American Idle

While the proliferation of reality television shows caters to the enjoyment of viewing audiences, the new reality of idling in America is anything but entertaining for truckers. The explosion of idling restrictions around the country, coupled with fuel prices at record highs, has made idle-reduction equipment a must-have in a trucker’s survival arsenal. In this annual special section we answer your questions about idle-reduction options; give you suggestions for spec’ing the right equipment; tips on how to get the most out of your heating and cooling systems; where to get financial assistance to buy idle-reduction technology; and the most recent information about idling restrictions.

• Decisions, decisions: Avoid making impulse purchases
• Solutions: Products provide creature comforts
• Layered up: Proper insulation makes a difference
• Spec smart: Tips for selecting an auxiliary heater
• Keyed off: Drivers scramble to keep up with ever-changing idling regs
• Hooked up: OOIDA, EPA work to connect truckers and grants
• Wiggle room: The 400-pound APU exemption reg