Truckers Helper Trucking Software Award Of Excellence
AWARDED `02 AUG. 23

NOTES: For definitions of trucking terms in the film industry See Hollywood North, the PICTIONARY on my MOVIES page.

Words in UPPERCASE, used in definitions, will be found, alphabetically, in this glossary, with their own definitions.

(photo of logging TRUCK.)

GLOSSARY
(photo of my van)

Explanations of terms, places, and words used in my Truckin' pages.

CLICK ON A LETTER TO TAKE YOU TO THAT SECTION OF THE GLOSSARY;
1 “ 4, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

1

  • 1 TON: A TRUCK with a carrying capacity of one ton.

  • 318: A V8 diesel motor producing 318 horsepower, made by General Motors. A very common motor in trucks in the `70s. Used extensively by Greyhound, in their buses. Known as a `Screamin' Gimmy' because of the high whine produced by the turbo.

  • 4 X 4: A VEHICLE that has power to 4 WHEELS.

  • 18 - EIGHTEEN

  • 2 story - See TWO STORY.

    A

  • `A' FRAME: Two; poles, pipes, or beams, that form a triangle, with a third leg of; cable, pole, or pipe. A block or pulley is usually suspended from the top of the pyramid. Used for lifting.

  • `A' TRAIN: A TRACTOR pulling a SEMI TRAILER, 30 to 53 feet, with a short TRAILER, or PUP, 25 to 35 feet, following, by means of REACH and PINTLE HOOK. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • ALASKA: A state of the U. S. A. but North West of CANADA. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • ALL WEATHER ROAD: A road that is built on solid ground and can be used all year round as opposed to a WINTER ROAD. See WINTER ROAD.

  • ASSHOLE: A bad or inconsiderate driver.
    ASSHOLE 1: A driver who sweeps his truck out and leaves the mess in the parking lot.
    ASSHOLE 2: A driver who throws his PEE BOTTLE out the window. A good driver puts it in his litter bag. I empty mine, on the gravel at the edge of the rest area or down a drain. Then I rinse the bottle in a sink, or a mud puddle, and reuse it.
    ASSHOLE 3: A driver who throws his LITTER BAG out the window. I empty, or throw, mine into refuse containers in rest areas, or when I fuel up.

  • AUXILIARY: Supplementary or additional. The second of two transmissions.

  • AXLE: A metal shaft inside an AXLE housing that connects the driving WHEELS to the differential.
    Also: The entire unit of AXLE, AXLE housing, differential, WHEELS, and TIRES.

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    B

  • B. C.: See BRITISH COLUMBIA.

    BACKHOE
    (Tractor with an excavator on the back)
    A backhoe is essentially a farm tractor with an excavator on the rear
    and a front end loader (Commonly called a bucket) on the front

  • `B' TRAIN: A TRACTOR pulling two SEMI TRAILERS. The lead unit having a FIFTH WHEEL at the back to attach the second SEMI TRAILER or PUP. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • BACKHOE: A, farm tractor with an EXCAVATOR on the back, and, usually, a bucket, front end loader, on the front.

  • BAFFLE: A partial wall, or BULKHEAD, used within a TANK to stop the liquid cargo from sloshing back and forth.

  • BEACH: Near the ocean. Generally, the VANCOUVER area. To take a load to the Beach. I.e.: from Smithers to BURNABY.

  • BEAVER TAIL: The drop, of the DECK of a TRAILER, or TRUCK, behind the rear axel(s), to facilitate the loading of self propelled cargo. I.e. CATERPILLAR TRACTORS can climb onto the back of the TRAILER, over the TIRES and down into the center portion of the double-drop DECK. (For photo: See TRUCK.)

  • BED BUG HAULER: The driver of a truck full of BED BUGS.

  • BED BUGS: Furniture.

  • BED TRUCK: A large FLAT DECK used in the oil patch. Along the sides of the deck are poles, or pipes, that fold up to make an A frame, or gin pole. Near the back is a fifth wheel that can be folded under to make a clear deck. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • BELCARA: A mountainous, seaside, park in Port Moody, B. C.

  • BELLY BIN: Compartments built below the DECK of a TRAILER, with doors that open outwards, for storage of cargo or tools.

  • BELLY DUMPS: Similar to HOPPER BOTTOMS. They are separated into compartments with openings under the trailer. Such trailers are usually used for the spreading of gravel, loam, or sand. The doors at the bottom of the hoppers can be opened fully, or partially, to control the rate of discharge of the cargo.
    Belly dumps usually have one or two `V' shaped compartments that run parallel with the length of the trailer. (For photo: See     `TRAILER'.)
    OMAHAS have two or three `V' shaped compartments which are perpendicular to the length of the trailer. In `78 we sprayed the inside of the Omaha's with diesel fuel to keep the gravel from sticking to the sides while we surfaced part of the Liard Hwy. At 40 below, it didn't help. We still had to beat the sides of the trailers with large hammers to get the gravel out.

  • BLADDERS: Large canvas/rubber bags used to hold liquid products then rolled up and put under the trailer so the highboy can be used for other commodities on the return trip.

  • BINDER: See Cinch

  • BOOM STICK: A log that is long, thick, and straight enough to be used to make a boom. The ends are drilled so a boom chain can be passed through.

  • BOOMER: See Cinch

  • BOOSTER: An axle system that can be clipped onto the back of a truck or trailer to give the vehicle a larger carrying capacity. Usually used on the back of lowbed trailers or cement trucks. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • BOTTLE: A thick walled TANK that has only one compartment and no BAFFLES. Used to haul propane, butane, or other products under high pressure. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • BOX: The containment area on a trailer or the back of a truck, IE: gravel box. Also; Slang for VAN.

  • BREAK DOWN LORRY: English, for a tow truck.

    BULKHEAD
    (High Boy trailer with bulkhead.)
    A wall mounted on the front of a trailer to protect the cab.
    (Tractors that don't have bull boards must pull trailers equipped with bulk heads.)
    (Photo `04 Burnaby, B. C. Canada) (At the studio of `Kingdom Hospital'.)

  • BRITISH COLUMBIA: Most Westerly province in the Dominion of CANADA.

  • BULK HEAD: A dividing wall to from separate compartments. (Movable bulk heads are used in Reefers to control temperatures. I.e.; to separate frozen foods from products that shouldn't be frozen.)
    A wall mounted on the front of a TRAILER to protect the CAB. (TRACTORS that don't have bull boards must pull TRAILERS equipped with BULKHEADS.)

  • BULL PEN: A HIGHBOY that has sectional wooden sides, and curved metal rods, that go from side to side, to hold a TARP for a roof. The original CONVERTIBLE as it can be used as a VAN or a HIGHBOY. The sides, in sections, and rods, are stowed against the BULKHEAD, when the TRAILER is used as a HIGHBOY. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • BULL BOARD: A structure behind the CAB of a TRUCK used to hang chains and other necessities. Its main purpose is to protect the CAB from shifting loads.

  • BULLDOZER: A TRACTOR with a blade on the front end used to push, or bulldoze; earth, rocks, or trees.

  • BUNK: A metal frame consisting of a cross beam and two uprights for holding LOGS or POLES. Sitting on a cup and saucer so it can turn on a LOGGING TRUCK or strapped to the DECK of a HIGHBOY. The upright sides are often hinged so they can be released for ease of unloading.
    Also: See SLEEPER.

  • BURNABY: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • BUS: A VEHICLE designed to carry passengers. Usually thought of as large, such as a tour bus or school bus. But 15 passenger vans are often licensed as busses.

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    C

  • `C' TRAIN: Similar to an `A' TRAIN but the converter dolly has two REACHES, or tow bars, and the LEAD TRAILER has two PINTLE HOOKS. Often the tow bars are at an angle, crossing each other.

  • CAB: The control room on a TRUCK, where the driver sits.

  • CAB FORWARD: The CAB is over the motor but slightly forward, allowing a lower roof line. The STEERING AXLE is also further back allowing the VEHICLE to turn tighter corners. A very common design in BUSSES. (For photo: See CAB'.)

  • CAB OVER ENGINE: A HIGHWAY TRACTOR that has no hood between the grill and the windshield. The driver's seat is over the engine. (For photo: See CAB'.)

  • CAMPER: An RV unit, the base of which, fits into the BOX of a PICK-UP TRUCK. (For photo: See `RV'.)

  • CAN: Slang for CONTAINER.

  • CANADA: Second largest country in the world. Largest and most Northerly country on the continent of North America.

  • CANOPY: A cover for the BOX of a PICK-UP TRUCK. (For photo: See `RV'.)

  • CANUCK: Citizen of CANADA.

  • CANVAS: A type of material used for TARPAULINS.

  • CAR CARRIER: A vehicle designed to transport smaller automobiles, such as cars and PICK-UP TRUCKS. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • CARGO: The payload. The commodity, liquids, solids, gasses, boxes, lumber, equipment, etc. being hauled, in or on a TRUCK or TRAILER.

  • CARGO CHAINS: Chains of various length to hold cargo. The government requires that such chain be of T70 strength steel. At one time the only type of tie down, they are, now, often replaced by load straps.

  • CARIBOO VALLEY: A large area in central BRITISH COLUMBIA. Famous for cattle ranching and gold mining.

  • CAT: Short for CATERPILLAR.

  • CAT WAGGON : Slang for a six wheel drive articulating rock truck made by Cat.

  • CATERPILLAR: A brand name of: equipment, for construction and farms. and diesel motors.

  • CATERPILLAR TRACTOR: A TRACTOR with tracks or metal plates, as opposed to a rubber TIRE TRACTOR, to keep the TRACTOR from sinking into soft soil.

  • CATTLE LINER/TRUCK: See LIVESTOCK.

  • CATTLE PROD: A long tube containing batteries and a coil which builds up the current and is used to shock cattle to make them move.

  • CEMENT: A gray powder. One of the ingredients used to make CONCRETE.

  • CEMENT MIXER: A machine, more commonly a TRUCK, used to mix CEMENT, more accurately, CONCRETE. The ingredients are added to the machine, or the Truck, and the barrel of the machine rotates. Paddles on the interior walls of the barrel mix the ingredients. The paddles are at an angle so that by reversing the direction of the rotation the concrete will rise out of the barrel.

  • CEMENT TRUCK: A TRUCK, usually a PNEUMATIC TRAILER, that carries CEMENT. Also slang for a CONCRETE MIXER. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • CHAINS: See SNOW CHAINS or CARGO CHAINS.

  • CHASSIS: The frame of a VEHICLE. Also: A TRAILER that is frame only, used for hauling CANS. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • CHICKEN COOP: A CHINA TOP foiled with cages for live chickens. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • CHICKEN COOP: WEIGH SCALE (Don't ask me why, but Yankees refer to WEIGH SCALES as `Chicken Coops'. (For photo: See `WEIGH SCALE'.)

  • CHINA TOP: A HIGHBOY that has a hard roof and canvas sides that can be slid back like a shower curtain. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • CHINCH: A metal, lever, device which locks itself. Used for pulling a chain tight. The law also requires that the handle be tied closed as sometimes they will pop open.

  • CHIP; TRUCK, OR TRAILER: A vehicle designed for transporting potato chips, and other confections.

  • CHIP; TRUCK, OR TRAILER: An open roof van, with possum belly, used for the hauling of WOOD CHIPS, and/or HOG FUEL. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • CHIPS: See WOOD CHIPS.

  • CHIQUITA CHECK: see IMMIGRATION INSPECTION

  • CLUB CAB: A TRUCK CAB that has a back seat but no rear doors. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • CO DRIVER: The second driver in a TEAM. The one, not, behind the wheel. Slang for PASSENGER. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • CO PILOT: Slang for CO DRIVER, or the person sitting in the PASSENGER SEAT

  • COE: Cab Over Engine. (For photo: See CAB'.)

  • COFFIN: A, narrow, CRAWL-IN, SNAP-ON, SLEEPER which utilizes the back window of the CAB as an entrance way. The driver has to crawl through the window opening with a drop of several feet on either side. (Also: CRAWL-IN; SNAP-ON.) (For photo: See CAB'.)

  • COMBINATIONS: A Train, Alberta Triple, B Train, C Train, Rocky Mountain Doubles, Set of Joints, Super A, Super B, Super C, Tractor and Trailer, Truck and Pup, Truck and Trailer, Wiggle Waggons.

  • CONCRETE: A product made from a mixture of; sand, cement, gravel, and water. A quicker drying concrete is made by adding fly-ash.

  • CONCRETE MIXER: A machine, or a TRUCK, used to mix CEMENT, more accurately, CONCRETE. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • CONESTOGA: (USA) Because it is similar in appearance to the old Conestoga wagons that crossed the Great Central plains of North America. See BULL PEN.

  • CONTAINER: A large metal BOX used to hold cargo. Unlike the BOX of a VAN TRAILER it can be lifted on and off a chassis and loaded onto a train car or a boat.

  • CONVENTIONAL: A HIGHWAY TRACTOR that has a long hood between the grill and the windshield. The driver's seat is behind the engine. (For photo: See CAB#2'.)

  • CONVERTER DOLLY: An AXLE, or two, supporting a FIFTH WHEEL, with a tow bar attached. For pulling a SEMI TRAILER behind a TRUCK, or another TRAILER. It converts a SEMI-TRAILER to a full TRAILER.

  • CONVERTIBLE: A TRAILER that can be converted from one type to another. Generally, various forms of a HIGHBOY. One from has a DECK that folds up to become sides. Covered with a TARP it becomes a grain TRAILER because there are hoppers under the DECK. Another type has no sides but has tanks underneath so it can be used as a TANKER. (Also See BULLPEN.)

  • COQ: (Pronounced Coke.) Slang for COQUIHALLA HIGHWAY or COQUIHALLA PASS.

  • COQUIHALLA HIGHWAY, COQUIHALLA PASS: Highway 5, through the mountains, between Hope and Kamloops, B. C.

  • COQUITLAM: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • CORN BINDER: Slang for International TRUCKS because International was well known for its manufacture of farm equipment, including corn binders.

  • COVERED WAGON: (USA) Because it is similar in appearance to the old Conestoga wagons that crossed the Great Central plains of North America. See BULL PEN.

  • COW CONDO: A two story, or split level, LIVESTOCK TRAILER. A vehicle designed to carry two levels of livestock.

  • COW TOWN: Slang for Calgary, Alberta. Calgary is famous for cattle and beef.

  • CRASH: Sleep. To crash, to fall asleep.

  • CRANE: A DERRICK, designed to swivel, on a stationary, or mobile, base.

  • CRAWL-IN: A SNAP-ON SLEEPER that has the bed tight against the CAB. The opening in the CAB dose not extend to the floor. (Also See: COFFIN; SNAP-ON.) (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • CREW CAB: A TRUCK CAB that has a back seat and rear doors. (For photo: See CAB'.)

  • CRUMMY: A TRUCK with a tall passenger compartment added behind the CAB. Behind the passenger compartment is a smaller container for saws and other equipment. Usually used to carry logging crews into the bush. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • CUBE VAN: A 1 Ton VAN with a large BOX, or compartment, replacing the body of the VAN. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • CUMMINS: A brand of diesel motor.

  • CUP AND SAUCER: A system of two lubricated plates. The lower plate or saucer sits on the chassis of a TRUCK behind the CAB or on a TRAILER. The cup sits on the saucer with lots of grease between so it will turn freely. On the cup is mounted a BUNK.

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    D

  • D7: A type and size of CATERPILLAR Tractor made by the CATERPILLAR company. The largest is a D10. The most common sizes are 7 & 8.

  • DAY CAB: A CAB with no SLEEPER, used for short trips.

  • DECK: The area: on a TRAILER; or the back of a TRUCK; for carrying cargo. Usually open, suck as a FLAT DECK, or HIGHBOY, but sometimes covered as a CHINA TOP or BULL PEN.

  • DERRICK: A tall frame with tackle for hoisting heavy weights. The upper part of an OIL RIG. The boom on a CRANE.

  • DIM SWITCH: The control that changes headlights from high power to low power, or dim. Also slang; for a person who isn't very bright.

  • DIP STICK: The rod, or flat flexible strip of metal used to measure the oil in a motor. Also slang; for a person who is a bit of a dip.

  • DISNEY EXPRESS: Slang for MOTORWAYS, a general freight company.

  • DITCHMOND: Slang for Richmond, B. C. because of the large ditches along the sides of the streets.

  • DOLLIES: See; DOLLY, LANDING GEAR, STEER ABLE DOLLIE.

  • DOG HOUSE: The cover over the motor. In a short nose, or COE, TRACTOR the motor takes up part of the cabin space. The dog house separates the driver and the engine compartments, protecting the driver from fumes and noise.

  • DOG LOGGER: A type of TRAILER that is pulled by a LOGGING TRUCK. Essentially a one, or two, axel JEEP, with a log bunk mounted over a POLE TRAILER, in place of a logging bunk. IE: replace the fifth wheel on a jeep with the bunk from a pole trailer, slip the fifth wheel pin of the JEEP into the hole on the POLE TRAILER where the pin for the logging bunk was. You now have three, or four, axles supporting the load instead of two. Plus you can stretch out the pole for long loads. This proved to be an ineffective system as it was hard on the rear tires. It has generally been replaced by moving the JEEP to the TRUCK and hitching a POLE TRAILER, or TRI-AXLE TRAILER, behind the jeep

  • DOLLY: Noun, LANDING GEAR. Verb, to dolly, to wind down the Landing Gear and detach the TRAILER from the FIFTH Wheel. As in, "Dolly off that TRAILER."

  • DOUBLE ASSHOLE 1: A driver who pees in the parking lot. A good driver will walk to the edge and pee on the gravel so it doesn't bake on the pavement, and stink, in the sun.
    DOUBLE ASSHOLE 2: A driver who poos in the parking lot. If you can't make it to the outhouse, poo in a plastic bag, and dispose of the bag, properly.

  • DOUBLE DROP: A flat deck TRAILER whose DECK drops at the rear, ahead of the tires as well as at the front of the trailer, but deeper than a single drop. This puts the deck closer to the ground than a single drop as the DECK drops below the top of the TIRES.

  • DOVE TAIL: [(USA) See Beaver Tail.]

  • DOZER: A TRACTOR with a blade on the front.

  • Draw bar: See TONGUE, or REACH.

  • DRIVE WHEELS: The WHEELS that supply power to the ground. Usually the back AXLE on a TRUCK or TRACTOR.

  • DRIVERS: See DRIVE WHEELS.

  • DRY VAN: A VAN that doesn't have a REEFER unit. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • DUAL: Two. As in, Dual WHEELS.

  • DUAL WHEEL: Two WHEELS beside each other on each end of the same AXLE.

  • DUALIE: A pick-up TRUCK with DUAL WHEELS, giving better stability when carrying top heavy loads, such as CAMPERS. (For photo: See `RV'.)

  • DUCK BOARD: A small platform built over the CAB of a TRUCK to protect the CAB of the TRUCK and to give scalers or drivers a place to stand while they direct the loading of the TRUCK.

  • DUMP; TRUCK or TRAILER: A TILT DECK with an open top box, rather than a FLAT DECK, and a TAIL GATE rather than doors. (For photo: See `TRUCK' &/or `TRAILER'.)

  • DYNAMITE: Verb, to dynamite the brakes. To push or pull, depending on the make, the air release button that activates the brake chambers on the TRUCK, TRACTOR, or TRAILER.

    E

    EXCAVATOR
    ( Excavator in a deep hole)(Photo `04 Gastown (Vancouver), B. C. Canada)

  • EATON: A brand of TRUCK parts, mainly transmissions and rear ends.

  • EYE: A ring at the end of a Tongue to connect to a PINTLE HOOK. The eye fits over the lower tooth of the PINTLE HOOK and a clamp locks down over the top keeping the eye from bouncing out. (For photo: See `PINTLE HOOK'.)

  • EIGHTEEN WHEELER: See TRACTOR TRAILER. Called 18 because a rig had 18 WHEELS. With the advent of `B' TRAINS a rig has 26 WHEELS, SUPER `B's have 30.

  • EXCAVATOR: Commonly called a BACKHOE, it is actually a power shovel with the bucket facing backwards so that it digs towards itself.

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    F

  • FIFTH WHEEL COLLAR: See PIN LOCK

  • FIFTH WHEEL: A flat metal platform near the rear of a HIGHWAY TRACTOR, TRAILER, or TRUCK, that allows a TRAILER to turn and tilt. The FIFTH WHEEL has a wedge shape cut out of the back of it to guide the FIFTH WHEEL PIN into the center. A locking mechanism holds the PIN in and allows it to swivel 360 degrees.

  • FIFTH WHEEL PIN: The PIN under the front of a SEMI TRAILER that locks into a FIFTH WHEEL so the TRACTOR can tow the TRAILER. (For photo: See `FIFTH WHEEL'.)

  • FIFTEEN SPEED: A style of transmission.

  • FIRE TRUCK: A TRUCK, or TRACTOR TRAILER, designed to carry men, and equipment, for fighting fires. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • FLAT DECK: A TRUCK with a FLAT DECK, of wood, or metal, for carrying CARGO. May have a FIFTH WHEEL that folds below the DECK level. (Also slang for HIGHBOY.) (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • FLAT TOP: The top of the sleeper is the same height as the top of the cab. See TURTLE

  • FLOAT: See OIL FIELD FLOAT

  • FORD: Brand name of a TRUCK.

  • FREIGHTLINER: Brand name of a TRUCK.

  • FRIGHTLINER: Slang for a FREIGHTLINER truck

  • FRUITLINER: Slang for a FREIGHTLINER truck

  • FULLER: Brand of transmission.

  • FURNITURE VAN, TRUCK &/or TRAILER: A vehicle that is designed for the ease of loading and unloading bed bugs. Some trailers have two sets of doors on the side as the trailer may contain furniture for more than one customer. A load of furniture is usually quite light so the tractor will often have a drome box behind the sleeper. This box can be used to hold more furniture but is often used as a large living quarters for the driver. Man and wife driving teams will equip this room with bathroom and kitchen, etc. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

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    G

  • GARLIC CITY: Slang for Edmonton, Alberta

  • GIN POLE: See `A' FRAME.

  • GLAD HANDS: Quick release fittings, that fit together like two hands shaking, for the purpose of joining two hoses that carry air pressure for the operation of brakes.

  • GOAT: A short TRACTOR with a rear door on the cab. The FIFTH WHEEL can be raised, hydraulically. Only one airline is used for the trailer. The GOAT slips under a trailer, the driver steps out the rear door, connects the emergency air line, steps back in the cab, raises the fifth wheel, which means he doesn't have to crank up the LANDING GEAR, then moves the trailer to where he wants it, drops the fifth wheel, disconnects the air line, opens the fifth wheel, from a switch in the cab, and pulls out from under the TRAILER. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • GOOSE NECK: The drop, of a TRAILER, from the front, at the FIFTH WHEEL.

  • GRAIN BIN: A trailer designed to haul grains, wheat, barley, oats, etc. Usually a hopper bottom, with square, funnel, type compartments, with square openings.

  • GRAIN TRAIN: A RIG, consisting of: TRACTOR; SEMI TRAILER; & TRAILER, or SEMI TRAILER. Trailers are usually of the HOPPER BOTTOM style and quite often of the same colour pattern. Often, the TRACTOR will have matching colours.

  • GRAPE VINE: A hill on highway 5, just North of L. A.

  • GRAVEL TRUCK: A type of DUMP TRUCK used to haul; gravel, loam, sand, etc. By controlling; the tilt of the BOX, the speed of the TRUCK, and the opening of the TAIL GATE, a fairly even spread of the Cargo can be obtained. (For photo: See `TRUCK' &/or `TRAILER'.)

  • GREAT LAKES: The five Great Lakes are, in order of size: Lake Huron; Great Lee Lake; Lake Superior; Great Slave Lake; and Lake Winnipeg. These are the largest lakes in Canada and among the largest lakes in the world.

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    H

  • HAYES: Brand name of a TRUCK.

  • HAYMACK: Slang for a HAYES chassis with a MACK COE cab)

  • HAYPETE: Slang for a HAYES chassis with a PETERBILT COE cab)

  • HAY SHAKER: Slang for a HIGHBOY, used in the oil patch, to move equipment.

  • HEADACHE RACK: See Bull board.

  • HEEL BOOM: A type of loader that picks up logs by one end.

  • HIGH BED: Slang for HIGHBOY.

  • HIGHBOY: A TRAILER with a FLAT DECK. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • HIGHWAY TRACTOR: A TRACTOR for pulling TRAILERS on the highway. Instead of a DECK it has a FIFTH WHEEL on the chassis. Some TRUCKS used in the oil patch have FIFTH WHEELS that can fold down into the DECK so they can be used as a TRACTOR. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • HOG FUEL: A mixture of bark, sawdust, branches and wood chips that are of little value. Usually used as a fuel in pulp mills to fire the boilers and produce electricity.

  • HOPPER BOTTOM: A TRAILER with two or three cone shaped compartments, usually, covered with a TARP. The top of the TRAILER is open and the bottom of the hoppers are closed with small doors at the point of the cone. Often used for moving grain. The small doors in the middle of each compartment are centered over holes and the grain pours through to a conveyor system beneath.

  • HORSE TRAILER: A trailer designed to pull horses. Often a small PONY style, to go behind a PICK-UP truck. Perhaps that is where that style of trailer gets its name.

  • HUBOMETER: A meter that is mounted on the hub of a TRAILER WHEEL, to keep track of the distance traveled by the TRAILER, so the owner knows when it is time to service the TRAILER.

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    I

  • IMMIGRATION INSPECTION CHECK: A place along a highway where vehicles are stopped to see if they are transporting illegal immigrants. See WETBACK.

  • INTEGRAL: CAB or SLEEPER. The CAB and SLEEPER are one unit.

  • INSULATED: Insulated trailers are used to keep cargoes warm, or cold. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • INTERNATIONAL: Brand name, TRUCKS and farm machinery.

  • IRON: See Snow Chains

    J

  • JACKKNIFE: The TRACTOR turns at a sharp angle to the TRAILER. Often necessary when backing into a tight parking spot. Often happens unexpectedly when driving on ice.

  • JEEP: A miniature SEMI-TRAILER that is designed to be attached between a TRUCK, or TRACTOR, and another SEMI-TRAILER, so as to distribute the load of the other SEMI-TRAILER between the axles of the jeep and AXLES of the TRUCK, or TRACTOR. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • JEWELLERY: See SNOW CHAINS.

  • JOCKEY BOX: A compartment on the frame of a tractor, under the side of a trailer, or beneath the bunk of a COE; the purpose of which is to hold; tools, chains, boomers, food, virtually anything that the driver doesn't want in the cab. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • JOINTS: Not the kind you smoke. Connection or joining. Each CONVERTER DOLLY is connected to the TRAILER above it by a FIFTH WHEEL and the SEMI TRAILER or TRUCK in front of it by a PINTLE HOOK. Therefore each CONVERTER has two joinings or joints.

  • JUMP SEAT: Slang for PASSENGER SEAT, the passenger being the only one who can jump out of the truck in case of an accident.

    K

  • KENWORTH: Brand name of a TRUCK.

  • K W: Short for KENWORTH.

  • K WOBBLER: Slang for KENWORTH.

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    L

  • L. A. Los Angeles. A city in California, U. S. A.

  • LANDING GEAR: Dollies. Legs, on a gear system, that can be wound down, or up, to support the front end of a SEMI TRAILER or a CONVERTER.

  • LEAD: the first TRAILER in a TRAIN or SET OF JOINTS. IE: TRACTOR, TRAILER, and PUP, the TRAILER would be called the LEAD. (For photo: See `SET OF JOINTS'.)

  • LEGS: Metal tubes, usually secured with pins. Generally found on the nose of a PUP to prevent it from NOSE DIVING. On the very front, in addition to the `LANDING GEAR' which is further back.

    There are generally two tubes, one so the leg can be moved out from the edge of the trailer, so the tractor can pull out after the leg is down, and the second tube which allows the leg to slide down to hit the ground.

    Usually there is one set on each front corner but often only one corner. Sometimes there is a leg only in the center of the trailer. (For photo: See `LANDING GEAR'.)

  • LITTER BAG: A bag to hold garbage. A simple one is made by cutting the top off a gallon jug, putting a weight in the bottom and lining it with a plastic grocery bag.

  • LIVESTOCK. A TRUCK /or TRAILER designed to transport animals, other than human, cattle, sheep, pigs, or other livestock. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • LOAD: (Noun) Slang for CARGO.

  • LOAD: (Verb) To put a cargo in, or on, a TRUCK, or TRAILER.

  • LOAD STRAPS: Wide canvas like belts that are long enough to go over the top of a load and used to hold the cargo onto the DECK. Much controversy revolves around putting twists in the belts. Some drivers claim that by twisting the belt they don't whistle when the TRUCK rolls down the highway. Other drivers claim that by putting twists in the straps they don't vibrate and this keeps them from wearing through where they rub against the cargo. Many weigh scale officers write tickets for having twists in the straps because they claim it reduces the strength of the strap.

  • LOADER: A vehicle or machine used for loading. Usually much larger than a fork lift. Sometimes with forks like a fork lift but usually with: a bucket; for loading gravel, sand, dirt, etc. or; a grapple for loading logs.

  • LOG: A tree, after it has been felled and the top and branches have been removed.

  • LOG DOGGER: See DOG LOGGER

  • LOGGING TRUCK: A TRUCK specifically designed for carrying LOGS, or POLES. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • LONG BOX - A VAN TRAILER, or SEMI TRAILER, of more than 40 Ft.

  • LOW BED: A trailer with either a single, or double, drop deck and an extra strong frame for carrying large heavy loads. Low beds will often have a BEAVER TAIL which makes it easier to load mobile equipment. (For photo see `TRAILER' &/or `RIG'.)

  • LOW RISE: See LOW PROFILE

  • LOW PROFILE: A TRAILER that uses smaller profile; TIRES, WHEELS, and a different frame design to put the bottom, and therefore the DECK, closer to the ground, allowing for the hauling of taller, or more, cargo and still remain within maximum height limits. See `TRAILER'.)

  • LOWER MAINLAND: An area in between the mouth of the Fraser River, on the Strait of Georgia, to the West and where it comes out of the Fraser Canyon, near Hope, B. C., to the East, and between the mountains on the North and the U. S. border on the South.

  • LW: A heavy duty KENWORTH CONVENTIONAL used for logging and construction.

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    M

  • MACK: Brand name of a TRUCK. (Some consider to be the toughest truck built. Usually used for heavy construction.)

  • MARITIMES: See MARITIME PROVINCES.

  • MARITIME PROVINCES: The four most Easterly of Canada's ten provinces. Situated on the Atlantic Coast. New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

  • MEXICO: See U. S. M.

  • MINI MOTOR HOME: Smaller than a MOTOR HOME. Usually made from a VAN. The roof is removed as are the sides, from the drivers compartment back. Then an RV is built onto the frame, behind and over the drivers compartment. (For photo: See `RV'.)

  • MONKEY: SLANG driver of a STEERING DOLLY.

  • MOTOR HOME: A large RV, with all the amenities of home. Class A MOTOR Homes are as big as Greyhound busses. The other group are slightly smaller. (For photo: See `RV'.)

  • MOTORWAYS: a general freight company. that was owned by a rail company which was owned by a grain company, and in turn bought out many trucking companies, then suddenly closed their doors.

  • MUD FLAP: A square, or rectangle, usually of rubber, mounted behind TIRES, to prevent; rocks, mud, rain, etc. from flying into the face of the driver behind, which could distract him and cause him to have an accident. Required, by law on: bicycles; BUSES; cars; motorcycles; and TRUCKS.

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    N

    NOSE DIVE
    (Front of a trailer, nose to the ground)
    (Lee, feet in the air, hangs from a bar)
    USING A RAILWAY JACK, BEAR TRIES TO LIFT THE NOSE

  • NAVISTAR: New owners of the International brand of TRUCKS.

  • NEW WESTMINSTER: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • NORTH VANCOUVER: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • NORTH WEST TERRITORIES: That part of CANADA, North of the 60th parallel. Bounded on the East by the Atlantic Ocean, on the South West by the Y. T. (Yukon territories), on the North West by the Beaufort Sea, and culminating in the North at the North Pole.

  • NOSE DIVE: When a TRAILER has too much weight in the front and it teeters on the dollies or the ground is too soft and the dollies sink, allowing the front of the TRAILER to come in contact with the ground.

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    O

  • OFF HIGHWAY: Usually private industrial areas. Not open to the public.

  • OIL FIELD: An area where there is a lot of oil exploration and production. I.e.; rigs drilling new wells or pumps pumping oil out of existing wells.

  • OIL FIELD FLOAT: A HIGHBOY with foldable landing gear and a curved nose. The landing gear is folded up out of the way and the nose is lowered to the ground so that equipment or vehicles can be driven up onto it. The nose is then lifted off the ground by winch and cable. Most have curved edges or rollers across the rear so loads can be dragged up over the rear end.

  • OIL RIG: Commonly called an oil well. It is the derrick and superstructure that can be seen above ground drilling the well.

  • OIL WELL: A hole in the ground that produces, hopefully, oil.

  • OMAHA: A TRAILER that is partially, top to bottom, divided into two, or three, funnel like compartments. The bottom of the bins have rectangular openings that stretch across the width of the TRAILER. Flap like doors can be opened to various degrees to control the rate of flow of the contents. Usually used for spreading sand or gravel.

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    P

  • PACIFIC: Brand name of a TRUCK. (A company, based in B. C., that made trucks that could stand up to hard work but got bought by Peterbilt so they could get there trucks into Canada.)

  • PADOODLE: A vehicle with one headlight, one not working.

  • PASSENGER: A person who should not be in a truck, if they are not an employee of the company, for insurance reasons.

  • PASSENGER SEAT: The seat on the far side of truck, from the driver's seat.

  • PATHETIC TRUCK: Slang for a PACIFIC TRUCK

  • PEE BOTTLE: An empty refreshment container, usually plastic, that is used by drivers when they wake up in their sleeper and it is too cold, or too far, to go outside, or to the restroom. You see them all along the highways, clear plastic bottles, half filled with yellow liquid. See: ASSHOLE

  • PEELERS: LOGS that are of a size and type to make veneer. Several sheets of veneer are glued together to make a sheet of plywood.
    Also: Girls, strippers, who take their clothes off in bars or strip clubs.

  • PETE: Short for PETERBILT.

  • PETERBILT: Brand name of a TRUCK. (Considered to be the Cadillac of trucks, lots of chrome, and fancy upholstery.)

  • PETERCAR: Slang for a PETERBILT.

  • PICK UP TRUCK: A small TRUCK with an open top, short sided BOX, mounted behind the CAB. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • PICKER: A small crane mounted on a TRUCK. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • PIN LOCK: A collar that goes around a FIFTH WHEEL PIN to prevent theft. It needs a key to install, and to remove it. (For photo: See ` FIFTH WHEEL '.)

  • PINTLE HOOK: A hook that can be opened and closed and is fastened to the back of a TRUCK or TRAILER for towing CONVERTERS or TRAILERS that have an eye on the end of a tow bar. Like the hook and eye on a ladies necklace.

  • PNEUMATIC: A TRAILER that uses air, or exhaust, pressure to push the cargo, I.e. cement, flour, out, usually, through a hose. A system invented by the late Ed Caron, founder of Caron transport in Edmonton, Alta. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • POE: Port of Entry. The first weigh scale, on that particular highway, after entering a state or province, on that particular highway.

  • POGO STICK: A pole, often spring loaded (to keep it upright) to keep the air lines, and electrical cable, organized and to keep them from getting damaged. If left lying on the frame they could fall under the TIRES, or onto the drive shaft, when not connected to the TRAILER.

    POGO STICK
    (Pogo stick on the back of a tractor.)
    Pogo sticks keep; air, and electrical, lines from falling on the ground
    yet allow enough slack they won't get pulled apart when the tractor
    has to turn at a sharp angle to the trailer. Many truckers use a spring
    or tarp strap connected high on the bull board instead of a pogo stick

  • POLE: A LOG that is long enough and straight enough to be used to hold wires high above the ground.

  • POLE TRAILER: A PONY TRAILER designed to haul logs, poles, beams, etc. Connected to the back of a TRUCK by means of a pole, or REACH, and a PINTLE HOOK. The axle assembly can move along the reach to accommodate different lengths of loads. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • PONY: A trailer that carries the full weight of itself and the load with only one set of axles. A dump type is often pulled by gravel trucks. Two, three, or four axles close together, with a long tongue near the ground that connects by a PINTLE HOOK to the back of the TRUCK. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • POP TRUCK &/or TRAILER: A vehicle that is designed for the ease of loading and unloading cartons, and crates, of soda pop. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • PORT COQUITLAM: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • PORT MOODY: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • POSSUM BELLY: The, lower, extended, cargo area of a LOW PROFILE, van style, TRAILER.

  • PRAIRIE PROVINCES: That portion of the prairies situated in the three central provinces of CANADA; Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.

  • PRAIRIES: That area of North America situated in the Great Central Plain. Stretching from the Arctic Circle to the Gulf of Mexico. Noted for its dry table land and famous for growing grain crops.
    Also: See PRAIRIE PROVINCES.

  • PUP: A short TRAILER, or the last TRAILER. IE: TRUCK and PUP or TRACTOR, TRAILER, and PUP. (For photo: See `SET OF JOINTS'.)

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    Q

  • QUINT: A type of fire truck that serves five purposes; ladder truck, pumper truck, tanker (Over 300 Gallons), hose truck (Over 800 Ft.), & Aerial Truck. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

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    R

  • RV (Recreational Vehicle): A VEHICLE designed to ease the comfort of travellers. The interior is usually equipped with; a bathroom, beds, sink, stove, etc.

  • REACH: A Tongue that extends from a TRAILER or CONVERTER to the PINTLE HOOK. Like the handle on a child's wagon.

  • REEFER: Again, not the kind you smoke. See REFRIGERATED

  • REFRIGERATED: TRAILER, or TRUCK, for keeping cargo cold or frozen.
    Also: the refrigeration unit at the front of the VAN that produces the cold air. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • RICHMOND: A suburb of VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • RIDING SHOTGUN: To ride in the PASSENGER SEAT.

  • RIG: Slang for TRUCK, or TRACTOR, any combination with one or more SEMI TRAILERS and/or TRAILERS. Slang for TRACTOR. Also: See OIL RIG.

  • RIM: Slang for WHEEL See WHEEL.

  • ROCKY MOUNTAIN DOUBLE: A TANDEM TRACTOR pulling a SET OF JOINTS consisting of a tandem CONVERTER and two long (45 - 53 Ft.) SEMI TRAILERS. (For photo: See #r.)

  • ROLL SIDE: A CHINA TOP whose sides pull down from the top, like window blinds, rather than from front to back, like window curtains.

  • RUBBER TIRED: A vehicle equipped with WHEELS, as opposed to a machine equipped with CATERPILLAR TRACKS.

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    S

    SADDLE TANK
    (Fuel tank under cab of a truck.)

    Saddle tanks are secured to the frame of the truck.
    (The mounting, or the tank, often incorporates steps into the cab)
    (Photo `04 Manzanillo, Mexico)

  • SADDLE TANK: A fuel tank that is strapped to the side of the frame. Like saddle bags on a horse.

  • SASKATCHEWAN TRIPLE: A TANDEM TRACTOR pulling a SET OF JOINTS consisting of two tandem CONVERTERS and three long (45 - 53 Ft.) SEMI TRAILERS. (For photo: See `RIG'.)

  • SAWDUST: The wood dust produced when a saw cuts through wood. Used to make imitation logs for fireplaces and pressed board.

  • SAWMILL: A factory that uses Logs as its raw material and produces lumber. By-products are sawdust, WOOD CHIPS, and HOG FUEL.

  • SCALE: See Weigh Scale.

  • SCREAMIN' GIMMY: see 318

  • SEATTLE: The largest city in North West (not including Alaska) U. S. A.

  • SEMI TRAILER: A TRAILER that shares the forward part of the weight of its load with another vehicle. A TRAILER that has no front AXLE(s) but a PIN underneath, designed to be towed with a FIFTH WHEEL; on a CONVERTER; or HIGHWAY TRACTOR. (For photo: See TRAILER'.) (For photo of FIFTH WHEEL, or FIFTH WHEEL PIN: See FIFTH WHEEL'.)

  • SET OF JOINTS: A HIGHWAY TRACTOR and a SEMI TRAILER pulling one, or two, SEMI TRAILER(s) connected by (a) CONVERTER DOLLY(ies).


    SET OF JOINTS IN A BRAKE CHECK ON THE COQUIHALLA HWY.(Set of joints in a brake check on the Coquihalla Hwy.)
    This is often, mistakenly, called an `A' Train. It is sometimes, correctly, referred to as `Wiggle Wagons'.
    The tractor is a Freightliner with a Mercedes Benz motor.
    The lead is a, loaded, short, dry van and the pup is a chassis with an, empty, 40 Ft. container.

  • SHACK: Slang for CAB. Often referred to by size. 30 inch, 60 inch, 120 inch. A 120 inch shack may have 60 inches of driver CAB and 60 inches of SLEEPER. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • SHITTER: A TRAILER or TRUCK used to haul SHITTERS.

  • SHITTERS: Slang for cattle because the floor of the TRAILER or TRUCK will be covered with shit by the time you reach your destination. And guess who has to clean it out.

    SHORT BOX - A VAN TRAILER, or SEMI TRAILER, of less than 40 Ft.

  • SHOTGUN: To ride shotgun. Sit in the passenger seat. From the days of the Old West when the passenger riding beside the stagecoach driver carried a shotgun.

  • SINGLE AXLE: One AXLE on the back of a TRACTOR, TRUCK, or TRAILER. I.e. a pickup is a single AXLE TRUCK. (For photo: See AXLE.)

  • SINGLE DROP: A TRAILER that has a main DECK that is lower than the deck above the fifth wheel, but not as low as that of a double drop. The back of the DECK is usually level with the top of the TRAILER TIRES. (For photo: See TRAILER.)

  • SIT-DOWN: A SLEEPER that has the bed tight against the CAB and the entrance way is open to the floor. The driver can switch from sitting on the seat to sitting on the bed.

  • SKID: To drag, or push, rather than carry,

  • SKIDDER: A VEHICLE, or, MACHINE, used for Skidding LOGS. (For photo: See LOADER.)

  • SLED: SLANG See - STEERING DOLLY.

  • SLEEPER: The area that contains the bed. An integral part of most newer HIGHWAY TRACTORS. Some are as simple as an insulated, and panelled, container while the more elaborate ones have; TV, stereos, refrigerators, and microwave ovens.

  • SLEEPER CAB: A HIGHWAY TRACTOR with a SLEEPER. Usually used on trips requiring the driver to be away for a day or more. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

    SNAP-ON SLEEPER
    (A narrow sleeper behind the cab of a gravel truck in Mexico.)

    A coffin, or Crawl-In, snap-on, sleeper on a
    conventional tractor. Newer snap-ons are wider.
    Note the door on the end and the step underneath.
    Original coffins did not have emergency exits,
    their only egress was through the back window
    of the cab.
    (Photo `04 Manzanillo, Mexico)

  • SLIM LINE: A COE with no SLEEPER. A slim silhouette CAB, or day CAB, for city work. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • SNAP-ON: A SLEEPER that mounts behind the CAB of a conventional TRACTOR and is bolted to the frame. (Also See: COFFIN; CRAWL-IN.)

  • SNOW CHAINS: Chains that are designed to be put on the TIRES of VEHICLES to aid in moving through snow or over ice.

  • SOFT SIDE: A VAN that uses a soft material for the sides, rather than a stiff material such as aluminum. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • SOW: An oversized BED TRUCK. The truck's bed is usually longer and wider than a normal BED TRUCK, and the truck usually uses larger tires. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • SPREAD AXLE; See WIDE SPREAD.

  • SPRING BREAK UP: The time of year when the frost comes out of the ground and the ground is too soft to drive on.

  • STACK: Exhaust pipe that goes up the side of the CAB, rather than underneath it.

  • STAINLESS STEEL TANK: Used for pure products; milk, water, acids, DO NOT TOUCH; acids are; clear, colourless, and odourless and will eat through your clothing, skin, and bones very quickly. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • STAND-UP: A SLEEPER with a high enough ceiling that the driver can stand up. The bed is back from the wall of the CAB and usually has closets on either side of the entrance way.

  • STEERING DOLLY - A converter dolly with two sets of axles. the front axel(s) is (are) steer able by a man in a small CAB, between the axel groups, and under the load.

  • STEERING AXLE: Usually the front AXLE on a VEHICLE. The ends of which are designed to swivel so that the TIRES can swing away from the line of the VEHICLE causing the VEHICLE to turn a corner. (For photo: See `AXLE'.)

  • STEP DECK: Similar to a low bed but usually of lighter weight.

  • STICK: The long lever that sticks through the floor for shifting the gears. In some COEs it is a short stick protruding through the top of the dog house.

  • STICK RIG: A LOGGING TRUCK.

  • SUPER: An extra AXLE under the TRAILER. Originally in the middle of the LEAD as in a Super `A' TRAIN. Now at the rear of the LEAD, making the LEAD a TRIDEM TRAILER, as in Super `B' TRAIN. (For photo: See `TRAILER' &/or `RIG'.)

  • SUPPORT LEGS: See LEGS

  • SWAMPER: A person, labourer, who rides with the driver to help him load, or unload. (Every driver's dream is to have a gorgeous blonde for a SWAMPER.)

  • SWAMPER SEAT: Slang for PASSENGER SEAT

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    T

  • TAG AXEL: An extra AXLE to support a heavy load but can be lifted off the ground to save wear and tear on the TIRES when the TRACTOR, TRUCK, or TRAILER, is empty.

  • TAIL GATE: A single door that lies horizontal, rather than standing vertical. The tailgate is hinged at the top, or bottom, so it can be opened parallel to the TRUCK deck.

  • TANDEM: Two AXLES close together. (For photo: See `AXLE'.)

  • TANK: A container for holding gasses or liquids. Generally cylindrical in shape. Large tanks are found on the chassis of TRUCKS for transporting bulk products. i.e.; tank TRUCK or tanker. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • TARP: Slang for TARPAULIN.

  • TARPAULIN: Used to cover a cargo to keep it clean and dry. Formerly made of canvas, modern tarpaulins are made of poly.

  • TEAM: Driver and co driver. One sleeps while the other drives. Every so many hours they switch. Consequently the members of a team have to get along very good and have complete confidence in the other driver, if they wish to get a good sleep.

  • TEAR DROP: A TRAILER which has the cargo compartment in the shape of a tear drop, usually used on pneumatic TRAILERS. This style of TRAILER was designed by the late Ed Caron, founder of Caron transport in Edmonton, Alta. (For photo: See TRAILER.)

  • TEXAS: A state in the U. S. A. Bordering on the Gulf of Mexico.

  • THE BEACH: Slang for VANCOUVER, (Or immediate area) B. C.

  • THE BIG SMOKE: Slang for Toronto, Ontario. Because of all the air pollution.

  • THIRTEEN SPEED: A type of transmission. Often called thirteen speed Mickey mouse because they are operated by air and the air lines would freeze up on cold days, before the invention of air dryers, making them impossible to shift.

  • TILT DECK; TRUCK, or TRAILER: A FLAT DECK that is designed to tilt so the cargo will slide, or roll, on, or off the back of the deck.

  • TIRE: The round rubber that sits on your WHEEL and gives you a smooth ride, if it doesn't go flat.

    TIRE RACKS
    (Tire in a tire rack mounted beneath the cab of a gravel truck in Mexico.)
    UNDER A TRACTOR (Photo `04 Manzanillo, Mexico)
    (Empty tire rack beneath a highboy.)
    UNDER A TRAILER (Photo `04 Burnaby, Canada)
    (At the studio of `Kingdom Hospital'.)

  • TIRE RACK: A frame under a CAB, usually under a TRAILER, to hold a spare TIRE.

  • TONGUE: A wooden, or metal pole that extends from the front AXLE of a wagon or TRAILER.

  • TOW TRUCK: A TRUCK used for towing or recovering vehicles that can't move on their own. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • TRACTOR: A machine designed for towing. I.e. farm TRACTOR, CATERPILLAR TRACTOR, HIGHWAY TRACTOR. Slang for a HIGHWAY TRACTOR. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • TRACTOR TRAILER: Rig. A HIGHWAY TRACTOR pulling a SEMI TRAILER.

  • TRAILER: A VEHICLE, i.e.: waggon, fitted with a DECK, BOX, TANK, etc. A VEHICLE with Axles, front and rear, designed to be pulled by a TRACTOR or TRUCK. The front AXLE designed to swivel for steering and equipped with a reach, or tow bar, to attach to a TRACTOR or a leading trailer. Also, commonly used slang for a SEMI TRAILER. (For photo: See TRAILER'.)

  • TRAIN: A connected line of VEHICLES. A TRACTOR pulling two SEMI, TRAILERS (without a CONVERTER. The front SEMI having a rear mounted FIFTH WHEEL pulling a TRAILER or a second SEMI.

  • TRANSFER TRAILER: A TRAILER with a BOX that can be moved off of the trailer and into the back of the TRUCK pulling the TRAILER. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • TRI-AXLE TRAILER: A logging TRAILER with two axles in the rear, a single axle in the front and a log bunk mounted on the frame, between the axle groups. A reach and pintle hook connects it to the LOGGING TRUCK. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • TRIDEM: Three AXLES together. (For photo: See `AXLE'.)

  • TRUCK: A motorized VEHICLE, essentially a self propelled waggon, used to carry goods on a FLAT DECK or inside a BOX. Trucks are usually designated by size or type of cargo it will carry. I.e.: 1 Ton; 5 Ton; LOGGING TRUCK; TANK TRUCK.

  • TRUCK AND PUP: A TRUCK pulling a CONVERTER and a PUP.

  • TRUCK AND TRAILER: A TRUCK pulling a TRAILER. Commonly used to haul gravel as in a DUMP TRUCK puling a PONY PUP or a TRANSFER TRAILER.

  • TURTLE: An INTEGRAL CAB whose roof line is low. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • TWIN STACKS: Two STACKS, one on each side of the CAB. (For photo: See `STACK'.)

  • TWIN STICKS: Some TRUCKS have two transmissions, a main and an auxiliary, and therefore two shifting levers.

  • TWO STORY EDSEL - A COE made by FORD. The upper part of the CAB was mounted on an air bag suspension that would keep the top part of the CAB vertical even though the lower part might tilt with the surface of the road. Going into a corner, the TRUCK would lean but the CAB would straighten up. This was very scary for the drivers who were not used to it. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

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    U

  • U. S. A.: United States of America. Middle country; in location, and size, on the continent of North America.

  • U. S. M.: United States of Mexico. Most Southerly, and smallest, country on the continent of North America.

    V

  • VACUUM: A self loading BOTTLE that uses vacuum pressure to load its cargo. (For photo: See `TRUCK'.)

  • VAN: A TRAILER, or TRUCK, with an enclosed cargo space, I.e. walls, roof, and doors, to contain CARGO and keep it dry. (For photo: See `TRAILER'.)

  • VAN CONVERSION: A VAN with the roof replaced by a cap that holds beds, windows, etc. to give added; sleeping, cupboard, and head, space. (For photo: See `RV'.)

    WALK-IN SLEEPER
    (Cab over tractor with walk in sleeper.)
    COE WITH WALK-IN SLEEPER.
    (Photo `04 Manzanillo, Mexico)
    (Conventional tractor with walk in sleeper.)
    CONVENTIONAL WITH WALK-IN SLEEPER.
    (Photo `04 Manzanillo, Mexico)

  • VANCOUVER, B. C.: The largest city in South West CANADA.

  • VOLVO: Brand name of a TRUCK.

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    W

  • WAGGON: A VEHICLE with front and rear AXLES, pulled by a REACH or TONGUE, which is usually connected to the front AXLE, for steering. The body of the waggon is designed to carry loads and varies in size from a child's pull toy to one with a 50 ton capacity.

  • WALK-IN: A CAB and SLEEPER with a large enough opening, and a high enough ceiling, that the driver can walk into it from the CAB. The bed is back from the wall of the CAB and usually has closets on either side of the entrance way. Usually a conventional TRACTOR with a SNAP-ON, or integral, SLEEPER. One manufacturer did produced a COE with a WALK IN SLEEPER. (For photo: See `CAB'.)

  • WASH: Washington. Most North-Westerly state, other that Alaska, in the U. S. A.

  • WEIGH SCALE: The bane of all truckers. A way for governments to make money. At one time scales were a place where a trucker could get an over dimensional permit and the scaler would tell the driver where road construction was and where narrow bridges were so that he knew not to take over wide loads on those roads. Now the Gov't only wants to collect money and all they do is weigh the TRUCKS and fine them if they are overweight. Permits are sold over the phone and the scale operators have no idea about road conditions or temporary restrictions.

  • WELL: A hole in the ground. I.e.; Oil well, gas well, water well, wishing well.

  • WEST COAST: That part of North America that meets the Pacific ocean. Between California and Alaska the forests are noted for large trees. The states of Oregon and Washington along with the province of B. C. have based their economy on the logging in these coastal rain forests.

  • WEST VANCOUVER: A suburb VANCOUVER, B. C.

  • WESTERN STAR: Brand name of a TRUCK.

  • WETBACK: Mexicans who enter the U. S. A. illegally. Many Mexicans, who foolishly believe that life in the USA is a bed of roses, swim across the narrow Rio Grande [(Spanish for big river.) (It didn't look all that big to me.)]

  • WHEEL: The round metal structure that holds a TIRE. Often called a rim.

  • WHITE: Brand name of a TRUCK.

    WEIGH SCALE (CHICKEN COOP)

    (Weigh scale on side of highway US 666.)

    POE (Port of Entry) for the State of Utah on Hwy. US 666. On the Eastern outskirts of Monticello (Photo `05 Monticello, Utah)

  • WHITEHORSE, Y. T.: The largest city in North West Canada. Capital of Y. T.

  • WIDE SPREAD: Axles spaced further apart than normal. Wider spacing allows the carrying of more weight. I.e. a 36,000 Lb. limit can be increased to 40,000#. This is fairly common in the USA. However an increase in the weight on the rear of the trailer must be accompanied by a decrease in the weight on the front of the trailer to maintain the same overall maximum of the trailer. These trailers are seldom seen in Canada as no driver wants greater weight on the rear of the trailer in the winter, they would much rather have a greater weight on the drivers. Proponents of the spread axle system say it gives a smoother ride to the cargo. However it is more costly in increased tire wear as cornering is harder on tires that are spread apart.

  • WIGGLE WAGGONS: See: SET OF JOINTS. So called, because the pup likes to wiggle around a lot.

  • WINCH: A roller or drum around which is wrapped a cable or rope. The drum is turned, usually by a motor, to pull in, or let out, the cable.

  • WINCH TRACTOR: A TRACTOR with a winch behind the CAB.

  • WINTER ROAD: A road that only exists in the winter. Built on the frozen ground it is only so much water or mud in the summer.

  • WOOD CHIPS: Pieces of wood of a fairly consistent size used in the manufacture of pulp.

  • WOOD WAGON: A TRUCK loaded with lumber.

  • WRECKER: See TOW TRUCK.

    To The TOP of This Glossary

    X

    Y

  • Y. T.: Yukon Territories. Most Westerly of the Canadian Territories.

  • YANKEE: Citizen of the U. S. A.

  • YANKEE LAND: See U. S. A .

    Z

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