Trucking couple publish state-to-state trucking guide
Owner-operators Don and Debbe Morrow, OOIDA members from Eau Claire, WI, haul freight all over the country, so they know firsthand how laws differ from state to state. They have pulled together all the state-to-state information to create “For the Long Haul: A State to State Guide for Professional Drivers.”
This book is jam-packed with information in 12 maps and detailed text sections on each state — speed limits, road classifications, truck routes, length, width and weight limits, trip permit requirements, chain laws, spring thaw restrictions and states with kingpin-to-rear-axle requirements.
Don and Debbe will be at MATS booth No. 6764. You also can order their book on their Web site at www.dondepublishing.com.

AntWorx releases new accounting software
The latest update to AntWorx LoadLedger software is scheduled to be released March 17. The new version of the accounting and record-keeping software designed for owner-operators, small fleets and company drivers includes requested features, such as payroll and driver reimbursements, additional ProMiles integration options and accounting features that are designed to be easier to use than previous versions. More reports have been added, such as multiple fuel tax report formats. A special price of $129 is being offered at MATS (booth No. 6144) or from the Web site (www.loadledger.com) March 20-22, 2003. An OOIDA member discount is available.

Car haulers gen-set solution
The makers of TruckGen ultracompact generators have a creative solution for car haulers, who typically have limited space on their truck frames for a generator capable of operating electric ramp-lifting pumps. TruckGen has designed their UCT1-3.5 unit to fit in a diamond plate enclosure and install like a battery box. The unit measures just 19 inches wide by 16 inches tall by 31 inches long and weighs only 230 pounds with the box. The standalone system has its own radiator and cooling fan and draws diesel fuel from the truck’s tank. TruckGen will be at MATS booths No. 3109 and 9095.

Freightliner upgrades Classics
Freightliner Trucks has unveiled enhancements to its Classic and Classic XL truck models. The Class 8 vehicles are using a new chassis design now in production.
The new chassis is designed to provide a smoother ride, quieter performance, enhanced maneuverability and a stronger frame. A new leaf-and-a-half taper-leaf front suspension with a lower dynamic rate helps to smooth out rough roads.
The Freightliner AirLiner front air suspension is now available on the Classic XL, joining the rear AirLiner suspension, which was already offered. In addition, the cab suspension now features larger rear air springs to improve the ride. Day cabs feature an air-ride cab mount as standard equipment, which the company says gives the trucks added comfort and support.
The new Classic and Classic XL trucks are available with a choice of Detroit Diesel or Caterpillar engines and can be spec’d with a wide variety of component and styling options. Freightliner will be at MATS booth No. 3210.

Now that sounds good!
As the industry looks for alternatives to idling, auxiliary power unit manufacturers are looking for ways to make their gen-sets more appealing to truckers. TeleFlex, the maker of the Proheat APU, has launched a quieter auxiliary power unit for Class 8 heavy-duty trucks.
Powered by Kubota’s two-cylinder diesel engine, the Proheat APU enables owner-operators to turn on their TV, microwave or any other AC appliance while maintaining a thermostatically controlled temperature in the cab, all without idling. The company estimates annual savings of up to $4,000 a year in idling fuel consumption and maintenance reductions to the truck engine. TeleFlex will display the Proheat APU at MATS booth No. 5265.

Transcraft’s durable paint now standard
Transcraft has announced a new paint system for Transcraft trailers. The company says the Valspar paint system, which is now the standard coating on all of the company’s trailers, is more durable than before and much more resistant to physical damage and chemical corrosion. This total paint system is backed by a five-year limited warranty. Transcraft has been engineering flatbeds and dropdecks for more than 40 years and has a long list of standard trailer options. Transcraft will be at MATS booth No. 915.