody, Glovers Towing & Recovery, North Little Rock, Ark.

see ad on page 2, 3

Chevron “ Chevron Renegade, Self Loader, twin line extendable boom, phenomenal piece of equipment– great for getting in on tight areas. It sneaks right into tight spots and the boom is like a stiff leg for the recovery work. Grandfather started the business and my father’s now retired. We do a lot of towaways for municipalities, illegally parked cars. You only have to get out of the truck to check the emergency brake. Does the job in one third the time of a conventional wrecker. We also have Chevron carriers, LCG models with the low loading angle.” John Schmidt, Schmidt’s Auto Inc., Madison, Wis.

see ad on page 31

Copart “ Copart is a successful segment of our overall towing business. About 7% of our total call volume. This is what I like about the sub hauler program: scheduled work assignments, dedicated coverage area, weekly payments which helps the cash flow; it’s a large volume account for us, and the staff at the local branch is great to work with.” Dan Bertagnolli, Berts Towing, Hammond, Ind.

see ad on page 19

Cross Country Automotive Services “As a provider for Cross Country I have increased revenue and profits not by volume only and the price of a tow but by using their Perks Program. I have been able to save money on fuel, tires and most importantly on my payroll. With the use of Instant Dispatch I have been able to show huge savings on my dispatch center. My call takers and dispatchers have become much more efficient which in turn made my drivers more productive. I'm able to run more calls and have fewer expenses. Because of this strong working relationship I'm able to get data on my call acceptance and see where my business is lacking and where it is strong which all comes to a higher level of service not only for Cross Country members but for all of my clients.” Fred Scheler, Henry's Wrecker Service (multiple Virginia locations)

see ad on page 4

Custer Products “ I buy all my lights from Custer. Bought some at the Baltimore show, Reno, Houston, San Antonio...strobe, spotlights, all of them. We are in business 15 years and we buy from Custer all the time. I like that little guy– Al. He’s great. We’ve got 17 trucks so it important to have a supplier who can give you what you need when you need it.” JR. Galvan, Galvan Super Towing, Robbs Town, Texas

see ad on page 39

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 29

Danco “ The Swivel Carrier is very impressive. It’s my primary truck in a fleet of six units. My dad started the business 62 years ago. We do everyting from repo’s to recoveries. This one can take a car out of a ditch standing in one lane, or from the shoulder. It cranks that bed on an angle and pulls her in.” Lonnie Hogeland, Hogeland Auto Plaza, Marshalltown, Iowa

see ad on page 49

DewEze “ We use only DewEze Clutch Pump kits on all the trucks we build for customers. They are finely engineered. The competing brands do not come close. DewEze is stand-up quality with good life expectancy. They make it to fit the engine so that it works well with the engine. Everyone there is very helpful.” Ed Igo, Winn Street Sales, Burlington, Mass.

see ad on page 26

Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. “ We utilize the Stealth, the Slide, 601's and 701's and the reason we are so successful is by far the choice of lift we use. Dynamic has been and is still the best, bar none, in the industry. If it rolls, floats, flies or sinks, our Dynamic Autoloaders can handle the job. We have been in this industry for 15 years and have seen and tried every lift that has been chasing the original Dynamic, but none have yet come close to its durability and versatility, not to mention we never have down time because the units are built so well. I support Dynamic and all the products they produce. My theory is why use something that is just good when you can get a lift that is Dynamic.” Ron Shirley, Owner, Lizard Lick Towing and Recovery, Lizard Lick, N.C.

see ad on page 32, 33

Equipment Sales & Service “ In the last six years I bought seven trucks from Equipment Sales and Service. I’ve been in business for 21 years and purchased trucks from three other outfits. Dan Sr. is in a league above them all. On this last truck I purchased the service he has given me has been amazing. I would not buy from anyone else. And the Chevrons, I love ’em.” Chris D’Luca, First Class Towing, White Plains, N.Y.

see ad on page 57

Ford “ I have three Ford F550’s, two Vulcans and a Century self loader. They all work great for the car work I do. The twin line winches do the job with the recoveries. I like the stainless steel bodies. Itss been a good truck for us.” Joe Calvagno, All County Towing & Recovery, Island Park, N.Y.

see ad on page 50, 51

30 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Chevron’s New LCG Carriers IK

° °

Now choose from the Series 12 and the Series 16 Aluminum or Steel LCG.

Ali n e

Ji -

With a deck height of 5 inches lower than conventional carriers, the “Low Center of Gravity” carrier provides super low load angle for low clearance vehicles and exotics. Perfect addition to your fleet.

Lower deck height allows for transport of taller loads such as fork lifts plus loads are at arms length and easier to secure for transport.” Low Center of Gravity” increases stability and enhances the handling performance of loads. The high dump angle allows for easier removal of damaged or disabled vehicles.

7320 W. Market St. • US Route 62 • Mercer, PA 16137 Toll Free 800-886-6400 • 724-981-7500 • FAX 724-981-4425 www.chevroninc.com • email: dliston@chevroninc.com Number 154 on Reader Card

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Hino Trucks “ We have owned and run almost every brand of truck since the early 90's. We bought our 1st Hino in 2006 and then added a 2008 shortly thereafter. I have been impressed with the operation and reliability of these trucks (Model 258). I love the visibility, fuel economy and turning radius in the trucks. Set them up with air brakes and an exhaust brake, and you have a great work truck. I am definitely considering adding more to the fleet.” Robert Johnson, Hampshire Towing, Granby, Mass.

see ad on page 12, 13

Integrated Vehicle Leasing “ I have had equipment financed through Integrated Vehicle for the past three years; light to heavy duty, transport flatbeds, tractor, service vans. I just financed an NRC Quick Swap and a Chevy service van. The process is pretty simple. Given the bank’s crackdown on credit the past year and a half, that’s saying a lot for Integrated.” Jeremiah Sweeter, J & J Perlmans Towing, Albany, N.Y.

see ad on page 57

Intek Truck/Equipment Leasing “ As a second generation tower with over 30 years of towing experience, I appreciate the value of building relationships with my clients. Thanks to Reitman's Intek Truck/Equipment Leasing, I have been able to lease wreckers, flatbeds, and even this rotator I needed on short notice. Through Intek I got it with no hassle. No other company could have made it easier.” Charles Grone, Grone’s Wrecker Service, Toms River, N.J.

see ad on page 18

Jerr-Dan Corp. “ As a longtime Jerr-Dan customer I couldn't imagine working with any other equipment. My first truck years ago was a Jerr-Dan 19' alum rustler back in 1995. My latest purchase is a Ford F-550 4wd with a HPL 60 on the back. We took delivery on December 18th at 7pm. By 10 pm the snow was falling and the truck was working. The HPL-60 has performed flawlessly and handled every job we have dispatched it without an issue. This is the third HPL60 we have purchased and they handle anything from delivery trucks to passenger vehicles. Our fleet is 100% Jerr-dan and they are fantastic about handling any problem that rarely comes up. Paul Saffel and Jeff Barbour have been a great help to me and made me a loyal Jerr-dan customer.” R. Blair Gentry, Blair’s Towing & Recovery Inc., Falls Church, Va.

see Run Hard insert after page 8

Landoll “Our Landoll 410 HD Trailer is the best engineered trailer for that type of application, a tilt bed that slides forward from the 5th wheel. Mine is a tri-axle and I have it for three years now. I’m in the heavy duty wrecker business. Use it for everything; haul a lot of buses, heavy equipment, wrecked vehicles. Once hauled a Cessna twin engine plane on it. The Landoll folks are great people. They go out of their way – great service.” Bill McKnight, McKnight Wrecker Service, Arlington, Texas

see ad on page 38

34 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Lift And Tow “ I’ve had the Z Lift for four months. It took but two times to get it down pat. I can back into a driveway and pull a car back out in 45 seconds. This thing has been flawless. It means dodging the bullet. I’ve lifted a lot of vehicles with Lift And Tow. Either a car with 12 inch tires or vehicles with 33 inch tires. I’ve got a Dodge pickup with 4-wheel drive and a V-10. You can’t tell this is a repo truck. I love its stealth factor. Cal of Lift And Tow has always gone out of his way to help us with this lift. I will not purchase any other.” Richard Schenk, Northern Asset Recovery, Niterlochen, Mich.

see ad on page 27

Lodar “ We use the Lodar systems when we have a customer wanting cordless remote functions on their wreckers or carriers. They are an economical and reliable choice for our customers. We have been able to provide cordless remotes for just the winch or all the carrier functions for our customers. Customer support is also very good with Lodar and technical assistance is just a phone call away.” Kim Bressler, Bressler’s Towing & Recovery, Morgantown, Pa.

see ad on page 26

Matheny Motors “ Awesome dealership. With them three years now. Bought a rotator, a 25-ton, three carriers. Bought the Century 40-Ton Rotator at the Baltimore Show. We just did a creek recovery – zoomed it out – no impact to the environment. Would have normally needed at least two trucks and would have risked splitting the gas can open.” David Morton, Morton’s Towing & Recovery, Rockville, Md.

see ad on page 25

Matjack/International Wreckers “I have used Matjacks every way imaginable; uprighting tractor trailers to raising boats out of the water. I used two low pressure cushions once to raise a 36 inch culvert pipe draining a pond. I have used all makes of cushions and bags. The Matjacks are a little heavier than most, but by far the best, both their high pressure and low pressure bags. They are designed with tapering toward the top and this holds it in place against a tractor trailer while it’s in the process of being raised and there’s less pressure on the cushions. Smart engineering.” Bruce Davis, Davis Towing & Recovery, Rushville, Ind.

see ad on page 17

Minute Man Mfg., Inc. “ We have two Minute Man units (HDH), fully hydraulic, one on my Ford F250 and the other on the F350, short bed and long bed pick-ups. They’re fast, hassle free. Just did a repo where a concerned citizen tried to jump in front of the truck to stop me. I saw him and was able to maneuver by him, not having to get out of the truck. The Minute Man is great for repo work. The folks there are great with the way they treat us. I will stick with them for their customer service alone. Quinn Denning is always there for us like a book full of knowledge to help out. We’re also fortunate to be close to San Diego Hydraulics for any servicing the unit may need. They do a great job, too.” Paul Alkhoury, Riteway Recovery, San Diego, Calif.

see ad on page 18

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 35

National Automobile Club “ National is a great club to deal with. Any issue I’ve had with them gets a rapid response. They’re a small club that still believes in taking care of their provider network. When you want to speak with someone you can get that person on the phone. They always listen and are receptive. I do about 100 calls a month with them and they pay quickly.” Quinn Piening, Central Tow & Transport, Freemont, Calif.

see ad on page 39

New England Truckmaster “ When you’re ready to take the plunge and invest in that new wrecker, you need a name that stands for quality, service, and professionalism. New England Truckmaster provides hands-on, personalized service, tailored to our business needs. It is truly a pleasure to do business with a team so dedicated to customer service.” Anthony Paniccia, Vincent Service Station, Mamaroneck, N.Y.

see ad on page 55

Recovery Billing Unlimited “ Opened our eyes on liability issues and covering yourself, your employees, and your company. How to properly bill certain aspects of the job, how to take pictures and document the recovery so that you have the answers ready for the insurance companies. The guys at Big Wheel (Recovery Billing Unlimited) showed methods to use for getting paid. They also showed us new methods of recovery. We’ve been applying many of the things I learned in this class.” Jim Modzelewski, Modzelewski Towing, Danbury, Conn.

see ad on page 48

Eric and Bob Fouquette of Recovery Billing Unlimited

Rush Towing Systems “ I have been a customer of Rush for a year–bought two wreckers from them. I was impressed by their customer service when they dropped off a wrecker to use when there was an issue with the gas tank on the truck. The Element is a fine piece of machinery. I went to the Houston Show (Tow Expo) last year to do my research. I was able to nail it down. There are a lot of good ones but I wanted the best. We are constantly picking up cars for our dealers and where they are sometimes located is often a challenge. We’ ve even winched some cars out of the mud with it. It’s a great wrecker.” Scott Sattler, Beaumont Dealers Auction, Beaumont, Texas

see ad on page 6

RV Cams “ We sell Dynamic self loaders and our customers will put the RV Cam on the truck, often to record the repossession. The primary purpose is for safety in backing up the wrecker. There is a one year warranty on the product but I’ve never had a problem with it. I’ve been working with RV Cams for five years. I’ve also installed them on heavy-duty NRC units. It’s a good product.” Tim Mays. DFW Truck Eq., Dallas, Texas

see ad on page 24

36 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Tiger Tool “ I definitely like the product. I operate three Peterbilts, a dump truck, water wagon, and tractor. I pull U Joints out of drivelines. I use their tools to pull out pins from the brake linkage; they get frozen, miserable to get out. Tiger Tool U Joint Pullers and Yoke Pullers make it all a lot easier. A lot better than a hammer.” Bob Matix, Matix Logging & Construction, Sebastopool, Calif.

see ad on page 55

Vulcan “ My 75-ton rotator is a successful balance between capacity and usability. It’s still a tow truck. Miller builds the best product for both towing and recovery. This one never quits. Never lets me down. My feather-touch remote control operates all the functions. The Miller group is like family. They treat you like a long lost brother when you walk in the door. Their customer service has no equal. I called their Tennessee plant at 10 p.m. during a recovery – there was an operational issue with the equipment and a technician called back in ten minutes to help us out.” Robert Van Lingen, Van Lingen Towing Inc., Torrance, Calif.

see ad on page 64

Warn Industries “ We have been in business for 30+ years. What started with one truck has multiplied over the years to over 25. We have always preferred Warn products to its competitors, just because of the quality and performance it delivers year after year. We recently purchased two WARN Air Power VTC 12 volt air compressors that allow us a work range of just airing up passenger car tires to filling the air systems of tractor trailers, in order to pull start. In a business where we depend on the durability and longevity of products we purchase, Warn has never failed to deliver. We plan on purchasing and using Warn products throughout the future of our family owned and operated company.” Dick Peterson, Dick’s Towing, Everett, Wash.

see ad on page 9

WreckMaster “ WreckMaster has done a world of good for us, the business, me personally. Our drivers have learned a tremendous amount–made them professionals… knowing the right way from the wrong way. They work as a team now– and that is due to Team WreckMaster. I have new drivers right now and I’m looking to send them to be trained.” Pat Herring, JE Herring Motor Co., Somerset, Pa.

see ad on page 9

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 37

Matjack Classes Set for May and August

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Matjack, the leading manufacturer of air cushions and air bags for the towing and recovery industry, will hold training classes on May 15th and 16th at O’Hare Towing Service, Downers Grove, Illinois and on August 21st and 22nd in Indianapolis, Indiana. Matjack classes offers attendees comprehensive and in-depth practical use of air bags/cushions. Attendees will also have the opportunity to be trained on the use of Landing Cushions, the newest, pneumatic, technological advancement in the recovery field.Trainers instructing these classes include, Howard Eagan, Jeff Martin, James Dougherty, and John Sweezy, president and C.E.O. of Matjack Int’l. These are Certification classes, so mandatory attendance on both days with a satisfactory written test score the conclusion of the second day is required to qualify for certification. This will be a BTR class with both recovery and rescue personnel present, so participants should bring protective gear. Classes begin at 8 a.m. on both days. For pricing, hotel and meal information, call Matjack, 1-800-827-3755 or Matjack@sprynet.com. Berths ar limited.

Fleet Sales Relocates

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800-428-5655 8 -4 www.landoll.com www.landoll.com Number 174 on Reader Card

38 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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Just into their 10th year in business, Fleet Sales West owners Jim Walsh and Donna Coe announce the company’s move to Woodburn, Ore., 20 minutes south of its previous location in Sherwood, Ore. It’s grand opening event is slated for late June. The 5.75 acre facility with over 23,000 feet under roof also houses Tow Parts Now, the virtual, online towing parts and accessories business, led by manager Nick Kemper. The building, a landmark for over 3 decades in Woodburn, originally housed the John Deere tractor dealership. “We had just simply outgrown our old facility, and our need to continue to provide superior service all around for our customers, as well as immediate access to parts and accessories, was a big factor in our decision to find a permanent home, says President and Chief Operating Officer, Jim Walsh.

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TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 39

N A T 1 U H AL ! !

HOUSTON: LiJe ' re Returning Home to Tow Expo Int'1! 100 Exhibits: Chassis, Wreckers, Carriers, Towing Accessories, Motor Clubs, Finance, Insurance, Safety Gear, Towing Software and More...

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2:00PM - 4:00PM

REGISTRATION OPENS USA Wrecker Pageant Move In, sponsored by Dynamic Towing Equip. & Mfg. Cross-Training For First Responders, sponsored by Jerr-Dan, GRB CC Level 3 American Towman Academy Seminars, GRB CC Level 3

Friday, April 30, 2010 7:00AM - 5:00PM 8:00AM - 11:00AM 8:00AM - 11:00AM 8:00AM - 5:00PM 8:00AM - 12:00PM 11:00AM - 5:00PM

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3. # Employees: ❏ 1-5 ❏ 6-10 ❏ 11-20 ❏ 21-50 ❏ 51-100 ❏ 100+ 4. Check one that best describes your purchasing authority: ❏ I authorize/approve purchases ❏ No authority ❏ I recommend 5. # tow trucks in fleet: ❏ 1-3 ❏ 4-7 ❏ 8-12 ❏ 13-16 ❏ 17+ 6. Types of trucks in fleet (check those that apply):

❏ Light Duty ❏ Medium Duty ❏ Heavy Duty

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The Right

by Randall Resch

Could this be the perfect facility or proverbial money pit?

Don’t get hung up on searching for locations with the best curb appeal.

44 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

hether you are looking to upgrade or downgrade your tow garage, or upgrade from working out of your home property, finding a towing facility may be a complicated, perplexing, and at times, an daunting task. You’ll certainly find that there are numerous “hoops” you’ll have to jump through based on what business niche you are serving. If you are serving law enforcement, you need to know what requirements will have an impact on your facility’s location, lot size (or number of vehicle storage), signage, access, etc. Accordingly, it’s recommended that prior to shopping facilities, review current or future contracts to know what’s required of your facility before investing or signing a long-term lease. When applying with city or county zoning, one crucial question you’ll need to answer will be, “Will you be storing vehicles long-term?,” as that may reflect

the overall approval from the zoning commission. If you’re currently operating from a tow facility, good business sense says it may be time to look at what financial options may be available in keeping your facility, either by refinance or renegotiating the lease/rental agreement, but only if there are options written into each contract. If the decision is to move, consider 10 important factors in evaluating a potential location as it applies to your short and long-term company goals: Cost – Obviously, cost and affordability are important factors when purchasing or leasing commercial property. For either consideration, the question remains, is a particular property affordable based on the current economy and your businesses’ financial status? Whenever you consider purchasing or leasing a tow or salvage location, will your business’ bottom-line produce sufficient funds to cover mortgage or

monthly lease/rent payments aside from other operational costs? Will higher rent cause you to charge higher rates to your customers? That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but still a factor to consider. And, don’t forget about annual property taxes. Location – Don’t get hung up on searching for locations with the best curb appeal. What’s important is accessibility to prime travel arteries of freeways and major roadways. Choose a facility that not only allows your trucks quick access, but also provides reasonable ease when vehicle owners need to retrieve their cars. Will a new facility put you beyond mileage restrictions of your law enforcement contracts? Because tow businesses are considered “mobile”, tow trucks become the operable component of conducting business. Much depends on whether or not your business has specific time/mileage restrictions as required by contract. In locations where 20-

minute responses are required by contract, staging tow trucks in strategic locations should be considered over facility location unless dictated by contract. In rural locations, facilities may be allowed to be further away. Foot Traffic – Towing businesses generally don’t have to be concerned about retail or walk-in traffic. When choosing a location, curb-appeal need not be as important as overall function and usability of the property as it relates to your business niche. Convenience – When a motorist has their vehicle impounded or they’ve been in an accident, it’s never convenient for them. Choosing a facility need not be easy to find, but more so easily recognized by posted signage. However, for your customer’s arrival, is it convenient to park, is the building easy to access, is it handicapped compliant? Does the proposed facility and/or surrounding areas provide parking for your trucks? Will you be able to park

tow trucks on frontal streets? Is there a commercial loading zone in front of the property? Is there a weather-protected (rain-snow) entrance? Safety – This is an increasingly important consideration for both customers and employees. Because towtype businesses are often restricted to industrial areas, safety becomes a heightened concern. Is there customer and employee parking close by? Is the property well lit? Does the business office (building) provide a secure “customer window” for conducting vehicle releases? Can vehicle owners access the business office with some level of safety? If police assistance is needed, will they arrive quickly? Prestige – Towing businesses aren’t generally listed under “Prestige Properties” based on the nature of the industry. The moment you apply to operate a towing, recovery, salvage or automotive storage business, the location of your business will be dictated by the TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 45

Zoned industrial with a secured paved yard are ideal improvements.

Corner properties in upgraded commercial areas are more expensive than properties in outlying areas, or would neighboring apartments (behind) generate noise and other complaints?

type of business you run. In most cases, your towing business will be restricted to specific industrial locations. Based on the potential business location, would a downtown address add credibility to your business name, or cost additional dollars for that location? Will wealthy neighbors favor a towing business in their neighborhood or generate problems for your application? Impact Study – The permit process may require a “Neighborhood Impact Study” which is expensive and generally non-refundable. An impact study may be held in an “open forum format” by city or county wherein said property sits inviting the community to express their approval or indignation as to whether a towing, storage, and/or salvage business should be located within certain districts. Facility requirements – Is there sufficient storage space for vehicles and trucks? Do you have special needs, such as high-power 220, internet or specialized dispatch hook-ups? Do you need inside storage space? Will you be allowed to wash your trucks without being fined for storm drain violations? Zoning – Most locations have strict zoning requirements for tow companies. Make sure your business is allowed there before signing a contract. Agency Approval – When considering growing one’s business, most owners seek to get into law enforcement and/or government services. In each bid packet are directives and instructions as to what facility improvements are or are not approvable by the contract entity. Much caution is advised here when choosing a potential location where your objective should be to get as many items (required by bid) already on-site and working. Thinking in this manner may save much needed dollars rather than having to pour dollars in to bring a property up to approvable status.

Stay the Course

Recommended is an area real estate specialist who deals in commercial properties.

46 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

So, what about the business owner who doesn’t want to move and wants to ride out the economic storm? To them, it makes perfect business sense to say, “Let’s stay put,” and not take on a binding contract that they may not be able to get out of. Although they too

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may be struggling, a greater survival attitude kicks in where they’re determined to make the best of where they’re currently located. By keeping positive thoughts, seeing ways to stay lean and staying put may be the best choice. A positive attitude says, “I’m

not stuck here, I’m holding on for better times!” Moving your towing business is a difficult process. And, in the norm of any move, something will get broken, something will get lost, or something will cause problems where your busi-

ness may be disrupted for a long time. One of the worst disruptions comes in the form of “computer/phone incompatibility” when moving phone lines, internet providers, and computer accessibility. It’s usually the business office that get’s trashed and winds-up having the greatest amount of long-lasting problems. I too have experienced “moving day war-stories” when a new facility disruption caused total phone calls and computer shut-down for days. As a result, our law enforcement dispatch wouldn’t work and we were forced to ® Use with YOUR go to good old Plan B. So ask yourself, ads and trucks to increase earnings. how long can your towing business go .All calls in YOUR Area Code will without phones, computers and/or the ring YOUR phone. Jain Today! internet? Sure you could resort to the old days of ledger-books and 3x5 cards, Look for."Tow TruckCamparues" at Caa For Avaiabiity but what does that do to your comwww.18001MSTUCK.com (516) 224.4401 pany’s productivity? Number 213 on Reader Card While it’s easy to load all your worldly items onto one of your company’s carriers, the logistics of calling your customers, accounts, and vendors, Iffer-w only to notify them of the location f S change, is a huge undertaking, not to CJE rt i = mention costs of re-printing business SL Lams , INa cards, invoices, and envelopes. And, what about the costs of re-lettering addresses and phone information on Call (636) 639-9700 your tow trucks? Where the new location may have an effect on time response, you’ll certainly have to develop new strategies in retaining top-notch service. Number 212 on Reader Card

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We rita re all attendees tha i they w !II be comple tely blown away at how mach m~ was lett on the table!"

Still Going Strong If your business facility currently suits your needs and you’ve decided to stay, why not conduct a mental spring clean up and look at your facility and the way you do business. Staying put may mean it’s time for a simple coat of paint and spring clean-up, even if it’s in the dead of winter. Towing facilities are usually dark, dusty and unattractive because some owners don’t give a care about what the facility and their business looks like. Remaining at your current location has its own responsibilities to include being a good neighbor and remain complaint free and compliant. Take time to conduct daily walk-around inspections of your facility. Where you see problems take action. And, to stay neighborhood friendly, employ the following tasks: •Pick up trash generated by your business. •Sweep the gutters – invest in a leaf blower. •Teach your drivers to make as little noise as possible especially during evening hours. •Control long and unnecessary truck idling. •Don’t park wrecked or junk cars outside. If your facility has chain-link fencing and everything inside is visible outside, lining the fence with privacy slats or tennis court screen will make a huge difference. Is a new look for your company’s sign in order? Compared to the unsure economy and the fear of future financial difficulties,

Randall C. Resch is a retired California police officer and has been involved in the towing and recovery industry for 40 years as a tow business owner, consultant, and manager. He is a freelance writer/photographer and is American Towman’s Operation’s Editor. Email Randy at: rreschran@aol.com.

maybe a new coat of paint and a little landscaping are easy upgrades that’ll bestow a new mental outlook and not cost an arm and a leg. And, like everything else in life, timing is key when choosing to remain or relocate. Whatever your choice, see it as an investment in your company’s future, one day at a time! I guess you could call these actions baby steps in making the best of tough times.

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by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

Rotator Rescue/Recovery Mission B Big Wheel Towing & Recovery brings out the big gun to perform a rescue/recovery in Massachusetts.

52 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

ig Wheel Towing & Recovery received a call from the Massachusetts State Police to respond to Route 140 South, south of Exit 7, for a serious motor vehicle accident involving a pickup truck. The police stated that, from the calls coming into their dispatch center, there were people trapped inside the vehicle and the truck was on fire. The accident location is only a short distance from Big Wheel’s main shop so their crew was on scene before the State Police. After doing their walk-around recon of the scene, the recovery crew members radioed back that the

fire went out upon arrival and that the driver was crushed in between the seat and the steering column as well as the dashboard. They explained that the driver was bleeding badly and that her kneecap was crushed between the door jamb and the door hinges. She also had a femur fracture and punctured lung. The vehicle was rolled over in a swamp with about 2-feet of water.

The rescue squad advised Big Wheel that they would need their rotator to hold the truck in place to prevent it from rolling over the half ejected driver. The rotator would have to be able to pull the truck from the front and back to open the crushed cab compartment up as well as hold the pickup truck in place to prevent it from rolling the rest of the way and

drowning the trapped operator or pinning the rescuers. This was going to be a rescue recovery mission, so Eric Fouquette drove the rotator out to the scene. This isn’t just any rotator it’s a behemoth Kenworth T800 five-axle 85-ton Jerr-Dan rotator, the largest factory built wrecker in the country. This is the fifth rotator Big Wheel has owned in the last

Note how the pickup is secured using the tree. The performance by the Big Wheel crew earned the Towman Commendaton.

Equipment: Kenworth T800 five-axle 85-ton Jerr-Dan rotator 2005 Kenworth P300 with 22ft Chevron bed

Recovery Operators: Bob Fouquette Eric Fouquette David Fouquette Kevin Whittle

Other Emergency Personnel: Massachusetts State Police New Bedford Fire & Rescue Department Samaritan EMS

TOWMAN.COM - April 2010 • 53

seven years. Kevin Whittle drove out their 2005 Kenworth P300 with a 22foot Chevron bed. Big Wheel owner Bob Fouquette and son David were also on scene. The Big Wheel crew, Bob, David, and Kevin rigged the pickup with recovery straps and then ran additional winch lines to another large tree in front of the crushed truck. Then they attached a large snatch block to the forward winch line. After the rigging was completed the rescue personnel covered the injured person with a blanket to prevent glass from breaking and

landing on her. On the signal from the New Bedford Fire Chief, Eric Fouquette, using the remote console, put the rotator through its paces and lifted the pickup so it was in a level position. He then put power to the front winch line to spread the pickup apart while holding the unit with the top cables. By doing it the rescue personnel were able to remove the injured woman. Once the injured woman was evacuated, the recovery crew finished cutting the rest of the trees blocking the pickup then lifted the truck straight up and loaded it onto their Chevron ramp

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54 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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truck. The badly damaged pickup was brought to Big Wheel’s Freetown location. The injured woman was in critical condition in a trauma unit but survived. For their efforts, the Big Wheel recovery team received the Towman Commendation for performing under pressure with a life hanging in the balance. This family run company has three generations actively working. Bob’s wife Rosaline runs errands and handles tasks that frees up the crew to do what they need to do. She also runs a few day care centers in town. Daughter, Linda, is the office manager/administrator and her sister-in-law Alice also handles the office work. Besides being heavy-duty towing and recovery specialists they service all trucks and have a full body shop to customize any truck to fit any need. They have used trucks and parts for sale and heavyduty snow plow equipment. The core team of Eric, Bob, David, and Jordan and all of their wrecker operators are WreckMaster 6/7 certified. Son, Eric, is a certified recovery specialist who, along with Bob, started Recovery Billing Unlimited, Inc. and instructs the billing classes. Son, David, is a certified recovery specialist, welder, fabricator, and runs the body shop. Grandson, Jordan, at 18 handles the computer business and tech for the company. The father and son team of Bob and Eric Fouquette were selected as Towmen of the Year for 2010. Bob Fouquette, a WreckMaster 6/7, owns Big Wheel Towing & Recovery, located in East Freetown, in Southeastern, Massachusetts. He started the company in 1980 with a 1953 Ford F800, which was originally owned by Sunbeam Bread. That’s how they got the yellow color for their trucks. The Ford was setup with a Holmes 525 split-boom and a heavy-duty tow bar. Big Wheel now has 30 pieces of modern equipment and numerous units from Landoll and skid steers to boats and construction equipment. They even have a hovercraft.

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Little Brute

“...it’s a little truck with a big attitude.”

by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

on Price, is the owner/manager of Simply The Best Towing Specialist in Westminster, Maryland. “I started the company in 1995,” he said, “but I've been in the towing industry since 1961.” Ron now has four full time and two part time drivers. He also has one full-time and one part-time dispatcher. Keeping it in the family his wife Delores is the office manager and their daughter Tina is the safety director. Ron added, “I also drive and tow when needed.”

There are now seven rigs in Ron’s fleet, including; one 20-ton heavy-duty, one 16-ton mediumduty rotator, three 26,000-pound carriers, one 4x4 service truck, and the 1-ton 4x4 light-duty wrecker featured here. Ron affectionately labeled his light-duty “Little Brute” because it’s a little truck with a big attitude. “John Jr., at West End Service in Ellicott City, Maryland built this unit for me,” informed Ron. Little Brute is a 1986 Ford F350 4x4 with a 1986 Century twin line boom and wheel lift. It is equipped 56 • April 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

with two Ramsey winches on the rear and one electric winch up front. Powered by a 6.9 Diesel with a Hyper Max turbo mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, it has plenty of pulling power. As for extras it has a custom front bumper made from two Freightliner frame rails, 95 LED lights, twin spot lights, outside sun visor, bumper guides, running boards, custom hand rails on bed, S/S light brackets, rear fender flairs, tube grille, and aluminum wheels. It also has two 3" stacks that add to its big rig look. Special equipment includes a snowplow set up and a micro brake lock, which serves as a parking brake. After applying the brakes in the vehicle, the operator flips a switch to electrically activate the micro lock that maintains the pressure in the brake lines until the switch is turned to the "off" position. Terry Strevig of Terry's Body Shop in Silver Run, Maryland painted Little Brute and Artie Burl of Western Maryland Sign in Frostburg handled the lettering and airbrush artwork. The paint job took about three weeks to complete.

Ron said, “Being a Vietnam Vet and having a very strong respect for the flag and the freedom it stands for is what inspired the paint job. I had the American flag and eagle air brushed on the hood of all our trucks.”

4x4 Capability “We live in the country and there are a lot of off-road calls, not to mention it being useful in plowing our other trucks out. Little Brute is a work horse.” Ron continued, “This unit being a 4x4 wrecker is the most important attribute it brings to our business. It is able to operate in conditions and on roads that a twowheel wrecker can’t go.” The 4x4 driveline is built with higher ground clearances, enhancing off-road capability. Adding a 4x4 is a great addition to any fleet. Ron added, “As for unique jobs Little Brute has towed Santa and his Sleigh into town the past two years in the Thanksgiving Parade.” So far this beauty has only been in one show, the 2009 American Towman Exposition, but there are more shows in its future.

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Send your thoughts/suggestions on the Adventures to scalitri@towman.com or American Towman, 7 West St, Warwick NY 10990

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JUNE 2 - 5.2010

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INDOOR AND OUTDOOR EXHIBITS S CTTA AND TRAA MESTINGS BUSINESS SEMINARS AND HANDS ON TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION CPR AND FIRST RESPONDER TRAINING Bro fi ght to VOL' by

TOURNAMENT

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Wednesday – June 2nd 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Friday – June 4th (continued)

.............................. Exhibitor Setup & Truck Move In

10 a.m. ................................. Trade Show Opens

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SPECIAL EVENTS:

lust 20miles to gold country, 60 milas to scenic Lake lahoe, 90 miles to California wine country and220miles to cosmopolitan SanFrancisco.

........................................................ CHP Roundtable

7:30 a.m. – 10 a.m...............AAA Contractor Appreciation Breakfast Sponsored By: CSAA & ACSC

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. .......................CTTA Tow Ladies Luncheon & Bunco

........................................ Exhibitor Setup Continued Show & Shine Truck Move In

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. .......................................CTTA Committee Meetings

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Opening Night Party ................................................... Free Food & Drinks Sponsored By: Michelman & Robinson

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Thursday – June 3rd

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2 p.m. – 8 p.m. ........................................ TRAA Committee Meetings

8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

..............................CTTA Light Duty Level 1 Training & Certification – Day One

12 p.m. – 2 p.m. ......CTTA Certified Tow Operator Recognition Luncheon

NEW

This event is open to any tow operator who has gone through the CTTA training and certification program. Awards, recognition and special gifts will be given out during event.

5:30 p.m............................................Extreme Recovery Demonstration

and 20 year Anniversary Celebration Barbeque Free Food & Drinks Sponsored By: Miller Industries

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. .... Continuing Education and Certification Classes

Presented By Leading Industry Instructors

3 p.m. ....................................Trade Show Opens

EXTREME RECOVERY a DEMONSTRATIONS M

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SPECIAL EVENTS: 7 a.m.

TOURNAMENT

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INDUST HIES

.......................................................................... Golf Tournament D’Andrea Golf Resort

9 p.m. – 11 p.m.

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Saturday – June 5th 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. ...............................Happy Hour on Trade Show Floor 9 p.m. .................................................................Black Jack Tournament

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Only Have Space for 300 Attendees Register Early Free Play, Free Food & Great Prizes Hosted By: towPartners & Sprint Nextel

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Friday – June 4th Sant inm Ent er prises Inc.

Host Hotel :Silver Legacy Resort & Casino o Call 800.681.8133 for reservation s t

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............................ Have a Cigar with the Godfather

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8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

..............................CTTA Light Duty Level 1 Training & Certification – Day Two

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

...... Continuing Education and Certification Classes Presented By Leading Industry Instructors

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. 8 a.m.

...... Continuing Education and Certification Classes Presented By Leading Industry Instructors

........................................................CPR Training & Certification Space is Limited Register Early

10 a.m. ................................. Trade Show Opens 3 p.m. ........................................................................ Closing Ceremony

SPECIAL EVENTS: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

...................... CTTA State Light Duty Tow Operator Driving Competition

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

............................................Show & Shine Judging

Number 122 on Reader Card

Tough. Unyielding. Gets the job done. The Vulcan Intruder is your answer to repossessions, illegally parked vehicles, garage work, highway clearance of disabled cars... any towing requiring fast, efficient work. Your Intruder is ready when you are.

Innnuatiue. Burable. Brutal y Taugh.

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Number 107 on Reader Card

F I N AN C E

ADVANTAGE

AT VULCAN, MAKING YOU LOOK GOOD IS OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL.

Autornotive

www.millerind.com • (800) 489-2401

Preferre d Supplier

American Towman Magazine - April 2010

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