Tristate 0601

Featured in this issue:

Volvo introduces all-newmotor grader line with

industry-leading production features

See article inside...

CORPORATE

Tom W. Zimmer, Chairman

DeWitt Boyd, President

Tom S. Zimmer,VicePresident/BranchManager

Donna Timmerman,Secretary/Treasurer

Rick Benjamin,AccountingManager

BILLINGS

Tom S. Zimmer, BranchManager

Rene Critelli, PartsManager

Boyd Benedict, ServiceManager

Terry May, HighwayTruckSales

Clark Coulter, EquipmentSales

Chris Linn, EquipmentSales

CASPER

Ron Catellier, BranchManager

Jim Russell, PartsManager

Mike Johnson, ServiceManager

Larry Steensland, Sales

Craig Parker, Sales

GREAT FALLS

Rob Simonich, ProductSupportManager

Mike Magee, Sales

SERVING YOU FROM FIVELOCATIONS

BILLINGSP.O.Box1298

5250MidlandRoad

Phone:(406)245-3188

FAX:(406)238-1501

GREAT FALLS5024Tri-HilFrontageRoad

Phone:(406)452-9551

FAX:(406)452-9831

BOZEMAN SATELLITE STORE

200FlossFlatRoad,Unit#1

Belgrade,MT

Phone:(406)388-5815

FAX:(406)388-5817

KALISPELL SATELLITE STORE

36JellisonLane,SuiteD

ColumbiaFalls,MT

Phone:(406)755-5891

FAX:(406)755-5897

MONTANA

Tri-State Truck & Equipment, Inc. Team

Printed in U.S.A.© 2006

CASPERP.O.Box340

1271NorthDerrickDrive

Phone:(307)472-1818

FAX:(307)472-3272

WYOMING

www.tste.com

Product News Find out how Volvo’s all-new, larger and more powerful G900 motor grader line can increase your productivity while holding the line on costs.

Product Improvements Find out what Volvo’s new B-series skid steer loaders and improved backhoe loader models have to offer.

The People Inside Veteran Truck Service Technician Jeff Lehfeldt shares his insights on changes in the industry and the challenges of staying on top of new technology.

Productivity Pointers Learn how Volvo’s tooth system and exclusive lubricants add value to your machines by keeping them running smoothly and economically.

Dear Valued Customer:

As we head into the busy spring and summer season, all of us at Tri-State Truck & Equipment are optimistic about the year ahead. Both the construction and energy industries appear to be on solid footing for another good year. With the approval of a new six-year highway bill, that important segment should also be shored up for a while.

Interest rates are edging up a bit, but that’s not all bad. Many construction-related costs have increased considerably in the past year or so and slightly higher rates may help reign in those increases a bit as we move forward.

So, all-in-all, we’re upbeat about where we are and where we’re going. At Tri-State, we’re working hard to find better ways to meet the needs of customers like you, throughout our territory.

One area of emphasis for us has been in expanding our product support efforts. The new satellite branches we’ve opened in Bozeman and Kalispell are examples of our commitment to better meet your service and parts needs. In conjunction with the new locations, we’ve also increased our service technician work force, which helps us respond more quickly and efficiently to any emergency repair needs you may have, as well as routine maintenance work you need done.

At Tri-State, our goal is to help you make your business successful and profitable. Because of the products we carry and the support we’re able to provide, we believe we can do that as well as anybody. As we move through 2006, we hope you’ll give us a chance to show what we can do for you. Feel free to give us a call at any of our branch locations and let us know what you need. I guarantee we’ll do our best to take care of you.

Sincerely,

DeWitt L. Boyd, President

DeWitt Boyd

Looking ahead to another good year

ARTICLESIN THIS ISSUE

TRI-STATE TRUCK & EQUIPMENT, INC.

A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

BILLINGS, MTP. O. Box 12985250 Midland RoadPhone: (406) 245-3188FAX: (406) 238-1501

GREAT FALLS, MT5024 Tri-Hil Frontage RoadPhone: (406) 452-9551FAX: (406) 452-9831

CASPER, WYP. O. Box 3401271 North Derrick DrivePhone: (307) 472-1818FAX: (307) 472-3272

www.tste.com BOZEMAN SATELLITE STORE200 Floss Flat Road, Unit #1Phone: (406) 338-5815FAX: (406) 338-5817

KALISPELL SATELLITE STORE36 Jellison Lane, Suite DPhone: (406) 755-5891FAX: (406) 755-5897

When Volvo decided it was time to update its motor grader line, it had a decision to make. It could take the basics from its proven and excellent 700 series and tweak it — or it could start with a “blank page” approach and begin at the beginning. Wanting to separate itself significantly from the competition, Volvo chose the latter.

“We wanted to make a machine that would set the industry standard,” said Sam Wyant, Volvo Vice President, Motor Graders. “With the new G900 series, we believe we’ve done that.”

The G900 series consists of seven models ranging from the 155-horsepower G930 up to the 265-horsepower G990. Included are two all-wheel-drive models (the G976 is the largest, most powerful all-wheel-drive grader on the market) that provide additional tractive effort and more rimpull when required.

“Each G900 model is heavier, has higher horsepower and is stronger than its counterpart in the previous Volvo lineup,” said Wyant. “What’s more, we also lead the competition in almost every category that measures a motor grader’s productivity.”

For example, rimpull (a measure of tractive effort) and blade-down force (the ability to push the blade into the earth and still keep the tires on the ground) are two areas where the new G900 series shines.

“Our rimpull leads the competition in almost every size class, and our blade-down force is a clear number one across-the-board,” said Wyant. “The end result of these performance features is increased productivity. For example, with greater blade-down force, an operator can cut into a hard-pack surface deeper and more effectively. Let’s say you need to remove four inches of such hard-pack. With competitive graders, chances are it will take two passes to get all four inches, but with Volvo’s industry-leading blade-down force, there’s a good chance you’ll get it all in just one pass. That’s the type of performance and productivity you can expect from the new G900 series.”


PRODUCT NEWS

Volvo introduces all-new motor grader line with industry-leading production features

Improved engine and power train Of course, grader productivity depends on much more than simply having the best specs. The G900 series delivers on all levels, starting with the all-new, Tier 3-compliant Volvo engine with three power ranges for maximum efficiency.

Each machine in the new G900 line of Volvo motor graders is larger and more powerful than its predecessor and features more blade-down force than any same-class competitive grader.

Volvo Motor GradersModel Operating Weight Engine Power

G930 34,300 lbs. 155-195 hp

G940 35,200 lbs. 175-215 hp

G946 (AWD) 36,700 lbs. 195-235 hp

G960 36,800 lbs. 195-235 hp

G970 39,000 lbs. 210-250 hp

G976 (AWD) 40,500 lbs. 225-265 hp

G990 46,300 lbs. 225-265 hp

Continued . . .

“The Volvo engine is the cornerstone of what we’ve done with the G900 series,” said Wyant. “With its ability to produce high torque at low engine speed, it’s ideal for delivering the responsiveness and fuel efficiency we wanted. We’re also very proud that we’re the first and, at this time, only manufacturer to produce a Tier 3-compliant motor grader.”

Beyond the engine, the G900 series has new axles, a newly laid-out power train, and a new transmission with an autoshift option. “We also offer as an option the industry’s first 11-speed transmission, which provides excellent low-end

gearing for maximum control and precision, as well as higher top-end travel speed,” said Wyant.

Hydraulic improvements Volvo turned to its innovative “Voice of the Customer” program to get input from motor grader operators about how to further improve the product. One of the things customers stressed was the importance of a topnotch hydraulic system.

“As a result of their feedback, we really focused on improving the hydraulics in the G900 series,” said Wyant. “A grader operator needs to be able to ‘feel’ what he’s doing through the controls — especially in a fine-grading application. We use Proportional Demand Flow (PDF) intelligent load-sensing hydraulics coupled with a main hydraulic valve that has been redesigned to produce a precise, instantly responsive earthmoving tool. Additionally, our wide-stance blade-lift cylinders coupled with the low-angle side-shift cylinder provide the most stable grading platform in the industry.”

Operator environment The operator environment of the Volvo G900 series of motor graders is everything you expect from a Volvo — safe, comfortable and productive.

ROPS/FOPS certified, the Volvo cab features expansive glass areas providing exceptional visibility. Inside the cab, operators remain comfortable for long shifts, thanks to noise and vibration control systems and a pressurized cabin with a constant flow of clean air from 10 well-placed outlets. All essential operator controls are mounted on a slide-and-tilt adjustable center pedestal. Low-effort pedals and short-throw levers help reduce operator fatigue and are located within easy reach.

“We know that if an operator is comfortable, he’s going to be more productive,” said Wyant. “That’s why we took so much care in designing the G900 series for maximum operator comfort and efficiency. Wherever possible, we did things the way operators told us they wanted them, right down to where the switches were placed and the overall layout of the cab.

“We’re convinced that in terms of comfort and capabilities, the Volvo G900 series is a step ahead of the competition,” added Wyant. “Certainly, we encourage anyone in the market for a motor grader to demo a G900 machine to learn firsthand how it can help boost productivity and lower owning and operating costs.”

For more information on any new G900 Volvo motor grader, contact your Tri-State sales representative or any Tri-State branch.

Operator feedback leads to Volvo grader improvements

. . . continued

The G900 graders use a Proportional Demand Flow load-sensing system for precise, responsive hydraulic control. An autoshift transmission, including the industry’s first 11-speed transmission, is available as an option on any new Volvo grader.

All the new Volvo G900 motor graders are powered by Volvo engines, renowned for their ability to produce high torque at low rpm. The units are the first Tier 3-compliant motor graders on the market.

In designing and building its second generation of skid steer loaders (the new B-series), Volvo has made numerous changes to improve performance. Foremost among the changes was the decision to replace the Kubota and Perkins engines with Volvo’s own engines.

“Volvo engines are among the cleanest-burning and most fuel-efficient engines in the world,” said Volvo Skid Steer Product Specialist Bill Sauber. “In addition to that, the four-cylinder, 16-valve diesel engines that go into our five skid steer models are also among the most powerful in the industry. When you compare them head-to-head with the

New series of Volvo skid steer loaders offers industry-leading power and fuel efficiency

competition, you’ll find that Volvo skid steers have the highest breakout force and highest axle torque in their respective classes. So, for ripping out tough material and putting power to the ground, we’re the best — and we do it while maintaining outstanding fuel efficiency.”

Beyond improving efficiency and power, Volvo has made many other significant improvements to its B-series skid steer loaders. Among them:

• The option of choosing between a traditional mechanical (hand and foot) control system or a hydraulic pilot control system (the only manufacturer currently offering a choice); • Improved serviceability (fuel filters mounted to rear door, sight gauges, 500-hour service intervals, 50-hour lube intervals);

• And a newly designed cab with additional comfort features and excellent visibility, especially at the top (very beneficial in truck loading).

With the industry’s widest range of attachments, the Volvo B-series skid steer loaders are ideal for any number of construction and agricultural applications. For more information on the units, please contact your Tri-State sales representative or the branch location nearest you.

Volvo Skid Steer LoadersModel Operating Weight Output Capacity Breakout Force

MC60B 5,624 lbs. 45.3 hp 1,400 lbs. 4,102 lb.-ft.

MC70B 5,801 lbs. 53 hp 1,500 lbs. 4,438 lb.-ft.




In addition to the skid steer loader makeover, Volvo has also made several recent improvements to its BL70 backhoe loader. One of the most significant changes was installing pilot controls as standard equipment. A fully automatic powershift transmission is also available.

Other new options include a loader attachment bracket with hook-on attachments; a new multipurpose (MP) joystick for easier hydraulic bucket operation; and a new slide-back seat with more conveniently located operator controls.

“The changes are designed to make the BL70 more productive and more user-friendly — and we’re certain they will accomplish that,” said Volvo Backhoe Loader Product Specialist Marcello Bargellini.

Backhoe loader improvements

The new B-series Volvo skid steer loaders feature powerful, fuel-efficient Volvo engines and outstanding visibility through the top for improved truck loading.


PRODUCT IMPROVEMENTS

Jeff Lehfeldt has been fixing large, long-haul highway trucks for 35 years — the last 16 at Tri-State Truck & Equipment in Billings. He says today’s units are harder to work on than the old ones, but they’re much better trucks.

“All the electrical and electronic componentry is the big difference between trucks then and now — and it is a big difference,” said Lehfeldt. “Everything is more technical now. We troubleshoot by using computers and error codes, where previously we used more intuition. But as far as the truck itself, the electronics maintain the system much better and make it work properly. As a result, today’s trucks run better, last longer and are more efficient than those of the ’70s, ’80s or even ’90s.”

The increasingly electronic nature of today’s trucks makes continuing education a necessity for truck technicians like Lehfeldt.

“If you don’t go to factory schools and learn the latest changes and repair and troubleshooting techniques, you’re going to be lost,” Lehfeldt pointed out. “Experience counts for a lot in this field, but there’s no substitute for education and training. I’ve been to numerous factory schools in Salt Lake City. Tri-State is really good about helping us keep up to date on the trucks and how to fix them.”

Dedicated technicians Lehfeldt is just one of the Tri-State Billings technicians dedicated to working on trucks. Others will switch over from heavy equipment, depending on need.

“I think we have a really good and professional group of truck technicians here,” Lehfeldt acknowledged. “Each knows what he’s doing. We make emergency road calls, but most of our work takes place here in the shop.”

Lehfeldt says, in his opinion, area trucking firms or owner/operators should look to Tri-State for their trucking needs because of its excellent combination of products and services.

“The trucks Tri-State carries are industry leaders. Volvo, Mack and Autocar are all high-

Continuing education keeps longtime Tri-State truck technician “in the know”

quality trucks that will run well and be cost effective for a long time. In addition, Tri-State backs them up with excellent parts and service support.”

Lehfeldt and his wife Nancy have two grown children and live just outside Billings. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, hiking and camping, mostly in the Snowy Mountains.


THE PEOPLE INSIDE

Jeff Lehfeldt, Truck Technician, Billings branch

With all the electronics in trucks today, Jeff says it’s crucial that technicians regularly attend factory schools to get the latest training on how to troubleshoot and make repairs quickly and efficiently.

What do you want from a tooth system? Number one, you want performance; number two, you want it to last a long time; and number three, you want it to be easy to use. Now, Volvo has introduced a new tooth system that delivers on all three counts.

“You can’t eliminate wear on a tooth system, but you can maximize service life which we’ve accomplished with strategic placement of wear

How Volvo’s new tooth system reduces wear and improves productivity

material,” said Volvo Customer Support Program Manager Jeff Logan. “Our tests show the new Volvo tooth system delivers more life than our top competitor, which means a lot of extra digging throughout the life of a machine.”

Volvo teeth have a self-sharpening feature that ensures good penetration and high productivity. High-quality steel helps provide maximum wear life, and a patented vertical locking device makes mounting quick and easy.

“Almost any tooth system will work well in soft dirt but the real test is how it performs when you get into hard rock,” said Logan. “With the Volvo tooth system, we think you’ll be very pleased with the productivity and longevity you get, even in the toughest application.”

The new Volvo tooth system will fit on all current Volvo excavators and loaders as well as earlier models. For more information on the system, contact the parts department at the Tri-State branch nearest you.

Volvo markets a full line of engine oils, hydraulic oils and transmission oils, designed specifically to ensure optimum performance and longevity for your Volvo equipment.

Volvo lubricants provide maximum protection for your Volvo equipment

Before buying a Volvo machine, you undoubtedly did your homework. You chose Volvo for the quality, reliability, productivity, longevity and overall value it delivers. Volvo believes you should choose your lubricants based on the same factors.

“If you choose to buy the cheapest lubricant you can find, you’re going to end up costing yourself a lot of money,” said Volvo Customer Support Product Manager Adrian White. “Volvo lubricants are designed specifically to meet Volvo equipment tolerances and specifications, and by doing that, they improve component performance and extend machine life. It’s really that simple. By choosing Volvo lubricants, you help ensure that your Volvo machine will run like it’s supposed to run and last like it’s supposed to last.”

“When you think about it, it only makes sense,” said Tri-State’s Billings Parts Manager Rene Critelli. “Who knows a Volvo machine better than Volvo? Nobody! And who has the most to lose if you’re not happy with the component life and overall performance you get from your Volvo machine? Volvo! So it stands to reason, they’re going to do everything they can to ensure the lubricants they make deliver the lowest possible owning and operating costs.”

Volvo lubricants include multifunction and ultra diesel engine oils; axle and transmission oils; premium gear oils; and super-hydraulic oils; as well as a wide range of greases. Talk to a Tri-State parts representative for more information on the oil best suited for your Volvo machine.

Volvo’s revolutionary new self-sharpening

tooth system ensures top performance in hard rock

digging and, according to Volvo tests, delivers 20

percent more life than a top competitive tooth system.


PRODUCTIVITY POINTERS

Call Us.

We’ll help you deal with all of your parts and service needs.

BILLINGS, MONTANAP. O. Box 12985250 Midland RoadPhone: (406) 245-3188FAX: (406) 238-1501

GREAT FALLS, MONTANA5024 Tri-Hil Frontage RoadPhone: (406) 452-9551FAX: (406) 452-9831

CASPER, WYOMINGP. O. Box 3401271 North Derrick DrivePhone: (307) 472-1818FAX: (307) 472-3272

BW 107794X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $29.95 AD-9 Cartridge Reman BW 109685X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $159.95 AD-9 Air Dryer Reman BW OR103010X . . . . . . . . . . . . . $24.95 R-14 Horizontal Relay Valve

BW OR286171X . . . . . . . . . . . . . $34.95 E-6 Outright Coreless Brake Valve

BW OR275491X. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10.99 D-2 Reman Outright Coreless

BOS4201002D75 . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Liberty II High-Back Black Cloth

BOS4201002D77 . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Liberty II High-Back Gray Cloth

DR 10459141 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $237.95 33SI Reman 135 amp -10/24 term.

DR 10459144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $218.95 33SI Reman 110 amp -10/24 term.

42MT-82 Reman 11 Teeth

DR 10461052 DR 10461055

$178.95

BENDIX AIR VALVES

ARVINMERITOR BRAKE SHOE KITS -

REMAN

BENDIX AIR GOVERNORS

ALTERNATORS

SEATS

STARTERS AND SOLENOIDS

Volvo D-12 $325.00 Mack E7 PLN $275.00 Cummins ISX $275.00

*Injectors not included, exhaust shims extra, as required.

Montana stores only.

SPECIALIMPROVE YOUR FUEL ECONOMY WITH AN

ENGINE TUNE-UP


PARTS & SERVICE SPECIALS

C.P.I.P.O. Box 1689C.R., IA 52406-1689

Change Service Requested

Presorted Standard

US Postage Paid

C.P.I.

Mike Magee,Salesman,

Great Falls, Kalispell

Terry May,Highway Truck Salesman,

Billings

Chris Linn,Equipment Salesman,

Billings

Clarke Coulter,Equipment Salesman,

Billings, Bozeman

Craig Parker,Salesman,

Casper

Larry Steensland,Salesman,

Casper

T H E E Q U I P M E N T Y O U N E E D . . .

. . . T H E Q U A L I T Y & E X P E R I E N C EY O U E X P E C T

CALL ONE OF OUR SALES REPRESENTATIVES TODAY AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS!

06-1

DeWitt Boyd,President

Tom S. Zimmer,Branch Manager,

Billings

Ron Catellier,Branch Manager,

Casper

BILLINGSP.O.Box1298

5250MidlandRoadPhone:(406)245-3188FAX:(406)238-1501

GREAT FALLS5024Tri-HilFrontageRd.Phone:(406)452-9551FAX:(406)452-9831

CASPERP.O.Box340

1271NorthDerrickDrivePhone:(307)472-1818FAX:(307)472-3272

BOZEMAN SATELLITE STORE200FlossFlatRoad,Unit#1

Phone:(406)388-5815FAX:(406)388-5817

KALISPELL SATELLITE STORE36JellisonLane,SuiteDPhone:(406)755-5891FAX:(406)755-5897

www.tste.com

Tristate 0601

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