A fine ’99: Freightliner hauls equipment for ‘American Idol’, ESPN

Jan 18, 2014

Owner-operator Matt Purtee of Omah, Wis., says his 1999 Freightliner Classic has driven 1.8 million miles and still is going strong. The rig, equipped with a Cummins engine and 13-speed transmission, has a star paint scheme designed by Purtee and one of his friends. Purtee, who is leased to Landstar, has transported equipment for a variety of shows including “American Idol,” “The Price is Right” and various ESPN programs.

Third-generation owner-operator's beautifully-rebuilt 1990 Kenworth W900L

After the truck was retired about three years ago, owner Joel Anker had it rebuilt into a show truck. The hard work paid off, with a fifth-place finish in the Limited Mileage -- Bobtail with Miles class at MATS in March.

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