RD’s heavy hauling Pete

Mar 13, 2015

Updated Mar 19, 2015

Equipment hauler John Johnson drives this 2012 Peterbilt 389 for RD Reed Heavy Transport. The truck is powered by a 550-hp Cummins and an 18-speed transmission. Johnson’s based out of El Cajon, Calif., and he mostly runs the I-10 corridor to Houston and back, he says. He’s added a few aftermarket touches, including the rig’s fenders, drop visor and tool boxes.

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The heavy-haul/oversize trucking niche can be lucrative for owner-operators who know the ins and outs of the business. That doesn't come immediately, nor without significant challenges. Shown here is owner-operator Jason Chamberlain's 1985 Kenworth W900B, powered by a Big Cam Cummins with a 13-speed. He owns two trailers -- a 55-ton, three-axle XL Specialized RGN and a 2017 Benson three-axle, low-pro step deck.

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