Cody Graves

This week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week is a glimpse into the past of the trucking industry. Jake Iles of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, bought this 1934 GMC T-23 B truck and trailer brand new for $2,300 and used it to move cattle all over the state. Jake was the sole owner of this truck until the Iowa 80 Group acquired it from his family. The truck is unusual in that it has a sleeper cab, which was rare in that it has a sleeper cab, which was rare in the 1930s. The doors are angled back from the narrower front end to the wider sleeper. The trailer, which is equipped with vacuum brakes and a fifth wheel, was also manufactured by GMC. The truck has a 3-ton rating and mechanical brakes. This truck lacks all the creature comforts of modern rigs in that it has high noise levels, and didn’t have air-ride seats, which meant drivers felt every bump in the road. After picking up a load of cattle or hogs, drivers had to get them to market at a top speed of 35 mph. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

The driver of this rig has dedicated his life to the safety of his fellow truckers. Dean Croke is the principal analyst for DAT Freight and Analytics, and he has quite the backstory. Dean has been driving for most of his life, growing up in a family livestock haulage business in Australia. He’s driven around 2 million miles, including pulling some of the biggest road trains in existence. However, in the late ’90s, after losing a couple of drivers who fell asleep at the wheel, Dean decided to make a career change. He transitioned into data science and analytics. Since then, Dean has helped build predictive models to predict accidents and designed a sleep science program for truckers and their families, giving more than 650 sleep classes around the U.S. with amazing results. But that’s not all. Dean also owns a stunning 2003 Peterbilt 379 EXHD with a C15 Caterpillar engine and a 13-speed transmission. Dean’s truck is customized for comfort, with low-ride Bostrom seats; a new interior built and installed by the Chrome Shop Mafia in Joplin, Missouri; a 359 Corvette dash; twin sticks; and a custom overhead console. The sleeper features a lounge, two TVs, a 1,300-watt surround-sound stereo system, a fridge and even a game console. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details about the truck to [email protected].

In this week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week, we’re taking a trip back in time to look at an unusual vintage beauty. This 1926 Autocar Model 27 is a cabover dump truck, straight out of Pennsylvania, and a true relic of its era. With a chassis weighing in at 7,400 pounds and a hauling capacity of up to 22,000 pounds, it was the workhorse of its time. But, what sets this Autocar apart? Well, for starters, getting in and out of this rig is no easy feat. With a hand brake in the way, cramped cab space due to the engine placement, and a drive shaft for the radiator fan encroaching on foot space, it’s a challenge to settle in. And let’s not forget the unconventional placement of the gas pedal, sandwiched between the clutch and brake. Talk about inconvenience! Yet, despite its quirks, this Autocar was a crucial player in history. From commercial hauling to supporting troops in World War II, its versatility knew no bounds. And with 118,000 miles under its belt, it’s clear this truck has seen its fair share of hauls. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

On this week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week, we’ve rolled out the red carpet for this classy, luxurious rig. Dill McKinney works with his father at McKinney & Sons Transfer, a deeply rooted family-owned and -operated business with about 15 drivers. Dill’s fiancée, Yasmine Twilley, also works for the company, and the two have plans to expand the brokerage arm of the business. Dill’s pride and joy is this 2024 Peterbilt 389-X, affectionately known as Black Tie Affair. This limited-edition beauty boasts a Cummins engine pumping out 605 horsepower, paired with an 18-speed transmission, and reaches a top speed of 108 mph. But what sets this rig apart is its history. Dill and his father meticulously spec’d out this truck, making it the first they built together. Numbered 1120 to mark Dill’s birthday, it’s a symbol of their bond and dedication to the trade. When it comes to customization, Dill aimed for timeless elegance. From the Legendary Black exterior to the meticulously designed interior, every detail reflects his personal style and family legacy. Dill said he’s a sucker for pinstripes, so he did quite a few of them on the frame, the headlights and other places. And while hauling lumber, mulch and more across regional routes, Dill cherishes every moment on the road, especially when shared with his dad. Whether it’s riding motorcycles or hitting truck shows, their bond transcends work, making every journey an adventure. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].

You probably won’t see this truck trundling down the highway hauling a load — but you just might spot it at a truck show or a parade. Kate Whiting, driver and owner of KW Pony Express LLC, shows off this 1973 Kenworth W900A at events throughout the year. At shows, she blasts the band Warrant’s anthem “Cherry Pie.” The truck is named after the son, with its cherry-red paint job, and Kate always has a pie dish filled with red candies to hand out. Kate became a driver after attending her first truck show in 2014, where she was impressed by the relationships that formed between drivers and their trucks. She developed a fondness for the Kenworth A models. One day, when driving some back roads, she spotted one. She stopped to talk to the owner and spent the next year “bugging” him to sell it. In 2016 she got her wish, and she bought the truck that became Cherry Pie. Overall, Cherry Pie was in good mechanical shape, and after some scrubbing and brushing, they found the vibrant red and cream finish. Her son pointed out that it “looked just like cherry pie.” Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

This week, we’re journeying to explore the remarkable story of a trucker and his extraordinary 1958 Kenworth Bullnose. This iconic rig is powered by a 420-horsepower Cummins NTC380 engine and features a 5×4 Spicer transmission. With a top speed of 78 mph, it’s a true legend on the road. This Kenworth had more than 5.2 million miles on it when its previous owner, Ray O’Hanesian, stopped counting back in 1998. To put that in perspective, that’s enough to take you to the moon — and most of the way back. Ray, a native of Bettendorf, Iowa, had a dream. He owned several trucks, until he saved up a significant sum of $25,000 to purchase this beauty brand new in 1958. Ray continued to drive this Kenworth until his retirement in the mid-1980s. It wasn’t the easiest rig to work on, lacking the convenience of a tilt cab like other cabover trucks. To remove the engine, you had to go through quite a process, involving removing the front bumper and grille, then unbolting the engine from the front. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

Introducing Bryan’s Hope, a remarkable story and rig that transcends the ordinary. Owned by Bryan Zube and Christey Crawford of B3 Trucking LLC, this 2017 Peterbilt 579 isn’t just a truck — it’s a lifeline. At its core, Bryan’s Hope is a tribute to Bryan’s son, who was also named Bryan. His kind-hearted nature and passion for helping others inspired this project, which has grown to touch countless lives. Teal and purple, the colors of suicide awareness, adorn the truck’s exterior, creating a striking visual that sparks conversations about an important, often uncomfortable topic. Beyond its appearance, the truck serves as a symbol of hope on the road. Bryan and Christey have opened their doors to those in need, offering a listening ear and a source of support. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s number is prominently displayed on the truck — a reminder that help is always within reach. With their years of experience in trucking, Bryan and Christey have hauled various cargos, bringing their unique message to different corners of the country. Their dedication to spreading hope and fostering connections underscores the true essence of Bryan’s Hope. As Bryan’s Hope rolls down the highway, it carries with it a legacy of compassion, understanding and resilience. A testament to the power of connection and the impact of a kind heart, this truck is more than just a vehicle. It’s a force for positive change in the world. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

This week’s Rig of the Week is a design that never goes out of style. This 1995 Peterbilt 379, fondly called “Ole Blue,” is owned by Mike Anderson of Mike Anderson Trucking in Checotah, Oklahoma. Mike’s been behind the wheel of this beauty since 1998. Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Ole Blue was even a show truck. But in 2016 disaster struck — a serious crash totaled the truck. Mike didn’t let that stop him. He and his team rebuilt it from the ground up, giving it a fresh, clean look with bold black, silver and red stripes against the blue paint. Inside, Mike went with a classic touch — wood floors, a wood-grain dash panel, and black and maroon upholstery. It’s a setup that’s as comfortable as it is stylish. Trucking is in Mike’s blood. His dad ran a trucking company, and Mike says he’s been hooked since he was a kid hanging around the shop. Today, Mike’s company has 12 trucks on the road, specializing in hauling brick across Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. He even works alongside his son, who operates two trucks of his own. And here’s a story that’ll stick with you: Once, while hauling bricks, Mike’s load almost doubled in weight after a downpour. The bricks soaked up water like a sponge, bringing the total close to 90,000 pounds! Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

Owner-operator David Walden has loved trucks of all makes and models since he was 4 years old. He grew up watching his father drive, and David started driving his dad’s dump truck at 15 years old. When he started driving big rigs in 1988, he was in heaven. He bought his first truck in 2001 and has had five different trucks since then. In 2018, he started looking for a new truck, and wanted something different. His wife, Dana, who is also a truck driver and an Army veteran, suggested the International Lonestar. David’s is a 2019 model with a 268-inch wheelbase. It’s powered by a 509 Cummins with a 10-speed transmission. The Lonestar is painted dark metallic violet purple, and his 1997 Utility reefer is painted to match. For comfort on the inside, David has a 42-inch television on the wall with surround sound and a fridge. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].

This week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week has every other driver on the road seeing green. Barry Kasdorf of Jade Transport — and his rig — are impossible to miss. For the last 22 years, Barry has driven for Jade Transport out of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Today he’s behind the wheel of something extraordinary: a 1979 Peterbilt 352 cabover. But this is no ordinary cabover. Barry and his team built this truck from the ground up, blending the best of vintage and modern trucking. The truck sits on a 2005 frame that was salvaged after a fire damaged another rig. The frame, powertrain and its Caterpillar C13 engine were repurposed and fitted with the vintage cabover, resulting in a unique build that turns heads at truck shows and on the highway. Barry jokes that they “tweaked the engine a bit,” but with 500 horsepower under the hood, this rig is anything but average. What really sets Barry’s truck apart is the look. Jade Transport is known for its striking green and white color schemes. Barry’s rig takes it up a notch. He opted for a cream-colored contrast to the deep greens, giving it a distinctive vintage vibe that pays homage to the truck’ 1979 roots. Barry didn’t start his career behind the wheel. He spent 22 years in construction before deciding, at the age of 40, that trucking was the way to go. Today, Barry’s rig is more than just a truck. It’s a symbol of craftsmanship, a marriage of old and new, and a testament to quality. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

Whether on the road or in a show, this rig turns heads anywhere it goes. Owner-operator Zach Strayer of Spencerville, Ohio, proudly presents his 2023 Peterbilt 389, affectionately known as the Notorious P.I.G. This powerful rig is equipped with an X15 Cummins engine, producing 725 horsepower and paired with an 18-speed transmission. The Notorious P.I.G. is complemented by a 2023 Wilson cattle trailer, serving Zach’s family farm where they raise hogs and grow crops. Zach’s journey into the trucking world began in 2007, and his passion has rapidly grown since then. The farm’s first semi, an FLD Freightliner, began a fleet that now includes 22 trucks and up to 70 trailers. In 2022, Zach purchased the Notorious P.I.G. and embarked on a customization journey, drawing inspiration from truck shows and his own creative vision. His attention to detail is evident in the dark green frame and pearl accents, a combination he envisioned from various inspirations. The Notorious P.I.G. isn’t just a workhorse — it’s a showstopper, winning the Truckers’ Choice award at the 2023 Walcott Truckers Jamboree among other accolades. Zach’s favorite aspect of the truck is its interior, inspired by the luxurious King Ranch trucks featuring unique reddish saddle leather with tan accents. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

The driver of this purple rig has a deep history with trucking. Owner-operator David Walden has loved trucks of all makes and models since he was 4 years old. He grew up watching his father drive, and David started driving his dad’s dump truck at 15 years old. When he started driving big rigs in 1988, he was in heaven. He bought his first truck in 2001, and has had five different trucks since then. In 2018, he started looking for a new truck, and wanted something different. His wife, Dana, who is also a truck driver and an Army veteran, suggested the International Lonestar. David’s is a 2019 model with a 268-inch wheelbase. It’s powered by a 509 Cummins with a 10-speed transmission. The Lonestar is painted dark metallic violet purple, and his 1997 Utility reefer is painted to match. For comfort on the inside, David has a 42-inch television on the wall WITH SURROUND SOUND AND A FRIDGE. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].

Passion and pride for the trucking profession show through with this standout rig. Derek Bridgman is a dedicated driver with Mike Anderson Trucking out of Checotah, Oklahoma. His rig, a 1999 Peterbilt 379, was built in the Denton, Texas, plant and is powered by a 6NZ Cat engine with 550 horsepower and an 18-speed transmission. Derek’s journey into trucking began in his teens at a sod farm in Braggs, Oklahoma. What started as a backup plan quickly became his passion and primary career. For the past 11 years, he’s been with Mike Anderson Trucking, and he speaks highly of the company and its owner. Derek’s truck, affectionately known as “Poken Fun,” is a company truck that he treats like his own. Its striking orange and black color scheme pays homage to Oklahoma State University (the name Poken Fun is a play on the OSU Cowboys’ rallying cry of “Go Pokes!”). Originally black with silver fenders, the truck got a makeover inspired by Mike Anderson’s kids, who were attending OSU. The transformation included orange fenders and caps, double-round headlights mounted with Double JJ brackets, and a full LED bulb upgrade. Notable Poken Fun features include a 22-inch bumper with a 12-gauge bumper lift, new stainless-steel boxes, custom stripes, an eye-catching powder-coated deck plate and brushed stainless-steel fenders. The truck is crowned with a swan hood ornament with orange wings that light up at night, a gift from Derek’s girlfriend. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

On this week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week, we’ve rolled out the red carpet for this classy, luxurious rig. Dill McKinney works with his father at McKinney & Sons Transfer, a deeply rooted family-owned and -operated business with about 15 drivers. Dill’s fiancée, Yasmine Twilley, also works for the company, and the two have plans to expand the brokerage arm of the business. Dill’s pride and joy is this 2024 Peterbilt 389-X, affectionately known as Black Tie Affair. This limited-edition beauty boasts a Cummins engine pumping out 605 horsepower, paired with an 18-speed transmission, and reaches a top speed of 108 mph. But what sets this rig apart is its history. Dill and his father meticulously spec’d out this truck, making it the first they built together. Numbered 1120 to mark Dill’s birthday, it’s a symbol of their bond and dedication to the trade. When it comes to customization, Dill aimed for timeless elegance. From the Legendary Black exterior to the meticulously designed interior, every detail reflects his personal style and family legacy. Dill said he’s a sucker for pinstripes, so he did quite a few of them on the frame, the headlights and other places. And while hauling lumber, mulch and more across regional routes, Dill cherishes every moment on the road, especially when shared with his dad. Whether it’s riding motorcycles or hitting truck shows, their bond transcends work, making every journey an adventure. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].

This week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week has had an impressive comeback, going from the junkyard to truck shows. Jarrett Landry and his wife Jessica embarked on a remarkable journey with this 1988 Peterbilt 379, turning it into a show-stopping masterpiece. The heart of the beast lies in its 3406-B Caterpillar engine, which Jarrett rebuilt and customized with twin Acert turbos, creating a powerhouse that’s impressive both under the hood and on the road. But the transformation didn’t stop there. Jarrett meticulously rebuilt nearly every aspect of this rig, from its transmission to its wheelbase, converting into a single-drive-axle unit for maximum showmanship. And the attention to detail extends to both the truck’s interior and exterior. Inspired by the West Coast California look of the ’90s, Jarrett crafted a wide stripe pattern and outfitted the cabin with an oxblood-red interior that’s reminiscent of the rockstar era. This labor of love took nearly three years to complete, with Jarrett and his dad putting in countless hours to bring this dream to life. And the results speak for themselves, with the truck earning accolades at prestigious events like Peterbilt’s Pride & Class Parade and the Mid-America Trucking Show. But beyond the glitz and glam, this truck serves a practical purpose, too. Jarrett hauls hay for their cattle. He dreams of one day using it to transport their children’s show animals, continuing the family tradition of showing livestock. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

In the spotlight this week is a true vintage marvel — the 1918 VIM Blue half-ton delivery truck. With its classic charm and robust build, this truck is a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Under the hood, you’ll find a 22-horsepower, 1917 VIM truck engine, boasting a 3-inch bore, a 4 ½-inch stroke and a four-cylinder, water-cooled engine. Paired with a three-speed and reverse selective sliding gears transmission, this beauty reaches a top speed of 25 mph. Crafted by the VIM Motor Truck Co., formerly known as the Touraine Co., this truck epitomizes the early days of commercial transportation. Designed primarily for merchants, these trucks were the backbone of local deliveries long before the concept of personal pick-up trucks took hold. Buyers had the luxury of choosing from 11 different body options, or they could opt for just the chassis to build their custom rig. Sturdy and dependable, VIM trucks were touted for their ability to outpace horse-and-wagon setups, covering more ground in less time. This particular VIM Blue, tailored for in-town deliveries, features a wheelbase of 89 inches, a 56-inch tread and weighs in at around 1,575 pounds. Notably, the 1918 model ushered in the era of electric lighting, marking a milestone in automotive innovation. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and details to [email protected].

A long-time trucker and his new-to-the-industry son have given new life to this rig. Mark Kennedy started an agricultural commodity business in 1989. About five years ago, he and his son, Matt, were looking for a show truck to add to their collection They found this 1984 Freightliner FLB and knew they had to bring it home. As for upgrades, they did a full-body paint job, stretched the frame, added new stacks, a deck plate, steps, fenders, a grille, a bumper, a visor, lighting and much more. The Freightliner is powered by a CAT engine with an 18-speed Eaton transmission. The Kennedys service the agriculture industry and haul all types of products on dump trailers, hopper bottoms, walking floors, vans and more. Mark has been driving for 34 years, and Matt got his license in 2021. When they aren’t on the road, they enjoy spending summers at their cottage, driving boats and jet skis. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos to [email protected].

On this week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week, we celebrate the history of a truck that paved the way for modern transportation. Introduced in 1914, the Mack AB was Mack’s first standardized high-volume model series. Its simple yet robust design quickly became a staple in medium-duty trucking. Over its production run — until 1937 — more than 55,000 of these workhorses were built. This particular 1923 Mack AB, proudly displayed at the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, comes with a piece of history — a 1914 Fruehauf trailer. It’s a testament to the versatility of these trucks, which could haul anything from hay to farm equipment. Last summer, during the Walcott Truckers Jamboree, this Mack AB celebrated its 100th birthday in style. Bill Moon, a truck enthusiast and founder of the Iowa 80 Truckstop, acquired this beauty back in the ’80s. Restored to its former glory, it is a reminder of a bygone era when trucks were built to last. Though it may not hit today’s highway speeds, cruising at a modest 15-20 mph, this rig holds a special place in trucking history. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].

This week’s CAT Scale Rig of the Week shines the spotlight on a rig built for more than hard work. Shane Vacek of Kennewick, Washington, purchased this impressive 1980 Ford CL9000 from a logging outfit. The company used it to pull tanker trailers filled with helicopter fuel. With a 350 Big Cam engine under the hood and a 13-speed transmission, this truck has brawn and a classic look. Shane’s passion for trucking began early, earning his CDL at just 21 years old. And, it’s no surprise that owning a cabover has always been his dream. Despite its age, Shane has kept this rig in pristine condition, with new tires being his biggest investment to date. When he’s not on the road, Shane enjoys cruising around with his 5-year-old daughter, making memories that will last a lifetime. But don’t let this rig’s retro charm fool you — it’s still a workhorse, hauling Shane’s fifth-wheel camper with ease. For Shane, trucking isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life. With more than a decade of experience behind the wheel, his love for trucks runs deep. And when he’s not on the road, you can find him traveling to see Metallica concerts or camping with his family. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the CAT Scale Rig of the Week? Send photos and info to [email protected].