People do business where they feel comfortable” is an old adage likely to be heard a lot during the next 10 years as the trucking industry faces new challenges.

While the industry’s labor shortage – from drivers to technicians – certainly isn’t novel, the demographic changes taking place in order to fill the labor gap are. Of the 3.2 million truck drivers in the United States, 480,000 are Hispanic, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics. And there are good reasons to anticipate the percentage of Hispanic drivers and owner-operators will increase sharply over the next decade.

The demographic group that currently provides more than half of all truck drivers – white males ages 35-54 – will decline by more than 3 million between 2004 and 2014, according to research firm Global Insight. During the same period, the Truckload Carriers Association predicts 80,000 new drivers will be needed annually.

The Hispanic population is an ideal alternate source for this labor. Hispanics are the fastest-growing minority group in the country, and U.S. Census Bureau data show half of them are under 26.

With recruiters actively targeting them, the share of truck drivers in the Hispanic workforce has risen rapidly in the past five years. Truck driving schools and trucking trade shows now cater to Hispanics, trucking companies are hiring Spanish-speaking dispatchers and dealerships are employing bilingual salespeople. In most cases, communication in Spanish isn’t a necessity since law requires truckers be able to speak English. But it’s becoming increasingly apparent that communicating with native Spanish speakers in their first language is an essential tool for winning business.

We at Randall-Reilly Publishing found that out first hand while conducting research prior to the 2005 launch of Transportista, a Spanish-language news magazine for drivers. Forty-two percent of Hispanic truck drivers who spoke English and had passed their commercial driver’s license exams in English said they preferred reading in Spanish.

Truck parts distributors and repair facilities in areas with significant Hispanic populations are learning their bilingual customers also favor doing business in the language they were brought up with and use at home. “They will take their business where they’re comfortable,” says Larry Franklin, owner of Franklin Truck Parts, headquartered in Commerce, Calif., where 90 percent of its customers are Hispanic. “Our people meeting the public are bilingual.”

As the number of Hispanic drivers increases, distributors will have to seek out employees who speak Spanish. This might be easier than you think. The same qualities that make Hispanics a good fit for the truck driving profession also make them excellent candidates for careers in truck parts and service. Maybe our segment of the industry should focus its recruiting efforts on Hispanics as well. Such a strategy could help you leap the labor and language barriers at the same time.

As the chairman of the 2008 Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week Joint Operating Committee I have been asked many times about the conference’s objectives. Before you can detail the objectives you need to understand that, simply stated, HDAW is a conference where the program content comes from 12 industry organizations working together to provide a distributor-focused event.

A few of the reasons I am attending HDAW are to:

• Take advantage of the largest aftermarket gathering of business contacts, technology, products and programs.

• Remain competitive in an increasingly complex industry.
• Evaluate product offerings that will meet or exceed my customers’ needs today and tomorrow.
• Meet with distributors and suppliers in both an informal and formal setting.

The theme of Face to Face – Building Relationships into the Future is reflected in the schedule. The schedule provides time to network during the product exhibit with the largest gathering of suppliers in the heavy-duty industry. Along with the networking, each of the three days provides opportunities to participate in an education program with the goal of providing takeaways that are relevant to the industry. A short list of education highlights are:

• “The HD Aftermarket Forum” with Stu MacKay will provide an economic outlook for the industry. Learn about “Truckable Economic Activity,” market and channel shifts and trends and dynamics in heavy-duty parts.

• The “Access to Product and Service Information, an Industry Perspective” panel will discuss the issue from all sides of the industry.
• “Brand vs. Non- brand: Who is Taking the Risk?” will look at the cost/benefit/risk and exposure issues associated with products of non-traditional origin and branding.
• “Why Fleets Buy” brings together three top maintenance executives from the largest fleets in the country to discuss the driver’s role in their decision-making process on the what, where, when, how and from whom to buy their needed parts.
• “The Two-minute Drill: Lessons for Rapid Organizational Improvement from America’s Greatest Game” will be presented by author and organizational expert Dr. Clinton Longenecker.
• “Improving Sales Call Proficiency: The Recipe” explores how the buying environment is changing; what the 2008 sales drivers will be; who is buying what and not; and the salesperson’s changing role as knowledge provider.

The conference will also attract a wide range of suppliers – nearly 200 at last count – and many of them will be participating in the one-on-one meetings.

For my organization, HDAW is not an event to walk, it is a conference to experience. What provides the experience? This is a world-class event which continues to grow and develop through the direct involvement of volunteers like me and others from the distributor and supplier communities.

It all starts with a really great reception on Monday night, January 21, that is sponsored by our friends at Truck Parts & Service and CCJ magazines, and their parent company Randall-Reilly Publishing.

After you have taken advantage of the conference, celebrate with your friends and associates at Thursday’s “Heavy Duty Industry Awards Luncheon” where we will recognize the best of our industry from the past year. We can applaud the Truck Parts & Service Distributor of the Year, share in the accomplishments of the Technician of the Year and welcome the newest inductee to the Heavy Duty Hall of Fame. Being an industry that provides solutions we can also hear about some of the best, with the Top Five Aftermarket Products awards.

For a full 2008 HDAW preview and to plan to get the most from the event, take some time to visit www.hdaw.org, and be sure to bring a few extra sets of shoes and socks, because the week will keep you very busy. This is a very intense heavy-duty industry conference.

Jerry Weis is president of Portland, Ore.-based Ott’s Friction Supply. The company was founded in 1925 and also has a branch in Eugene, Ore. Weis is the chairman of the 2008 Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week Joint Operating Committee.

Associations, organizations and trade shows provide the aftermarket with the agenda-setting dialogue, networking and product knowledge that help continue its collective success. This industry enjoys a wealth of resources ranging from general interest to highly specialized groups and events. Following is Truck Parts & Service magazine’s annual roundup of the industry’s associations, organizations and shows.

ACOFAS
The American Council of Frame and Alignment Specialists is dedicated to the professional growth of its members by sharing knowledge through communication and technology to provide high-quality training at a low cost.

Training classes in 2007 addressed recreational vehicle steering and suspension enhancements, the effects of anti-lock braking systems on steering and alignment and Hendrickson drive axle suspension application, troubleshooting and maintenance.
Contact: Gordon Botts
Phone: 800/822-6887
Fax: 815/338-0879
E-mail: information@acofas.com
Internet: www.acofas.com

ADS
The Association of Diesel Specialists has served the diesel fuel injection, governor, turbocharger and related systems industry since 1956, with current membership spanning the United States, Canada, Mexico and 58 other countries.

At its annual international convention, industry leaders address trends and present new ideas on service and technology. The latest state-of-the-art products are showcased in a trade exhibit setting.

ADS programs include: TechCert, which offers voluntary certification for diesel technicians; the ADS Nationwide Warranty, which assures warranty repair for mobile equipment operators at participating member shops; Parts Finder, an online source for buying and selling surplus parts; and an always expanding roster of technical training tools.
Contact: David Fehling
Phone: 913/345-0288
Fax: 913/345-0299
E-mail: info@diesel.org
Internet: www.diesel.org

AEMP
The Association of Equipment Management Professionals was formed in 1980 to advance heavy-duty on- and off-road equipment management as a career.

It represents equipment professionals who work in construction, forestry, municipal government, utilities, gas and oil exploration, solid waste, mining and aviation ground equipment.

AEMP builds and maintains working relationships among users, manufacturers, government agencies, educational institutions and others involved in the design and operation of commercial equipment.

At its management conference and its technical conference, AEMP brings together the world’s leading designers and technical experts to help its members remain proactive in maintaining on- and off-road heavy-duty equipment.
Contact: Stan Orr
Phone: 970/384-0510
Fax: 970/384-0512
E-mail: info@aemp.org
Internet: www.aemp.org

AERA
The Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association provides machine shop members with the resources machinists need to focus on the business that makes them money: building engines.

Programs include a toll-free technical hotline, a monthly resource mailing that includes a newsletter, technical service bulletins, engine specification sheets and more. AERA also offers training videos and books, engine specification (PRO-SIS) and business management (SMS) software, promotional materials and shop aids, a nationwide 65 percent discounted shipping program, a technical program in Spanish, a presence in Washington D.C. and an annual convention.
Contact: John Goodman
Phone: 847/541-6550
Fax: 847/541-5808
E-mail: info@aera.org
Internet: www.aera.org

APRA
The Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association serves more than 1000 members worldwide who are engaged in remanufacturing motor vehicle parts. APRA recently formed the Heavy Duty Remanufacturers Group as a way of uniting the industry across all product lines. Its web site, www.hdrg.org, lists complete details about 300 remanufacturers of heavy-duty products. APRA sponsors the International “BIG ‘R’ Show.”

This annual event encourages networking and exposes remanufacturers to new products, equipment and services. There are numerous workshops and seminars at the event. APRA has a virtual tradeshow online at www.BIGRShow.com. Members also may participate in warranty administration, business insurance, health insurance and other programs.

Association members also can take advantage of special discounts on shipping, with savings as high as 65 percent through Roadway Express.

APRA provides a number of training opportunities, including an average of nine, two-day technical clinics on particular product lines each year, covering heavy-duty brakes, heavy-duty transmissions, heavy-duty clutches and heavy-duty electrical systems.
Contact: William C. Gager
Phone: 703/968-2772
Fax: 703/968-2878
E-mail: gager@buyreman.com
Internet: www.apra.org; www.BIGRShow.com; www.hdrg.org

ASE
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence was established in 1972 to improve the quality of vehicle service and repair through testing technician competency. Today there are more than 400,000 ASE-certified professionals.

ASE’s mission is to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through testing and certification of service professionals. Exams are grouped into specialties for auto, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus and collision repair technicians as well as machinists, alternate fuel technicians, parts specialists and service consultants.

Upon passing at least one exam and after providing proof of two years of relevant work experience, the technician becomes ASE-certified. The organization produces a newsletter for certified professionals, The Blue Seal Tech News; holds an annual meeting where the country’s top technicians are honored; and offers a wide range of products to help shop owners promote the fact that ASE-certified technicians are employed by their shops.
Contact: Chuck Roberts
Phone: 703/669-6661
Fax: 703/669-6127
E-mail: croberts@asecert.org
Internet: www.asecert.org

ATD
American Truck Dealers is the commercial truck division of the National Automobile Dealers Association. It was founded in 1970 to serve as the voice of America’s truck dealers and offers profit-building management ideas, government and industry relations advocacy and programs to increase personal financial security.

ATD 20 Groups, a dealer-focused business development program, provides dealers with financial analyses of their operations and opportunities to work with non-competing dealers to increase the profitability of their businesses.

The ATD/NADA Dealer Academy is now in its 14th year of training truck dealer successors in all phases of dealership management.

The annual Dealer Attitude Survey of both manufacturers and suppliers uncovers attitudes toward industry issues. Dealer concerns then are communicated directly to manufacturers and suppliers through face-to-face meetings.

The annual convention allows attendees to listen to nationally-recognized industry leaders and participate in management workshops, as well as see the latest in available equipment and services.
Contact: Jim Westlake
Phone: 800/352-6232
Fax: 703/749-4700
E-mail: atd@nada.org
Internet: www.nada.org

CTEA
The Canadian Transportation Equipment Association represents manufacturers of truck chassis, equipment, truck bodies, trailers and specialty vehicles. Other members include dealers, distributors, parts and equipment suppliers, service providers and engineering/testing firms.

Dealing with federal and provincial regulators, CTEA provides support services for parts and equipment sourcing, an export/import advisory service, library services, testing programs and data, practices for the transport of dangerous goods and a technical bulletin report service. In addition, CTEA maintains an extensive database and broad range of market knowledge to assist market research.
Contact: Don Moore
Phone: 519/631-0414
Fax: 519/631-1333
E-mail: transportation@ctea.on.ca
Internet: www.ctea.on.ca

CVSN
The Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network, formed on January 1, 2006, is the largest independent aftermarket distributor-governed organization that brings members from all the major industry marketing groups and supplier companies together in one location at one time.

CVSN represents close to 90 of the top independent heavy-duty aftermarket distributors, operating more than 500 locations across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

CVSN provides an industry-wide forum for professional development, legislative awareness and business networking and opportunities.
Contact: Angelo Volpe
Phone: 904/737-2900
Fax: 904/636-9881
E-mail: avolpe@cvsn.org
Internet: www.cvsn.org

GATS
The annual Great American Trucking Show will celebrate its 10th anniversary, August 21-23, 2008, in Dallas. GATS quickly has become one of the largest heavy- and medium-duty trucking events, doubling in size since 2003. Attendees of the 2008 show will be able to meet face to face with approximately 600 exhibiting companies representing all major truck and trailer OEMs, as well as suppliers of components, parts and services.

The 2008 show will occupy more than 525,000 sq. ft. and will include not only exhibits, but also Overdrive’s Pride and Polish Truck Beauty Contest, educational seminars produced by the Texas Motor Transportation Association, the GATS Fleet Forum specifically for fleet executives, Overdrive’s Partners in Business and much more.
Contact: Alan K. Sims
Phone: 888/349-4287
Fax: 205/248-1333
E-mail: asims@rrpub.com
Internet: www.gatsonline.com

GWTS
The Great West Truck Show – Las Vegas will make its re-tooled debut June 26-28, 2008, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Formerly the Truck Show Las Vegas, the show was purchased in 2007 by Randall-Reilly Publishing Company. It is the only major trucking show dedicated to serving the Western United States and beyond. In 2008, attendees can expect to interface with more than 400 leading truck, trailer and engine manufacturers, as well as suppliers of components, parts and services geared toward heavy- and medium-duty trucking. The California Trucking Association is the major sponsor and produces a slate of educational sessions.
Contact: Alan K. Sims
Phone: 888/349-4287
Fax: 205/248-1333
E-mail: asims@rrpub.com
Internet: www.truckshow.com

HDAW
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week is designed to bring together all stakeholders in the heavy-duty aftermarket distribution channel. The strategic intent of HDAW is to serve as a program and venue for multiple aftermarket associations and groups to hold annual meetings in conjunction with a first-rate business conference.

HDAW is organized by the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA) and the Heavy Duty Distributors Association/Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, and is governed and planned by a joint operating committee comprised of representatives from more than a dozen different associations and groups. HDMA members receive a reduced rate for conference registration and are eligible for participation in the popular prescheduled one-on-one supplier/distributor meetings at the conference, held January 21-24, 2008 at The Mirage, Las Vegas.
Contacts: Timothy Kraus and Mark Iasiello
Phone: 919/406-8835
Fax: 919/549-4824
E-mail: tkraus@hdma.org; miasiello@hdma.org
Internet: www.hdaw.org

HDBMC
The Heavy Duty Brake Manufacturers Council is a technical council of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association. It provides technical feedback to regulatory agencies on proposed rules, monitors new regulations to provide feedback to the Department of Transportation and collaborates with various industry associations and other organizations to ensure government regulations are fair and objective.
Contact: Timothy Kraus
Phone: 919/406-8835
Fax: 919/549-4824
E-mail: tkraus@hdma.org
Internet: www.hdaw.org

HDDA
The Heavy Duty Distribution Association serves aftermarket distributors and manufacturers of parts and services for commercial vehicles in North America.

HDDA provides members with market research capabilities, e-commerce standards, Washington representation, advocacy for industry issues, educational and training opportunities, communication between aftermarket distribution channels and specialized member services.

HDDA is a co-organizer of Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week.
Contact: Lee Kadrich
Phone: 301/654-6664
Fax: 301/654-3299
E-mail: lee.kadrich@aftermarket.org
Internet: www.hdda.org

HDDC
The Heavy Duty Distributor Council is a Canadian non-profit corporation organized to educate its members on the subjects of production, use, service, maintenance, repair and replacement of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts.

HDDC warehouse distributor members represent original equipment component/system manufacturers, support OE warranty programs, offer and arrange on- and off-site technical training in support of fleet maintenance practices and help source hard-to-find parts through the HDDC network. Some members offer inventory control programs, brake and air remanunfacturing/exchange programs and specialty services such as hydraulic, driveline and truck equipment installations.
Contact: Mike Whalen
Phone: 519/631-9424
Fax: 519/631-3315
E-mail: mikew@hddc.on.ca
Internet: www.hddc.on.ca

HDMA
The Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association strives to be the industry’s primary advocate for members of the commercial vehicle supplier community. With a continuous focus on its members, HDMA works to advance the image and interests of the industry and its member companies.

HDMA is the only industry trade association that focuses solely on heavy-duty component manufacturers’ strategic requirements. It provides its members with strong government advocacy, industry knowledge and experience, market news and information, primary market research and events, executive forums and councils.

The members of HDMA are suppliers to the global medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicle component segments, in both the original equipment and replacement product markets.
Contact: Timothy Kraus and Mark Iasiello
Phone: 919/406-8835
Fax: 919/549-4824
E-mail: tkraus@hdma.org; miasiello@hdma.org
Internet: www.hdma.org

HDRA
The Heavy Duty Representatives Association includes heavy-duty manufacturer representative agencies from across the United States and Canada. Member agencies market heavy-duty truck component parts both to the aftermarket and to original equipment manufacturers. The HDRA membership directory is organized alphabetically as well as by region, with a profile of each member agency.
Contact: Cara Giebner
Phone: 330/725-7160
Fax: 330/722-5638
E-mail: TruckSvc@aol.com
Internet: www.hdra.org

ITPA
The International Truck Parts Association was organized in 1974. Its members’ primary business is the selling of rebuilt, reconditioned and used components for heavy-duty trucks in the United States and abroad.

Its business meetings are held annually in April and October.
Contact: Venlo Wolfsohn
Phone: 202/544-3090
Fax: 301/229-7331
E-mail: venlo@itpa.com
Internet: www.itpa.com

MACS
Founded in 1981, the Mobile Air Conditioning Society is the leading non-profit trade association for the mobile air conditioning, heating and engine cooling system segment of the automotive aftermarket.

Since 1991, MACS has assisted more than 600,000 technicians in complying with 1990 U.S. EPA Clean Air Act requirements for certification in refrigerant recovery and recycling to protect the environment. MACS also provides information and services to more than 60,000 industry shops, suppliers and technicians. The society serves the industry through informational tools and publications, self-paced educational materials, leader-led training clinics, industry technical partnerships and other member services.

MACS represent a growing membership in North America and 47 countries around the world, and is affiliated with the Vehicle Air Conditioning Specialists of Australia (VASA).
Contact: Marion Posen
Phone: 215/631-7020
Fax: 215/631-7017
E-mail: info@macsw.org
Internet: www.macsw.org

MATS
The Mid-America Trucking Show marks its 37th year of service to trucking as an educational and informative venue where the industry’s leaders and its manufacturing segment conduct business face-to-face with fleet owners, owner-operators, drivers, technicians, purchasing agents and decision makers.

At the 2008 show, scheduled for March 27-29 in Louisville, Ky., attendees will see more than 1000 truck-related exhibits, utilizing more than 800,000 sq.-ft. of floor space. Exhibiting companies include all major truck, trailer and engine manufacturers, OE and aftermarket parts manufacturers and numerous service providers, all showcasing the latest products and services available to the heavy-duty industry.

Free seminars feature informative speakers on subjects and issues that help exhibitors and attendees stay up-to-date on the latest and most important topics in the trucking industry.
Contact: Tim Young
Phone: 502/899-3892
Fax: 502/899-3952
E-mail: tgyoung@truckingshow.com; tlyoung@truckingshow.com
Internet: www.truckingshow.com

NARSA
The National Automotive Radiator Service Association was founded by a group of dedicated, far-thinking radiator repair shop owners in 1954. It is a forum for education and communication within the automotive, heavy-duty and commercial engine cooling and mobile air conditioning system service aftermarket.

Today, the association exists as a nonprofit organization with offices in Mount Laurel, N.J. A full-service trade association, NARSA strives to provide its members and the industry with a variety of timely and valuable programs. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors elected by the membership. NARSA has more than 1500 members in 42 different countries.
Contact: Tom Bremble
Phone: 800/551-3232
Fax: 856/439-9596
E-mail: tbremble@ahint.com
Internet: www.narsa.org

NATSO
The National Association of Truck Stop Operators is the professional association of America’s $42 billion travel plaza and truckstop industry. The association was founded in 1960 by truckstop operators as a means of managing credit information on their mutual customers.

Today NATSO serves as North America’s official source of information on the diverse travel plaza and truckstop industry; conducts an annual convention and trade show attended by more than 2000 industry representatives; acts as the voice of the industry in Washington on legislative and regulatory matters; and supports efforts to improve the business climate in which its member companies operate.

The NATSO Show 2008 will be held in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort from January 26-30.
Contact: Lisa Mullings
Phone: 703/549-2100
Fax: 703/684-4525
E-mail: lmullings@natso.com
Internet: www.natso.com

NTDA
The National Trailer Dealers Association was established in 1990 and currently represents more than 300 semi-trailer dealers and manufacturers throughout North America. The association maintains its administrative headquarters in suburban Detroit. Its web site, www.ntda.org, is an industry resource providing information about NTDA membership and services.
Contact: Jim Hamilton
Phone: 800/800-4552
Fax: 248/489-8590
E-mail: info@ntda.org
Internet: www.ntda.org

NTEA
Established in 1964, the National Truck Equipment Association is the leading association supporting the $116 billion work truck and trailer industry. It currently represents more than 1600 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to the association. NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education and member programs/services and produces The Work Truck Show in February.

NTEA is dedicated to furthering the growth, profitability and professionalism of the commercial truck and transportation equipment industry. The association offers information and business opportunities that benefit its members as well as their suppliers and customers.
Contact: Luci DeRubeis
Phone: 800/441-6832
Fax: 248/489-8590
E-mail: luci@ntea.com
Internet: www.ntea.com

PERA
The Production Engine Remanufacturers Association serves more than 150 members worldwide who are engaged in remanufacturing engines as well as suppliers of cores, components or equipment to remanufacturers.

PERA’s annual convention will be held in Walt Disneyworld in late September 2008, and the technical meeting will be held at Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Mo., in early March.
The annual conferences are designed to provide an arena for the development and sharing of ideas and experiences conducive to the advancement and improvement of the industry and individual businesses. The programs stress the importance of communication between all industry levels and the general public, the necessity for continual education in order to remain alert to changing conditions in the international business scene and the significance of maintaining proper management philosophies.

EngineDataSource.com provides electronic billing of materials along with a collection of engine parts data. A free 30-day subscription is available.
Contact: Nancie J. Boland
Phone: 417/998-5057
Fax: 417/998-5056
E-mail: nancieboland@pera.org
Internet: www.pera.org; www.EngineDataSource.com

SAE
The Society of Automotive Engineers is a resource for technical information and expertise used in designing, building, maintaining and operating self-propelled vehicles. More than 84,000 engineers, business executives, educators and students form a network to share information and ideas.

SAE celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2005, and it helps produce engineering standards and publishes thousands of technical papers and books as well as leading-edge periodicals and Internet and CD-ROM products as reference tools.

Meetings such as the annual SAE Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress and Exhibition provide opportunities to network and share information. SAE also offers a full complement of professional development activities such as seminars, workshops and continuing education programs.
Contact: Shawn Andreassi
Phone: 724/772-8522
Fax: 724/776-3049
E-mail: shawna@sae.org
Internet: www.sae.org

SSA
The Service Specialists Association represents owners and managers of independent repair and maintenance facilities, as well as manufacturers and suppliers to the heavy-duty independent service industry.

SSA’s goal is to provide a forum for the distribution of technical and business information. Networking with fellow members and suppliers, SSA participants have access to technical knowledge, business trends and the opportunity to solve problems.

The group meets at an annual fall convention with keynote speakers, product profiles from suppliers, a tabletop display program, roundtable discussions and opportunities for networking.

Other benefits include an annual financial analysis survey, plus membership in the Heavy Vehicle Maintenance Group and the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors.
Contact: Cara Giebner
Phone: 330/725-7160
Fax: 330/722-5638
E-mail: TruckSvc@aol.com
Internet: www.truckservice.org

TARA
The Truck-frame & Axle Repair Association was formed in 1966 to promote the chassis alignment and frame repair industry. Members repair heavy-duty trucks, tractors, trailers, chassis, frames, axles, housings and suspensions.

Each regular member is required to have the expertise and equipment to correct frames, axles, housings, balance tires and perform complete alignment procedures. Associate memberships are encouraged for truck repair facilities, insurance companies, adjusters, appraisers, suppliers and others who are engaged in the heavy-duty repair industry.

TARA holds two annual meetings, one in the fall and one in the spring. It keeps members updated on current procedures and industry trends and also sponsors technician educational seminars at locations across the United States. These sessions are designed for classroom training as well as hands-on shop experience.
Contact: Wayne Reich
Phone: 800/232-8272
Fax: 866/529-0380
E-mail: w.g.reich@att.net
Internet: www.taraassociation.com

TIA
The Tire Industry Association is an international association representing all segments of the tire industry, including those that manufacture, repair, recycle, sell, service or use new or retreaded tires, and also those suppliers or individuals who furnish equipment, materials or services to the industry. It has a history that spans more than 80 years and includes several name changes.

Originally known as the National Tire Dealers & Retreaders Association, the organization gave birth over the years to the American Retreaders Association (ARA) and the Tire Association of North America (TANA). ARA changed its name to the International Tire & Rubber Association and merged with TANA in 2002 to form the current Tire Industry Association, which now represents every interest in the tire industry.
Contact: Roy Littlefield
Phone: 301/430-7280
Fax: 301/430-7283
E-mail: info@tireindustry.org
Internet: www.tireindustry.org

TMC
The Technology & Maintenance Council of the American Trucking Associations is dedicated to the improvement of equipment, its maintenance and maintenance management of all on- and off-board technologies that support trucking in order to benefit society through the highest standards of transport productivity and safety.

Members enjoy working relationships with manufacturers, federal agencies, state trucking associations and other groups. TMC’s membership includes fleet maintenance, information technology and logistics professionals, educators and technicians. Associate members represent a broad array of OEM and aftermarket manufacturers and suppliers.

TMC hosts two yearly meetings along with the TMC SuperTech national technician skills competition. Meetings feature a full slate of technical sessions and more than 100 Task Forces where TMC Recommended Practices (RPs) are created and updated. In addition to its biannual RP Manual, TMC produces a variety of publications, including two newsletters, a quarterly magazine and a technical journal.
Contact: Robert Braswell
Phone: 703/838-1763
Fax: 703/684-4328
E-mail: tmc@trucking.org
Internet: www.truckline.com

TRALA
The Truck Renting and Leasing Association is a voluntary, non-profit national trade association that provides a unified and focused voice for the truck renting and leasing industry.

TRALA’s membership includes more than 120 suppliers and approximately 400 leasing and rental firms.

The renting and leasing industry, with nearly $25 billion in annual revenue, is responsible for approximately 40 percent of all new Class 3 through 8 commercial registrations and maintains nearly one million trucks on the road today.

More than 500 top-level executives attend TRALA’s annual meeting, which includes a technology fair with exhibits from more than 50 suppliers, manufacturers and others allied to the industry. This year’s annual meeting is April 2-5 at the Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix. TRALA also hosts an annual Washington Leadership Briefing in November.
Contact: Anne Riser
Phone: 703/299-9120
Fax: 703/299-9115
E-mail: ariser@trala.org
Internet: www.trala.org

UTA
The Used Truck Association is the only organization dedicated to supporting those involved in the used truck industry. It is comprised of used truck professionals and associated businesses committed to strengthening the used truck industry. The UTA is dedicated to providing a source of direction in the areas of professionalism and ethics, while promoting the highest standards of service and conduct. It provides a platform to foster the sharing of knowledge and supply resources to support the efforts of those involved in the used truck industry.

The association provides education and training for those involved in the used truck marketplace and promotes the image of used truck dealers nationwide and in Canada, as well as the used truck industry as a whole.
Contact: Eddie Walker
Phone: 877/438-7882
Fax: 817/438-8392
E-mail: eddie@uta.org
Internet: www.uta.org

Marketing Groups
In addition to the industry’s associations and organizations, aftermarket marketing groups help members leverage collective purchasing advantages, launch uniform marketing campaigns, implement new programs and technologies and access product and repair data.

Heavy Duty America
Heavy Duty America, or HDA Parts Network, is a heavy-duty truck parts marketing group started in 1982 by 12 distributors. Its members are heavy-duty aftermarket distributors with more than 500 warehouses throughout the U.S. and Canada.

The group’s goal is to use its 100 years of heavy-duty aftermarket experience to provide programs, services and pricing to benefit its membership. One such program is HDA Technology Advantage, designed to manage its members’ business transactions electronically, eliminating time-consuming paperwork and tracking. Another program offered is the Service Partner program, which supports and strengthens the relationship between members and heavy-duty service outlets, or installers, in their markets. The network is dedicated to increasing the personal net worth of its distributors through these programs and services.
Contact: Pat Biermann
Phone: 314/291-3345
Fax: 314/291-1018
E-mail: pat@hdamerica.com
Internet: www.hdamerica.com

Power Heavy Duty
Power Heavy Duty was formed in July 1994 and is one of four groups that fall under the Elite Automotive Marketing umbrella. Power Heavy Duty has approved programs with key heavy-duty manufacturers and offers some centralized billing.

The organization’s goal is to help the independent distributor and service specialist stay competitive in today’s market. The group’s collective purchasing power can earn its members rebates that help them be more competitive and profitable in their market area.

Power Heavy Duty also offers territory protection and seeks current member input when evaluating new members.
Contact: Brett Upton
Phone: 866/350-8126
Fax: 281/485-8886
E-mail: powerheavyduty@aol.com
Internet: www.powerheavyduty.net

Truck Pride
Truck Pride is part of one of the largest auto and heavy-duty parts distribution and marketing organizations in North America. The group offers quality brand name replacement products in addition to a line of Truck Pride branded products. Truck Pride also offers its members manufacturer buying programs from more than 120 major national brand vendors.

The group’s Truck Service Experts is comprised of marketing and business programs for the independent repair shop. The program includes group identification and marketing tools on a national scope, which allows repair shops to receive many benefits of a national franchise at an affordable and subsidized cost.
Contact: Bill Burns, Mark Willis and Melissa Jolls
Phone: 800/243-4934
Fax: 203/488-2104
E-mail: bill.burns@iwdinc.com; mark.willis@iwdinc.com; meljolls@earthlink.net
Internet: www.truckpride.com

VIPAR Heavy Duty
VIPAR Heavy Duty serves the needs of its distributors and vendor partners by providing value-added, channel-specific tools that enable them to best serve their customers.

The groups’ supplier programs leverage the network’s purchasing power to develop competitive programs emphasizing brand-name parts, while its marketing services focus on building corporate and product brand awareness, with a key concentration on national fleet programs, the VIPro TruckForce service center program, supplier promotions and brand management, to name a few.

VIPAR Heavy Duty also offers members extensive technological support, with tools including v-Enterprises, MSDS eService and a parts cross-referencing system.
Contact: Jeff Paul
Phone: 815/788-1700
Fax: 815/788-1900
E-mail: info@vipar.com
Internet: www.vipar.com

This year there was a number of innovative new product introductions and informative literature releases that appeared in the Showcase and Literature Review departments of this magazine. To make it easy for you to inquire about these items, each was accompanied by a Reader Service Number that allowed you to fax or mail a Reader Service Card request for additional information to be provided by the appropriate manufacturer.

Nine years ago we were proud to introduce the first annual Top 20 collection, a listing of Showcase and Literature Review items that generated the most inquiries from those Reader Service Cards.

This year we once again present, in alphabetical order by manufacturer, the most popular product and literature items (10 each) featured in Truck Parts & Service magazine during 2007. The results of our Top 20 products and literature are based purely on the number of reader inquiries each item received during 2007. Inquiries generated from advertising messages were not included in our count.

New Brake Catalog
A new Meritor Brake, Trailer Axle and Wheel Attaching Parts catalog now is available from ArvinMeritor, Inc. It includes information to support recent product launches, such as the Price Point Brake Hardware Kits and Clearance Sensing Automatic Slack Adjusters.
Twenty-six pages of reference material have been added, and a quick-reference guide for brake hardware kits and unlined brake shoes enables you to find what you’re looking for. Labeled, exploded views of various components also are featured.
ArvinMeritor, Inc.

Chrome Accessories Catalog
New from ArvinMeritor, Inc. is the Euclid Chrome And Stainless Steel Accessories catalog. This full-color catalog features bumper hardware, exhaust products, exterior accessories, front wheel products, lighting products, simulators and more.

Included is an index by part number for easy reference. Detailed descriptions and pictures accompany each product, and charts illustrate product selection information.
ArvinMeritor, Inc.

Drums, Rotors and Trailer Hubs Catalog
A new product catalog, Drums, Rotors and Trailer Hubs, now is available from ArvinMeritor, Inc.

The new catalog covers the most popular drums, rotors and trailer hub assemblies offered by the company. The front section offers detailed information about identifying brake drums and diagnosing common problems that lead to the failure of brake drums. It also includes information to support Preset by ArvinMeritor trailer hubs and associated service kits. Preset by ArvinMeritor hubs are available for TN/TQ and TP trailer axles.
ArvinMeritor, Inc.

Air Systems Program
ArvinMeritor’s Commercial Vehicle Aftermarket launched a Meritor All-Makes Air Systems offering.

The program will feature an array of more than 1000 part numbers, including outright and remanufactured air valves, remanufactured air dryers, cartridges and service components, remanufactured air compressors, air brake hose assemblies and fittings.

The outright valve program will feature 50 of the fastest moving part numbers and more will be added throughout the year, according to the company.
ArvinMeritor, Inc.

Splash Guard Protection
Betts Spring Company recently introduced the DirectFlex system, a combination of the company’s spring steel mud flap hanger and its ChannelFlap.

The system reduces the problems of lost or torn mud flaps and destroyed hangers from curb pinches, says the company. The system is constructed of a non-welded, alloy spring steel that is pre-fastened to its mounting bracket with vibration-resistant Huck fasteners.

The company has designed four frame brackets that cover all current drill patterns for retrofitting mudflaps to vehicles.
Betts Spring Company

Parts Catalog
A parts catalog now is available from Fleetline, featuring components such as tandem fenders and mounts, quarter fenders and mounts and mud flap hanger brackets.

Each part is described in detail and is accompanied by pictures with dimensions of the products. Each product’s part number and weight also are highlighted in the brochure.

You’ll also find that ordering policies and contact information are included in the full-color brochure.
Fleetline Products

Tool Guide
Impact Sockets, Chisels & Attachments now is available from Grey Pneumatic. This catalog has more than 150 pages full of product information on the company’s different types of sockets, drivers, wheel service items, impact chisels, impact socket displays and more.

Each product type has its own section, complete with pictures and full descriptions. Flip to the back of the brochure, and you’ll find a conversion chart, warranty information and safety rules from the company.
Grey Pneumatic

3-Way Universal Test Strips
Penray has introduced the TS200 3-way universal test strips designed for all heavy-duty coolant types, including extended-life coolant (ELC).

The test strips determine the freeze point as well as check for contamination and chemical protection in cooling systems using conventional coolants and ELCs. Test strips provide results in minutes, according to the company.
Penray

Master Lighting Catalog
Peterson Manufacturing Company rounded out its 60th anniversary by offering its 2006 Master Catalog. It reflects the addition of nearly 250 new safety lighting and accessory items, and more than 2000 SKUs are available arranged in eight distinct product categories.

The catalog is color-coded which makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, the company says. The catalog features product listings and an expanded reference section, providing technical product information and federal requirements as well as a glossary of industry terms.
Peterson Manufacturing Company

LED Dot Lights
Peterson’s 171-series Piranha light emitting diode (LED) lights are called dot lights because they are about the same size as the gumdrops with the same name, according to the company. These amber and red one-diode LEDs meet federal requirements for clearance, side marker and ID lights.

A white utility dot light also is available. The new series of lights are hardwired for corrosion resistance and operate from 8v to 16v, according to the company.

The lights come with a rubber grommet that fits a 3/4 inch hole.
Peterson Lighting Co.

Electrical Catalog
Catalog number LT1005 is available from Power Products. This updated electrical products catalog features information on coiled electrics, connectors, wire, cable, electrical tools, switches and much more.

Detailed descriptions and pictures accompany each product and a part-number-to-page-number index also is included for easy reference, says the company.

Exclusive to Power Products branded lines, the power protection warranty program delivers the protection your customer expects and deserves, the company says.
Power Products/PDC

LED Lighting Products
Power Products has an extensive line of light emitting diode (LED) lighting products to fit every application with standard plug connections and mounting options. The HP4 pin square diodes are said to give maximum light output with 88 percent less amperage than incandescent lamps, the company says.

The company’s potted circuit boards provide corrosion and vibration resistance for uniform performance, according to the company. The lights are sealed in impact-resistant polycarbonate housings.

They are reported to meet or exceed SAE and FMVSS108 standards.
Power Products/PDC

Electrical Systems Analyzer
Remy Inc. has developed the Intelli-Check II systems analyzer to measure voltage drop and provide instant on-vehicle performance evaluations of alternator and 12v batteries.

The all-in-one, handheld digital testing unit provides performance data for heavy-duty alternators and batteries as well as measures voltage drop on multiple electrical circuits.

The device is controlled by a microprocessor and allows users to store and retrieve data from up to 200 system tests.

The unit also performs a complete electronic and load-test evaluation of heavy-duty batteries without first recharging the batteries.
Remy Inc.

High-Temperature Alternators
Remy Inc. has introduced a new family of heavy-duty alternators. The three new high-temperature alternators – 28SI, 36SI and 40SI – are engineered and tested to ensure they work in underhood operating environments up to 125

January
21: Power Heavy Duty National Sales Conference, Las Vegas
866/350-8126
www.powerheavyduty.net

21: American Council of Frame and Alignment Specialists Business Meeting, Las Vegas
800/822-6887
www.acofas.org

21-24: Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week, Las Vegas
919/406-8808
www.hdaw.org

26-30: National Association of
Truck Stop Operators Convention & Exhibition, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
703/549-2100
www.natso.com

31-Feb. 2: Mobile Air Conditioning Society Convention & Exhibition, Orlando, Fla.
215/631-7020
www.macsw.org

February
3-7: Truck-frame and Axle Repair
Association Convention, Orlando, Fla.
800/232-8272
www.taraassociation.com

4-7: Technology & Maintenance
Council Annual Meeting, Orlando, Fla.
703/838-1763
www.truckline.com

5-7: Commercial Tire, Retread and Recycling Conference, Orlando, Fla.
301/430-7280
www.tireindustry.org

9-12: National Automobile Dealers
Association, San Francisco
703/821-7000
www.nada.org

25-28: The Work Truck Show, Atlanta
800/441-6832
www.ntea.com

March
5-7: Production Engine Manufacturers Association Spring Tech Conference, Branson, Mo.
417/998-5057
www.pera.org

9-11: Association of Equipment
Management Professionals
Management Conference, Las Vegas
970/384-0510
www.aemp.org

27-29: Mid-America Trucking Show, Louisville, Ky.
800/626-2370
www.truckingshow.com

April
2-5: Truck Rental and Leasing Association Conference & Exhibition, Phoenix
703/299-9120
www.trala.org

9-13: IWD/Truck Pride Annual Membership Meeting, Orlando, Fla.
800/243-4934
www.truckpride.com

14-17: SAE World Congress, Detroit
724/776-4841
www.sae.org

26-28: American Truck Dealers Convention & Exhibition, Grapevine, Texas
703/821-7116
www.nada.org

June
1-4: Heavy Duty Distributor Council Annual Business Conference,
Kananaskis, Alberta
519/631-9424
www.hddc.on.ca

16: Power Heavy Duty Advisory
Council Meeting, Houston
866/350-8126
www.powerheavyduty.net

26-28: The Great West Truck Show, Las Vegas
888/349-4287
www.truckshow.com

August
6-10: Association of Diesel Specialists Convention & Exhibition, Las Vegas
913/345-0288
www.diesel.org

14-17: Heavy Duty America Summer Expo, St. Louis
314/291-3345
www.hdamerica.com

21-23: Great American Trucking Show, Dallas
888/349-4287
www.gatsonline.com

September
15-20: Technology & Maintenance Council Annual Meeting,
Nashville, Tenn.
703/838-1763
www.truckline.com

20-25: Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network Annual Business Forum, Broomfield, Colo.
904/737-2900
www.cvsn.org

23-27: Production Engine Manufacturers Association Conference, Orlando, Fla.
417/998-5057
www.pera.org

October
4-7: American Trucking Associations Conference & Exhibition, New Orleans
703/838-1755
www.truckline.com

9-11: National Trailer Dealers
Association Convention, Orlando, Fla.
800/800-4552
www.ntda.org

7-9: SAE Commercial Vehicle
Engineering Congress & Exhibition, Rosemont, Ill.
724/776-4841
www.sae.org

19-24: VIPAR Heavy Duty Annual Business Conference, Las Vegas
815/788-1700
www.vipar.com

28-Nov. 1: Service Specialists Association Convention & Exhibition, San Diego
330/725-7160
www.truckservice.org

November
1-3: Automotive Parts Rebuilders
Associations “Big ‘R’ Show,” Las Vegas
703/968-2772
www.apra.org

2-6: National Automotive Radiator
Service Association Convention,
Las Vegas
800/551-3232
www.narsa.org

Dates/Places
To Be Determined:
Automotive Engine Rebuilders
Association
847/541-6550
www.aera.org

Truck-frame and Axle Repair
Association Fall Meeting
800/232-8272
www.taraassocoation.org

Mark Twain, one of America’s most quoted writers, had this to say about choosing one’s words: “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is really a large matter – it’s the difference between a lightning bug and the lightning.”

I sparked a little lightning with my October column, “The Customer Is Not Always Right,” by not choosing words carefully enough. While the column did generate some positive feedback, it also generated some negative response, which is to be expected when taking a stance on any issue.

In this case, I blurred the difference between will-fit and counterfeit and lumped them together as “substandard in quality and manufactured with little regard to safety and compliance.” I should have been more clear. Will-fit components have been a necessary part of the aftermarket for about as long as there has been an aftermarket. They have their place on distributor shelves and on customers’ vehicles, for those who choose them. Counterfeit parts are the result of stealing intellectual property, infringing on patents and knowingly bringing a product to market to deceive the customer. They have no place in the aftermarket.

My point then, as it is now, is that the marketplace bears the responsibility of doing what is right when it comes to sourcing and selling parts. I believe that the industry – from manufacturers to distributors to end users – are more aware of that now than ever before and are largely doing what is right. The reputable businesses do their due diligence when it comes to quality control.

The case of the New Jersey-based importer of Chinese-manufactured light-truck tires clearly shows the potential risks a business faces in today’s global market. Produced by China’s second largest tire manufacturer, the tires were alleged defective and blamed for two traffic fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ordered a recall of the approximately 450,000 suspect tires, for which the importer is responsible. Financially devastating, not to mention the potential liability for the accidents.

On a recent visit to one of the companies who took me to task on my October column, I saw the tools and processes this company used to source and test the products it manufactures and imports. During the tour, the vice president nicely expressed my intended point: We don’t sell products with our fingers crossed.

Can we all agree it is the distributor’s responsibility to sell value, to sell quality, to give every customer the best possible solution and support? Let’s hope so. After all, I would hate for lightning to strike twice.

To locate a specific product or service, turn to the Product Index and look up the category you need. To the right of the product or service name in the Product Index is a page number which will guide you to the appropriate Product Category. Each Product Category contains information about suppliers of that product or service.

Suppliers listed under each Product Category also are listed alphabetically in the Suppliers’ Directory.

To receive information, use the free Reader Service Cards, located in the magazine. Simply fill out the requested information and circle the number found beneath each Product Category or advertisement within the issue.

We encourage you to contact the suppliers you are interested in by using the free Reader Service Cards. You will receive information from those suppliers with bold-faced listings found in each Product Category.

To view a pdf of the Buyers’ Guide, click here.

To view a pdf, of the Suppliers’ Directory, click here.