Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/239108
"But that wasn't the right spec for us. Only Peterbilt seemed to hear what I was saying." Williams told his Peterbilt dealer representatives that he wanted to run his trucks at 1600 rpm instead of 2300 rpm. And that even though the PACCAR PX-6 was standard for typical medium-duty delivery operation, a PACCAR PX-8, rated to 270 hp, would be better able to deliver the high torque — 800 ft./ lbs. — he needed to run highway speeds efficiently. Additionally, an Allison automatic transmission would take individual driver shifting pattern variables out of the fuel efficiency equation. The dealer reps took that spec to Peterbilt engineering, confirmed that it was viable, and began delivering the first of eight new Model 337s before the end of 2012. To Hoelle's surprise, the first feedback regarding the new equipment wasn't found in fuel economy. "You talk about a morale builder," Hoelle says. "Our drivers were saying, 'Thanks for the Cadillac.' And we had customers calling us saying, 'Those are beautiful trucks!' And they're peppy. They do what they're supposed to do. "Now you see those beautiful Peterbilt lines and curves. It just screams class. There was suddenly just a perception out there that matched the way we want our products to be perceived." Drivers come back That morale boost spread to former drivers as well. Since the fleet change, three drivers who had left for other jobs have since returned. "They said, 'I heard you got new trucks.' I'm not sure that's the only reason they came back, but it sure makes a difference." Additionally, Peterbilt's air-ride suspension has minimized product damage "You talk about a morale builder. Our drivers were saying, 'Thanks for the Cadillac.'" — RF Supply Vice President Mike Hoelle Continued on page 18 FIRST CLASS l 17