American Towman Magazine - October 2010 by dortiz-towman

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FEATURE CONTENTS

AT Expo Program Exhibits, legendary events, newsmakers, seminars, hospitality, calendar, Inner Harbor...It’s all here! Advance–register.

GPS Coast To Coast A close-up look at how two major towing companies use Global Position Systems to manage their fleet operations. by Michael Geffroy

Departments

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Low Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 News Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Beacons On! . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Road Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Tow Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . .22 AD Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Towman’s Market . . . . . . . . . .90 Adventures of A.T. . . . . . . . . . .93

American Towman has the inside scoop on what went on in Indiana at Matjack’s air cushion training weekend. by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

From the ditch to the marketplace: Above, WreckMaster talks about its Discipline and Calculations; below, inside the Baltimore Convention Center at the American Towman Exposition.

Shooting For Four Stars The Standards Authority is launching its new system for rating tow operations. Why professional tow companies welcome it; why others need it. by Steve Calitri

Photos by: Jim “Buck” Sorrenti, Tim Moody Cover Design by: Ann Marie Nitti

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The Captains Long Table by Steve Calitri

ver the years I was often asked by towers who knew me, “How can I get into the Captains of Industry dinner?” I would politely tell them the dinner was by invitation only, knowing well that the next question would be, “How do I get invited?” So the exclusivity of the Conference grew in reputation, as did the tug on my sleeve by towers who wanted in. The Captains Conference initially invited the heads of the many towing associations throughout the country; then expanded to include motor club executives. Later we began inviting various movers and shakers, and at one point, the big fleet owners. At last one year, when a tower asked me, “What do you have to do to get invited?” I simply said, “You just have to be big enough to come.” So four years back we started listing the Captains Conference on the advance-registration form. Any tower who had the interest, wanted to don jacket and tie, and pay $75 for the surf and turf meal, would have the opportunity to be there if they acted early. Seats are limited, as the Conference sticks to its legendary, long-table setup. In the current harborside room at the Marriott Waterfront, it maxes out at 90 people. The Captains of Industry Conference traditionally kicks off the American Towman Exposition and for the second straight year is sponsored by the Jerr-Dan Corporation. The Captains

has a reputation for its keynote addresses that tackle timely issues of the day. This year is no different. New Jersey tower Frank Sanchez will address the Captains on the issue of “Keeping Towns and Police Departments Out of the Impound Business.” The address comes at a time when more and more municipalities are searching for new revenue sources. Bob Fouquette, the owner of Big Wheel Towing & Recovery and Recovery Billing Unlimited will talk to the Captains on the issue of “Getting Paid.” Bob and his son Eric earned Towmen of the Year honors for their efforts to educate tow business owners on the craft of billing out and collecting on recovery work. While the American Towman Exposition, coming up this November 19th through the 21st, is unquestionably the largest tow show on earth, it’s value to tow business owners lies as much in its networking opportunities as in its product research and purchasing opportunities. Times and places to network are numerous, both inside the Convention Center and throughout Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. But one of the most dynamic venues for networking is the American Towman Academy and the seminars that take place over three days. I urge everyone to get a Seminar Passport; it gets you into every seminar and breakfast every morning. Food for thought.

***************************************************** Publisher Dennie Ortiz-Sorrenti Editor-In-Chief Steve Calitri Operations Editors Terry Abejuela Randall Resch Chassis Editor David Kolman Safety Editor Bill Simmons Contributing Editors David Bouvia Michael Geffroy Jim “Buck” Sorrenti 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. Frank Sanchez; Somerset, N.J. ********************************************************** 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 - October 2010 • 7

Carolina Towns Set Rotation Rules New policies that spell out specific rotation procedures, services required for local towing companies, along with the maximum fees they can charge, have been implemented by Statesville and Troutman, North Carolina. Some highlights include: Towing/wrecker companies must respond within 30 minutes and be available on a 24/7 basis. Towing companies are required to respond to at least 75 percent of police requests. The wrecker company is responsible for clearing the roadway of debris at an accident scene (not including hazardous materials or spills covered by the responding agency). The maximum towing fees that may be charged are: Non-collision during standard business hours: $125. Non-collision after hours, and on weekends: $150; $155 in Statesville. Crash towing service during standard business hours: $150; $155 in Statesville. Crash towing after hours, and on weekends: $175. Daily Storage: $25 outside; $40 inside. The new policies also contain a specific schedule of demerits that will be applied when a company fails to perform in a satisfactory manner. Any company accumulating six demerits will be removed from the rotation list for 90 days. Source: charlotteobserver.com

Miller Website Launches Video Miller Industries is bringing video coverage of its activities to the net. Towers are able to see Miller factories and how a carrier is built, experience action at the racetrack with the Miller Race Recovery Team, plus coverage of recovery demonstrations at trade shows. To view the videos, go to millerind.com and click on the link: On Call 24/7 Videos.

8 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Sanchez Will Address Captains New Jersey tower, Frank Sanchez, will address the Captains of Industry Conference in Baltimore, the kickoff event of the American Towman Exposition. He will discuss a subject he has gained much experience on, and one that is plaguing towers around the nation; police departments getting into the impound business. Sanchez, a former tow business owner and currently the tow manager of Somerset Hills Towing, was able to lead the charge against an ordinance that would have created a municipally owned impound lot. His point by point argument presented in AT’s September issue, the Sanchez Paper, was effectively used to dissuade the town from enacting the ordinance.

Town Makes

Private Tows Difficult Tow truck drivers looking to haul off cars illegally parked in private and public lots will face added scrutiny under an ordinance discussed by Wilkes Barre, Penn. city council, requiring companies to be licensed and conform prices with a city-mandated list. "We're just trying to protect our residents from some possibly unscrupulous practices," said council Chairman Bill Barrett, who pushed for the law. "It's a business, and we're mainly focused on the non-consensual part." If approved, towing companies would register with the Code Enforcement Office and pay $300 for a license, which would be renewed annually,

The Captains of Industry Conference takes place at Baltimore’s Marriott Waterfront and is sponsored by the JerrDan Corp. For two decades the industry’s most prestigious dinner, is legendary for tackling the issues of the day. Sanchez will discuss the issues that face towers dealing with town boards and police departments looking to find new revenue sources in these tough economic times. While the Captains Conference will address the impound issue, it will also address the critical issue of getting paid for recovery work. Massachusetts tower Bob Fouquette has built a reputation on “Getting Paid.” This is the topic of his keynote address at the conference, and also of the seminar he is presenting for the American Towman Academy.

according to a draft of the ordinance. There would be five classes of vehicles, ranging from less than 5,000 pounds up to 80,000 pounds, with maximum fees covered under the law. The ordinance also imposes maximum fees towers can charge for removing vehicles from private property, ranging up to $125 for a vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds. For tows requested by the city, a company could charge $175, the fee for hauling off a 5-ton vehicle from an accident. It would also forbid the towing of a car unless the property owner signs a form authorizing the removal of that specific vehicle. If they violate the ordinance, a tow truck operator risks a fine between $300 and $600 or the loss of their license. Source: citizensvoice.com

. . . Sanchez will address Captains on municipal encroachment . . . More Wreck Chasing Blues Tow truck operators spoke out hours after a deadly crash that claimed the life of a wrecker driver in northeast Houston. Witnesses told police two wrecker drivers were racing when one of them collided with a car and struck a pole. “It’s not a surprise to see this happen,” said Wilfredo Dejesus, who has been operating a wrecker for the last six years. “It’s a jungle out there, a concrete jungle.” The man who died had been operating a tow truck for more than 20 years. “You might make it home or you might not,” added Dejesus, who blamed the rules adopted by city council for creating what he called a climate that rewards reckless behavior. Those rules guarantee that only the first two wreckers on scene will receive any money. “Guys are fighting with one another and pulling out knives. It’s all about getting that dollar,” said Dejesus. A few years ago, city leaders established strict guidelines regulating tow truck operators on freeways, but not city streets. Source: kens5.com

Vermont Placing Move Over Signs Vermont’s Agency of Transportation recently displayed an example of 12 of the signs that will appear on Interstates 89, 91, and 93, and on U.S. 4 and U.S. 7, telling motorists to slow down and move to the left lane when they see vehicles with flashing lights on Vermont trotted out its new signs signalling the motorist to move over for emergency vehicles. highway shoulders. Since 2002, motorists who see emergency vehicles on the side of highways such as Interstate 89 have been legally required to shift to the left lane and slow down to stay out of their way. If motorists don't make way for police cruisers, ambulances, road maintenance vehicles and tow trucks, they face a fine of $234 and five points on their drivers' licenses. Not everybody knows this, which is why signs will soon appear on the highways, Transportation officials said. All Northeastern states except New York have similar "move over" laws, Vermont Transportation Secretary David Dill said. The 12 new signs that will appear on Vermont highways cost about $5,000 apiece. Rick Lepage of Rick's Towing said the signs will make his life safer. He said he often tows vehicles from highways after police and ambulances have departed, and some motorists do not drive by safely when he is pulled over on the interstate shoulder. Source: vermontfreepress.com

Town Tacks on Franchise Fee In California, the Fullerton City Council adopted an ordinance that will impose a $75 per-vehicle franchise fee on tow companies to make up for a quarter million dollars the city loses each year on administrative costs. Owners of tow companies spoke out opposing the measure. Tower Russ Welch said that the city should add $100 to the fees residents pay to release their vehicles. "The customer out there is accumulating the fees, not us," he said. Fullerton Police Capt. Kevin Hamilton said that it wouldn't be appropriate to charge extra fees above the $171 the city currently charges for a typical tow. He pointed out that about a quarter of the tows in the city happen after traffic collisions in which the driver did nothing illegal. The council adopted the ordinance unanimously. Right now the city has contracts with several tow companies that are used on a rotating basis. The city will start taking bids from towing companies to award new contracts to as many as three companies. Source: ocregister.com

New and Improved Registration AT Expo’s new online registration system has been up and running to rave reviews from users. “It was real easy, very user friendly,” said Ron Parrish, president of tow411.net. “We programmed our own online registration system,” said Miriam Ortiz, registration manager for the American Towman Exposition. “Last year we were using a service that many registrants found cumbersome and time consuming. So we decided to custom program our own system the way we believed would be the easiest and quickest to use.” Traditionally, the majority of registrants have come in through snailmail, said Ortiz, but she believes the new online system will attract more and more registrants who are accustomed to transacting business on the internet. Towing professionals may register online by first going to www.towman.com/expo.

TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 9

By Dave Bouvia

WreckMaster Discipline: Calculations

In order to establish an accurate resistance calculation you must perform a proper SCENE Survey.

ast month you were introduced to the WreckMaster Discipline. The discipline is the word SCENE and each letter in the acronym is a step towards success. It represents the process which will dramatically reduce those embarrassing, time consuming, costly unsuccessful attempts leading one to achieve success the first time, every time. S stands for SURVEY C stands for CALCULATE E stands for EXPLAIN N stands for NO’S E stands for EXECUTE Once we have conducted our survey of the condition of the casualty, the load, and established the static weights and ascertained the surface environments, and the terrain it is now necessary to move on to the next step in the discipline which is the C. This stands for calculate. To successfully move a given load you must employ a certain amount of force to the load. To calculate these forces the sta-

10 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

tic weights of the loads must first be established. Once weights are assigned resistances can then be calculated. Different surface environments, conditions of loads and casualties, and terrain all play a roll in calculating resistances. Done properly this will assure no overloading of rigging, wire rope, or recovery equipment. Resistance will also be the determining factor of the recovery trucks ability to anchor effectively the pull. Resistance is a percentage of the weight that is being moved. It may be a lesser amount, or it could be a greater amount than the loads weight depending upon conditions. Resistance will also determine anchoribility, or the minimum static weight necessary of the recovery unit to anchor the pull. This is one reason why the survey is so critical.

There are 4 types of resistance encountered in our industry: 1. ROLLING RESISTANCE 2. DAMAGE RESISTANCE 3. MIRE RESISTANCE 4. GRADIENT RESISTANCE

Three of the four types of resistances are broken down in levels. For instance rolling resistance is calculated in two levels HARD or SOFT An example would be a vehicle with all of it’s tires inflated, transmission in neutral, wheels rolling freely sitting on a hard flat level surface such as concrete. This would be considered ROLLING HARD and calculated as up to 5% or .05 of the vehicles weight. Total weight multiplied by .05. The result would represent the vehicles resistance or the amount of force to set that vehicle in motion in its condition and environment. 1. ROLLING RESISTANCE Rolling Hard .05 or5% Rolling Soft .15 or 15% The one type of resistance that is always calculated at the same rate regardless of surface conditions is damage resistance cancelling out and overcoming rolling resistance. When a vehicle is damaged and the wheels won’t turn

continue to page 16

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Check Out What’s NEW and HOT! Holmes 440-SL Adds Optional Power Tilt Now, in an effort to even further enhance this self loader’s versatility and ease of operation, Miller Industries is making the Holmes 440-SL available with optional power tilt. The power tilt operates through a 30-degree arc and provides positive tilt for increased vehicle clearance and negative tilt that aids when you are hooking up on a slope or road crown. The power tilt option also includes proximity limiter switches on both the tilt and elevation cylinders to stop the function at a predetermined height. By bumping your remote control switch a second time, you can power past the limiter switch for additional tilt or elevation.

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New Cobra The new Cobra features a main mounting assembly which is a 4"x4"x1/2" angle iron completely surrounding the subframe assembly for helping to reinforce the frame by being 60" long and 46" wide. It is easy to install and remove if needed. The main lifting assembly is a full 6"x6" arm assembly coupled with 5" telescoping arm down to a 4" tube for a low profile to accommodate the smaller lower vehicles. Next comes the hydraulic claws which pivot a full 90 degree for the parallel parked cars from either direction. This is all controlled from an 8 function in cab remote control for speed and safety. The power is supplied from a match set of dual pumps interlocked feeding the valve body for more speed and power sharing the same reservoir tank creating a 4,000 lb. lifting capacity.

www.Hide-A-Lift.com Number 201 on Reader Card

Shedding Light On The Scene Golight Inc. has introduced the High Intensity Discharge (HID) Stryker, offering users tremendous intensity with minimal strain on the vehicle’s electrical system. By comparison, the HID upgrade more than triples the light output of its incandescent counterpart. Renowned for its beam precision, Golight has been able to generate a peak beam intensity of 650,000 candela by incorporating an internally ballasted HID bulb and updated reflector into the Stryker remote control light housing and achieve a maximum beam distance of over one mile. Besides increased intensity, the HID system emits light at significantly greater color temperature—4100 k— which creates a “ whiter” light, comparable to daylight.

The HID technology utilized in the new Stryker model generates almost twice as many lumens per watt as a traditional halogen light source. Therefore, the HID Stryker can generate a tremendous light profile while reducing the strain on the power source. After an initial startup surge, the HID Stryker requires only 3.5 amps for continuous operation. The unit reaches peak output in less than 10 seconds and reaches 70% capacity in just 4 seconds. The filament free bulb also has durability advantages, with a rated life of greater than 3000 hours. The HID Stryker is available through any Golight dealer. Factory installed upgrade kits are available for use with existing Stryker models as well.

www.golight.com Number 202 on Reader Card

12 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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CALCULATIONS, continued from page 10 freely or the load has no wheels would be considered damaged. Of course the environments terrain i.e. mire and or grade will overcome and exceed the factor of damage resistance. 2. DAMAGE RESISTANCE Damage .666 or 2/3 Total weight multiplies by .666 or 2/3 Mire resistance is the resistance created when a wheel or load is sunk into the dirt, gravel, mud, sand, etc. Mire is calculated at three levels and therefore cancels out both rolling and damage resistance. 3. MIRE RESISTANCE Mire Tire Level .75 or 75% Mire Wheel Level 100% Mire Body Level 150% Total weight multiplied by factor for level of mire condition. Gradient resistance is the force created by gravity when moving a load up or down a grade and must be added or subtracted from the total surface resistance. 4. GRADIENT RESISTANCE 15 degrees plus or minus .25 or 25% of the loads total weight 30 degrees plus or minus .50 or 50% of the loads total weight 45 degrees plus or minus .75 or 75% of the loads total weight Surface resistance plus or minus gradient resistance equals total resistance. Weight transfer may also be necessary in calculating gradient resistance if more than one surface resistance is present. Weight transfer is calculated from high end of load to low end of load at the same rate or factors considered for gradient again depending upon the degree of grade. It may at first glance all seem very complicated, however like anything else calculating resistance becomes second nature thru repetition. We invite you to keep watch as next month’s issue of AT will unveil the next step of the WreckMaster Discipline: EXPLAIN.

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16 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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Editor’s note: Dave Bouvia is a lead instructor for WreckMaster.

An Oshkosh Corporation Company

For Hard Working Towing Professionals

October 2010

Sanderson Truck // R & W Tow and Recovery // New Car Carriers B & B Wrecker Service // Nolte’s Service // More Inside

Joel’s Column Joel Amsley is senior vice president of Jerr-Dan Corporation

Do you read the airline’s seatback magazine when you fly? I do, and often wonder how many of the execs actually wrote the President’s or Manager’s letter that I am reading, and how many simply approved what someone else wrote. That paragraph is a set-up for me to tell you I wrote this column. So if this sounds like some guy – like your neighbor or brother or employee sitting with you and telling you what he’s up to – it’s because that’s exactly what’s going on with Joel’s Column. We have a lot going on here at Jerr-Dan and, if you are a regular reader, you know that many words have been dedicated to themes like change, new, different, etc. But allow me to suggest to you that the proof of the pudding is in the eating. In the coming months you will hear and see us talking about and acting on new processes, new products and new promotions that are all aimed at providing a better service to you our customer, so that you can do the same for your customers. Every business I’ve been around – at least the ones that last – all know that without their customers, there is no business. Sounds simple, right? Well sometimes the simple things get in the way of the bigger plans and customers get lost in the shuffle. So we are working as hard as we can to not let that happen to our customers, ever. And ever sounds like never, but you know what I mean. Every business slips up once in awhile but the goal is to have it in your heart: “These are my customers and I need them and I want them to be delighted with me and my product, always.” So, does this happen by accident? No, it happens by continuous effort and regular gut checking. Ben Franklin said, “Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement and success have no meaning.” Right on, Ben! When it comes to your customers, you want continued growth and progress from your people, your processes and your product, and that’s what we are acting on everyday at Jerr-Dan. You’ve got a tough job and we know it. There are no easy jobs in this economy and we must help make your job easier and never any harder. Keep an eye on Jerr-Dan and watch us in the near future. And if you are reading this saying, “Yeah, blah, blah, blah,” because your experience with Jerr-Dan has not been good, then give me a call or send me a message, and I’ll go out of my way to move you to the delighted side of the register. You can reach my office at 717.593.6210, my cell at 717.816.7112, or email me at jamsley@jerrdan.com. – Joel Amsley

Contents 2

Joel Amsley is working to delight Jerr-Dan’s customers and make their job easier. And he wants to hear from you.

Kent Collision & Kustom is Jerr-Dan’s distributor in the land “down under.”

Sanderson Truck is the new Jerr-Dan distributor for the state of Arizona.

R & W Tow and Recovery shows how it’s done in the Show-Me State.

Jerr-Dan introduces the XLP-6® Series Low Profile Car Carriers.

B & B Wrecker Service is doing well by doing good.

Nolte’s Service provides the muscle when Oshkosh – the city and the Corporation – needs a lift.

46 8 10 12 14

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Kent Collision – Jerr-Dan’s Kent Collision & Kustom epitomizes passion and pride in providing excellent customer service. Located in the Sydney suburb of Ingleburn, Kent Collision is the Australian distributor for Jerr-Dan. Australia is the sixth largest country in the world and the only country that is also a continent. This beautiful land of contrasts includes fabulous beaches, blazing heat of the outback desert and mountains that can receive more snow than Switzerland. Managing Director, Jaimie Kent, has long known about Jerr-Dan products from working in Canada, and becoming a Jerr-Dan distributor illustrates his strong customer commitment. Several years ago, an operator expressed his frustration with having to “deal with the devil.” He didn’t like dealing with either of the only two tow truck suppliers in Australia, but had no other choice. “I mentioned there was a good quality tow truck, Jerr-Dan, in the U.S. and Canada,” said Kent. “But my customer said, ‘it’s no good to me in America.’” Kent made some inquiries and quickly discovered there was no Australian Jerr-Dan distributor. Less than four months later he became the distributor and that operator was his first Jerr-Dan customer. “Jaimie Kent and his team have done an excellent job of promoting the

Jerr-Dan brand and building awareness of our products in an area where we had zero visibility,” said Joel Amsley, senior vice president for Jerr-Dan. “We’ll continue to develop new distribution opportunities outside the United States, and Australia represents an excellent opportunity for us.” The full range of Jerr-Dan equipment is available in Australia including standard-, medium- and heavy-duty tow trucks and tilt slide systems,

including the new XLP-6 Series low profile car carrier with an amazing 8 degree load angle on the dual angle deck version. Kent’s customers appreciate the very low approach angle to pick up extra low vehicles without damaging their undercarriage. “For customers who need heavy-duty tow and recovery equipment, we offer the HDL Series Independent and Integrated wreckers with boom lift ratings up to 120,000 pounds,” said

” nder Distributor U

Kent. “I like the satisfaction of putting together and delivering Jerr-Dan tow trucks that are recognized as being “Best of Breed” and would hold their own anywhere in the world.” Kent Collision offers unparalleled, comprehensive nationwide recovery service, including site clean up and removal of the damaged freight. Providing that kind of service in a country that’s about the same size as the continental United States is amazing.

“A truck accident to us is not just the repair of the vehicle,” said Kent. “Our collision service encompasses everything from managing the accident site to handing the keys back to the owner at the completion of the repair.”

salvage equipment and operations, and travel to remote areas of the outback. “We’re passionate about everything we do, and we take enormous pride in what we produce and who we represent, including Jerr-Dan,” said Kent.

Kent thoroughly enjoys working with towing operators – genuine, hard working professionals who go about their business without getting the recognition they deserve. He also likes the challenges involved in organizing

visit us at www.jerr-dan.com

Sanderson SandersonTruck Truck Serves ServesArizona Arizona

The newest addition to the distributor network, Sanderson Truck, sells and supports Jerr-Dan products in Arizona.

anderson Truck Equipment is a division of the family-owned Sanderson Automotive Group, and is the newest addition to the Jerr-Dan distributor network. Sanderson Truck Equipment will provide Jerr-Dan products and service across the entire state of Arizona. Located in Glendale, Ariz., Sanderson Truck Equipment was founded in 1955 and has an impressive 63-acre complex that features a state-of-

the-art 87,000-sq.-ft., 67 bay service and installation facility. This facility is equipped to install new Jerr-Dan equipment, as well as provide service and repairs for all makes and models of towing equipment. “Sanderson Truck Equipment is committed to providing the Arizona towing and recovery community a level of service and product availability previously not seen in the area,” said Jeff Barbour, director of marketing

and channel management for Jerr-Dan. “They have committed to maintaining a large selection of turn-key, work ready units on a variety of chassis for immediate delivery.” As a full service Ford Truck Dealership, Sanderson offers service and repairs on all makes and models of trucks. Sanderson plans to stock at least eight to 10 work ready Jerr-Dan units at all times with additional chassis and bodies ready to build to customers’ needs.

Sanderson stocks complete engines and transmissions, and their 105,000sq.-ft. Parts Center stocks new and remanufactured Ford parts. Sanderson also is an authorized dealer for Ford Racing and Roush Performance. Having the ability to supply a wide variety of parts, plus sell and service both the body and the chassis, makes Sanderson truly a one-stop shop.

product and has a great reputation. These are the things we value in products we sell, and we take pride in offering quality, well-made products,” said Stan Wibben of Sanderson Truck Equipment. “We already do a large repair business with the towing industry and it seemed like a perfect fit for us to sell and support Jerr-Dan products.”

“Jerr-Dan fits well with our business model because it makes a quality

“Sanderson has put together a team of experienced, dedicated and

knowledgeable industry professionals that’s ready to hit the ground running,” said Barbour. “We’re delighted to be associated with such a fine organization, and we look forward to working closely with the Sanderson team to support our customers throughout the region.”

visit us at www.jerr-dan.com 7

R &W Tow

and Recovery Covers Four States

Rick Kamler, second from left, and part of the R & W Tow and Recovery team.

R & W Tow and Recovery relies on the Jerr-Dan SRS system to do amazing things in tight places.

ince 1978, R & W Tow and Recovery, Inc. has responded to emergency recoveries in parts of four states – Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas – from its location in St. Joseph, Mo. However, R & W Tow and Recovery will travel wherever the job takes them, often getting referrals from companies that don’t want particularly difficult jobs, or that lack equipment to handle a job. “Jerr-Dan has great products and they’re great people to work with. Jerr-Dan’s Side Recovery System is unbelievable and I really love their performance and versatility,” said Rick Kamler, owner of R & W Tow and Recovery. “Without a doubt, Jerr-Dan makes the best SRS. The compact spread maximizes use of available space in tight situations.” Kamler went to college to become a CPA. Somewhere along the way he

ended up in racing, then became a mechanic before finally opening his own shop in 1978. He’s been in the same location ever since, and his operation has grown to two locations with a 4,500-sq. ft. building and two acres. R & W Tow and Recovery’s fleet includes two Jerr-Dan HDL 500/280 25 Ton Integrated Wreckers, each equipped with Jerr-Dan’s Heavy-Duty Wrecker Side Recovery System. They also have three Jerr-Dan 21’ steel carriers, two of which are equipped with SRS-10 Side Recovery Systems. All of these units were purchased in the last 10 years from Wards Wrecker Sales in Pocahontas, Ark. According to Kamler, the highway patrol likes seeing his Jerr-Dan heavyduty wreckers with SRS winches show up at the scene of an emergency recovery. The patrol knows he can get the job done in a hurry without

closing the entire roadway to traffic, because the Jerr-Dan SRS system can do amazing things in tight places. “We were able to upright a cement truck fully loaded with 10 cubic yards of concrete that was rolled over in a ditch alongside a busy road,” said Kamler. “We did an initial lift up to 30-degrees with one Jerr-Dan 500/280 off the drum. Then, with a second identical Jerr-Dan side puller, sitting parallel with the truck, we were able to stand it upright. Another company’s tow operator witnessed this and all he could say was ‘That’s a horse!’”

NEW XLP-6Low LowProfile ProfileCar CarCarrier Carrier XLP-6 Jerr-Dan recently announced the introduction of the much anticipated XLP-6® Series of low profile carriers. This new series of carriers is designed to address the demand from professional towing and recovery operators for a high quality, low profile and low load angle carrier. The XLP-6 series is available with 21’ and 22’ steel and aluminum decks, including dual angle “shark” models.

All XLP-6 models include a low profile sub-frame that lowers the deck height to approximately 8¾” above the frame rail and provides greatly improved angles. When installed on a chassis with a 32” deck height, a “conventional” deck produces a load angle of 10.5 degrees, while a dual angle deck has a load angle of less than 8 degrees.

Unlike other low profile carriers on the market, the XLP-6 requires no additional chassis modifications. All components are above or outside the frame rails, so there is no need to relocate suspension components or chassis cross members. The XLP-6 is suitable for air ride or spring ride chassis, however, for optimum load angles, an air ride chassis with a dump valve is recommended.

The new TheXLP-6 new XLP-6 series series of lowofprofile low profile car carriers car carriers is designed is designed to meet to the meet need the for need a high for aquality, high quality, low profile low profile and low andload lowangle load angle carrier.carrier.

XLP-6 Low Profile Car Carrier Features include: • A 12,000-lb. deck capacity and they can be equipped with a new 3,500-lb. wheel-lift. • Jerr-Dan’s industry leading nylon carrier tracking system for hoses and wiring harness. • No-Lube™ pivot joints and slide pads, and an automotive weather-resistant wiring harness. • Steel decks constructed using roll-formed rubrails provide twice the strength of traditional angle iron rails. • Standard 102” wide decks feature 10-guage 50 KSI diamond decking for strength and good looks. • Standard 102” wide decks feature 6” x 2” High Corrosion resistant cross members spaced 6” apart. • Aluminum models are constructed using interlocking aluminum extrusion decking and Jerr-Dan’s exclusive Galvanized Steelbeam™ main deck beams.

visit us at www.jerr-dan.com 11

B&B H I G H L I G H T S

C U S T O M E R

f Charles Bullock, owner of B & B Wrecker Service, ever cuts his hand, it’ll probably bleed red, white and blue. That’s because the Vietnam veteran – who was born on the Fourth of July – strongly believes in community service and doing everything he can to make his community a better place. Based in Knightdale, N.C., Bullock started B & B Wrecker Service in 1985 with a homemade vehicle. Two years later he bought his first Jerr-Dan vehicle and he was on his way. Today, Bullock has 10 Jerr-Dan vehicles in his fleet and he estimates he’s bought 60 Jerr-Dan products over the years. B & B Wrecker Service has several Jerr-Dan carriers and a larger Jerr-Dan HDL 500/280 25-ton

Wrecker Service S E R V I C E

Integrated Wrecker. Bullock really appreciates the simplicity and durability of his hard-working Jerr-Dan trucks. “The economy has been tough. Car dealerships aren’t providing the business they used to, but I do handle transport for a lot of auto auctions,” said Bullock. “What hasn’t changed is how I run the heck out of my Jerr-Dan rigs, especially my Jerr-Dan aluminum HPL on a Ford F-450. I spend about 18 hours a day in it.” Bullock strongly believes in his Jerr-Dan wreckers, and when a semi trailer dropped down a 125-foot embankment, Bullock drove a Jerr-Dan wrecker to the bottom, cut down 14 pine trees and stabilized

Charles Bullock, left, and his son J.R., are big believers in their Jerr-Dan wreckers.

the vehicle. Then, he used two Jerr-Dan wreckers in tandem to upright the trailer and eventually winch it back to the roadway. “We attached some bungee cords to his hood and he safely drove his undamaged cargo to his destination,” said Bullock. “The owner couldn’t believe we were able to save the load, but I did it slow and I did it my way. I was paid $10,000 for one day’s work, but the man said I saved him a bundle of money. That’s what I love about this business.” Bullock performs community service by working with the North Carolina Highway Patrol to set up demonstrations teaching high school students the dangers of driving under the influence. He also offers free towing services for the Knightdale EMS and Fire Department, and shows his vehicles in parades and other events to make his community a better place.

“Eastern Wrecker Sales, our Jerr-Dan distributor, has been a tremendous asset and extremely helpful in our business. Eastern sold me my first truck and I’ve never been anywhere else,” said Bullock. “My company wouldn’t be the same without their assistance. It’s great to have that kind of bond with your distributor.”

particularly when budgets are stretched, and helps make them better places to live and work.”

“Tow operators like Charles Bullock epitomize the spirit of volunteerism and the American ideal of giving back to our communities,” said Jeff Barbour, director of marketing and channel management for Jerr-Dan. “This type of service resonates in communities,

New Bern, N.C. for us and all we could give

“On behalf of Broughton Community

him was a thank you! He has helped us out

Advocates (BCA), Principal Diane Payne and

of fields, medians and other unusual areas.

the Governor’s Highway Safety Program,

I fully support any special recognition that

we would like to thank you for your

any group would see fit to honor him with.”

participation in the activities of ‘Highway

Safety Awareness Day.’ Simply put, we

Letters of appreciation:

“I have known Charles Bullock since 1988. He has provided towing services free of charge for the EMS agencies in Rolesville, Wendell, Knightdale and Zebulon as long as I’ve known him. He has never hesitated to

“Charles Bullock has ‘pulled’ for the Zebulon

provide this service regardless of the time

Fire Department and provided excellent

of day or the weather conditions.”

service in a number of instances. He once

-Director, Eastern Wake EMS, Inc.

pulled a large pumper tanker fire truck to

-Zebulon Fire Chief

could not have done it without you.”

-BCA Co-Chairs

“We would like to thank Mr. Charles Bullock for his dedicated and loyal services to our organization and to the citizens of our community for the free towing services that he has performed for many years, days/nights.”

-Knightdale Fire-Rescue Chief

Nolte’s Nolte’sService Servicein in the theBadger BadgerState State C U S T O M E r

P r o f i l e :

14 14

olte’s Service has served the Oshkosh community and the state of Wisconsin since 1970. Its customers know and appreciate that Nolte’s Service prides itself on having competent and certified drivers and updated, clean equipment at a competitive price.

two local up-and-comers in the auto repair business.

Started by Bill Nolte in 1970, Nolte’s Service provides auto repair, bodywork and light/heavy duty towing and recovery throughout Wisconsin. Bill owned and operated the business until 1998 when it was purchased by Keith Mustain and Jerry Hitchcock,

In 2000, they purchased their first tandem axle tow truck and in 2002, they built a spectacular 7,500 sq. ft. building less than a mile from the original location. On January 1, 2010, Nolte’s Service was purchased by Chuck and Lisa Anderson.

Chuck had been with the previous owners since 1995 performing auto repair, managing the towing side, and being involved in all aspects of the business. Today Nolte’s Service has eight full-time and 12 part-time employees involved in auto repair and towing.

repair shops, national accounts, and are on police rotations for the city and county.

The company performs critical inter plant moves for Jerr-Dan’s parent company Oshkosh Corporation, Pierce Manufacturing and many of their supporting companies. They also perform towing for local customers,

“The Jerr-Dan Cougar is the most versatile piece of equipment we have,” said Anderson. “From towing Hondas to package cars or single axle tractors, it’s easy to send it out and know it can do multiple calls. The SRS mounted on

Nolte’s Service provides the muscle for critical inter-plant moves for Jerr-Dan’s parent Oshkosh Corporation and Pierce Manufacturing.

Recently Nolte’s Service purchased a 2009 Sterling Bullet four-wheel drive equipped with a Jerr-Dan HPL-6000. Other Jerr-Dan vehicles in their eight-truck fleet include a 21’ Jerr-Dan Carrier with side recovery system (SRS); a Jerr-Dan HDL 700/350 35-ton independent wrecker with the coach boom underlift; and a 1998 GMC with a Jerr-Dan HPL-6000.

our carrier makes it easier to send it out on rollovers or vehicles in ditches without worrying if we need to send another truck to assist.”

on becoming a Wreckmaster lead instructor. He believes training is definitely the key to success and profitability, and is the future of towing.

The company is a member of the Wisconsin Towing Association, and Anderson serves on the board of directors. He was named Wreckmaster of the Year in 2008, and Nolte’s Service received the Donnie Cruse Memorial Award for the heavy-duty recovery of the year in 2007.

“We strongly believe in Jerr-Dan products, and their greaseless systems work great. The equipment holds up to the abuse of towing day in and day out,” said Chuck. “We look forward to a long relationship with Jerr-Dan and Oshkosh, and our next purchase will probably be a standard-duty Jerr-Dan MPL40 self-loader.”

In order to enhance industry performance and professionalism, Nolte’s Service holds and co-sponsors classes at various locations throughout Wisconsin. Anderson is a level 6/7 Wreckmaster and is working

visit us at www.jerr-dan.com 15

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NITROUS SYSTEMS – How Not to Become Slim Pickens Riding the Bomb By Bill Simmons

ith the proliferation of fast cars and hot rods everywhere, a common practice among street racers is to install a Nitrous System in their car in order to add huge amounts of horsepower. The bottles of nitrous oxide are usually blue or orange in color (they can be any color) and almost always found in the trunk of a car, but actually can be mounted anywhere, even in the passenger compartment. Under normal circumstances, these devices are generally not going to pose a problem or a risk to anyone. The risk to you as a tow operator is that you encounter vehicles that are usually not in normal circumstances. That means that the nitrous system could have been damaged in an accident and is a tragedy waiting for a time and a place to occur. The major safety hazards of nitrous oxide come from the fact that it is a compressed liquefied gas usually at a bottle pressure of 800 to 1000 psi. While normally inert in storage and fairly safe to handle, nitrous oxide can decompose and potentially detonate if the right circumstances are present. That’s no laughing matter. The hazards you need to look for is valve stem damage which may have occurred from a loose bottle flying around in the vehicle or a liquid forming under the bottle or around the valve stem. In an old, long term, dormant situation, (like one in your impound yard) liquid nitrous oxide can act as a solvent for many organic compounds and liquid mixtures can form somewhat sensitive explosives. Contamination with fuels has been implicated in a small number of rocketry accidents, where small quantities of nitrous oxide / liquid fuel mixtures 18 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

detonated, triggering unexpected explosions. Try not to be a test case for NIOSH and the NTSB and be the first one in the record books about a car and some unknown liquid fuel mixture which put a Pinto into orbit and now NASA and the CIA want to know how you did that.

Nitrous Oxide can decompose and potentially detonate in the right circumstances. Valve stem damage could be as simple as a bent valve and the next movement of the bottle could catastrophically release the contents and if you happen to be near it, a 1000 psi sudden release could ruin your day, and then some. Be very mindful of the mechanism of the injury. If the bottle is

secure and intact and no loose object appears to have struck it, then most likely there is no imminently dangerous situation in front of you. Look at the whole situation like Murphy’s Law is alive and well and about to manifest itself as in Murphy’s Law #8 which states; “Nature always sides with the hidden flaw.” Be especially alert to a potential problem if the vehicle has been in a fire. If you encounter a pressurized container, no matter what you think its contents might be, have an appropriate Public Safety Agency look at it if necessary and make it inert it before you tow. After all this is a safety discussion about pressurized vessels and their contents. All the safety precautions discussed here apply to any pressurized vessel, including a very common one–a medical oxygen tank. The same checks apply about the mechanism of the injury. If you happen to be picking up after an accident involving Acetylene tanks or Nitrogen tanks, look to make sure the safety top is on the tank and not bent or disfigured. If the cap is gone or damaged, be very, very careful. You and the tank could be the objects in orbit. The release of a flammable gas or an oxidizing agent will become an issue if there are open flames in the area and a situation exisits where the contents could significantly contribute to the fire. Remember, the pressurized vessel presents two separate and distinct issues, the contents and the missile. The physical properties of the gas being released will have a large impact on what happens secondary to the release. (Will it burn, explode, do nothing or suffocate you, etc?) For example, nitrogen is an inert gas and presents no problem other than if you are in an

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enclosed area it could displace the oxygen and suffocate you. Oxygen will not combust by itself but if you release it to something already burning, you’ll wish you had not done that. So, what makes a nitrous system work? It’s two parts nitrogen and one part oxygen carried in a cold, liquid mixture, (because it’s cold it is more dense so more of it can be injected) and when introduced into a combustion chamber where fuel is burning, it makes a much bigger contained explosion. (It’s the oxygen, it’s the oxygen!) Let it out, and you have Murphy’s Law #9 “Given the most inappropriate time for something to go wrong that’s when it will occur.” THINK safe out there. We want you to get home tonight.

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Bill Simmons is a retired Massachusetts Firefighter. He was a licensed EMT for over 26 years, has an A.S. in Fire Science Technology and holds a current OSHA certification in Hazardous Materials Waste Operations. Bill can be reached at bsimmons@towman.com

Number 163 on Reader Card

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 21

The Order of Towman Award The Most “Non-Towlitical” Award in the Towing Industry Three years ago Mr. Steve Calitri and the entire American Towman Staff (family) saw a way to recognize any tower in the nation who shows “supreme dedication to their community and to the professionalism of their trade” without regard for whether they run in the right circles, travel the country to all the trade shows, attend and speak up at industry meetings, etc., There are many professionals out there who give their all to the industry they love without a word. They each have their own reason to perform to the highest standard., There is nothing wrong with being vocal and involved in associations and organizations, in fact, we desperately need those people. More towers need to get involved, but not everyone is an extrovert. Not everyone can just walk up to someone and start a conversation thus becoming known throughout the industry. That is why I feel, The Order of Towman is the most sincere, unbiased, and significant achievement a tower can strive for and/or achieve. American Towman has afforded an opportunity for a tower to be nominated to an elite society of community oriented, proficient, and conscientious towers. They are not recognized for what they tell someone they do, but they are being inducted into The Order of Towman because the Police Chief of the department they tow for feels they are doing an exceptional job and they deserve to know how much they are appreciated. If you want to experience a heartwarming ceremony then you should attend this ceremony. It is an awe inspiring ceremonial induction as only Steve Calitri and American Towman can produce. From the beginning clang, the baritone opening, the actual induction, the sworn pledge, to the Sabre March with current Order of Towman marching past the new inductees welcoming

continued to page 25 22 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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Number 127 on Reader Card

24 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

LETTERS, continued from page 22 them to the society with its secret handshake. It is an event of reverence and prestige, accepted with dignity. During the ceremony a friend or loved one pins the Order of Towman medal on the recipients’ shirt, without a word being said, you can see their eyes meet and you can just feel the emotion, maybe the pride of knowing that you are doing your best and it is appreciated. Then a brief swearing in is said as they place their hand over the medal as if pressing their spirit and the meaning of the medal into the recipient’s heart forever. In the past three years since its inception I have yet to see anyone receive this award without sincere appreciation that someone has acknowledged their hard work, dedication and sacrifice to this most demanding of careers they have chosen. I salute all recipients and encourage all towers to aim for this well deserved honor for serving the motoring public with their “supreme dedication to their community and to the professionalism of their trade.” Victoria Poynter I Tow In, Inc. Bellevue, Kentucky

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F or Addition For Additional al Det Details ails Or T To o Becom Become A USAC/MD Service Pro vider Provider Visit Our W ebsite At Website www .usacmd.com www.usacmd.com Number 190 on Reader Card

Visit www.towman.com everyday for towing news you can use.

Number 128 on Reader Card

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 25

Tim Moody, Glover’s tow manager and an experienced WreckMaster 6/7 certified operator, called in help for the air cushion work on the recovery.

Tank Recovery In

Arkansas by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

A tanker loaded with nitrous gas makes for an interesting recovery for an Arkansas tower.

26 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

lovers Towing & Recovery of North Little Rock, Arkansas received a call from the supervisor of a local trucking company to recover one of their tankers. The 45-foot tanker loaded with nitrous gas had tipped over in Searcy, Arkansas on Hwy 16 at the bottom of Joy Mountain. The driver lost control coming down the mountain and laid it over in a ditch.

Tim Moody, the company’s tow manager, responded to the scene in Glover’s 2009 Western Star with a 1075S 75-ton Century rotator. Tim purchased the unit from Jeff Ingram, the Miller distributor located in Horn Lake, Mississippi. “Big Chuck was the salesman.” Tim said, “We had the new outriggers mounted on it, the ones that

come out of the bottom not the side. It has six of the heaviest winches available, all DP’s. This unit can handle anything.” Tim, an experienced WreckMaster 6/7 certified operator, had worked for Charlie’s Towing in Texas from 1984 to 2007 before moving to Arkansas to become the tow manager for Glover’s.

He has also taken many recovery classes with Tom Luciano, including a recent rotator class in Chattanooga. It was around 1pm when Tim arrived on the scene. It was a clear hot 90 degree day in March 2010. The tanker was lying on its left side in the ditch. Tim said, “I couldn’t get the straps under it to rig it so I called in Pro

TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 27

Pro Auto Towing arrived and air bagged the tanker. They were able to lift it enough for Tim to run straps under and around.

Auto Towing to bring out their air cushions.” Tim also called Darrell Birdsong and his Hazmat team from Heber Spring, to be on hand just in case of a leak. The Arkansas State Police and the Highway Police that handle the DOT work were also on the scene. Pro Auto Towing arrived and air bagged the tanker. They were able to lift it enough for Tim to run straps under and around to assist in the recovery. After he was done rigging he was able to do a reverse roll using both lines from the 75-ton rotator and got the tanker back on its wheels.

28 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Tim happily shared, “No further damage was done and luckily there were no gas leaks.” The total job took about sevenhours from start to finish thanks to a coordinated effort by all involved.

Personnel on scene: •Glover’s Towing & Recovery •Pro Auto Towing •Darrell Birdsong and his Hazmat team •Arkansas State Police •Arkansas Highway Police

Glover's Truck Parts & Equipment of North Little Rock, Arkansas, owned and operated by Jim Glover, has been servicing heavy and light-duty trucks and equipment and supplying heavy-duty and truck related parts to the industry since 1978. They carry rear ends, transmissions, engines, re-manufactured drivelines and more. They are an Allison Transmission center with a full-service repair and body shop on site. They have their own rebuild facility for transmissions and rear ends and their own driveline department. On the same lot, is their sister store Twin City Trailer. In an effort to better serve his customers, Glover added towing to his ever-growing business and started Glover’s Towing & Recovery in 2006. Glover's is one of the few self-sufficient dealers in the country. Glover’s now has eight trucks in their fleet including; one medium-duty, four rollbacks, two heavy units, and their Century 1075S 75-ton rotator.

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The Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Mass., called on Beau Anderson of Red’s Towing to transport a helicopter in late August from the New England Air Museum back to Base. Red’s had been used on several occasions by the Base in years past. According to Senior Master Sergeant William Midwood, “Beau is the consummate professional.”

Enter to win a

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Number 136 on Reader Card

Number 133 on Reader Card

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 31

BE ONE OF THE

PROFESSIONALS

When You Subscribe to American Towman You Now Enjoy Exclusive Benefits Found Nowhere Else That Help Your Towing Business Succeed. Benefits like the Patch And Wall Certificate,Your Listing in wrecker.com, the Tow Operator Recruitment Brochure, & More! Subscribe Today and Become One of the American Towman Professionals!

ACTION PAGE

ADVERTISER

AD INDEX

Page # 1 800 I’m Stuck 16 AAA 65 Access Tools 71 Akins Body & Carrier Sales 19 Allstate 35 Atlantic Braids 72 Atlas Flasher & Supply Co. 31 Bailey’s Products 84 B/A Products 21 Beacon Software 30 Century 14, 15 Chevron Inc. 29 Condor 89 Copart 31 Cross Country Auto Services 11 Custer Products 25 D.G. Towing 84 DewEze Mfg. 72 Dual-Tech 21 Dynamic Towing Eq. & Mfg. 48, 49 Equipment Sales & Service 68 Equipment Sales & Service 83 Finex Group 72 Ford Commercial Truck 2, 3 Geico 95 Hino 96 Hino Motor Sales USA, Inc. 86, 87 Hy-Tech Recovery Equipment 17 Insight USA 80 Intergrated Veh. Equip. 20 Intek Truck Eq. Finance & Lease 16 Jerr-Dan/Run Hard Insert after 16 JunkMyCar 89 32 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Fax To: 888-847-6035

RS# 213 179 102 126 183 214 184 216 108 136 143 154 167 101 114 128 185 147 144 165 150 152 207 176 129 142 142 153 188 135 145 124 215

Page # RS# Kayln Siebert 77 181 Landoll Corp. 24 174 Lift & Tow 4 139 Lodar/Skidmore/Product 20 163 Matheny Motor Truck Co. 61 194 Matjack/International Wreckers 81 186 Minute Man Mfg., Inc. 20 166 Motorcycle Towing Ser. 72 130 Muncie 13 149 National Automobile Club 17 178 New England Truckmaster 81 171 NorthAmerican BanCard 6 109 NRC 79 111 Phoenix USA 82 170 Pierce Sales 45 117 Progressive Comm. Insurance 30 133 Purpose Wrecker Sales 16 212 Ramsey Winch 85 148 Recovery Billing Unlimited 25 155 Rush Towing Systems 23 198 Soverign/Santander 69 103 Steck Mfg. 85 132 Superior Signals 17 119 Tiger Tools 77 141 Towing Guru 67 156 TowMate 89 191 towXchange/USFleetTracking 24 127 Travis Barlow Insurance 85 121 USAC/MD 25 190 Vulcan 58, 59 143 Warn Industries 83 120 WreckMaster 89 100

OCTOBER 2010 For more product info, go to www.towman.com and click on the FREE Product info icon. Or circle the corresponding reader service number on the Action Card to the right, and send it in. Form is valid for three months

22nd Annual

Exhibits, Events, Seminars, Hotels Register inside, or online at towman.com/expo

NOVEMBER 19–21, 2010

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

OFFICIAL PROGRAM

EVENTS Sample Air Fares Round Trip Atlanta $228 Boston $118 Buffalo $138 Chicago $195 Dallas $265 Denver $273 Detroit $138 Los Angeles $315 Miami $144 Minneapolis $384 Milwaukee $144 Montreal $410 St. Louis $204 San Francisco $308 Toronto $323

Thursday 11/18 2:00 pm-5:00 pm Registration Open Pratt Street Lobby Convention Center

Friday 11/19 8:00 am-7:00 pm Registration Open Pratt Street Lobby Convention Center 8:00 am TRAA Level 3 Testing - Heavy Recovery Specialty

9:00 am Towman Hunt (Skeet), transport from Pratt St. Lobby of CC to Prince George’s Skeet & Trap Club.

Saturday 11/20

Sunday 11/21

7:00 am–6 pm Registration Opens Pratt Lobby, Convention Center

8:00 am–5 pm Registration Opens Pratt Lobby, Convention Center

8:00 am AT Seminars Convention Center. (Breakfast provided for Seminar Passport holders.)

9:00 am AT Seminars, Convention Center (Breakfast provided for Seminar Passport holders).

8:30 am TRAA Testing Level 1 and 2

11:00 am Exhibit Hall Opens!

11:00 am Exhibit Hall Opens! Baltimore Convention Center 200 Exhibiting Suppliers.

9:00 am AT Seminars Convention Center, (Breakfast provided for Seminar Passport holders.)

12:30 pm The Donnie Cruse Recovery Awards Luncheon, Awards Sponsored by Miller Industries & B/A Products. Marriott Waterfront Hotel. Ticket required.

Hard Rock

12:30 pm Harbor Cruise Boarding 12:30 pm, departs from Inner Harbor at 1:00 pm, ticket required. 5:00 pm AT Seminars Convention Center

7:00 pm Captains Of Industry Marriott Waterfront, ticket required. Sponsor: Jerr-Dan

November 19–21

34 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Mural

2:00 pm ACE Awards Sponsors: GEICO, Coach-Net, National Automobile Club, Asurion, & Nation Safe Drivers, Conv. Center.

11:00 am American Wrecker Pageant Opens Convention Center, Sponsor: Dynamic 6:00 pm Exhibit Hall closes 6:00 pm Towman Order Marriott Waterfront, Ceremony of Passage.

4:00 pm Miller Industries Win This Harley. Miller Booth.

7:30 pm Festival Night, March of the Heroes. Marriott Waterfront Hotel, Harborside Ballroom; ticket required.

4:30 pm Wrecker Pageant Winners Ceremony

7:30 pm Bull & Pig Roast Miller Rocks! at the Hard Rock Café . Sponsored by Miller Industries with American Towman; ticket required. 9:00 pm Cigar Smoker (Calitri’s Cuba), Sponsored by Lift and Tow. Havana Club on Water St.

5:00 pm Show Closes

TEAMWORK T E A MWOR K THAT THAT FUELS FUELS SUCCESS SUCCESS

Allstate Roadside Services can help set your business in motion…FULL SPEED AHEAD! T O LLEARN EARN MORE, MORE, C ALL U ST ODAY: 800-582-6626. 800-582-6626. TO CALL US TODAY: 51 West Higgins Road, South Barrington, IL 60010

Visit us at Booth #735 at the 2010 American Towman Exposition Number 183 on Reader Card

1-800 IM STUCK

World’s Largest Tow Show

A toll free number that towing companies can have for their service area exclusively.

AAA AAA provides for prompt, reliable service to nearly 52 million members and commercial customers.

Access Tools & Equipment We specialize in car opening tools for the towing professional. Air Jacks are our specialty.

Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of PA (AASP-PA) The largest automotive repair association in Pennsylvania serving mechanical, collision and towing businesses.

Allstate Roadside Services Join one of the industry’s largest volume dispatch networks equipped with easy, fast payment technology.

An alphabetical listing of exhibitors (as of September 4th) *Highlights includes Exhibitors who submitted material by print deadline.

Bailey’s Towing Accessories

DewEze Mfg.

Gulf Atlantic Supply

Manufacturer of the Side Recovery Guide, making carriers side pull capable at an affordable price.

DewEze Hydraulic Systems provide the best mobile hydraulic power for all trucks including medium-duty.

Work wear, safety wear, vests and t-shirts.

Beacon Software, LLC

Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel Trailer dealer for all of the major specialized trailers in the tow industry.

Leading provider of Internet towing management solutions including: motor club digital dispatching, company management, lien processing, mapping and towing specifications.

DG Towing Equipment

Brevini Power Transmission

Double Summit

Foot, back pain? Happy Feet® fluid-filled insoles massage, cushion, absorb impact. Washable and guaranteed one year.

A world leader in high quality recovery, hoisting and custom winches.

Accu-therapy portable systems to relieve muscle pain, tension and stress.

Hino Motor Sales USA

C3 Location Systems

DP Winch/Tulsa Winch

GPS systems.

Manufacturer of hydraulic planetary winches, swing drives and gearing solutions.

CBIP Management

Authorized distributor of Dynamic Towing Equipment; seller of tow parts, accessories and safety lights.

Happy Feet by Life Time Ventures, LLC

Manufacturer and distributor of medium-duty conventional trucks through over 165 Hino dealers in the USA.

Holmes Wreckers

Towing insurance programs.

Dual-Tech, Inc.

See Miller Industries

American Eagle Accessories Group

Century Wreckers

In The Ditch

Manufacturer of premium heavy-duty truck mounted drawer systems and hydraulic air compressors. Made in the USA.

Full line of wreckers and carriers from Miller Industries.

Manufacturer of quality rollback beds and wreckers for the towing and recovery industries.

American Towman Magazine Towing’s premier publication now in its 34th year.

Leading manufacturer of a superior line of car carriers, towing and recovery equipment and industrial transporters.

Builder of the original Self-Loader wheel lift; offers light- and medium-duty wreckers and carriers; an industry-leading 3-year product warrant and new low cost extended 4th and 5th year warranties.

AmeriDeck

Coach-Net

Equipment Sales & Service

Manufacturer of the safest/easiest towing system for motorcycles that will load at ground level.

AstraLease Associates, Inc. An independent leasing company providing leasing and financing to commercial and individual customers since 1990.

Asurion Roadside Assistance

Chevron

Leading provider of high quality roadside and customer assistance for the RV and auto industry.

Code 3 Worldwide leader in vehicle lights and sirens.

Commercial Safety Services Provides superior products, services and consulting to the public safety professional.

Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg.

Chevron and Dynamic distributor.

Excel Sportswear Custom designed sportswear featuring handdrawn images of your truck, silkscreened and embroidered.

Extreme Toys, LLC

One of the industry’s top manufacturers of towing equipment and accessories, including the Speed Dolly.

I Tow In, Inc. Specializing in towing and recovery products featuring: ITI Skates, machinery skates, control arm boat, the Poynter Pucker, tailboard transformer, chain forks, and more.

Independent Garage Towing Contractors (IGTC) Offering a national insurance program for towing contractors and repair garages.

InSight USA

Specializing in die cast toy tow trucks and more by Jada, First Gear, New Ray and more.

StreetEagle GPS Tracking provides “real-time” management oversight to companies with a mobile workforce.

Federal Signal

Insurance Auto Auctions

Providing our customers with high quality roadside service through strong partnerships with towing and road service professionals.

Computer/Comm. Sciences

Atlantic Braids

Condor Products

Braided rope and cordage (synthetic steel cable replacement).

Manufacturer of towing and recovery products for all tow truck models and all types of motorcycles.

Finex Group Towing collections specialists: “The shortest distance to your money.” Sign up today!

Integrated Vehicle Leasing

Lightbars and other emergency lighting systems.

Copart

Intek Truck & Equipment Leasing

ATSA

Largest provider of services to process and sell salvage vehicles in North America and the United Kingdom.

FleetNet America, Inc.

Atlas Flasher & Supply Co.

The industry’s rating program for towing operations.

AutoData Direct

Comprehensive TowManager computer software packages for the towing industry.

Cross Country Automotive Services

Title search, certified letter and lien letters services.

The road to a better running business, offering our towing and roadside partners over five million annual dispatches.

AW Direct

Crouch’s Wrecker and Equipment

Providing towing and recovery supplies, including lighting, chain, straps, dollies, door tools, winches, apparel, and much more.

New and used Miller Industries wreckers and carriers.

Bad Dog Tools Makers of specialty and multi-purpose tools.

B/A Products Company Manufacturer of chain, web and wire rope assemblies for the towing and auto transport industries. November 19–21

2010 EXHIBIT ROSTER

A premier provider of towing and recovery lighting, controllers, back-up alarms and cameras.

A third party vendor relationship company. Coordinating roadside and maintenance services for commercial fleets in US, Canada and Mexico.

Ford Commercial Truck The number one selling commercial truck company in the world.

Gaither Tool Tire dismounting tools: Gaither, Winntec, and Ctek.

Leading seller of repairable vehicles, parts, cars and trucks, recovered-theft, fleet lease and rental vehicles. Leasing and financing of trucks. Family owned and operated since 1986. Providing superior one-on-one service.

Int’l Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum Only tow truck museum in the world, Hall of Fame and Wall of the Fallen.

Jerr-Dan Corporation

GEICO

A leading manufacturer of towing, recovery and transport equipment.

Motor club and provider service program.

JunkMyCar.com

Manufacturer and distributor of towing lights, LED lights, strobe lights, HID lights, and safety flashers.

GM Fleet and Commercial

A complete marketing system for junk car buyers to acquire cars for selling or scrapping.

Danco Products

Goodall Mfg.

A leading manufacturer of high performance towing, recovery, and hauling equipment.

An industry leader in service vehicle accessory equipment including jump starters, air compressors, generators and welders.

Custer Products, Ltd.

GM builds and sells commercial trucks from light- to heavy-duty pickups.

Kalyn Siebert Manufacturer of trailers used for construction, oilfield, heavy haul & wind energy transportation.

TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 37

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS —

EXHIBIT ROSTER Landoll Corporation

1-800 IM STUCK Toll-Free A toll-free number that towing companies can have for their service area exclusively.

Manufacturer of specialized trailers including traveling axle, traveling tail, detachable gooseneck and multi-car trailers.

Lift and Tow Manufacturer of light-duty and rep wheel lifts.

Lodar AAA Real Savings for the Real World AAA affiliates enjoy exclusive savings and benefits to help lower operating costs and increase profits.

Hand-held remote control devices for tow trucks.

Martens Johnson Commercial insurance products.

Massaging Insoles Made in the USA foot insoles that massage your feet as you work.

Access Tools Access Smart Light This new light makes opening cars at night a breeze. Light up the whole interior.

Matheny Motors Full line Miller Industries distributor: Ohio, West Virginia, Northern Virginia. Parts, service and experienced sales staff.

Matjack/Int’l Wrecker Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of PA (AASP-PA) Association Membership and Benefits Membership in a trade association supporting the needs of towing and after market repair shops. Allstate Roadside Services Roadside Assistance Service Providers Join one of the industry’s largest volume dispatch networks equipped with easy, fast payment technology. American Eagle Accessories Group Drawer Set Heavy-duty drawer set for your service or tow truck; 500-pound capacity drawer slides. Limited lifetime warranty.

Manufacturer and distributor of Matjack high, medium and low pressure bags, jumbo safelift, landing cushions.

Miller Industries Towing Equip. Inc. From the revolutionary LCG carrier to a new 75-ton rotator, Miller Industries will display the most popular towing and recovery equipment from Century, Vulcan, Holmes and Chevron.

Minute Man Mfg., Inc. Manufacturer of slide in auto load wheel lifts, and forklift mounted wheel lifts.

MPH Industries Manufactures, sales and services all types of emergency lighting equipment for private and public service vehicles and personnel.

Muncie Power Products, Inc. Manufacturer of power take-offs and hydraulic system components including pumps, valves, and reservoirs.

Nation Safe Drivers AmeriDeck Ideal for Motorcycles Loads two full dressed motor-cycles or a trike from ground level.

Motor Club.

National Automobile Club Emergency roadside services.

National Fleet Products World-class fender manufacturer.

Bad Dog Tools Multi-purpose Drill Bits Drill anything with Bad Dog multi-purpose drill bits.

Navistar Navistar builds International trucks, MaxxForce engines, IC Bus school buses, and Monaco RV recreational vehicles.

NBB Controls, Inc. Manufacturer of wireless remote controls introducing our new illuminated remote for the tow truck industry.

B/A Products Company Heavy Duty Recovery Chains The most complete line of heavy-duty recovery chains in the industry.

Ningbo Longxin Machinery Factory Manufacturer of trailer parts including jacks, couplers, wheel hubs and solar energy lights.

Nissan Diesel America (UD) One of world’s leading manufacturers of medium-duty diesel trucks.

38 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Voilá! What’s New at AT Expo! Product Debuts The 22nd annual American Towman Exposition will be the stage for manufacturers to unveil new products they have developed. Jerr-Dan will feature its new low profile carrier among its many wreckers and carriers on the show floor. Dynamic is debuting its first Integrated Self Loader with a negative tilt. Miller Industries will unveil a rotator package for the Century 1075 mounted on a twin steer Peterbilt, featuring a new rear stabilizer system. All in all, some 200 wreckers, carriers, trailers, and truck chassis will be exhibited inside the Baltimore Convention Center. Navistar will show off its new TerraStar with a Century wrecker, its offering in class 5, 19,000 GVW. Games & Prizes Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. is giving away its add-on autoloader, the Slider, and Miller Industries will hand over the keys to a Harley Sportster Nightster, just two of the prizes towing professionals have a chance to win on the show floor, Sunday inside the Baltimore Convention Center. Advance registrants are guaranteed tickets that may win these prizes and on-site registrants will have an opportunity for a free raffle ticket. Among the 160 exhibiting industry suppliers, many will be giving away perks and prizes on the show floor to AT Expo attendees. Everyone will receive a ballot so that they may vote in the American Wrecker Pageant. Those that cast their ballots will have a chance to win an official pageant hat.

Advance registrants can get “pre-screened” for a company rating at the American Towman Standards Auhority(ATSA) booth.

Win this Harley from Miller Industries! All advance registrants are guaranteed a raffle ticket for the chance to win a Harley Sportster Nightster.

Check out the world’s exclusive, towing-theme chopper – American Towman Hero – inside the Baltimore Convention Center!

Win this Dynamic Slide In Unit! All advance registrants receive a raffle ticket.

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS —

EXHIBIT ROSTER NRC Industries Inc.

Brevini Power Transmission Winches High quality recovery, hoisting and custom winches.

For more than 35 years, NRC has invested all of its know-how and energy into building the best towing and recovery equipment on the market.

Olson & Company Axle caps and axle covers.

Penny Pockets Condor Products Cycle Loader Cycle loader allows one operator to recover any motorcycle on a flat bed truck. Cross Country Automotive Services Provider Perks Offering exclusive discounts to CCAS providers on products and services picked especially for their business. Custer Products, Ltd. LED Strobe Light Bar – STR56 56 one watt diodes; 6 different flash patterns; works on 10–30 Volts; Amber lens. DewEze, Mfg. Kit #700518 – 2011 Chevrolet Duramax Clutch Pump Kit The Chevrolet kit is minimally invasive of the OEM system and does not require additional drive pulleys. DG Towing Equipment Blades 17” Wireless Tow Light Come to booth for show special of $199.95. Dual-Tech, Inc. SP10-10 Side Puller Dual winch side puller with hydraulic stiff legs and wireless remote mounted on carrier or wrecker.

Embroidered jackets with your truck in full color and in great detail – sweatshirts and tees.

Permco, Inc. A leading manufacturer of high quality hydraulic gear pumps, motors, clutch pumps, and accessories.

Phoenix USA Manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty truck parts and accessories, including wheel simulators and toolboxes.

Photo Card Specialists Producers of promotional products from your photographs, business cards, calendars, greeting cards, clocks, postcards, etc.

Pierce Sales Official US distributor of Lodar wireless remote systems. Also specializes in winches, compressors, wrecker accessories and parts.

Prime Industries, Inc. Direct importer of stainless steel wheel simulators, lug nuts, LED lights and ABS hub covers.

Professional Dispatch Services, Inc. Tow dispatch center with over 20 years of experience serving companies throughout the United States.

Progressive Commercial Insurance Commercial auto insurance.

Purpose Wrecker Sales New and used towing equipment: Century and Vulcan, Zacklift; parts and service.

Quest Towing Services Fastest growing network of roadside, secondary, and accident programs specializing in insurance companies.

RAM Trucks/Chrysler Fleet Operations Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. Original Self-Loading Wheel Lift Exhibit display includes carriers, service trucks, and wreckers.

Extreme Toys, LLC Jada 1/24 Scale Rollback International 4400 Durastar with Miller/Century bed. Available: black, white or white with Miller logos. Federal Signal 70” Legend Introducing 70” legend lightbar for towing and recovery applications. 40 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Committed to serving your fleet and becoming your ideal business solution. Manufacturer of the RAM 3500, RAM 4500, and RAM 5500 mediumduty truck chassis.

Ramsey Winch Manufacturer of hydraulic planetary and worm gear winches, electric and mechanical winches and accessories.

Ranger SST GPS, software mapping and mobile messaging.

RC Industries Full line manufacturer of storage boxes, bumpers, slide out trays and custom metal fabrications.

RealWheels High quality, non-magnetic stainless steel wheel simulators and axle covers.

Towing professionals take over the Hard Rock Cafe for the Friday Night Bull & Pig Roast – the legendary Miller Rocks celebration, sponsored by Miller Industries. Advance–register now for your free tickets

Miller Rocks

AT’s Harbor Hospitality The American Towman Exposition is famous for its legendary hospitality. Seminar goers will enjoy complimentary breakfasts each morning, Friday through Sunday inside the Baltimore Convention Center; Tow411 members may perch inside American Towman headquarters in the Presidential suite to enjoy some of that Legendary Hospitality; and every towing professional registered to attend can partake in towing’s premier party, Miller Rocks! – The Friday Night Bull & Pig Roast at the Hard Rock Cafe on the harbor, compliments of Miller Industries. Hospitality flows from the magnificent harbor during AT Expo. The many special event sponsors help the Exposition to throw down the red carpet for towing professionals. Whether stepping onto the incredible Exhibit Hall with booms rising to the ceiling, or adventuring into the exotic atmosphere of Calitri’s Cuba and handrolled cigars–sponsored by Lift And Tow–tow bosses find a place to celebrate who they are, making friends along the way.

Dance the night away or smoke fresh handrolled cigars with the big boys in the Havana Club–sponsored by Lift And Tow

Calitri’s Cuba

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS —

EXHIBIT ROSTER Recovery Billing Unlimited

Finex Group Towing Collections Services Full service agency, monthly remittance, 30+ years experience, towing references, competitive rates.

Proper way to set up your business to ensure you can get paid properly for your recoveries.

Road America Motor Club Providers of roadside assistance services for all types of vehicle classifications.

Robert Young Wrecker Sales FleetNet America, Inc. Select Towing & Recovery Program The longest and only established nationwide towing and recovery program.

NRC tow truck and accessories distributor.

ROI Protective Tapes Supplier of tape and wrap products for vehicle protection during storage and towing.

Rush Towing Systems Goodall Mfg. Goodall Cap Start Jump Starter Powerful maintenance free, capacitor powered jump starter providing more power than four group 31 batteries. Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel Talbert Trailers Talbert 55-ton hydraulic double drop extendable with four axles.

Happy Feet by Life Time Ventures, LLC Fluid-filled Massaging Insoles Fluid-filled insoles massage, cushion, and absorb impact. Washable and guaranteed one year.

Offers the full line of Jerr-Dan wrecker bodies mounted on a wide range of truck brands.

Safety Vision Digital mobile video surveillance and rear vision solutions to protect driver and fleet.

Safetyline ANSI 107-2004/2010 compliant parkas, jackets, raingear and flame retardant outerwear made for your work environment.

Salvage Direct Innovative worldwide remarketer of insurance salvage including cars, trucks, motorcycles, commercial, exotics, powersports and repo.

Service Station Computer Systems Provides call taking, dispatching, storage lot management solutions as well as auto and light truck shop management software.

Sheehan Insurance Group Receive quotes from 15+ specialized towing carriers. Worker’s comp rates as low as $6 in MD & VA.

Hino Motor Sales USA Win a Hino Win this 2011MY Hino 258 fully loaded with a Miller Industries Carrier.

SkyGuard Fleet Management Service Provide accurate billing with reports showing miles driven and towing time from dispatch to dropoff.

SoundOff Signal American manufacturer specializing in emergency warning products.

In The Ditch Speed Dolly Featuring new, exclusive ITD aluminum wheels and Tuff Coat automotive quality finish. InSight USA StreetEagle GPS Tracking with Garmin Providing “real-time” GPS Tracking, route dispatching, customized two-way messaging, driver status updates, and vehicle navigation. Jerr-Dan Corporation XLP-6 Low Profile Carrier Low load angle and deck height with no chassis restrictions. The XLP-6 delivers performance without compromise.

Sovereign/Santander Finance programs for AAA contractors and Miller equipment; merchant card processing offers.

Steck Manufacturing Company Manufacturer of BigEasy Lockout Kits and other automotive repair tools.

Supersprings International Manufacturer of suspension enhancers for class 1 through class 5 trucks.

Superwinch Manufacturer of electric and hydraulic winches and winching accessories in excess of 40 years for vehicle recovery, off-road, military, commercial, industrial and OE applications.

Talbert Manufacturing, Inc. Sells a wide variety of transportation equipment for the towing, construction and heavy haul industries.

TCF Equipment Finance Finance and leasing company.

42 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

You Gotta Be There! Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg., NRC Industries, and Dodge Ram are the official sponsors of the Towman Medal.

Festival Night Experiencing the American Towman Medal Ceremony is like a rite of passage for the professional tower. For those who have not been to Festival Night, take a look at the Adventures of the American Towman; the amazing recoveries and rescues that take place on those pages will give one a good idea of the heroic stories that earn the Towman Medal.

Some have remarked that the ceremony reminds them of a Sunday mass, others say that it has a medieval flare from the knights of King Arthur’s Court, and yet others likened it to a raucous Vikings feast. Truth is, there’s a little bit of all of that in the American Towman Medal Ceremony. Tickets are just $55 per person for a gourmet dinner from the Marriott Waterfront’s master chef, entertainment, camaraderie, and the towing industry’s most awesome spectacle, the March of the Heroes.

March of the Heroes

November 19–21

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS —

EXHIBIT ROSTER Tech International

JunkMyCar.com Get More Junk Cars Only pay for what you pick up, cost per action marketing. Kalyn Siebert Sliding Axle Trailer Trailer is offered in two-axle 35-ton and three-axle 53-60-ton capacity – Lightweight and easy to operate.

Manufacturer of tire repair equipment and chemicals.

Teletrac Leading supplier of intelligent driving solutions, including GPS Fleet Tracking, Vehicle Location Services, and Messaging.

The CCTV Doctor We market, install, service and support high definition security camera systems. Remote access via PC, Blackberry, iPhone and iPad.

The Insurance Professionals Tow truck insurance.

Landoll Corporation Four Trailers on Display Landoll Haulall, Traveling Axle Trailer, a Detachable Gooseneck and the all New Bus Hauler.

The Johnston Insurance Group Tow truck insurance.

The Rickenbacker Group A reliable and reputable service that collects deficient balances.

Towing.com Lift and Tow Light-Duty and Repo Wheel Lifts The Lift and Tow system is fast, quiet and stable while towing.

Massaging Insoles Relief from heel spurs, lower back pain, hot burning feet, plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses, fibromyalgia, Morton’s Neuroma, diabetes and varicose veins. Matheny Motors Ford/Vulcan Combo 2011 Ford F450 4X4 XLT with a Vulcan 810 composite body, 6.7L diesel, metallic black.

Matjack/Int’l Wrecker Air Lifting Bags Jumbo Safelift Cushions Matjack high, medium and low pressure airlifting bags jumbo safelift landing and underwater cushions. Miller Industries Towing Equipment Inc. Century 1075S Rotator with new “H” Beam Rear Stabilizer Century leads the industry in rotator innovation with models from 30- to 75-tons in capacity. Century will introduce a new rear “H” beam stabilizer and underlift option for their 60- & 75-ton models.

Internet advertising for tow companies. Lists more than 10 sites including Towing.com & RoadsideService.com

Towing Guru Towing Guru provides complete Internet marketing and advertising services to the towing industry.

TowPartners Discounts for the industry on Sprint, Aramark, truck insurance, sureFleet and more, including revenue opportunities.

towXchange, Inc. Thousands use our Towing Operations Software “TOPS” every day to manage and grow their business – 16 million tows processed and counting!

TRAA The national association representing tow truck operators. TRAA administers the National Driver Certification program.

Tracker Management Systems, Inc. Dispatch, lot management, auction, web based, bar code, and GPS.

Trail-Eze Trailers Manufacturer of custom built equipment hauling trailers since 1963. “Built to Work like you do!”

Transfer Flow, Inc. Manufacturer of aftermarket and OEM fuel tank systems, generator tanks, hydraulic tanks, and fillneck kits.

Transit Pros, Inc. America’s largest subhaul coordinator.

Transportation Info Systems (TIS) Software for tow management.

Travis Barlow Insurance Minute Man Mfg., Inc. Minute Man HDH Demonstrating the Minute Man HDH wheel lift and more!

44 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Offers insurance protection for towing operators, auto transporters and garage & repair facilities.

Traxxis GPS Solutions, Inc Reseller of wireless GPS tracking, dispatch and navigation systems.

Number 117 on Reader Card

EXHIBIT ROSTER

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS — Muncie Power Products, Inc. PTO for Ford Automatic Transmissions Muncie’s FR66 PTO offers maximum power, easiest installation and quieter operation for Ford’s Super Duty.

Navistar New International TerraStar The TerraStar is designed to meet the specific needs of medium-duty truck customers.

Trinity Transportation Services, LLC Insurance agency offering total packages for the tower and the professional recovery specialist.

United States Auto Club, Motoring Division, Inc. USAC/MD is an auto club known for fair rates, daily payments and responsive regional managers.

USA Financial Services, LLC Provides commercial vehicle and equipment leasing and financing for the towing industry.

USFleetTracking Corp. We are the leader in providing LIVE GPS tracking solutions to the towing & recovery industry.

Ningbo Longxin Machinery Factory Trailer Jack Trailer Jack – 2000lbs with powder-coated treatment, heavy-duty tube and wear-resistant rubberier.

Warn Industries Manufacturer of planetary winches, air compressors and accessories.

West End Service, Inc. Full line of sales, service, parts and accessories for Miller Industries and International trucks.

Whelen Engineering Company, Inc. NRC Industries Inc. 4050CSR The 4050CSR is the only sliding rotator that offers all the well-known power of NRC equipment in a lighter, more attractive and stronger composite body.

Manufacturer of warning light systems; technologies used include halogen, strobe, LED and Super-LED®.

Will•Burt Night scan light systems.

Wireless Links GPS Systems.

Worldwide Equipment Sales Penny Pockets Embroidered jackets with your truck in full color and in great detail – sweatshirts and tees too.

Jerr-Dan, Landoll, Wells Cargo, Driver Locate, Muncie, Federal Signal, Whelen, B/A, Code 3, Phoenix, Ramsey truck accessories.

WreckMaster Pierce Sales Yellow Jack-It New and improved dolly design. Now features a raised cylinder for increase clearance.

Hands-on training and certification for the towing and recovery industry.

Zacklift International, Inc. Complete underreach systems with available stifflegs engineered in permanent and removable mountings.

Zip’s Truck Equipment Phoenix USA 78” Towbox New, updated and improved version of the industry standard towbox.

The industry leader in sales and services, new and used towing equipment, parts and accessories.

Prime Industries, Inc. P/N 4965-195F 2005 Current Ford 19.5” x 6”, 10 lug, 5-hand hole wheel simulator set.

Purpose Wrecker Sales Ford 2011, Holmes 440 Auto Loader No truck in our booth, only photos and digital.

46 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

November 19–21

Wrecker Pageant

Michaelangelo Does Wreckers The American Wrecker Pageant is an art gallery, monster equipment show, and a tv sitcom all rolled into one. Indeed, the Pageant alone is worth the trip to Baltimore. I liken it to a tv sitcom because of all the colorful, unlikely characters you run across among the wrecker owners. What makes them tick? Well, a glance at the graphics on the trucks gives a clue; Looney Tunes, Marilyn Monroe, Jesus Christ, the Incredible Hulk, reptiles, dragons and dragon slayers, the Tazmanian Devil and the works of Michaelangelo…these are the images and more that are seen in what is unquestionably the most amazing truck pageant on earth. The competitive nature of the American Wrecker Pageant at the Exposition give the hall an edge of pride that relates to both the equipment and the companies behind them. Every tow boss who walks through marvels at how these trucks have been taken care of. Attendees will have ballots with which they can vote for the trucks they believe are the best in each class. So you’ll find these towers much more agreeable perhaps than your competitors down the street from you. It’s no exaggeration to say, not even Disney World hosts such a spectacle. The Pageant inside the Baltimore Convention Center is a piece of Americana not to be found anywhere else. The Pageant, co- sponsored by Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. is packed with wreckers and carriers small and large, single and double axle, and the monster rotators. While some of the trucks use wraps for the graphic presentation, the majority of the truck art is hand painted or air brushed. Walking through and meandering in and around over 60 show trucks is much like sauntering through the Walters Art Museum up on Charles Street. Whether you come alone or with your family, the Pageant is the show within the show not to be missed. Steve Calitri

Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. co-sponsor of the American Wrecker Pageant.

Number 165 on Reader Card

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS — RAM Trucks/Chrysler Fleet Operations Ram 3500 Chassis Cab Ram Chassis Cab – Pulls its own weight and then some. Recovery Billing Unlimited Proper way to set up business to ensure you can get paid properly for your recoveries.

Networking Mecca There are over 12 call providers on the show floor––a must place to be for tow bosses looking to approach new clubs and shore up key relationships.

Safety Vision Route Recorder Rugged, compact solid-state DVR supports 4 cameras and includes AVL tracking, GPS live look-in. Safetyline AJY646 SC3 ASI class 3 waterproof, 3M industrial wash 5530 Scotchlite® reflective material and safetyline quality. Salvage Direct Access to worldwide buyer base to quickly and easily sell your units for highest returns. Service Station Computer Systems Call taking, dispatching, lot management, Internet-based software solution for the towing industry. SkyGuard, LLC Improve Efficiencies Offers tracking and fleet management services to reduce cost and misuse, improve safety and productivity. SoundOff Signal Pinnacle Mini Lightbar Delivers 360 degrees of powerful and bright light output perfect for towing vehicles. Sovereign/Santander Finance programs for AAA contractors and Miller equipment; meet or beat merchant card processing offer.

All The Nation's Call Providers Under One Roof November 20th and 21st is the tow boss’ opportunity to meet with all the major motor clubs and call providers, along with the industry’s equipment suppliers. It's the time to meet new clubs and shore up old relationships with the key executives and reps the call providers fly in from all sectors of the country. It’s also a unique opportunity to meet the people who make the wreckers and carriers; a time to research equipment as well as to purchase. Call Providers Exhibiting In Baltimore: AAA Allstate Roadside Services Asurion Coach-Net Copart Cross Country Automotive Services FleetNet America GEICO Nation Safe Drivers National Automobile Club Quest Towing Services Road America USAC/MD From the show floor to the many special events, tow business owners will have many opportunities to network with their peers, educators, and industry suppliers.

Steck Manufacturing Company BigEasy Lockout Kit Unlocks cars fast without damaging car doors and provides quick access for all your lockout needs. Supersprings International Manufacturer of suspension enhancers for class 1 through class 5 trucks for wreckers, car carriers and repo trucks.

50 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

AT Expo is the place to meet the men who build the trucks, like Dan Reynolds, Danco founder, above.

— EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS — Superwinch Superwinch H50P Heavy-duty, robust construction, high quality 50,000 lb capacity two-stage planetary drive hydraulic winch, engineered to meet J706 standards. Talbert Manufacturing, Inc. 55-Ton Extendable Lowbed Trailer includes hydraulic removable gooseneck and extendable deck (30’-50’) with multiple axle configurations. Teletrac Fleet Director Vehicle tracking software solution used to locate, track, and monitor the position/operations of fleet vehicles. The CCTV Doctor High Definition, Remote, Security Camera Views from anywhere! Remote access via: iPhone, Blackberry, iPad, PC or Apple Computer. Towing Guru Online Marketing Our marketing gurus will be on hand to answer any online marketing related questions and its importance to your towing business. TowPartners SureFleet Special discounts on sureFleet maintenance software. Learn how to better manage your fleet. towXchange, Inc. TOPS and USFleetTracking TOPS is integrated with the industry’s only live GPS system from USFleetTracking. Now see your entire operation in real time! TRAA TRAA Vehicle Identification Guide A classification system, which helps law enforcement communicate equipment needs to towers. This year a DVD accompanies guide. Tracker Management Systems, Inc. Software Management Tools Dispatch, barcode, inventory control, A/R, lien letters, GPS and mapping.

Trail-Eze Trailers TE80DGBUS With a 22” deck height the TE80DGBUS is manufactured to haul buses, coaches & construction equipment. Transfer Flow, Inc. 50-gallon Refueling Tank Transfer Flow’s 50-gallon refueling tank is DOT legal for gasoline, diesel, and gasohol. Larger gallon refueling tanks are available. Traxxis GPS Solutions, Inc. TOMTOMWORK Seamless GPS tracking, dispatching and navigation solution integrated with Beacon Software. Discounted pricing for Cross Country affiliates. Trinity Transportation Services Offering total packages for the tower and the professional recovery specialist. USFleetTracking & TOPS Live GPS Tracking USFleetTracking has integrated with the industry’s largest Towing Operations Software (TOPS). View all trucks and service calls together instantly via webbased system. West End Service, Inc. Full Service Distributor Full line of sales, service parts and accessories for Miller Industries and International trucks. Whelen Engineering Justice® Towman’s™ Lightbar Super-LED® warning lightbar includes LED B/T/T lights and work lights. Worldwide Equipment Sales Driver Locate Affordable GPS fleet tracking; PTO and stop alerts cut fuel costs, monitor speeds, Internet based. Zacklift International, Inc. Turn-key Underreach System ready for the road with SUV-to-Semi wheel lift.

AT’s Academy $75 Passport gets you into all the seminars you’re able to attend...includes breakfast Friday through Sunday Credit Card Jackpot Bill Johnson shows you what you don’t know about your credit card bill and how the different methods of taking credit card payments can mean money in your bank or the credit card companies. Conducted by veteran tower, Bill Johnson, National Sales Director of Choice Merchant Solutions. • Friday Incorporating a Battery Service Get a better understanding of battery failures, and recognizing the differences... techniques to maintain battery life, as well as keys to identifying a quality battery. By understanding the breakdown of batteries, you will be one step closer to incorporating a profitable mobile battery service to your business. Detailed information on adding this service will be provided. Roy Hellmund, Road America & Interstate Batteries • Friday Police-Tower Relationship Town rotation systems and the relationship you have with your Pollice Chief and the department go hand in hand. Industry leaders Frank Sanchez and John Borowski discusses how to cultivate your relationship with the Chief and how to use the National Standard For Rotation Systems. Sanchez will talk about municipal encroachment on your impound business. • Friday

52 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

The Industry’s Premier Educational Program For Towing Management and Operations color code: blackdenotes towing-specific managment topics; red denotes equipment, towing & recovery, and road service topics

Managing Your Fuel Expenses How to effectively manage your fuel expenses and protect your business from rising fuel costs. Hosted by Pricelock and 360FuelCard.com & Cross Country Automotive Services. • Friday Big Issues: Discovery Workshop 1 Are the issues preventing you from running a smooth, profitable, customer oriented operation, the same as other big tow companies? Find out by participating in a workshop with other likeminded owners from across the country. Topics in this workshop: Investigate the top problems in the industry; Learn the top three causes of these issues; Discover solutions to your most pressing issues. James Weaver, Tracker Management • Friday Back to Basics: Lift & Tow WreckMaster trainer David Bouvia will start with the basics and cover towing capacity; secondary attachment chains; stop turn and running lights; tow height; tow depth; stopping distance; and following distance. • Friday Big Issues: Discovery Workshop 2 This class will build on the discoveries of the first workshop. This 50 minute segment will demonstrate certain processes and technology that can help you achieve solutions to the key challenges facing your company. James Weaver, Tracker Management • Friday

The Rated Tower The Tow Doctor, DJ Harrington, discusses the towing industry’s exclusive rating program administered through the American Towman Standards Authority, and how being rated can reduce your insurance premiums, earn commercial accounts, and help to stand out in the eyes of town and highway authorities. • Friday Recoveries Around the World Tom Luciano of Miller Industries and Nick Ovenden of The Institute of Vehicle Recovery (IVR), based in the UK, will articulate their expert training techniques and concepts from around the world. • Friday PM Googling For Tow Business Discussions on how Google and other search engines can help draw business. How to work Google…understanding pay-per-click advertising... and why online is far more relevant than phone book advertising in today's internet age. Rony Mirzaians of Towing Guru • Friday PM Coaching for Performance Coaching plays an important role in guiding and encouraging members of a team to work towards a common goal. This seminar will cover some basic coaching techniques geared to the towing and recovery

industry that will help you improve employee performance and morale as well as create an atmosphere of teamwork and professionalism within your company. Terry Abejuela, American Towman • Friday PM Road Service - a Revenue Builder This one is for the tower considering road service. Different types of service trucks will be discussed and what tools and equipment you need to stock it with. Extend your revenue and fix the smaller repairs on site or ultimately get the tow. Jim Heward, Cumberland Towing • Saturday Cultivating Commercial Accounts You’ll identify account opportunities that will have you applauding good old American ingenuity as you learn a veteran’s approach to the commercial sector for both light and heavy duty towing. This seminar is not just for the young turks, but for veteran tow bosses as well. John Borowski brings 40 years of industry experience to the table as a tow business owner and a commercial account rep for a national towing company. • Saturday Dispatching This class got rave reviews in Texas at Tow Expo. It is packed full of ways to increase your business. Make good dispatchers even better. Those attending will learn ways to increase their skills. And you could leave with a 3-day/2-night Carribean vacation! Only 10 trips per class. DJ Harrington, Phone Logic • Saturday The Lowdown on "Overrides" Tow operators often respond to tow vehicles with the transmission locked in "park" and restoring power may not be the solution. Many of today's vehicles have an "override" switch

which allows the operator to by-pass the electronics and shift the vehicle into neutral. Some "overrides” are both visible and accessible, while others are hidden and more complex. This seminar will help the tow operator locate these "overrides" on many vehicles. Conducted by Dave Lambert, North American Training • Saturday Get Started in the Digital Age Are you tired of hearing about all the benefits of "using technology" but don't know where to start? Then this seminar is for you. Al Stoeberl, SSCSDigital Dispatch • Saturday Getting Recovery Bills Paid Bob Fouquette from Big Wheel and Recovery Billing Unlimited gives a primer of his famous course that details how to get those big tow bills paid; from the proper way of writing acceptable recovery invoices to obtaining payment from insurance companies. A must for tow business owners who bill out recovery work and those who manage the company’s billing process. • Saturday Finding Profit Killers Identify where the profit killers are in your facility: Operations (people and processes), Capital Assets (Trucks & Equipment), and Customers. Learn how to avoid and/or fix these profit killers now! Andrew de la Chapelle of USFleetTracking • Saturday Minimize Your Tire Cost This seminar will not only assist you in selecting the best tires for your towing equipment, but will present you with a better understanding of your tire costs per mile, extending the life of your tires with simple maintenance procedures, the makings of quality tires, along with purchasing tires at competitive prices. Steve Bass, Road America & Goodyear Tire & Rubber • Saturday

Performing Light-Duty Rollovers Employees that have not been properly trained to perform rollovers effectively and safely put your company at risk each time they perform this type of work. Tow operators must possess the knowledge and skills to upright vehicles with little or no additional damage. This seminar will highlight proper techniques to perform three types of rollovers: The basic roll towards the tow truck, the reverse roll away from the tow truck and the single lane upright. Terry Abejuela, American Towman • Saturday Towers and Healthcare Reform: The healthcare reform bill was passed and signed into law in March, but new details are coming out daily. In a nutshell, costs will go up, and anyone who does not have an exemption will have to get health insurance. This seminar covers compliance issues, how to qualify for exemptions, tax credits, and some of the more favorable options available to towers. Ralph Weber, Route Three • Sunday World Class Customer Service Start at the ground level to be a successful business. In this seminar, you'll take away specific tools for each person in your company (operators, dispatchers, bookkeepers, sales, and owners) to enhance customer service and ultimately improve your bottom line. Don't miss this opportunity to take home new skills that will dramatically improve your business. Stacey Tucker, Chico Towing • Sunday Getting Paid by the Clubs Either through towers’ negligence or stringent motor club requirements, a high percentage of towing fees hang in limbo, never paid, never collected. Todd Althouse of Beacon Software gives tow bosses a reality check on how they can best keep Clubs current in their payments. Automating and using the internet play a key role in the discussion. • Sunday

Delegating Like a General Tow boss and private lot guru, Dan Messina, discusses how to be a General in charge. According to Messina, there are ways to be in charge of your business and enjoy your life. He goes into detail about how to hold your people accountable, assigning responsibility, and measuring your business for success. Dan Messina, Southwest Auto • Sunday

Everyone Needs a Good Angle WreckMaster's senior lead instructor, Terry Humelsine will discuss playing with angles in recovery logistics. How to increase or concentrate the effort or pull where it needs to be: When to open-up an angle and when to close one up; Where to position your recovery vehicle. • Sunday

Working with Air Cushions Join the team from Matjack/BTR as they review and discuss various air bag recovery jobs along with incident response trailers/units and the role of performing a professional image for your customer and rescue personnel. John Sweezy and Howard Eagan of Matjack. • Sunday

American Towman Academy/ Seminar Schedule Friday, November 19, 2010 9:00 AM Credit Card Jackpot 9:00 AM Incorporating a Battery Service 9:00 AM Police - Tower Relationship 10:00 AM Managing Your Fuel Expenses 10:00 AM Big Issues: Discovery Workshop 1 10:00 AM Back to Basics: Lift & Tow 11:00 AM Big Issues: Discovery Workshop 2 11:00 AM The Rated Tower 5:00-7:00 PM Recoveries Around the World 5:00 PM Googling for Tow Business 6:00 PM Coaching for Performance

Bill Johnson, Choice Merchant Solutions Roy Hellmund, Road America & Interstate John Borowski, Tow Technology Institute Cross Country Auto. Svc., Pricelock & 360 Fuel Card Jim Weaver, Tracker Management David Bouvia, WreckMaster Jim Weaver, Tracker Management DJ Harrington, Phone Logic Tom Luciano, Miller Industries Rony Mirzaians, Towing Guru Terry Abejuela, American Towman

Saturday, November 20, 2010 8:00 AM Road Service - a Revenue Builder 8:00 AM Cultivating Commercial Accounts 8:00 AM Dispatching 9:00 AM The Lowdown on "Overrides" 9:00 AM Getting Started in the Digital Age 9:00 AM Getting Recovery Bills Paid 10:00 AM Finding Profit Killers 10:00 AM Minimize Your Tire Cost 10:00 AM Performing Light-Duty Rollovers

Jim Heward, Cumberland Towing John Borowski, Tow Technology Institute DJ Harrington, Phone Logic Dave Lambert, North American Towing Academy Al Stoeberl, SSCS-Digital Dispatch Bob Fouquette, Recovery Billing Unlimited Andrew de la Chapelle, USFleetTracking Steve Bass, Road America & Goodyear Tire Terry Abejuela, American Towman

Sunday, November 21, 2010 9:00 AM Towers and Healthcare Reform 9:00 AM World Class Customer Service 9:00 AM Getting Paid by the Clubs 10:00 AM Delegating Like a General 10:00 AM Everyone Needs A Good Angle 10:00 AM Working with Air Cushions

Ralph Weber, Route Three November 19-21 Stacey Tucker, Chico Towing Sign up for your Seminar Todd Althouse, Beacon Software Co. Passport on the Dan Messina, Southwest Auto Tow Advance Registration Page. Terry Humelsine, WreckMaster Passport includes breakfast Friday through Sunday John Sweezy, Jr., Matjack/Int’l Wreckers

54 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

*NOTE: Describe the incident and include the name, company, phone number and address of the nominee. All accounts should be able to be corroborated by a third party source, i.e., police, victim, witness.

D ynam ic Towing Equipm ent & M fg.is the Official Tow Truck of the Towm an M edal N R C Industries is the Official H eavy-D uty Wrecker/R otator of the Towm an M edal R A M is the Official Truck C hassis of the Towm an M edal

N om inee s N am e:

Phone:

C o:

*The Incident:

Mail To:

Your N am e:

Phone:

Am erican Tow m an 7 West Street Warwick, NY 10990 Fax: (845) 986-5181 or call 800-732-3869

Newsmakers at the AT Expo The American Towman Exposition is news in the making, whether we’re talking advances in towing equipment or new programs from motor clubs, even shifts in the political landscape. For example, the Order of Towman, established three years ago in Baltimore, has been a force that is ral-

lying police chiefs around the nation behind towing professionals. Since 2007, nearly 1,000 chiefs have nominated towers for the Order of Towman, for both their dedication to the towing trade and the communities they serve. The Order is wrapped in the mystique of its unique ceremony, a rite of passage, and a lifelong oath. The relationship that the towing industry has with the police is not only at the heart of The Order but its purpose for being. AT Editor In Chief, Steve Calitri, known as the Messenger of the Order explains his reason for founding the Towman Order: “Towing for the town and the police is a critical business segment for the towing industry. The Order program is helping police chiefs around the nation to pause and take stock of how important this relationship is and how super dedicated the towers are that they rely on.

will address both the Captains of the Industry, Thursday evening, and will present a seminar at the American Towman Academy Saturday morning on “Getting Paid.” Also making news is DJ Harrington, a.k.a. the Tow Doctor. At this year’s Exposition DJ will educate towers on the all-new Ratings program for tow companies being introduced by the American Towman Standards Authority. Towers will learn about the program, how police chiefs are notified of a company’s rating, and why commercial accounts look favorably upon a Rated tower. Attendees will be able to see how they are “prerated” in minutes when visiting the AT Standards booth on the show floor.

Also making news is Frank Sanchez, veteran tower and author of the Sanchez Paper. Frank will address the Captains of Industry Conference sponsored by the Jerr-Dan Corp. and the American Towman Academy on the challenge towers are facing around the nation with municipalities getting into the impound business. Another tow boss making news is Bob Fouquette, the tower from Massachusetts and founder of Recovery Billing Unlimited. Bob and his son Eric earned Towmen of the Year honors for their efforts to educate the industry on billing out recovery work. He

Jerr-Dan sponsors the Captains of Industry

Deadline: October 29, 2010

Whether it’s recovering an overturned tractor-trailer or towing a truck across town, you’re in command with your Vulcan V-100. The Vulcan V-100 is the tool you need to accomplish any task – just ask loyal Vulcan users who always demand the best from their fleets. Once you purchase

For versatility in light- and medium-duty towing and recovery, the Vulcan V-30 meets your demands. Available in an aluminum or composite modular body, this 16-ton powerhouse comes loaded with many features found on Vulcan’s heavy-duty units.

a Vulcan, you’re in command.

Vulcan has led the industry in heavy-duty integrated towing and recovery units for 25 years. Available in 25-, 35- and 50-ton capacities, the Vulcan heavy-duty integrated series easily tackles the toughest jobs.

Vulcan’s L.C.G. (Low Center of Gravity) car carriers features a deck height that’s 5- to 8-inches lower, offering more stability during transport, a lower load angle and greater ease in securing loads. For recovery, Vulcan offers the SP8000 Sidepuller, the ultimate in car carrier versatility.

INNOVATIVE. DURABLE. BRUTALLY TOUGH. 8503 Hilltop Drive • Ooltewah, Tennessee 37363

www.millerind.com • 800-489-2401 Number 143 on Reader Card

The Vulcan Intruder leads the light-duty line-up with an autoload crossbar capable of picking up vehicles at a 90-degree angle and your choice of steel, aluminum or composite modular bodies. Other popular Vulcan light-duty units feature Vulcan’s strapless wheel-lift system.

Special Event Sponsors CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY

CALITRI’S CUBA

MILLER ROCKS

FESTIVAL NIGHT

AMERICAN WRECKER PAGEANT

SHOW BAGS

DONNIE AWARDS

REGISTRATION COUNTER

BADGE INSERT/LANYARDS

WIN THIS HARLEY

INFORMATION BOOTH

ACE AWARDS

SPONSORS OF THE AMERICAN TOWMAN MEDAL

LEGENDARY HOSPITALITY

Supporting Sponsors

Corporate Sponsor

EXPO INFO CARD

60 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

COME SEE OUR SHOW TRUCK & REGISTER TO WIN PRIZES

2009 Kenworth T-800EC; 485hp Cummins ISX; Fuller Rtl016918b Trans; Red; Pw-Pdl-Premium Interior; Air Ride-Air Brake Jake Brake; w/ Century 5130 25 Ton Aluminum Body; 7035 Under-Reach; 2-25,000lb Planetary Winches; 72” Led Light Bar; Frame Forks & Attachments; D-Ring Kit; Bus Lift; STK# Ma247436

2007 FORD F-350 4x4; 6.0L Turbo Diesel; Automatic Trans; XTTL Interior; PW; PDL; 40-20-40 Seat; Aluminum Wheels; Recovery Sulotions 701-B; 5,000lb Self-Loading Wheel Lift; Whelen Strobe; Cab Steps; 87,000 Miles; STK# VA106

2010 DODGE 4500 4x2; SLE; 6.7L Cummins Diesel; Automatic Trans; Black; PW; PDL; Cruise; Exhaust Brake; Cab Steps; w/ Vulcan 810PT Self Loading Wheel-Lift; 60” ca Composite Body; Miller Legend LED Light Bar; 8,000lb Winch; Stainless Wheel Covers; STK# M136225

1998 International 4300; 190hp T444e; 5-Spd Manual Trans; Std Ihc Interior; Pw; Pdl; Tilt Wheel; w/ Vulcan 892 Wrecker Body; 10 Ton Boom; 28,000lb Winches; Light Duty Tow Sling; 84” Ca; 6,000lb Under-Reach; Lund Visor; Whelen Strobe Light; 146,500 Miles; Stk# Va1182000

2010 Dodge 4500 4x2; SLE; 6.7L Cummins Diesel; Automatic Trans; Black; PW; PDL; Cruise; Exhaust Brake; Cab Steps; w/ Vulcan 810PT Self Loading WheelLift; 60” ca Carbon Steel Body; Miller Legend LED Light Bar; 8,000lb Winch; Stainless Wheel Covers; Dollies; Transfer Flow Fuel Tank; STK# M136226

Kenworth T-300; 300hp 7.2l 3126 Cat; 10-Spd Manual Trans; Air Ride Suspension; Air Brake; Alum Wheel w/ Vulcan V-50 25 Ton Wrecker Body; Single Axle; 25 Ton Recovery Boom; 2-25,000lb Winches; Whelen Strobe; Whelen Wing Lts; In-Cab Controls; Mileage: 176,375; Stk#Va114

Number 194 on Reader Card

2010 Ford F-650; 240HP 6.7L Cummins Diesel; Allison Automatic Trans; Hydraulic Brakes; Spring Ride; 19.5 Steel Wheels w/ Century 21.5 Steel LCG Series Carrier; 12,000 lb Capacity, 102” Wide; 11 Key Slot Package; Steel Tubular Removable Side Rails; 3,500 lb Wheel- Lift; Hot Shift PTO; 8,000lb Winch; STK#M268490

2010 Peterbilt 335; 335hp Paccar Px-8; Allison 3000 Auto Trans; Viper Red; Pw; Tinted Widows; Hard Wood Flooring; Call For Additional Accessories; w/ Jerr-Dan 500 / 280 25 Ton; 2-25,000lb Planetary Winches; Wireless Remote; Air Winch Releases; Heavy Duty Tire Lift; Mileage: 5,995; Stk# Va110

The Lure of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor The Lure of Baltimore’s Harbor For years I used to marvel at the Exposition’s ability to draw such large crowds of tow bosses to Baltimore. Then I realized the other draw behind Baltimore–man’s most basic need–food. Towers have found that Baltimore is a haven of great eating places.

Whether crab cakes at Koopers in Fells Point or water taxis across the harbor, Baltimore is fun for the whole family.

Much To See And Do There’s something about walking around a waterfront that is both soothing and uplifting and this is perhaps what makes Baltimore such an industry favorite, not to mention the most visited destination site in the northeast. And there’s plenty to see and much to do. There are old ships and submarines that can be explored, including a Coast Guard Cutter that survived Pearl Harbor. The National Aquarium is fantastic and features a fun dolphin show. The Maryland Science Center features an IMAX, interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike and a planetarium for intergalactic travels.

The Inner Harbor is known for seafood and steak joints, but there’s a lot more: Cuban, Hawaiian, Spanish, French, Irish Pubs, etc., and of course Italian, with Baltimore’s Little Italy a short walk from the Harbor. If you’re looking for the great American hamburger, you’ve got Fuddrucker’s and the Hard Rock Café on the harbor, or the Wharf Rat right across from the Convention Center. Baltimore and Maryland of course are famous for crab and many towers have discovered O’Brycki’s Crab House near Fell’s Point, another Inner Harbor neighborhood with unique shops, restaurants and pubs. One of the pubs, Coopers, puts out a great crabcake.

The Exhibit Floor & Baltimore Convention Center is a two blocks to the Inner Harbor.

Train lovers need to make time for the B&O Railroad Museum, the greatest of its kind in the U.S., just a short cab ride from the Convention Center. And whether or not you’re a history buff, Fort McHenry, site of the battle of 1812 that repelled the British and inspired the Star Spangled Banner, is a great place to walk and imagine yourself a battle strategist. With such a backdrop that is the Inner Harbor, it’s easy to understand what lures towers from afar and in great numbers–two attractions for the price of one–Baltimore and the American Towman Exposition! Power Plant Live! features restaurants, nightclubs and is one of the many nightspots for fun at the Inner Harbor. November 19–21

Don’t Miss Out On $avings on Special Events, Seminars & Hotels • Avoid On Site Lines! AT Expo: www.towman.com/expo • Fax to: 845-986-5181 • Mail to: 7 West Street, Warwick, NY 10990 • Phone: 800-732-3869 or 845-986-4546 x214

REGISTER HERE: By advance-registering, the “Boss” and one guest are admitted free to Exhibit Hall. $5 fee applies to all others. Kids under 14 free. 1st Registered Name: |

| |

2nd Registered Name: |

| |

Title Title

3rd Registered Name ($5): |

| |

| Title

4th Registered Name ($5): |

| |

| Title

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Company: |

| |

| Show Special

Address: City:

State:

Phone:

Zip:

Fax:

PLEASE CHECK BOXES BELOW

E-mail: First time at Expo: ❒ Yes ❒ No

2. Secondary business (check those that apply): ❏ Towing/Recovery ❏ Auto Repair/Serv. Ctr. ❏ Repossession ❏ Transport/Trailer Serv.

❏ Salv/Auto Parts ❏ Truck Repair ❏ Auto Body Shop ❏ Service Station

3. No. Employees: ❏ 1-5

EVENT SIGN-UP

Country:

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Auto/Truck Dealership Vehicle Leasing Distributor Equip Other______________

❏ 6-10 ❏ 11-20 ❏ 21-50 ❏ 51-100 ❏ 100+

1. Is your Primary business Towing/Recovery : ❏ Yes ❏ No

4. Check one that best describes your purchasing authority: ❏ I authorize/approve purchases ❏ No authority ❏ I recommend Add A.T. 5. No. tow trucks in fleet: ❏ 1-3 ❏ 4-7 ❏ 8-12 ❏ 13-16 ❏ 17+ Subscription: 6. Types of tow trucks in fleet (check those that apply): ____ 1 yr for $40 ❏ Light Duty Wrecker ❏ Heavy Duty Wrecker ❏ Transport/Trailers (save $10!) ❏ Medium Duty Wrec. ❏ Carriers ❏ Class 7/8 Tractor ____ 2 yrs for $65 ❏ Service Vehicle ❏ Rotators (save $10!)

AT EXPO: Friday through Sunday, Nov. 19-21 • Baltimore, MD

PRICING

FILL IN PRICE

EXHIBIT HALL Saturday, 11 am - 6 pm • Sunday, 11 am - 5 pm, Nov. 20-21. You’ll need both days to take in all exhibits & your badge is good for both days!

❏ Yes, please advance register me for the exhibit hall. 1st & 2nd registrants are free: addt’l $5 each. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5 per person

SEMINAR PASSPORT! Fri.- Sun., Nov. 19-21 $95 on-site or register now at . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75 per person

$ ___________ $ ___________

❏ 1st registrant ❏ 2nd registrant ❏ 3rd registrant ❏ 4th registrant (Includes breakfast Friday, Saturday, & Sunday) AMERICAN WRECKER PAGEANT Sponsor: Dynamic Towing Equipment and Mfg. Fri.-Sun., November 19-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100/$150 Check class you will compete in - one vehicle per class and two per company. Trucks must enter Fri. and stay in hall until Sun., 5 pm $100:

❏ Light (pre-2009) ❏ Light (2009-10) ❏ Med ❏ Vintage (Pre-1985)

$150:

$ ___________

❏ HD Single Axle ❏ HD Tandem ❏ Rotator ❏ Carrier

CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY DINNER & CONFERENCE Thurs. Nov. 18, 6:30 pm. Sponsored by Jerr-Dan Corporation, Marriott Waterfront Hotel; Surf ‘n Turf dinner. # of People _____ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75 per person TOWMAN HUNT-SKEET SHOOT Friday, 9 am, Nov. 19. Includes shooting fees, lunch and transportation. # of People _____ . . . .$75 per shooter HARBOR LUNCH CRUISE Friday, 12:30 pm Board, Depart 1:00 pm, Nov. 19, # of People _____ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 per person

DONNIE CRUSE RECOVERY AWARDS LUNCHEON Sponsors: Miller Industries and B/A Products, Marriott Waterfront Hotel Fri., Nov. 19, 12:30 pm. Honoring legendary trainer Donnie Cruse; features critiques of winning recoveries. # of People _____ . . . . . .$45 per person FESTIVAL NIGHT American Towman Presents: March of the Heroes, Towman Order Salute, American Towman Medal, Marriott Waterfront Hotel Saturday, Nov. 20, 7:30 pm Features Gourmet Dinner and Entertainment # of People _____ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$55 per person

TOTAL AMERICAN TOWMAN HOSPITALITIES (FREE with this Advance Registration)

$ __________ $ ___________ $ ___________ $ __________ $ __________

$ __________

CHECK BOX

BULL & PIG ROAST AT THE HARD ROCK (Miller Rocks! at the Hard Rock Café) Sponsor: Miller Industries, Friday, Nov. 19: 7:30-10 pm. #_______ people. . . . . . . . .❏ CIGAR SMOKER (Calitri’s Cuba) Sponsor: Lift and Tow, Friday, Nov. 19: 9 pm., Havana Club #_______ people. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .❏

PAYMENT INFO:

❏ Credit Card#:

Exp. Date:

Name on credit card

Signature Required:

❏ Check(s) Enclosed $______ (Registration, Event & Item fees payable to AT Exposition)

HOTEL RESERVATION REQUEST

Make out separate check made out to BACVA if not using credit card (1st night amount only)

❏ Hotel check enclosed $_____________ ❏ Guarantee reservation to credit card above

Arrival Date:______________, 2010 - Depart Date: _______________, 2010 Special Requests ____________________________________________________________________________ If reserving more than one room please list names for each room: # of Rooms __________ # of Guests in each room ___________ # of beds _________ Room #1___________________________________________ Room #2____________________________________________ Room #3__________________________________________ HOTEL CHOICE - Please write in your 1st, 2nd, & 3rd choice hotels below. You will be emailed your confirmation. MARRIOTT WATERFRONT

___Marriott Waterfront Hotel • $172 Sgl/Dbl AMERICAN TOWMAN HEADQUARTERS HOTEL, 4-Star, harborview, fitness center, restaurant/bar. Shuttle Service to Convention Center. Non-smoking hotel, CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY, FESTIVAL NIGHT, TOWMAN MEDAL, TOWMAN ORDER CEREMONY, AND DONNIE AWARDS LUNCHEON TAKE PLACE HERE! GUESTS RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR FOOD AT H OTEL R ESTAURANTS AND R OOM S ERVICE .

___Marriott Inner Harbor • $172 Sgl/Dbl One block from Conv. Ctr., fitness center, indoor pool, restaurant, non-smoking hotel.

___Renaissance Harborplace Hotel • $172 Sgl/Dbl Balt2010

4-Star, rooms with harborview, fitness center, restaurant/bar, connected to Mall. Three blocks from Conv. Ctr. Non-smoking hotel. ___Days Inn Inner Harbor • $122 Sgl/Dbl Across from Conv. Ctr., bar & grill, fitness ctr.

___Sheraton Inner Harbor • $159 Sgl/Dbl, $179 T

One block from Conv. Ctr. with a catwalk, indoor pool, fitness center.

___Hyatt Regency Hotel • $165 Sgl/Dbl, $190 T At Inner Harbor, 1st Class Hotel, health club.

___Holiday Inn Inner Harbor • $119 Sgl/Dbl, $154 T One block from Conv. Ctr., indoor pool, fitness center.

___Radisson Plaza Lord Baltimore • $119 Sgl/Dbl/T Three blocks from Conv. Ctr., bar & grill, fitness center.

___Hilton Baltimore • $189 Sgl/Dbl Next to Conv. Ctr. with a Catwalk, pool, fitness center.

! " ! ! $ ! ! % $ " $ " ! ! $ $ % " ! $ " ! # ! ! ! ! $ $ $ " $

Shop Wisely! Save Money! Act Now! To learn more about the exclusive savings and business opportunities available to AAA service providers, contact your local AAA club, log on to AAA.biz/Auto, or give us a call: (800) 592-5198. *Available through local participating clubs.

Number 179 on Reader Card

JC Towing’s experience has shown that the reports generated by fleet management systems can not only help the owner track and analyze the data related to individual drivers and trucks, but they can also improve customer satisfaction and reduce risk.

GPS A Tale of Two Coasts

One of the most important benefits of GPS-based fleet management is how it solves the problem of matching customers to drivers and getting drivers routed efficiently to the correct location.

Henry’s Wrecker Service has two 46 inch flat screen TVs that enable dispatchers to easily see the location of customers and any of the company’s 200 trucks.

By Michael Geffroy

till considering whether or not to deploy a GPS-based fleet management system? If you haven’t by now a decade after the first systems were introduced you’re probably still wrestling with questions about whether the benefits of fleet management outweigh the costs. Is it really worth it? What should I expect? How will it help me save money? How will my drivers react? This article looks at the experiences of JC Towing in California and Henry’s Wrecker Service in Virginia to show how the right fleet management solution can help you run a more professional, efficient and profitable towing operation.

66 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Opposite coasts – similar goals Serving the San Diego area with 75 trucks, JC Towing has been a leader in the use of technology in the Southern California towing community since its founding by JC Clark in 1974. By 2009, the company had already deployed two GPS-based fleet management systems but needed a new solution. “I’m always looking for better control over where our equipment is and where our operators are, to reduce our costs and to lower customer response times,” said Clark. “We were happy with the first system until update times became too long and unfortunately, the vendor of our second system had issues with installation and support.”

Henry’s Wrecker Service, which serves the Washington, DC metro area with nearly 200 trucks, was one of the first customers for Beacon Dispatch Software in the early ‘80s – but had yet to adopt GPS or fleet management. “We wanted to be sure the ROI would be worth it,” said Fred Scheler, Henry’s Wrecker Service president and CEO. “I wanted to make sure we’d get better efficiency and productivity out of our people and our equipment.” Both Henry’s and JC Towing have deployed a TomTom fleet management system with the help of Charlotte-based reseller, Traxxis GPS Solutions.

Number 156 on Reader Card

Ground control One of the most important benefits of GPS-based fleet management is how it solves the perennial problem of matching customers to drivers and getting drivers routed efficiently to the correct location. “Our dispatchers don’t have to remember, ‘Well, I’ve got this truck over here and this truck over here, and I’ve got this call from a customer, so let me figure out who’s going to be the closest.’ They can just look on the map to see which operator is the closest and send them clear instructions directly into the cab,” said Clark. The driver simply accepts the job and the navigator provides turnby-turn directions during their journey. “We no longer waste time with wrong addresses and poor routes. We get there faster, which makes customers happier and improves our bottom line.” “Our dispatchers are just like air traffic controllers,” said Scheler. “We integrated our fleet management system and mapping software, and show it on two 46-inch flat-screen TVs in dispatch.

Henry’s Wrecker Service president and CEO Fred Scheler wanted to make sure a GPS-based fleet management system could deliver improved efficiency and productivity before buying.

You see a dot where the call is and dots where the trucks are. So our dispatchers can see who’s the closest truck and give the customer an accurate estimate for arrival. It also means fewer miles traveled to a call, so more productivity for the drivers. And since they’re commissioned, both the driver and the company make more money.” Fleet management systems can also be integrated with on-truck equipment to track when drivers are actively engaged in towing operations through PTO (power take off) data that shows when a vehicle is picked up, how long it is in transit and when it is delivered. Armed with this data, owners can match tows with receipts to ensure their drivers are not “freelancing,” or providing tows that do not contribute to company revenues. Henry’s is using its new system to track equipment during off-hours. “If I have a truck that’s supposed to be parked at night, the system can send an alert if it’s moving – for any reason,” said Scheler. “We’re large enough that most trucks are passed from day shift to night shift, but these alerts can really

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68 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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Number 103 on Reader Card

system to defend against false insurance claims. “People have called to say they were following one of our trucks on the road when something fell off and broke their windshield,” said Clark. “When I ask if they got the license number of the truck, they’ll often say, ‘No, TomTom fleet management system allows better control over but it said JC Towing where the company’s equipment and its operators are and on it.’ So all I need to helps to lower customer response times. ask is ‘What time was help smaller companies where the dri- it? Where were you at exactly?’ to show vers take their trucks home every night. that we didn’t have a truck in the area!” It allows the owner to ensure that their Lower costs equipment isn’t being used as a personal Of course, a critical factor in vehicle or in a little ‘side business.’” deciding whether or not to purchase a Proof, now fleet management system is figuring The reports generated by fleet man- out how it can help you cut costs. For agement systems can not only help the Henry’s Wrecker, the biggest savings towing company operator track and have come from reduced idle analyze the data related to individual time –and the related benefits it creates. drivers and trucks, but they can also “This was the biggest surprise for me. I improve customer satisfaction and knew we had idle time, but not how reduce risk. much,” said Scheler. “Our drivers One of JC Towing’s most important would tend to clear their calls and head contracts is with California Highway right back to base for their next Patrol for freeway service. “Highway assignment. Now the dispatchers Patrol is really happy with our ability to know exactly where each driver is, so quickly generate reports,” said Clark. they can route them directly to their “They call us a lot for investigations ask- next calls, saving idle time, mileage ing to know where an operator was and fuel. We’ve seen direct fuel savings from this time to this time and then send of about $200 per truck per month. And somebody down to pick it up within the because we’re using less fuel and hour. We just pull up the information, running our trucks less, our print it, and hand it to the officer when maintenance costs are lower. We’re also he shows up. We can show everything getting to calls faster, so we can run the operator did for 20 minutes before more calls and give better service, and after the requested time frame.” which in turn gives us more customers Henry’s Wrecker Service can now and generates more revenue.” respond to similar requests from the JC Towing is saving money by property management companies for tracking operator behavior. “Every whom they provide towing and time an operator speeds he’s costing impound services. “Every once in a you money,” said Clark. “He’s costing while we’ll get a call from a property you money in maintenance, he’s manager who asks, ‘You know, I haven’t costing you money in fuel, and he’s seen your trucks come through our costing you money in exposure. Sooner property lately, are you doing what or later, he’s going to have an accident, we’re paying you to do?” said Scheler. “I and that’s going to cost you money in can show the customer a tracking report repairs and raise your insurance rates. with every time we patrolled their prop- By setting speed caps and tracking this erty and every time we towed a vehicle.” information with our new GPS system, JC Towing has even used its new we are reducing the chances our 70 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

operators will have an accident and providing this data to our insurance companies to get lower rates.”

Dealing with drivers What about your drivers? How will they react to the prospect of “big brother” riding with them on every job? With experience helping dozens of companies deploy GPS-based fleet management systems, Traxxis recommends stressing the benefits to the driver when communicating your plans. “Driver reaction always depends on how they are told,” said Andres Bejerano, Traxxis’ co-founder. “So let your drivers know they won’t be hounded by dispatchers, won’t need to check in all the time, and will get lost far less often.” But GPS can still be a deal breaker for some drivers. Interestingly, Traxxis’ experience has shown that it’s the long-time employees that owners need to watch, because they know where all the ‘holes’ are in the old system. A GPS-based fleet management system plugs those holes quickly. Before JC Towing completely rolled out its new system some units were already operational, one driver called in to say he couldn’t get to a job because his truck wouldn’t start. “We asked for his exact location so we could send somebody out to fix it,” said Clark. “He first said he was working on it and then called in to say he had it going and was on his way to the tow.” When JC checked the GPS data, it showed the driver was at a casino 22 miles from his designated staging area. “So we called the driver to cancel the job and told him to bring in the truck so we could see what was wrong. He drove it into the yard, locked the keys in the door and walked away. He knew he’d been had.” As Henry’s Scheler points out, driver reaction can also depend on their comfort level with technology. “Our drivers who are already tech savvy and into smart phones, for example, were elated with our new fleet management technology. The drivers who were not heavy tech users – it wasn’t that they were opposed to it, it was just something new and different they had to learn.”

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Success with GPS and fleet management Whether you’re committed to technology or skeptical of its benefits, JC Towing and Henry’s Wrecker Service show GPS-based fleet management solutions can help towing company owners get more control over their drivers and equipment, provide better service and cut costs – all of which can increase your revenue growth and improve your profitability.

Editor’s note:

Number 207 on Reader Card

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There are many companies offering GPS products. C3 Location Systems, Driver Locate, InSight USA, Ranger SST, Skyguard,Teletrac, TIS, Traxxis, USFleetTracking, Wireless Links to name a few. Several of these companies will be at the American Towman Exposition. The TomTom fleet management solution, used by JC Towing and Henry’s, requires no special software or IT involvement. All that is needed is the navigation device which requires a simple three-wire installation and an internet connection for access to WEBFLEET - TomTom’s robust web based fleet management and reporting platform. This article’s author, Michael Geffroy, is a vice president at TomTom Business Solutions, the company’s commercial fleet division.

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72 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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STA Swings Big For Children’s Hospital On July 27, 2010 the Statewide Towing Association (STA) held its 1st Annual Golf Outing at Blackstone National Golf Club in Sutton, MA with sponsorships to help benefit the Baystate Children’s Hospital. The event was a tremendous success, raising $6011 for the charity. The Headline Sponsors for the event were: Allstate Roadside Services and Allstate Workplace Division. Over 120 golfers and 28 sponsors supported the association event. All in attendance enjoyed a warm sunny day of golf while raising much-needed funds for the hospital. Plans are already underway for a similar event on July 26, 2011. Committee members attended the official check presentation to the hospital staff on August 31, 2010 at Noon. Baystate Children’s Hospital- D’Amour Center for Cancer Care is located at 3350 Main Street, Springfield, MA. STA is the second oldest not-for-profit trade association representing the towing

STA officials proudly present $6,000 check to Baystate Children’s Hospital

industry in the country. The association acts to professionalize the industry through training, education, safety awareness and networking. As the voice of the industry on Beacon Hill, the association strives to protect the towers right to commerce and a fair and profitable market place. Statewide Towing Association is proudly celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2010.

Silver Sponsors: AAA of Southern NE, Direnzo Tow-

Headline Sponsors: Allstate Roadside Services, All-

Towing & Recovery Inc, Interstate Towing, MHQ,

state Workplace Division

Pride Auto Body, Rick’s Truck Center, Statewide Tow-

Event Sponsors: Choice Merchant Solutions, Craw-

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ford Truck Sales, Interstate Towing, MHQ Vehicles

MD, Todisco Towing, Tri State Truck Center, Whelen

Platinum Sponsors: Stafford Insurance, Winn Street

For more about STA, visit www.statewidetowing.org.

ing & Recovery Inc, Fuller Auto Body & Towing, Protector Group, Ritacco Brothers Paving. Removal Specialists, Ted’s of Fayville, Cart & Tee Sponsors: Auto Impound Solutions, Federal Signal, Fleet Safety, G/J Towing, Guy Glodis, Jan’s Auto Service, Marlborough Savings Bank, Mosher Auto Body, Quality Towing & Recovery Inc, Stephens Automotive Transport, Sullivan Tire, Tri State Truck Center Prizes: Allstate, Blackstone National Golf Club, Crawford Truck Sales, Coady’s Garage & Towing, Direnzo

Sales, Zurich

Co-Sponsors Deadline - October 29th N EW A PPLICATION R EQ U IR EMEN TS : Send in your Photos or Video of your Recovery. • WreckMaster will contact you for your recovery details. • Recovery must have been performed anytime in the years 2001-2010

Title:

Name: Company: Address:

Phone:

City : Email Address:

State:

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Choose The Most Challenging Recovery Your Company Performed With Excellence! Classes: Light-, Medium-, Heavy-Duty Note: Applicant agrees to give American Towman exclusive editorial rights on submitted material, text and photographs, for one full year.

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 73

Bag It!

Uprighting a reefer trailer using Jumbo cushions and Landing Bags.

Veteran firefighter and rescue instructor Mark Lang demonstrates the Res-Q-Jack.

Using the Res-Q-Jack to stabilize the load.

by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

Hands-on at the Matjack 2010 Factory Training/Certification Class.

74 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

atjack ’s 2010 Factory Train-

ing/Certification Class was held on August 21 & 22, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The intensive two-day class involved both classroom and practical instruction by several factory certified trainers who have extensive "in the field" resumes with the use of this equipment, featuring internationally recognized industry trainer Howard “Scooby” Eagan. Additional instructors included Jeff “The Professor” Martin and James Dougherty of BTR Training & Consulting, along with John Sweezy, Jr. President & CEO of Matjack/International Wreckers Jumbo Safe Lift and BTR team rescue instructor Mark Laing.

Approximately 40 students came from across the US and Canada for the weekend long training class that offered comprehensive in-depth practical use of air bags/cushions. There was even a long distance recognition of four recovery operators, from Dr. Hook, for driving 17 hours from Winnipeg, Canada in a conversion bus to take part in the class. The Big Truck Rescue team planned a few scenarios with the class along with some classroom discussion from the staff of BTR. This information was great for towers to bring back to their community and share with their local emergency services.

After the morning classroom session which used Powerpoint presentations, and a break for a catered lunch, we loaded up and drove the 15 miles to the training grounds for the practical hands-on instruction. Gordon Curtis and his crew at Curtis Towing & Recovery hosted the practical portion of the training at their location in Stilesville, Ind. They were helpful throughout the weekend setting up scenarios and supplying casualties. First the equipment was laid out and explained piece by piece as a refresher for those that have used the equipment and as a introduction to those new to air cushions. Scooby,

Martin and Sweezy explained the safe proper usage of the equipment as well as the importance of regular general maintenance of the compressor. The emphasis was on the importance of cleaning the air bags immediately after each use, the proper folding and storing of the bags for future use. Several scenarios were setup and a team leader was elected by the various groups to take charge of the recovery or rescue situation and delegate responsibilities for preparation. Before each exercise a volunteer was put on the Air Valve Bank (Control unit used for inflation of bags). We were also trained on the use of TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 75

The class gets instruction on proper placement of the cushions using the 12-foot Cushion Placing Poles.

The recovery operators from O’Hare with the 12-foot Cushion Placing Poles.

76 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

Landing Bags, which is the newest pneumatic technological advancement into the recovery field. These bags are designed to slow or remove inertia from the casualty, as it is uprighted. In some cases these bags eliminate the need for a second wrecker as a snatch truck when uprighting a casualty. The first scenario was a reefer trailer on its side in a ditch. The elected team leader and class did a walk-around survey and we formulated a plan, discussing what equipment would be needed and proper bag placement. We had Curtis’s wreckers at our disposal throughout the weekend whenever we deemed it necessary for the job at hand. We used the Landing Bags on the first practical and several others throughout the weekend. With the starter bags being set first we were able to get the clearance we needed to be able to run recovery straps around the casualty and to give enough space to get the jumbo cushions in position for the lift. The jumbo cushions were placed in position with the aid of the 12-Foot Cushion Placing Poles. With the

wrecker in position, rigging done, and all cushions set the signal was given by designated operators to the operator at the valve bank to start inflating the bags. Bags can be either given numbers relating to the valve bank or color coded making it easier for the bank

Bags can be either given numbers relating to the valve bank or color coded making it easier for the bank operator to know which bag to inflate and how much and when to stop or deflate a bag. operator to know which bag to inflate and how much and when to stop or deflate a bag. Once the casualty was coming over the Landing Bags took over and the load came down nice and easy. This procedure was used

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You can’t surpass the industry standard with just a standard trailer. That’s why we built the hydraulic sliding-axle towing trailer. /ƚ͛Ɛ ĐƵƐƚŽŵͲƐŝǌĞĚ͕ ĐƵƐƚŽŵͲĐŽĂƚĞĚ͕ ƵŶŝƋƵĞůǇ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ĂŶĚ ĞŶŐŝŶĞĞƌĞĚ ƚŽ ďĞ Ă ŽŶĞͲŵĂŶ ƚŽǁŝŶŐ ŽƉĞƌĂƟŽŶ͘ ŽƩŽŵ ůŝŶĞ͕ ŝĨ ǇŽƵ ĂƌĞ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ Ă ƐůŝĚŝŶŐͲĂǆůĞ ƚƌĂŝůĞƌ ďƵŝůƚ ĨŽƌ ǇĞĂƌƐ ŽĨ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ͕ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ ŶĞĞĚ͕ ĂŶĚ ďĂĐŬĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ǁĂƌƌĂŶƚǇ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ͕ <ĂůǇŶ ^ŝĞďĞƌƚ ŝƐ ǇŽƵƌ ĐĂůů͘ dŽ ĮŶĚ Ă <ĂůǇŶ ^ŝĞďĞƌƚ ĚĞĂůĞƌ͕ ĐĂůů ;ϮϱϰͿ ϴϲϱͲϳϮϯϱ͘ Number 181 on Reader Card

TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 77

Howard “Scooby” Eagan explains the Air Valve Bank functions.

throughout the weekend on different scenarios. The training personnel were on hand to answer questions and concerns before, during, and after each exercise. Next came three different scenarios and the group was divided into three groups with three team leaders. One was the stabilizing of a loaded trailer, another was a mock rescue situation of a car and motorcycle accident with a victim pinned underneath the car, and the last was the lifting of a mammoth crane to repair one of its tracks. No wreckers were needed during these scenarios. During the load stabilization of a trailer using cushions we were introduced to a unique stabilizing devise called the Res-Q-Jack. BTR Field Instructor Mark Laing explained the usage of the equipment and a team leader and valve bank operator were chosen and we went to work. With proper placement of the cushions and the Res-Q-Jack installed the load was 78 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

During the load stabilization of a trailer using cushions we were introduced to a unique stabilizing devise called the ResQ-Jack. The jack stands incorporate a powerful, smooth acting jack that will accomplish finetuning of the stabilization with no jumping and has 12inches of travel to overcome problems with soft ground.

leveled and stabilized. During the rescue scenario the objective was to remove the victim from under the vehicle without crushing him. The team had to come up with a plan and decide what cushions to use and where to place them. Cribbing was used in this situation. Next came the lifting of the mammoth crane using cribbing and highpressure bags and a hand held deadman controller. After the teams completed the last of the three practicals notes were compared with the team that performed before with the instructors monitoring. A question and answer session followed. Day two started back in the classroom for another session including some of the Big Truck Rescue curriculum by BTR Training & consulting. After a break we were given our test for certification and headed back to the training ground. The first order of business was

Number 111 on Reader Card

uprighting a rolled over tour bus. Again a team leader and valve bank operator were chosen and a walkaround was done. Using air cushions on a bus poses a different set of obstacles to overcome due to the big areas of glass that could be shattered during a lift not to mention damaging the cushions. Again forethought, proper preparation, and placement of the cushions, including the use of the Landing Bags made for a smooth uprighting without the use of a wrecker. Next was the uprighting of a tractor and tanker. Two of Curtis’ heavy units were in place along with the Landing Bags and the cushions were inflated till the unit was up and over and back on its wheels–gentle as you please. Heavy operator Mike from O’Hare’s of the popular TV show “Wrecked” was at the valve controls for this one. This class was informative in a non-pressure environment no matter which brand bags the operators were used to. I was informed that this class was a must prerequisite for the level 2/master certification class Matjack will be conducting next year, which will also include underwater work.

Looking for Other Uses/Avenues of Revenue Throughout the weekend Howard stated the importance of thinking out-

side of the norm when looking for other ways to make money with cushions besides recovery and rescue applications. He explained using air cushions for straightening load shifts as a good revenue source.

All high-pressure air lifting bags are marked with a distinct "bulls eye" for ease of centering under the load, and have a conical, interlocking surface to limit slippage and aid in stacking. Besides load shifts other suggestions included using bags to position pipes in ditches for welding, for lifting or leveling buildings, moving heavy equipment and lifting machinery for repairs to name a few.

Tools of the Bag Trade Equipment used in the practicals included: •Matjack high-pressure air lifting bags require only 1" clearance and can lift several tons with the touch of a button. Primarily used in low insertion situations with heavy weights needing

to be lifted such as, building lifting, rescue, load shifts, heavy recovery and machinery moving to name a few. All high-pressure air lifting bags are marked with a distinct "bulls eye" for ease of centering under the load, and have a conical, interlocking surface to limit slippage and aid in stacking. All have either carry handles or tabs/eyelets molded right on for lifting or attaching to fixtures. •The Matjack "state-of-the-art" deadman controller allows for independent or simultaneous operation of one or more airbags. •Supply hoses are color coded to help eliminate confusion during simultaneous operation of more than one air bag. •Matjack low-pressure lifting cushions requires only 1-3 inches clearance and can lift several tons at the push of a button. Low-pressure lifting cushions work best in cantilever or "hinged" style lifts, but can also be used for vertical lifting if rigged correctly so lateral movement of the weight being lifted is restricted. Low-pressure cushions work on volume rather than pressure to create the lift, working from 8-10 psi depending on the model. Unlike the high-pressure air lifting bags, low-pressure cushions lift the weight they are rated for the full stroke of the cushion. •Square Starter Cushions are

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 81

small, 36" x 36" x 18" (90 cm x 90 cm x 45 cm), low-pressure cushions used for load shifts and starting to lift an over turned tractor-trailer in order to get jumbo turbo cushions in place for uprighting. The turbo designation refers to the cushions having quicker bag inflation. •Jumbo Safelift Aircushion is a slope top cushion that leans into the load. It comes with 1 1/4" camlock fitting to increase air flow and make coupling of cushion to hose simple and easy. It also has grip surfaces top and bottom to help eliminate slip. •Landing Bags are airbags designed to slow or remove inertia from the casualty, as it is uprighted. Designed like jump cushions to allow for rapid air release as weight increases giving better control than just straps or cables alone. Works at 1psi or less and requires constant airflow to remain inflated with a 40-ton capacity. •Inflate/Deflate Air Valve Bank con-

trol stand is expandable to 10 valves and capable for use with either the original jumbo or turbo cushion systems. Legs extend up to 72" (180 cm) and have swivel feet attached for dealing with uneven terrain. (In the works is a cup holder suggested by Scooby.) •Air Compressor Assembly is a Gast 6066 air compressor with 5hp Honda gas engine and cart with rubber wheels and handles which fold down for storage. This assembly has both inflation and suction sides to the compressor so once it is running everything can be switched back and forth at the control stand. •Deadman Control is a hand held dual unit low-pressure deadman push button control for single air source. It has .75 in./1.88 cm. female connectors for air line to cushions. •12-foot Cushion Placing Poles are used for shoving cushions into place wear an operator can’t or shouldn’t reach.

•Res-Q-Jack stabilization tool sys-

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Proper folding of the Jumbo Cushions and placement of D-rings for easy carrying.

tem was introduced to the class by Mark Laing and put into use during one of the hands on sessions. This is one unique and very versatile tool. All pieces, including bases, ends, and extensions, are interchangeable, adjustable and/or removable. Quickacting cambuckle straps are preattached to the bases so they are always there and can't "walk” away. The two cambuckle straps are attached for extra flexibility with the option to attach ratchet straps. The jack stands incorporate a powerful, smooth acting jack that will accomplish fine-tuning of the stabilization with no jumping and has 12-inches of travel to overcome problems with soft ground. This jack redefines "lift an inch, crib an inch" allowing operators to follow their lift bags all the way. It also doubles as a telescopic ram and lifting device. This was a great class. The participants had nothing but kudos for it. The comments from Greg Cochran of Arkansas Truck Center in Alma, Arkansas is representative of what they all said: “This class was well worth the

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 83

time for me and my crew because the air cushion recovery system used by a well-trained team can significantly reduce the damage suffered by equipment and cargo. A professionally executed air bag recovery can save a

valuable load and even more valuable time. Discussing other uses of the bags for additional income was also valuable information.” Greg leads the incident recovery team of Arkansas Truck Center. Greg and his team of dri-

vers are WreckMaster Certified in all types of heavy-duty recovery. For more information on Matjack air cushions and classes visit www.matjack.com

Matjack’s 2010 Factory Training/Certification Class with instructors (from left to right) James “Jamie” Dougherty, lead instructor Howard “Scooby” Eagan, John Sweezy, Jr. and son, field instructor Mark Laing and Jeff “The Professor” Martin.

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84 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

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9LVLW RQH RI WKHVH SDUWLFLSDWLQJ +LQR GHDOHUV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW WKHVH DZDUG ZLQQLQJ WUXFNV CALIFORNIA FONTANA Rush Truck Center 888.362.1133 www.rushtruckcenter.com roblesr@rushenterprises.com UNION CITY/HAYWARD Monarch Truck Center 510.476.0680 www.monarchtruck.com sales@monarchtruck.com FLORIDA FT. MYERS Tri-County Truck & Equipment 239.690.4900 www.tricountytruck.com trucksales@tricountytruck.com •Jerr-Dan JACKSONVILLE Rush Truck Center 813.361.1199 www.rushtruckcenter.com shafferd@rush-enterprises.com •Jerr-Dan POMPANO BEACH Tri-County Truck & Equipment 954.971.4022 www.tricountytruck.com trucksales@tricountytruck.com •Jerr-Dan INDIANA INDIANAPOLIS Circle City Truck Center 317.784.3740 www.circlecitytrucks.com mdawson@circlecitygmc.com MAINE PORTLAND O’Connor Motor Company 800.464.6225 www.oconnorwheels.com dan.doiron@oconnorwheels.com •Jerr-Dan, Century MISSOURI JOPLIN 800.677.7075 www.hinoofjoplin.com clawrence@joplinhino.com •Jerr-Dan, Miller

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LYNDHURST Frank’s Truck Center 201.939.7708 www.frankstruckcenter.com ckoumoulis@frankstruckcenter.com SHREWSBURY Schwartz Truck Center 732.530.4100 www.hinodieseltrucks.com • Jerr-Dan, Danco TRENTON Bergey’s Truck Center 609.586.3333 www.bergeystruckcenter.com trenton@bergeys.com TEXAS SAN ANTONIO Rush Towing Systems 877.5RUSHTOW www.rushtowingsystems.com wilkinsong@rush-enterprises.com •Jerr-Dan VIRGINIA WOODBRIDGE Matheny Motors 866.499.9216 www.mathenymotors.com mmessier@mathenymotors.com •Vulcan, Century, Chevron, Holmes Challenger, Champion, Titan WEST VIRGINIA MINERAL WELLS Matheny Motors 800.284.4418 www.mathenymotors.com mrauh@mathenymotors.com •Vulcan, Century, Chevron, Holmes Challenger, Champion, Titan

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by Steve Calitri

Shooting for the

Stars Being Rated Is All It’s Cracked Up To Be

he new American Towman Standards Authority is a win-win proposition for towing professionals of all sizes and the towing industry as a whole. In the words of insurance executive Jean Williams* back when the ATSA was first hatched: “The Standards Authority finally gives the towing industry an accreditation process of the total operation, which is most important to the insurance agency.” Indeed, among the first 100 towing companies who became “rated” by ATSA, several reported cuts in their premiums by insurance companies who recognized the importance behind the rating. Tow business owners immediately saw the value of having a third party give the business a thumbs up. Said the late Danny Danner: “Towing and recovery is a highly specialized field, which means our customers know little if anything about what it takes to do this work. Having the credentials of a rating by a third party (ATSA) will go a long way with the average customer, whether he or she is a government official or the motorist.” Motor club executives have always been supportive of efforts that can help professionalize this industry. The standards set forth by ATSA are more than a means to help individual towing companies to stand out, they are a blueprint for the entire industry to follow, guidelines that can help the industry takes itself to 88 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

the next level of professionalism and respectability. Here is what Allstate Roadside Services, Cross Country Automotive Services, and GEICO Direct said about the ATSA, reported by this magazine in the July 1998 issue: “We were impressed with the integrity of the ATSA’s program…I know that when I see a company’s rating, I can be sure it was achieved by merit. The structure of this program shuts politics out.” “The Standards Authority is taking the emergency road service industry to

the next plateau.” “At some point in the near future, car manufacturers and insurance companies should be demanding that national dispatchers use rated towers.” One of the best signs that the rating program was working were reports by towers who signed onto the program, saying the program inspired them to make changes in their operation in order to achieve certain standards that ATSA had set down. For example, one Massachusetts tower said, “Because of the standards laid out in the rating rules, I made

Tow bosses raved about ATSA’s Rating Program in AT’s July issue in ‘98.

continue to page 92

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TOWMAN.COM - October 2010 • 89

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Standards, continued from page 88 the move to clear the way with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to do background checks on our tow operators. Now, this is something I’ve probably had in the back of my head for a long time, some thing I knew should be done, but it was the rating program that motivated us to take the step.” The whole idea and import of the Standards Authority is one of the most meaningful programs that this magazine has ever supported; having a group of industry leaders, towers and suppliers alike, define what the bar of professionalism should be by a set of operating standards, and then having an impartial body examine the proof of these standards being met. By lending its name, American Towman, to the program, and AT’s ability to make the industry aware of it, other industry leaders then and now have thrown their support behind, what is, the most important initiative to help professionalize this industry, and bring recognition to those towing operations who do it right.

The Rating Rules of the ATSA recognizes the following standard operating procedures: •Uniformed Drivers •Truck Fleet Appearance •Minimum Liability Insurance

92 • October 2010 - TOWMAN.COM

•Proof of “Passed” Vehicle Inspection •DMV Reports on all Tow Operators •Proof of Background Checks •Company Policy Handbook •Operators Trained by a Professional Trainer •Driver Certification •Drug Free Workplace •Safety Training Program •Tow Operators Procedures Handbook •Handbook on Professional Dispatch Procedures •Computerized Dispatch •Passed DOT Audit •Lock-out Certification The Rating Program is based on a point system. Each standard accounts for a certain set number of points. A certain level of points gives the towing company a two, three, or four star rating. Proof of meeting each standard in one’s operating procedures must be documented. The Rating Program also awards a certain amount of points for formal recognition of outstanding service by a third party, although the most points are accumulated by the most critical standards, like proof of background checks, DMV reports, minimum liability insur-

ance, satisfactory fleet appearance, and others. Certain standards must be met to be rated at all. As this issue goes to print, the standards that were set in 1998 are being revised or “tweaked” and the updated Standards will be published in AT’s November issue and posted on the internet at Towman.com and wrecker.com. The new American Towman Standards Authority and Rating Program will be introduced at the American Towman Exposition. ATSA has signed on DJ Harrignton, a.k.a. the Tow Doctor, to be its official spokesman. DJ will conduct a seminar on the merits of the rating program, and be on the show floor at the ATSA booth where towers can be “prescreened” for a rating in minutes to help them gauge where they currently stand if they were to be rated by ATSA. “ATSA will help the industry. The Rating program will help towers big and small. That’s why I’m involved, “ said Harrington. “Let me know when the new Ratings come out,” an old timer in the industry told me by phone recently. “I’m shootin’ for Four Stars.” *Jean Williams is now with the Travis Barlow Insurance Company.

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

GEICO would like to THANK everyone in the Towing Industry for the FAST and Professional Service offered to the Motoring Public.

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Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Homeowners, renters, boat and PWC coverages are written through non-afﬁliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Government Employees Insurance Co. • GEICO General Insurance Co. • GEICO Indemnity Co. • GEICO Casualty Co. These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. GEICO: Washington, DC 20076. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2010. © 2010 GEICO Number 129 on Reader Card

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