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CRAWFORD GRADING & PIPELINE, INC. - TEC Tractor Times

CRAWFORD GRADING & PIPELINE, INC. - TEC Tractor Times

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A MESSAGE FROMTHE PRESIDENTDan StracenerWe’re optimisticabout the futureDear Valued Customer:As we begin the new year, we’re optimistic that the constructionindustry will begin a strong push toward growth. There have been somepositive signs lately that show the industry is experiencing growth. As itdoes, that’s going to mean more need for equipment that can get the jobdone as efficiently as possible.In the past few months, Komatsu rolled out many of its new interimTier 4 machines. In this issue of your <strong>TEC</strong> <strong>Tractor</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, we spotlight anew excavator, articulated truck and dozer. Komatsu not only changedthe engines in these machines to meet emissions standards, but, in manycases, lowered fuel consumption while increasing horsepower andoperating weight.These machines have additional components that require maintenance,and Komatsu is backing up the technology with an industry first — itsKomatsu CARE Maintenance Program that provides complimentaryservices on new interim Tier 4 machines for three years or 2,000 hours.Our skilled, factory-trained, service personnel take great pride inensuring your machinery remains productive with as little downtimeas possible. We do that on Komatsu machinery and the othermanufacturers’ lines we carry, as well as competitors’ machines.If you’d like more information about any products or services we offer,please don’t hesitate to call us or stop by one of our branches. We’re hereto help.Sincerely,Dan StracenerPresident


THE PRODUCTS PLUSTHE PEOPLE TO SERVE YOU!IN THIS ISSUEA publication for and about <strong>Tractor</strong> & Equipment Company customers2011 NO. 4<strong>CRAWFORD</strong> <strong>GRADING</strong> & <strong>PIPELINE</strong>, <strong>INC</strong>.Read about this Luthersville, Ga., firm that specializes in sewer/waterwork and satisfied customers.A SPECIAL THANKSLook through the photos from the <strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery branch customerappreciation event.GUEST OPINIONSee what the AED has to say about transportation funding.INDUSTRY OUTLOOKHere’s an overview of the current funding situation for surface and airtransportation and a look at potential funding sources.NEW PRODUCTSCheck out the features and benefits the new Komatsu PC360LC-10excavator offers, including more efficient excavation.Find out how Komatsu made its new interim Tier 4 HM300-3 articulatedhaul truck more productive with a larger payload capacity and reducedemissions.PRODUCT IMPROVEMENTLower emissions and less fuel consumption are just two of the features ofKomatsu’s new D155AX-7 dozer that make this interim Tier 4 modelmore efficient than its predecessor.Published by Construction Publications, Inc. forTRACTOR & EQUIPMENT CO.Dan Stracener, President/CEOLloyd Adams, Executive V.P./CFOSteve Day, Executive V.P./Product SupportSteve McCondichie, V.P./General Manager – GA operationsHugh Stith, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – GAMike Copeland, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – GADeVaughn Pettit, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – GATim Aiken, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – GABrett Bussman, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – ALJoe Patton, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – ALAutrey McMillan, V.P./Regional Sales Manager – AL & FLJeremy Tolbert, V.P./<strong>TEC</strong> – GlobalTim Tipton, V.P./Product Support MarketingLarry Watkins, V.P./General Service ManagerChris Lucas, V.P./Data Processing ManagerChad Stracener, V.P./Product Support – GAMark Shoults, Mining Product Support ManagerScott Deitz, Allied Products ManagerTim Thomas, Used Equipment ManagerJohn Pierce, New Equipment Rental ManagerBIRMINGHAM, ALTim Woods, Parts ManagerJeff Hodge, Service ManagerTUSCALOOSA, ALJody Thomason, Branch ManagerMichael Burkes, Service ManagerMcCay Harrison, Parts ManagerANNISTON, ALRich Trucks, Branch ManagerMarlin Harrell, Service ManagerBuck Brown, Parts ManagerDOTHAN, ALChuck Tibbets, V.P./Branch ManagerRodney Maltbie, Parts ManagerTravis Howell, Service ManagerSHOALS AREA, ALRandall Brown, Parts ManagerALABASTER, ALGreg Riggs, Parts ManagerALABAMAMONTGOMERY, ALDavid Maddox, Branch ManagerKeith Watkins, Service ManagerTroy Cleckler, Parts ManagerDECATUR, ALDon Burgreen,V.P./Branch ManagerTim Kohlenberg,Service ManagerGary Hall, Parts ManagerMOBILE, ALChris Howard, Branch ManagerDanny Wright, Service ManagerLarry Cook, Parts ManagerGROVE HILL, ALKeith Hood, Parts ManagerRENEW CENTER, ALGerald Blakey, Service ManagerFLORIDAPANAMA CITY, FL PENSACOLA, FLChuck Tibbets, V.P./Branch Manager Billy Dees, Service ManagerTravis Howell, Service Manager Chad Glass, Parts ManagerKelly Myers, Parts ManagerBIRMINGHAM, AL(205) 591-2131TUSCALOOSA, AL(205) 752-0621(800) 582-4625ANNISTON, AL(256) 831-2440ALABASTER, AL(205) 621-2489DOTHAN, AL(334) 678-1832SHOALS AREA, AL(256) 383-5666www.tractor-equipment.comMONTGOMERY, AL(334) 288-6580(800) 832-9563DECATUR, AL(256) 355-0305(800) 321-6865MOBILE, AL(251) 457-8991(800) 233-7213GROVE HILL, AL(251) 275-4158PANAMA CITY, FL(850) 763-4654(800) 342-2055FOREST PARK, GA(Atlanta)(404) 366-0693(800) 488-0693CALHOUN, GA(706) 879-6200(800) 827-3072HOSCHTON, GA(706) 654-9850(888) 334-9850AUGUSTA, GA(706) 798-7777(800) 659-3090MACON, GA(478) 745-6891(800) 786-3120 SAVANNAH, GACOLUMBUS, GA(706) 562-1801PENSACOLA, FL(850) 505-0550Printed in U.S.A © 2011 Construction Publications, Inc.Kennesaw, GA(678) 354-5533(912) 330-7500(800) 827-1405ALBANY, GA(229) 435-0982(800) 733-0982FOREST PARK(ATLANTA), GAKenneth Middlebrooks,Service ManagerEpps Hewett,Parts ManagerCALHOUN, GAMike Kemmerer,Service ManagerAndy Worley,Parts ManagerMACON, GAFrank Hall, Service ManagerJoe Bechtel, Parts ManagerCOLUMBUS, GATony Kennedy, Service ManagerJamie Horsley, Parts ManagerGEORGIAHOSCHTON, GAGreg Carroll, Service ManagerFrank Mincey, Parts ManagerKENNESAW, GAMike Kemmerer, Service ManagerCurt Cook, Parts ManagerAUGUSTA, GARon Wallace, Service ManagerMark Anderson, Parts ManagerSAVANNAH, GAFrank Dabbs, Branch ManagerBrian Foskey, Service ManagerBrad Formby, Parts ManagerALBANY, GATony Daughtry, Branch ManagerKenny Bevins, Service ManagerCharles Smith, Parts Manager


A SALUTE TO ACUSTOMER<strong>CRAWFORD</strong> <strong>GRADING</strong> & <strong>PIPELINE</strong>, <strong>INC</strong>.Luthersville, Ga., firm specializes in sewer/water workand satisfied customersHerbert Crawford,Founder/OwnerMatt Crawford,Office ManagerWhen Herbert Crawford first bought aused track loader a little more than 20 yearsago, he initially just planned to do odd jobshere and there. At the time, he was workingas a foreman for another contractor, but whenthings got slow one winter, Crawford wasable to get some jobs that he could do all byhimself. As one job led to another, it becameclear that he could be successful with his owncompany, so in 1991, he left his other job andstarted Crawford Grading & Pipeline, Inc.Today, the company still does grading, aswell as demolition and excavation, but make nomistake — sewer and water work is CrawfordGrading & Pipeline’s specialty. From its homebase in Luthersville, Ga., about 60 miles south ofAtlanta, Crawford Grading & Pipeline does largeand small pipeline work throughout Georgia andmuch of Alabama.“We lay sewer, water and storm-drain pipesand we build pump stations,” said Herbert.“Our goal, and I believe our reputation, isFire hydrants from various Crawford Grading & Pipeline jobs line the front of thecompany headquarters in Luthersville, Ga.that we try to exceed the expectations of ourcustomers in every respect. That means, thehighest-quality work and topnotch service.Above all, we always live up to our word.When we say we’re going to do something,you can take that to the bank.”“That’s something my dad has alwaysemphasized,” said Herbert’s son, MattCrawford, who oversees office andadministrative duties for Crawford Grading &Pipeline. “I believe his honesty and integrityare the main reasons we’re still in businesstoday. Obviously, it’s not the easiest time tobe in construction. Much of the work we’vedone during the past few years is for repeatcustomers who’ve continued to come to usbecause they know they’re going to get aquality job and they know we’re going to treatthem right.”Crawford Grading & Pipeline will takeon small, one-day residential jobs, as well asmultimillion-dollar municipal or commercialjobs that may last for a year or more. “No jobis too large or too small,” insisted Matt. “If youwant us to take a look at something and giveyou a price, we’ll be happy to do it.”Large jobsThrough the years, Crawford Grading &Pipeline has done many jobs at nearby FortBenning. Recent large jobs also include installingsanitary sewer, domestic water and fire lines fora new Kraft Foods plant in Atlanta and a largedistribution center in Bessemer, Ala.“We’ve developed some good relationshipswith general contractors,” noted Herbert. “Wework closely with them to deliver our portionof the job in the time frame they want. Oneof the frequent complaints about subs is that


www.<strong>TEC</strong><strong>Tractor</strong><strong>Times</strong>.comNEW!onlinevideoThese Crawford Grading& Pipeline operatorsuse a Komatsu PC228tight-tail-swing excavator anda compact PC35 to run a sewerline to an elementary school inNewnan, Ga. “In my opinion,Komatsu excavators are thebest,” said owner HerbertCrawford. “They’re reallywell-made and seem to outlastother brands.”onlinevideothey’re not reliable. Well, we are. We showup when scheduled. We do quality work.We finish on time. And that’s why we havecustomers who regularly turn to us to do theirsewer and water work.”“When we’re working as a sub, we’retypically not going to be on the job from startto finish,” added Matt. “We adapt to thegeneral contractor’s schedule. We get our partdone, then clear out so he can do his thing.Then we come back to do another sectionand so on. We devote whatever manpoweris necessary to get the job done in the timeallotted. In Bessemer, we usually have twocrews but if at some point we need three orfour, that’s what we’ll send over.”Productive, reliable work forceThe nation’s economic downturn hasimpacted employment at Crawford Grading& Pipeline. In 2006 and 2007, the companyemployed about 70 people. Today, it employsabout 40.In addition to Herbert and Matt Crawford,management personnel include FieldSuperintendents (and brothers) Harris andStuart Stokes, and Estimator Eric Farabaugh.“Our lead guys bring plenty of experience totheir jobs,” reported Herbert. “They’ve beenwith us a long time and we rely on them tohelp us keep everything running smoothly.”Crawford Grading & Pipeline currently runssix pipe crews (three or four men per crew) anda dress-up crew. The company also has threetruck drivers and two shop mechanics.“We believe all of our people — operators,laborers, drivers and mechanics — are amongthe best in the area,” acknowledged Matt.“Most of them have been with us for 10 to 16years and they share our work ethic. Theytruly are a large factor in our success.”Longlasting excavatorsWhen it comes to hydraulic excavators,which are primary machines for CrawfordGrading & Pipeline, the company turns largelyto Komatsu units from <strong>Tractor</strong> & EquipmentCompany in Forest Park.“I bought my first Komatsu in 1996, andtoday we probably have 15 or so Komatsuexcavators,” reported Herbert. “I’ve run justabout everything that’s out there and, in myopinion, Komatsu excavators are the best. Myfavorite thing about them is that they’re reallywell-made and seem to outlast all the otherbrands. We usually get 8,000 to 10,000 hoursfrom an undercarriage, which I consider to beoutstanding.”To help improve versatility, CrawfordGrading & Pipeline has added two KomatsuPC228 tight-tail-swing excavators to its fleet. Continued . . .Eric Farabaugh,Estimator


Growth at Crawford Grading & Pipeline. . . continued(L-R) <strong>TEC</strong> Sales RepMack Brice works closelywith Crawford Gradingpersonnel, includingSuperintendent HarrisStokes, Owner HerbertCrawford and OfficeManager Matt Crawford.“Mack and <strong>TEC</strong> havegiven us excellent supportthrough the years, which weappreciate,” said Herbert.NEW!onlinevideo“We get in some tight spaces, such asworking on the shoulder of a road,” Herbertexplained. “The PC228s are great becausewe don’t need to worry about swingingout into traffic. All our operators like thembecause in addition to being able to work inclose quarters, they’re also powerful, stablemachines. We really like them.”“We used a PC228 on a job at the AtlantaRegional Airport (formerly Falcon Field) inPeachtree City,” added Matt. “We were puttingin 3,100 feet of 20-inch, ductile, iron pipe in veryclose quarters. The tight-tail-swing Komatsuworked great for us there.”In addition to the excavators themselves,Herbert Crawford says he appreciates thesupport he gets from <strong>Tractor</strong> & EquipmentCompany.Crawford Grading & Pipeline primarily does pipe work but also does other jobsin the Luthersville/Newnan area, including this house demolition.www.<strong>TEC</strong><strong>Tractor</strong><strong>Times</strong>.comonlinevideo“Our <strong>TEC</strong> Sales Rep, Mack Brice, takes goodcare of us and is a good friend as well. We haveour own mechanics, so we try to do most of themachine maintenance and repairs ourselves, butwhen we need <strong>TEC</strong>, they respond very well. Forexample, we recently took a cylinder to them torepack, and they had it back to us in half a day,which is outstanding.”Optimistic about the futureFrom its founding in 1991 until about 2008,Crawford Grading & Pipeline had experiencedconsistent growth.“We grew steadily until the recession hit in2008,” Herbert related. “We’ve scaled back abit since then, but we’re still in business andwe’re still doing OK.”“Herbert deserves much of the credit for that,”said Superintendent Harris Stokes. “Years ago,he had the foresight to get us into the industrialand public-works markets, along with thesubdivisions and private commercial work wewere already doing. Then, when the privatework went away, we were already set up to dothe municipal and bonded work that’s carried usthe last few years.”“When the economy picks back up again,our intention is to resume our previous growthpattern,” commented Herbert. “But I don’t see usadding many services. We’ll stick primarily withpipe work because that’s what we know best.”Matt Crawford says he’s optimistic aboutthe future.“One thing my dad has always stressed is todo good work and treat people right — and ifwe do that consistently, we’ll have clients whocome back to us job after job. Being in business20 years says a great deal about the work wedo and the relationships we’ve established.“We certainly want to, and plan to, keep thebusiness going,” Matt continued. “We like thisline of work. We like our customers. It’s just amatter of getting the economy jump-started.When that happens, we think there will beplenty of work from pent-up demand, andwe believe the history we have with ourcustomers will put us in position to get ourshare of that work.” ■


Call <strong>TEC</strong> for all yourasphalt needs.TRACTOR &EQUIPMENTC O M P A N YProducts above available through<strong>TEC</strong> in Florida & AlabamaProducts above availablethrough <strong>TEC</strong> in Georgia


A SPECIAL THANKS<strong>TEC</strong> CUSTOMER APPRECIATIONLarge crowd gathers at <strong>TEC</strong>’s Montgomery branchfor steak fry, prizes and more(L-R) LeeBoy Regional Representative Brian Hall, <strong>TEC</strong> Regional Sales Manager JoePatton and Ricky Ward of Red Eagle Sand & Gravel in Montgomery, Ala., discuss theLeeBoy products offered by <strong>TEC</strong>.<strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery Branch Manager David Maddox (right) congratulates YETI coolerwinner Tom Bledsoe of Bledsoe Mining in Baker Hill, Ala.T<strong>Tractor</strong> & Equipment Company(<strong>TEC</strong>) recently held a special customerappreciationevent at its Montgomery, Ala.,branch facility. More than 200 guests madetheir way to the evening event to enjoy juicysteaks hot off the grill and all the temptingside dishes.<strong>TEC</strong> employees cooked steaks for theircustomers using the same <strong>TEC</strong> custommobile grill that the company put to useextensively to prepare meals for those thatwere devastated by the tornadoes that sweptthrough Alabama last spring.A number of representatives fromKomatsu, Dynapac, LeeBoy, Fecon, Wirtgen,Schwarze and others turned out to lendtheir support for the hugely successfulevent and supplied additional door prizes.Some manufacturers also brought pieces ofequipment for guests to demo.Customers had the opportunity to winplenty of door prizes, including $50 Bass ProShop gift certificates and YETI coolers. Thecoolers were a big hit as they can keep icefrozen for two to five days.“We were truly blessed to have such a greatturnout,” said Montgomery Branch ManagerDavid Maddox. “The manufacturers were atremendous help in putting on this event andwe certainly appreciate them. They, and theentire <strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery branch staff, simplywanted to say thank you to our customersand show them just how important they areto us. We were extremely grateful that somany were able to take a break from theirbusy schedules to stop by and spend sometime with us.” ■


Harry Ward of Ward & Ward in Auburn, Ala., (left)and <strong>TEC</strong> President Dan Stracener discuss the latestconstruction trends in the Alabama market.<strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery BranchService Manager KeithWatkins (left) and HarryLambert of LambertMaterials in Tysonville, Ala.,share a few laughs.(L-R) <strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery ServiceTechnician Buddy Coleman; BenWeaver of Southeast CherokeeConstruction in Montgomery,Ala.; <strong>TEC</strong> Regional Sales ManagerJoe Patton; and Reuben Gardnerof Reuben’s Construction Co. inPrattville, Ala., pause for a photo.Bob Candee of FECON (left) presents prize winner John Brown of J.C. BrownConstruction in Prattville, Ala., with a $50 Bass Pro Shops gift card.<strong>TEC</strong> Montgomery Branch Manager David Maddox (left), presentsprize winner Pete Stanfield of Stanco Inc. in Montgomery, Ala., with aYETI cooler.


D65-17From Komatsu – The Dozer ExpertsKomatsu has once again made a great machine even better. The new D65-17 increasesproductivity and operator comfort while lowering operating costs. All designed toimprove your bottom line.• Efficient Komatsu Tier 4 Interim engine and automatic shift transmission with lockup torqueconverter maximize productivity while saving fuel.• PLUS (long life) undercarriage is standard, further reducing our already low operating costs.• Komatsu CARE provides complimentary Tier 4 maintenance, including KDPF exchange filters.Contact your Komatsu distributor for details.www.komatsuamerica.com


GUEST OPINIONA STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTIONCongress temporarily extends transportation funding;a multi-year bill should be a priorityIIn September, the Senate approved theSurface and Air Transportation ExtensionAct of 2011 (H.R. 2887). The bill, whichthe President signed, extends the surfacetransportation and airport constructionprograms until March 31, 2012, and January31, 2012, respectively. Had the programslapsed, the Highway Trust Fund would havelost $100 million per day in gas tax revenueand more than 1.6 million jobs would havebeen at risk.“AED applauds Congress for puttingpolitics aside and moving forward withextensions of federal transportationconstruction programs,” said AssociatedEquipment Distributors President Toby Mack.“This legislation ensures that the hundredsof thousands of workers who build andmaintain our highways, bridges and airportscan continue their work, at least temporarily.”Given the current political situation inWashington, this is an important victory.House Republican leaders, who previouslyadvocated cutting the highway program,were willing to go along with the deal,recognizing the massive job losses that wouldresult from funding cuts.The bill effectively extends highwayand FAA construction programs at currentspending levels. “While the extension iswelcome news, it falls short of giving theconstruction and equipment industriesthe certainty essential to recovery andjob creation. By delaying action on a newmulti-year highway bill, Congress isputting off much-needed investment in theinfrastructure the U.S. economy needs togrow and flourish,” Mack said.As further evidence that the Hill is wakingup to the need for action on highwayreauthorization, a memo on job creationby House GOP leadership released lastSeptember cited infrastructure spending as apossible area for bipartisan cooperation saying,“Congress and the President should spendthe next few months working out a multi-yeartransportation authorization bill.” ■This article is from the Associated Equipment Distributors, atrade association representing companies in the distribution,rental and support of equipment. Its members account for morethan $15 billion of annual sales of construction equipment andrelated supplies and services in the U.S. and Canada.Congress passed a bill that extends surface transportation and airport construction fundingthrough January 31, 2012. The Associated Equipment Distributors believe a long-term bill is anecessity.


INDUSTRY OUTLOOKWHERE ARE WE HEADED?There’s a need for infrastructure investment,but how to fund it remains in questionThe nation’s transitsystems, including roadsand rail, are in needof repair. One studyshows $1.7 trillion isneeded during the nexteight years to bringinfrastructure up totolerable levels.Congress passed and the President signedan act that provides an extension of fundingfor surface and air transportation. It came aswelcome news to construction companies, theirsubcontractors and suppliers who work inthose sectors, but the reality is that they can onlybreathe a sigh of relief for a short period of time.The Surface and Air Transportation ExtensionAct of 2011 only provides monies into thefirst quarter of 2012 — another short-termmechanism for funding, much like whatCongress has done since the previous highwaybill expired in September of 2009. That meansthe fight for dollars to build the nation’sinfrastructure will be brought up again soon.This comes at a time when numerousstudies show America’s highways, bridges,airports and other modes of transportation aresuffering from a serious lack of investment. AnAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)report shows that to bring the nation’s surfacetransportation infrastructure up to tolerablelevels, about $1.7 trillion is needed betweennow and 2020. Current funding levels fall shortof that total by $846 billion or $94 billion peryear, according to the report.The results of underfunding are stark, the reportnotes. It will cost the economy 870,000 jobs andsuppress growth of the country’s Gross DomesticProduct (GDP) by more than $3 trillion by 2020. Itwill also cost American households and businessesmore than $129 billion in vehicle operation, delays,accidents and environmental damage.“Clearly, failing to invest in our roads, bridgesand transit systems has a dramatic, negativeimpact on America’s economy,” said ASCEPresident Kathy J. Caldwell, P.E., F.ASCE. “Thelink between a nation’s infrastructure and itseconomic competitiveness has always beenunderstood. But for the first time, we have datashowing how much failing to invest in oursurface transportation system can negativelyimpact job growth and family budgets. Thisreport is a wake-up call for policymakersbecause it shows that investing in infrastructurecontributes to creating jobs, while failing to do sohurts main street America.”According to a study by the Harvard Centerfor Risk Analysis, inadequate infrastructuresystems also contribute to health problems.The analysis looked at health costs resultingfrom higher emissions associated with roadcongestion. Results showed traffic-related airpollution as a contributing factor to heart attacksand strokes, with emissions from idle vehiclescausing nearly 4,000 premature deaths.It also costs the country in terms ofstature. A World Economic Forum report in2007-2008 ranked our nation’s infrastructuresystems sixth best in the world. In a newreport released in September 2011, the U.S.


slipped to 16th. A government report saidAmerica spends about 2 percent of GDP oninfrastructure, about half what it did 50 yearsago and well below other global leaders.Gas tax increase unlikelyA recent Market Watch article, “How tofix crumbling U.S. roads, rails and airways,”pointed out that “Deficits in the U.S. trustfunds that support the country’s Interstatesystem and civil aviation have been wideningfor years, as tax revenue failed to keep up withinflation. To fill the gaps, Congress has beentaking cash from the general fund.“But tax revenue for the general budgethas declined as well because of the economicrecession and the Bush-era tax cuts, and nowCongress is determined to eliminate the shortfallby reducing spending across the board,” itcontinued. “For every $1 billion pulled from theU.S. budget for highways, an estimated 30,000jobs are lost, according to a 2007 report from theDepartment of Transportation.”The ASCE report noted a modest investmentwould go a long way, saying an amount “equalto about 60 percent of what Americans spend onfast food each year, would: protect 1.1 millionjobs, save Americans 180 million hours in traveltime each year, deliver an average of $1,060 toeach family and protect $10,000 in GDP for everyman, woman and child in the U.S.”The gap in funding isn’t likely to decreasesoon, and may widen further. The national18.4-percent gas and 24.4-percent dieselper-gallon taxes haven’t been raised in nearlytwo decades, and the recession has meantless driving, which in turn means less fuelpurchased. More fuel-efficient cars and newstandards to further improve fuel efficiencyequate to even fewer fill-ups.Potential funding sourcesSo where will the money come from to repairand replace an ever-increasing deterioration ofthe nation’s surface, air and other transit systems?Given the economic and political climates,an increase in the gas tax isn’t likely any time Continued . . .Numerous roads andbridges have beenrated as structurallydeficient or in needof repair, causingour nations’s globalrank to fall fromsixth to 16th in termsof infrastructuresystems.Funding for surfaceand air transportationwas extended into2012, but long-termplans remain elusive.


Various funding sources offer potential solutions. . continuedSeveral funding sourceshave been proposed,including public-privatepartnerships, whichallow companies topair with governmententities as investors in aproject. Known as PPPs,they have been usedon state-level projectsaround the country.soon. Alternate funding methods have beendiscussed, but there are no sure bets rightnow. Past research from a survey by the firmHNTB showed Americans preferred tolling toincreased gas taxes.HNTB’s Pete Rahn said tolls will likely bea more prominent source of future funding.The organization’s survey revealed most of thenation supports highway tolls with 82 percentsaying the rate should be a dollar or less forevery 10 miles on an Interstate. Fifty-six percentof those said the rate should be less than 50 cents.Sixty-six percent of the people polled bythe organization said they would like theirtoll money to go toward relieving congestionissues, with 41 percent saying they wouldsupport their toll money going to road andbridge repair. Others said they would like tosee the money go toward dedicated truck lanesor adding lanes to existing roads.The American Recovery and ReinvestmentAct — also known as the stimulus bill —that was passed in 2009 funded some roadconstruction projects during the past two years.In a speech before Congress last September, thePresident proposed additional spending oninfrastructure as a way to boost the economy.One idea he mentioned was an “infrastructurebank” that would provide loans or loanguarantees for transportation and other projects.The idea has been brought up several timesbefore, including bills proposed by congressionalleaders. One put forth in the Senate would makethe bank an independent government entitywith congressional oversight. The proposalwould give the bank a one-time appropriationof $10 billion that would lead to more than $600billion in future projects.The rest of the money would come fromprivate investments in the infrastructure bank.Investors could partner with local, state andregional governments and propose a project tothe bank, which would determine its worthinessbased on factors such as public demand andsupport and the ability of the project to generaterevenue that would pay back investors.If deemed a worthy project, the bank wouldloan up to 50 percent of the total cost, making thebank another investor. Loans would be repaidthrough revenue generated from the project,which may come from such sources as dedicatedstate taxes, fees, tolls and passenger tickets.PPPsThese “public-private partnerships” (PPPs)have already worked together on some state-levelprojects. According to the National Conferenceof State Legislatures, PPPs are agreements thatallow private companies to take on traditionallypublic roles in infrastructure projects, whilekeeping the public sector ultimately accountablefor a project and the overall service to the public.A government agency typically contracts witha private company to renovate, build, operate,maintain, manage or finance.“Though PPPs are not optimal for manytransportation projects, they have been shown toreduce up-front public costs through acceleratedor more efficient project delivery,” said theorganization. “PPPs don’t create new moneybut instead leverage private-sector financial andother resources to develop infrastructure.”Not everyone agrees on how to pay for theinfrastructure investment, but most everyoneagrees that something has to be done.“We can no longer ignore the growing liabilityour aging roads present to U.S. economiccompetitiveness and the mobility of ourcitizens,” said HNTB’s Rahn. “Americans arefeeling the pain, every day, as they commute andcross the nation’s highways and bridges.” n


Komatsu CARE for Komatsu Tier 4 Interim models is a new, complimentarymaintenance program designed to lower your cost of ownership and improveyour bottom line. It provides factory-scheduled maintenance on the machinesfor the first three years or 2,000 hours, whichever comes first. This includesup to two exchange Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filters. Be sure to contact yourKomatsu distributor for all the details.Once again, Komatsu leads the industry. No other construction equipmentmanufacturer offers a complimentary maintenance program like this.It’s what you’ve come to expect from the service experts at Komatsu.www.komatsuamerica.com


DASH 10 EXCAVATORSFrom Komatsu - The Excavator ExpertsKomatsu Dash 10 excavators provide increased horsepower, improved operatorcomfort and reduced fuel consumption. The excavator experts at Komatsu can helpyou complete jobs more quickly, while lowering your fuel and maintenance costs.• Efficient Komatsu Tier 4 Interim engines and advanced hydraulic systemsmaximize productivity while providing up to 10% lower fuel consumption.• Enhanced operator environment improves comfort and machine control.• Komatsu CARE provides complimentary Tier 4 maintenance, including KDPFexchange filters. Contact your Komatsu distributor for details.www.komatsuamerica.com


A NEW SALUTE PRODUCTS TO A CUSTOMERNEW ARTICULATED TRUCKIncreased load capacity among more productivefeatures of Komatsu’s new HM300-3 truckRob Warden,Product ManagerWhen Komatsu made changes to its articulateddump trucks to meet interim Tier 4 regulations,it took the opportunity to also make the trucksmore productive. Case in point, Komatsu’s newHM300-3. The artic truck now reduces emissionsand offers increased capacity compared to itspredecessor model.Komatsu also increased operating weight,while maintaining a maximum ground speedof 36.4 miles per hour in order to move morematerial in the same amount of time. “TheHM300-3 has a low, nine-foot, three-inch loadingheight, so it matches up well with 30-ton to 60-tonhydraulic excavators and five-yard to seven-yardwheel loaders,” said Product Manager RobWarden. “In addition, it has two, single-stage,Model Operating Weight Load Capacity Ground SpeedHM300-3 116,823 lbs. 22.4 cu. yds. 36.4 mphNEW!onlinevideoBrief Specs on HM300-3 Artic TruckKomatsu’s new interim Tier 4 HM300-3 articulated haul truck providesgreater load capacity and a new traction-control system that automaticallyprovides optimum traction when operating in soft ground conditions.www.<strong>TEC</strong><strong>Tractor</strong><strong>Times</strong>.comonlinevideobody-lift cylinders that give it a 70-degree dumpangle. It’s a very efficient and productive truckthat fits well into load-and-carry applications.”The HM300-3 features a new Komatsu TractionControl System (KTCS) that automaticallyprovides optimum traction when operating insoft ground conditions. The HM300-3 continuallymonitors machine performance and detectschanges in momentum due to soft groundconditions. When a change in momentum isdetected, the inter-axle differential lock appliesautomatically, activating KTCS. KTCS monitorstire slippage with sensors located on four wheels.If slippage occurs, the four independent brakesautomatically apply as necessary to regain traction.In addition, a Komatsu AdvancedTransmission with Optimum ModulationControl System (K-ATOMiCS) offers asix-speed, fully automatic transmission thatselects the ideal gear based on vehicle speed,engine rpm and shift position. It results inpowerful acceleration, smooth downshiftingand synchronized engine speed when climbingslopes. K-ATOMiCS also helps keep the load inthe body and increases productivity.A new cab design on the HM300-3 provides amore comfortable and quiet work environment,including a rounded front dash panel witheasy-to-reach switches. A redesigned dashboardand relocated, air-ride seat improve visibility.From the new, high-resolution monitor, theoperator can modify settings, such as reversingthe fans or selecting the starting gear.“A newly designed engine hood providesconvenient access to service points and improvedforward visibility,” Warden pointed out. “Ofcourse, it has the same standard features, suchas KOMTRAX, that make it a true Komatsumachine, so we know users will find theHM300-3 a valuable addition to their fleets.” n


ARTICULATEDTRUCKSFrom Komatsu – The Truck ExpertsThe redesigned Tier 4 Interim Articulated Trucks will boost your productivity andlower your costs. From increased payload to improved traction control, the truckexperts at Komatsu once again deliver on your need for a lower cost per ton moved.• Komatsu Traction Control System (K-TCS) automatically increasesperformance in soft ground conditions.• New operator’s cab provides better visibility and ergonomics.• Efficient Tier 4 Interim engine provides up to an 8% reduction in fuel consumption.• Komatsu CARE provides complimentary Tier 4 maintenance, including KDPFexchange filters. Contact your Komatsu distributor for details.www.komatsuamerica.com


PRODUCT A SALUTE IMPROVEMENTTO A CUSTOMERNEW D155AX-7 DOZERInterim Tier 4 model builds on already productivefeatures for greater efficiencyBruce Boebel,Product ManagerKomatsu’s new D155AX-7 dozerfeatures an automatic blade-pitchfunction that increases operatingefficiency and reducesoperator effort. The newdozer is interim Tier 4compliant and maintainsthe same low fuelconsumption as theD155AX-6.On its surface, Komatsu’s new D155AX-7dozer is much like its predecessor: the operatingweight, net horsepower and blade capacity allremain the same. However, many comparisonsstop there as the new interim Tier 4 D155AX-7offers lower emissions, yet maintains low fuelconsumption for reduced per-yard costs.Coupled with a highly efficient, automatictransmission, the new interim Tier 4 engine usesadvanced electronic control to manage air-flowrate, fuel injection, combustion parameters andaftertreatment function for optimal performance.The automatic gearshift transmission andlock-up torque converter transfer enginepower directly to the transmission, providinga 10-percent decrease in fuel consumptioncompared to conventional models. TheD155AX-7 uses a much larger cooling packagewith improved airflow to keep the enginerunning cool in harsh working conditions.“Even in the toughest working conditions, theD155 remains efficient and productive,” saidProduct Manager Bruce Boebel. “It meets all theinterim Tier 4 standards for reduced emissions,without sacrificing the excellent power previousD155 models have become known for in dozingand ripping applications where mass quantitiesof material are involved.”To fit the application at hand, operators canchoose from automatic or manual gearshiftmodes: automatic for general dozing andmanual for dozing and ripping in roughground. The automatic gearshift transmissionshifts to the optimal gear range based onworking conditions and load.Auto blade pitch, ripper controlsEquipped with Komatsu’s unique SIGMAdozer blade, the D155AX-7 has a capacity of12.3 cubic yards. While that’s the same as theprevious model, Komatsu incorporated a new,automatic, blade-pitch function that reducesoperator effort and increases efficiency. Withthe flip of a switch, it sets blade-pitch positionbetween digging and dump positions with noadditional lever movements. Operators can setthe blade-pitch control through the seven-inchHD monitor to automatically return to thedigging position when they select reverse.“A new ripper-control lever is moreergonomic for increased operator comfort,”said Boebel. “Like our other interim Tier 4machines, we didn’t stop with just putting in anew engine. Komatsu worked with customersto identify features that would improve theirdozing and ripping performance. We believewe’ve made a dramatic improvement with theD155AX-7.” n


POINTS OF INTERESTENGAGING EXCAVATIONKomatsu’s KMAX tooth system offers cost-effectivesolution in a large range of applicationsIIn 2003, when Komatsu introduced itsKMAX tooth system, it was limited to sixtooth styles strictly for excavators. Today,those numbers have expanded to more than20 ground-engaging tools for both excavatorsand wheel loaders — PC120 to PC800 andWA150 to WA800 — that handle a wide rangeof applications.“There’s a right fit for virtually anyone whodoes excavation or similar types of work,whether they need teeth for digging in clayor rock, or they need something with goodpenetration into a pile, such as quarry work,”said Gary Jones, General Manager ProductSupport & Marketing for Hensley Industries,a Komatsu company that produces the KMAXtooth system. “The number of styles we haveis a direct result of listening to our customers’needs and cost-effectively crafting teeth thatmeet those needs.”The KMAX tooth system, which nowcomes on Komatsu buckets, is cost-effectivefor several reasons, said Jones. Chief amongthem is durability, which is achieved throughsuperior heat treatment that hardens KMAXteeth to the core, as opposed to some teeththat have hard exteriors but are soft on theinside.“That gives our teeth a longer life, allowinguse to 60 percent of wear as opposed to theusual 40 percent before replacement,” saidMarketing Manager Brent Dennis. “Heattreatment to the core is one part of the equation.Another is our streamlined design that allowsKMAX teeth to offer better penetration of thematerial while staying sharper longer. Thatmeans added efficiency and durability forlower owning and operating costs.”Fast, easy, safeWhen teeth need to be changed, theprocess is fast, easy and safe. Users simplyneed a socket wrench to unlock the reusable,non-load-bearing fastener in order to removethe tooth from the adapter on the bucket. Afterplacing the new tooth on, it’s easy to tightenit back down. In most cases, the process takesless than a minute.“We believe it’s the best system on themarket because there are no pins to behammered out,” said Jones. “Our teeth aredesigned so that if users see uneven wear, theycan flip the teeth.”“While KMAX teeth are first-fit on Komatsumachinery, the KMAX system can adapt foruse on other brands,” Dennis pointed out.“If you add it all up — durability, betterpenetration of material, speed of toothchanges, safety — we’re convinced the KMAXsystem offers the best tooth value in theindustry.” nwww.<strong>TEC</strong><strong>Tractor</strong><strong>Times</strong>.comNEW!onlinevideoGary Jones,GM Product Support& Marketing,Hensley IndustriesBrent Dennis,Marketing Mgr.,Hensley IndustriesKomatsu’s KMAXtooth system offersdurability in morethan 20 tooth stylesfor a wide range ofexcavators and wheelloaders. It’s easy andsafe because the systemrequires only a socketwrench — no pins tohammer — to removeand replace teeth fromthe adaptors.onlvid


100%provenIf you want to move more material more cost-effectively, you want Komatsu machines.Our complete line of rugged, reliable mining equipment—including trucks, shovelsand wheel loaders—is engineered to:• Lower costs per ton • Reduce cycle times • Provide the longest lifeWe also offer exclusive customer support programs and services tailored to your specific needs.When your success is measured by the ton, Komatsu delivers the productivity you need.Komatsu is the proven solution.KA13100% Komatsu. 866.513.5778 www.komatsuamerica.com


KOMATSU & YOUFORECASTING THE FUTUREGM says PMO continues to expand productionto meet present, future global mining demandQUESTION: There have been a few sparks inconstruction, but overall activity remains low.How’s mining?ANSWER: Mining has been strong for quite awhile now. We are producing more than four orfive times the number of trucks we did just 10years ago. It’s probably more than many of ushere at Peoria Manufacturing Operations (PMO)thought was even possible back in 2002. Miningcontinues to be very strong globally, so there’sa great demand for the five Komatsu miningtrucks we manufacture.QUESTION: How are you meeting demand?ANSWER: Taking into account several factors,such as historical trends, current mining andwhat we see down the road, we update ourforecast frequently. More recently, our firm-orderbacklog is very strong and we are able to see thefuture more clearly. We’re basing our productionon what we believe the long-term trends will be.Again, we expect mining to remain strong, sowe’re being proactive.Most of our operations are running around theclock to ensure we meet our production goalsand the demand for our mining trucks, which isglobally very high. Because demand is so high,we added a second assembly line and furtherrefined our processes to make them even moreefficient. That’s allowed us to double the numberof trucks produced a day, and we’re working tofurther increase that.QUESTION: Why are Komatsu mining trucksin such demand?ANSWER: Komatsu trucks have always beenat the top of the class in terms of per-ton costsbecause they’re not only efficient, but reliableand have a long life cycle. A big reason why isbecause the trucks are electric-drive as opposedContinued . . .This is one of a series of articlesbased on interviews with keypeople at Komatsu discussingthe company’s commitment to itscustomers in the construction andmining industries — and theirvisions for the future.Jim Mathis, General Manager ofManufacturing, Komatsu PeoriaManufacturing Operation (PMO)Jim Mathis has returned to his roots. Mathis is a General Manager ofManufacturing at Komatsu’s Peoria Manufacturing Operation (PMO),where he has spent most of his career with Komatsu.Mathis started at PMO in 1984 as Production Scheduler and moved hisway up to Superintendent of Component Manufacturing. In 2008, he waspromoted to Director of Manufacturing Administration, which meant amove to Komatsu America’s headquarters in Rolling Meadows, Ill.“I’ve spent my entire adult life with Komatsu,” Mathis said. “I’m veryhappy to be returning to Peoria and getting the chance to work with manyof the same people I worked with during the 20 years I was here before.I can’t say enough good things about the people who work here. Theirhard work, dedication and commitment have helped PMO expand itsproduction capacity greatly.”Mathis, along with another general manager, oversees a staff of morethan 600 salaried and hourly workers at PMO, where five models ofelectric-drive, mining haul trucks are produced. He’s responsible first andforemost for safety, then quality, followed by production, delivery andprofit and loss.“It’s a challenge, but one that I enjoy,” said Mathis. “I’ve seen manychanges through the years that have made our equipment better, both inproduction and reliability. There’s nothing more satisfying than knowingwe’re building a truck that’s going to help a customer be more profitable.”Mathis completed an MBA at Peoria’s Bradley University a few yearsago, while working at PMO. Jim and his wife, Suzanne, have five children,the youngest of which started her freshman year of college last fall.


Komatsu — at the forefront of technology. . continuedKomatsu’s PeoriaManufacturingOperation worksaround the clockto ensure timelyassembly anddelivery of five sizesof mining trucks.to mechanical. It’s been proven that our truckswork longer with less downtime. That makesa huge difference to a mine that’s running 24hours a day. Our customers tell us that.Of course, many other features have been adirect result of our working with customers andlistening to their needs to incorporate those intoour trucks. Based on their recommendations,we’ve integrated convenience features, such asramp-style staircases to the driver’s cab ratherthan a ladder hanging on the side.QUESTION: Komatsu has built its reputationfor mining trucks based on the foundation ofreliability. What does the factory do to ensureeach truck reinforces this reputation?ANSWER: It’s important to recognize thatproduct quality begins with unrivaled design,followed by rigorous testing and confirmation.Only then can manufacturing truly excel atproducing high-quality products and deliverreliability to our customers. We make countlessquality checks and confirmations every day onevery truck throughout the production process.This also includes the critical role our suppliersplay in supporting us. It’s not something specialor unique. It’s what we do every day with everyprocess.QUESTION: What does the future holdbeyond Tier 4?Some of the world’s largest mining trucks, including electric-drive 830Es are assembledat PMO. “It’s been proven that our trucks work longer with less downtime. That makesa huge difference to a mine that’s running 24 hours a day,” said Jim Mathis, GeneralManager of Manufacturing at PMO.ANSWER: In some sense, Komatsu is alreadythere and has been for quite some time. We’vebeen developing, producing and testingautonomous haul trucks — trucks that runwithout a driver — for several years. They arealready being used in active mines. That’s ahuge technological advantage for the customerbecause it keeps costs down, and for usbecause it puts us at the forefront of the miningequipment industry.We’ve always been strong in technology,especially in tracking machine usage, function,production and maintenance with ourKOMTRAX PLUS system. It allows both us andthe customer to see how a truck is being usedso we can build future machines based off thatinformation and customer recommendations.We never stop trying to improve. n


Ricky Mathis256/338-4574Chris Kohlenberg256/303-4935Benny Martin205/936-1252Barry Thornburg205/365-4546Edwin Murray770/608-6525Delane Brown205/337-6083Hugh Brown404/406-5985Brian Hagood205/335-3160Terry Shepherd770/757-0547Marcus Hitt205/242-8567Greg Farr404/245-2386Shane Marquis205/331-8641Calvert Tindall706/597-6291Wesley Barrett334/451-2147Buck Dyal912/660-6542Mark Hadley251/422-8356Bob Raley478/952-5266Mike Douglas850/554-3234Crawford Haas334/465-1340Joey Majors850/527-1840Josh Shoults205/242-9264Doug Haas229/349-3383Tony Bertino404/217-7883WE’LL ALWAYS BE THERE!Call your local PSSR forall your heavy equipment needs.BIRMINGHAM, AL MONTGOMERY, AL(205) 591-2131 (334) 288-6580Parts (205) 592-7276Service (205) 592-7378TUSCALOOSA, AL(205) 752-0621DECATUR, AL(256) 355-0305ANNISTON, AL(256) 831-2440ALABASTER, AL(205) 621-2489MOBILE, AL(251) 457-8991DOTHAN, AL(334) 678-1832GROVE HILL, AL(251) 275-4158SHOALS AREA, AL(256) 383-5666FOREST PARK, GA(Atlanta)(404) 366-0693HOSCHTON, GA(706) 654-9850KENNESAW, GA(678) 354-5533CALHOUN, GA(706) 879-6200MACON, GA(478) 745-6891AUGUSTA, GA(706) 798-7777COLUMBUS, GA(706) 562-1801SAVANNAH, GA(912) 330-7500ALBANY, GA(229) 435-0982PANAMA CITY, FL(850) 763-4654PENSACOLA, FL(850) 505-0550


EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENTEND EXCESSIVE IDLINGKomatsu personnel explain how non-productivehours negatively affect your machineryRizwan Mirza,Manager,KOMTRAX,ICT-ConstructionBusiness DivisionGoran Zeravica,Distributor OperationsDevelopment Manager,ICT-ConstructionBusiness DivisionEquipment monitoring systems, such asKomatsu’s KOMTRAX, provide valuableinformation on machine functions, includinghours, fuel consumption, machine location,trouble warnings and more. All items areimportant, but there’s one function that’s oftenoverlooked, and Komatsu’s Goran Zeravica andRizwan Mirza are on a mission to let users knowthat it may be the most important one of all.“Owners and operators don’t seem to takeidle time into account as much as they should,”emphasized Zeravica, Distributor OperationsDevelopment Manager, ICT-ConstructionBusiness Division. “It has a huge impact onowning and operating costs, in many casesdriving up those costs well beyond what theyshould be.”Studies show that a rather large percentageof a machine’s working hours are spent idlingrather than actually working. According to Mirzaand Zeravica, the industry average is about 37percent of time idling. “If that’s the average, itmeans there are machines out there idling wellabove that, sometimes in the range of 50 percentor more,” said Mirza, Manager, KOMTRAX,ICT-Construction Business Division. “In nearlyLetting a machine idle can cost you in many ways,including everything from wasted fuel to resale value.every case, it would be better to shut the machinedown when it’s not in production and reduce theidle time.”Idle time adversely affects machines in severalways. “The most obvious is the amount ofwasted fuel,” Zeravica noted. “But somethingelse to think about is the number of unnecessaryhours being put on that machine. That drives upowning and operating costs, too.”“Letting a machine idle means reachingservice intervals sooner, thereby raising owningand operating costs even more,” added Mirza.“Tier 4 machines will increase the need toeliminate idling because the Komatsu DieselParticulate Filter (KDPF) must be cleaned/serviced at 4,500-hour intervals, according toKomatsu’s recommended specifications. Inaddition, idling for extended periods preventsthe KDPF’s passive regeneration system frommeeting optimal temperatures for maintainingcleanliness. The result could be additional activeregenerations consuming more fuel or additionalKDPF cleanings at less than 4,500 hours.”Warranty affectedPiling up the hours idling also hurts yourbottom line from a warranty standpoint. Idlehours count against the warranty clock just asproductive hours do. If you’re idling, you’ll reachthe end of the extended warranty period sooner.“That’s something that hardly ever crossesmost users’ minds, and it should be at theforefront of their thinking,” Zeravica pointedout. “One other area most don’t consider is resalevalue. If you have a five-year-old machine to sellor trade with 10,000 hours as opposed to 5,000or 6,000, you’re obviously going to get less forit. Bottom line, machine owners and operatorsneed to take a proactive approach to idling. If themachine isn’t producing, shut it down.” n


INDUSTRY NEWSLOST REVENUEAnalysis shows proposed fuel-efficiency standardswould reduce highway fundingProposed new fuel-efficiency and emissionsstandards for everything from cars to light- andheavy-duty trucks could have a detrimentaleffect on transportation funding, according toan American Road and Transportation BuildersAssociation (ARTBA) analysis. It predicts thatrevenues could fall by a total of more than $75billion for state, federal and local highway,bridge and transit improvements.ARTBA says the new standards, announcedlate last July, would be the equivalent ofeliminating all federal highway funding fornearly two years. One proposal calls for anincrease to an average of 54.5 miles per gallon fornew cars and light trucks between 2017 and 2025.ARTBA’s analysis assumes the mpgrequirement will be phased in at 5 percentper year during that time frame. That is ontop of a current increase in fuel standards thatwas announced last year, which increases theaverage mpg increase from 28.3 to 34.1 by2016. ARTBA Vice President of Economics andResearch Dr. William Buechner estimates thatwould cost the Highway Trust Fund about $9billion, with another $65 billion or more lost bythe latest proposed standards.The Highway Trust Fund’s primary revenuesource is federal gas and diesel taxes collectedfrom motorists filling up their vehicles.Therefore, lower motor-fuel sales mean lessmoney in the coffers.New standards for medium- and heavy-dutytrucks, developed by the Department ofTransportation and the EPA with input from thetrucking industry, environmental groups andstate governments, are slated to go into effectbetween 2014 and 2018. Most tractor-trailerswill be required to reduce fuel consumptionand emissions by up to 20 percent by modelyear 2018. Heavy-duty pickups require about a15-percent reduction.The projection is that these new standardswill reduce oil consumption by 530 millionbarrels of oil, cut carbon emissions by about270 million metric tons and save an estimated$50 billion in fuel costs.“Like everyone else, we are supportiveof efforts to reduce carbon emissions andimprove fuel economy,” said ARTBA PresidentPete Ruane. “However, from a public-policyperspective, this is a classic case of the left handnot knowing what the right hand is doing.It’s irresponsible to advance such proposalswithout acknowledging and attempting tomitigate the adverse effect they would have onthe areas of federal responsibility, like makinginfrastructure improvements that improvesafety, reduce traffic congestion, create jobs andhelp grow the economy.” nProposed newfuel-efficiencystandards couldcost billions in lostrevenue that goestoward highway andother transportationfunding, according toindustry groups.


SIDE TRACKSOn the light side“That’s it, no more casual Fridays!”“Mr. O’Reillycouldn’t be heretoday. I’mhis attorney.”Brain TeasersUnscramble the letters to reveal some commonconstruction-related words. Answers can be foundin the online edition of the magazine atwww.<strong>TEC</strong><strong>Tractor</strong><strong>Times</strong>.com1. P R I R P E __ __ __ __ P__ __2. T A M O K U S __ __ __ __ __ __ __ U3. L I R A X A U Y I __ __ __ X__ __ __ __ __ __4. P E G A R L P __ __ __ __ __ __ L__5. G I L I N D __ __ D __ __ __ __Did you know...• George Washington was the onlyunanimously elected U.S. president.• The average human body contains enough:- iron to make a three-inch nail,- sulfur to kill all fleas on an average dog,- carbon to make 900 pencils,- potassium to fire a toy cannon,- fat to make seven bars of soap,- phosphorous to make 2,200 match heads,- and water to fill a 10-gallon tank.• The average mature oak tree shedsapproximately 700,000 leaves in the fall.• Snails move at a rate of approximately0.000362005 miles per hour.• A “jiffy” is an actual unit of time for1/100th of a second.• A typical lightning bolt is two to fourinches wide and two miles long.• The Hoover Dam was built to last 2,000years. The concrete in it will not even befully cured for another 500 years.


MORE INDUSTRY NEWSAGC lauds EPA’s decision to back off on new stormwater ruleThe Associated General Contractorsapplauded the EPA’s decision to temporarilywithdraw limits on the amount of dirt it willallow in stormwater from construction sites. Atthe same time, the organization is pushing forthe EPA to not impose the measure altogether.“The fact that the EPA recognizes theserious flaws in the data supporting itsefforts to impose a rigid, one-size-fits-all limiton the amount of dirt in rainwater leavingconstruction sites is encouraging,” said AGCChief Executive Officer Stephen Sandherr.“Indeed, contractors are already required totake significant measures to ensure that dirt— clean, uncontaminated dirt — does notescape from project sites. Setting a specificlimit on how much dirt should be in rainwaterwill only force contractors to spend billionsmore on new dirt-busting measures that maynot work; expose firms to costly lawsuitsfrom outside groups; and put them at risk ofreceiving tens of thousands in daily fines.” nMINExpo less than a year awayMINExpo, the world’s largest and mostcomprehensive show dedicated to mining isset for this fall. MINExpo International 2012will be held September 24-26, 2012, at the LasVegas Convention Center. Registration for theevent opens in January.MINExpo takes place once every four yearsand features companies, products and servicesrelated to the mining industry. Nearly 40,000people from more than 100 countries are expectedto attend the show, which has exhibits in 11 hallsin three buildings, along with outdoor space. nGroup highlights condition of rural roadsThe national transportation research group TRIPrecently released a report that details the conditionsof rural America’s transportation infrastructure andits impact on the country, saying 12 percent of thenation’s rural roads were in poor condition, while43 percent were in fair condition.It also found 13 percent of the nation’s ruralbridges were structurally deficient, meaningthere is significant deterioration of the bridgedeck, supports or other major components. Tenpercent rated functionally obsolete, no longermeeting current highway design standards.Nearly 60 percent of auto fatalities occur onrural roads, and the report cited opportunitiesto improve safety, such as installingwider shoulders and rumble strips. Otherinfrastructure needs were also highlighted. Thefull report is available at www.tripnet.org. nRequired NLRB poster now available onlineA new poster notifying employees of theirrights under the National Labor Relations Act isavailable on the National Labor Relations Board’sWeb site and at its regional offices. Currently onlyavailable in English, nearly all private employersare required to post it.Workplaces where at least 20 percent of thework force is not proficient in English, mustalso post a version in both English and a foreignlanguage. The Board has said it will provideforeign language translations if a businessrequests. The website is www.nlrb.gov/poster. n


THE PEOPLE INSIDELONGEVITY PLUSRetired <strong>TEC</strong> officers celebrate Judy Gamel’s45-year history with <strong>TEC</strong> in Anniston<strong>TEC</strong> President/CEO Dan Stracener presented Administrative Assistant Judy Gamel with abond in honor of her 45 years of service to <strong>TEC</strong> and its Anniston branch.Gathered to celebrate Judy Gamel’s many years of service to <strong>TEC</strong> are (left to right) JimWaitzman Jr., retired CEO; Ollis Stracener, retired VP/General Service Manager; JudyGamel; Jim Waitzman, retired CEO; Tommy Howle, retired VP/Branch Manager; BillRoberts, retired CEO and Gerald Carroll, retired VP/General Service Manager.T<strong>TEC</strong> recently honored a longtime employeewho has been behind the scenes at <strong>TEC</strong>’sAnniston’s branch for 45 years, working tokeep the operation running like a machine —smoothly and efficiently.That person is Judy Gamel, who recentlycelebrated her 45th anniversary with <strong>TEC</strong> — anew record for employee service. To honorher, <strong>TEC</strong> President/CEO Dan Stracener andseveral retired <strong>TEC</strong> officers gathered for lunchat the Anniston branch. And, in turn, Judyhonored the esteemed group by cooking themeal.As an administrative assistant, Judy notonly handled office duties but through theyears, she helped out regularly in the parts,service and sales departments. She showed theropes to new employees, including everyonefrom shop workers to managers and officers.Tommy Howle, retired Vice President andAnniston Branch Manager from 1986 to 2004,said, “Judy practically trained four branchmanagers. She always made the transitionseasy for new people.”“Judy is truly one of the most dedicatedemployees this company has ever had,”acknowledged Dan Stracener. He presentedher with a bond to thank her for her manyyears of service to <strong>TEC</strong> and its customers.In addition to Tommy Howle andDan Stracener, others honoring Judy atthe luncheon included retired CEOs JimWaitzman, Jim Waitzman Jr. and Bill Roberts;Ollis Stracener, retired VP/General ServiceManager and first service manager inAnniston; and Gerald Carroll, retired VP andGeneral Service Manager, who also served asthe first Anniston branch manager. n


Used Equipment SpecialsFor more information, contact:Tim Thomas tthomas@tractor-equipment.com(205) 591-2131 • Fax: (205) 592-7581Komatsu WA450-6, A44024, 2007, 3,454 hrs...........................$185,000Komatsu PC400LC-7L, 60065, 2006, 3,926 hrs........................$195,000EXCAVATORSKomatsu PC55MR-3, 15317, 2009, 1,672 hrs.............................$42,500DOZERSKomatsu D39PX-21A, 2430, 2008, 1,621 hrs..............................$72,000Komatsu PC160LC-7, K41416, 2006, 2,295 hrs.........................$92,000Komatsu D51EX-22, B10642, 2008, 2,922 hrs............................$95,000Komatsu PC228USLC-3EO, 40183, 2007, 3,619 hrs................$115,000Komatsu PC228USLC-3, 30908, 2004, 5,581 hrs.......................$82,500Komatsu D61PX-15EO, B46113, 2009, 2,128 hrs.....................$165,000Komatsu PC300LC-7EO A88775, 2007, 4,675 hrs...................$155,000Komatsu D61PX-15EO, B45156, 2007, 2,707 hrs.....................$125,000Pantone 072 bluewww.tractor-equipment.com


C.P.I.P.O. Box 1689C.R., IA 52406-1689Change Service RequestedPresorted StandardUS Postage PaidC.P.I.White logo is belowTRASHMASTERS®BIRMINGHAM, AL(205) 591-2131MONTGOMERY, AL(334) 288-6580(800) 832-9563TUSCALOOSA, AL(205) 752-0621(800) 582-4625DECATUR, AL(256) 355-0305(800) 321-6865TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT CO. LOCATIONS:ANNISTON, AL(256) 831-2440MOBILE, AL(251) 457-8991(800) 233-7213DOTHAN, AL(334) 678-1832GROVE HILL, AL(251) 275-4158SHOALS AREA, AL(256) 383-5666ALABASTER, AL(205) 621-2489FOREST PARK, GA(Atlanta)(404) 366-0693(800) 488-0693HOSCHTON, GA(706) 654-9850(888) 334-9850KENNESAW, GA(678) 354-5533CALHOUN, GA(706) 879-6200(800) 827-3072MACON, GA(478) 745-6891(800) 786-3120AUGUSTA, GA(706) 798-7777(800) 659-3090COLUMBUS, GA(706) 562-1801SAVANNAH, GA(912) 330-7500(800) 827-1405ALBANY, GA(229) 435-0982(800) 733-0982PANAMA CITY, FL(850) 763-4654(800) 342-2055PENSACOLA, FL(850) 505-0550GA

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