Trip Report 13th April 2016 to 28th May 2016
Part I: 13th April to 22nd April

As is often the case I was home longer than intended but I was able to get my taxes done and I got my DoT Physical renewed allowing me to drive commercially for another year. Finally the call I was waiting for came and the company booked me an air ticket to MKE via PHX. I hired a taxi to LGB and checked in and checked my bags which weighed 41 and 42lbs then at security I opted out and was patted down before being cleared.

American Eagle #5710 LGB-PHX CRJ-900 Group 4
Seat 9A Cruising altitude not given Estimated flying time 0:57, actual 0:57
Depart: Gate 3 Scheduled 16h35, actual 16h27 Taxi: 8 minutes
Arrive: Gate B18 Scheduled 17h57, actual 17h38 Taxi: 6 minutes

We boarded outside via ramp and the load was 52/79. It was announced it was 85F at PHX. Pushback was 8 minutes early and takeoff was to the northwest. I saw Atlantic Avenue, Grace Brethren Church, Long Beach Blvd. and downtown Long Beach. I saw the Port of Long Beach as we went overwater at 0:02. Landfall was at 0:06 over Huntington Beach. I saw Seal Beach, Sunset Beach, Bolsa Chica, Los Alamitos and Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley.

At 0:10 we crossed the Santa Ana Mountains and I saw Lake Mathews, Interstate 15, March Air Force Base, Interstate 215, Lake Perris and the Hemet/San Jacinto area at 0:14. At 0:16 I saw Palm Springs, PSP and other Coachella Valley cities. At 0:19 I got cup of soda. At 0:21 I got choice of cookies or pretzels and I chose cookies (Biscoff).

At 0:23 I saw Interstate 10 at Desert Center, CA and at 0:28 we crossed the Colorado River just north of Blythe into Arizona airspace. I saw Interstate 10 and the Arizona Port of Entry. At 0:30 I saw Quartzsite, AZ and felt descent at the same time. Descent was announced at 0:40. At 0:41 we crossed Arizona 85 and I saw Buckeye, AZ. At 0:45 I saw the Phoenix International Raceway and at 0:48 I saw downtown Phoenix. At 0:49 we overflew PHX. At 0:50 I saw the junction of Interstate 10 and US60 then Tempe. We turned north at 0:51 then west at 0:52 over Mesa. We landed east to west and arrived at gate 19 minutes early. We deplaned via jetway. I had early evening rations at Modern Burger before arriving at my connecting gate.

American #548 PHX-MKE A-320 Group 4
Seat 9A Cruising altitude 39,000 feet Estimated flying time 3:02, actual 3:06
Depart: Gate A12 Scheduled 18h45, actual 18h35 Taxi: 10 minutes
Arrive: Gate D56 Scheduled 00h06 +1, actual 23h56 Taxi: 4 minutes
Reclaim checked bags 24 minutes after arrival

We boarded via jetway and it was announced that it was cloudy and 39F at MKE. The plane was not very full and I had entire row to myself though the seats in my row did not recline due to being directly in front of the exit row. Pushback was 10 minutes early and takeoff was to the west. We turned north then northeast. I saw the sunset though the view was partially blocked by the wing. Seatbelt sign went off at 0:11. At 0:19 I got both pretzels and Biscoff. At 0:24 I got can of soda. At 0:25 clouds started to increase as darkness fell.

At 0:53 I got water. Water was also offered at 1:56 and I saw the lights of Lincoln, NE at the same time. At 2:02 I saw the lights of Omaha, NE. I felt descent begin at 2:37 and descent was announced at 2:40. It was announced there were scattered clouds and it was 43F at MKE and an early arrival was expected. Seatbelt sign went on at 2:46. We made turn and landed north to south and arrived at gate 10 minutes early. I got my bags and took hotel shuttle to hotel and spent the night in Milwaukee, WI.

Thursday I hired a taxi to the shipper and picked up the truck and got started on the trip.

Trip: Waukesha, WI to Tappan, NY 910 paid miles
Make: 2016 Kenworth T306
Model: Straight Box Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Wisconsin 164 to Wisconsin 36 to Wisconsin 100 to Interstate 94 to Interstate 294 Tri-State Tollway to Interstate 80 to Interstate 287 to New York 59 to New York 303
Maximum elevation: 2,250 feet Interstate 80 about 10 miles west of Clearfield, PA
Highest diesel price USA: 2.599$ per gallon at Flying J Lamar, PA
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.199$ per gallon at Pilot Burns Harbor, IN

I got started and took on fuel in Oak Creek, WI and had midday rations in Sturtevant, WI. The weather was fair with highs into the low 50'sF. I paid cash at the first tollbooth on the Tri-State Tollway but the next four tollbooths said I-Pass registered even though I taped over the Transponder per company instructions. I spent the night in Portage, IN.

Friday also saw fair weather. I had the same issues with the Transponder on the Indiana Toll Road and Ohio Turnpike. I spent the night in North Ridgeville, OH.

Saturday was a nice day. I ate at Sheetz in Girard, OH and Sapp Brothers in Clearfield, PA. There was quite a bit of construction on the Ohio Turnpike and Interstate 80 near Youngstown, OH as well Interstate 80 in PA. I made it to Danville, PA where I spent the night.

Sunday I got up way too late to go to morning church so I proceeded toward my destination. No church returned my phone calls regarding evening service so I made it to Nyack, NY where I got a room and then I took a walk to downtown Nyack where I took pictures and had evening rations. I spent the night in Nyack, NY.

Monday I got up bright and early and I heard it got up to at least 81F in New York City. I made delivery at 08h00 at Tappan, NY and I had a considerable wait for my ride to take me to the next truck which was in New Brunswick, NJ. Finally the ride did come and I made it to New Brunswick, NJ where I got the next truck.

Trip: New Brunswick, NJ to Winooski, VT 330 paid miles
Make: 2012 International
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: US1 to Interstate 287 to Interstate 87 to New York 149 to New York 22 to US4 to Vermont 22A to US7 to Interstate 189 to Interstate 89 to Vermont 15
Maximum elevation: unknown
Diesel price USA: 2.139$ per gallon at Pilot Mahwah, NJ

I got started and made it to Mahwah, NJ where there was long queue for fuel. Then I got on the New York Thruway and headed north. I had evening rations at Smokey Bones in Albany, NY and I also spent the night in Albany, NY.

Tuesday it was overcast to begin but it cleared up. I continued onto the Adirondack Northway and I saw some new roads once I exited the Northway in Queensbury, NY. Just outside Ft. Ann, NY an officer motioned for me to pull off at a wide spot in the road. The officer wondered why I taped over the truck licence plate and I explained that was per company instructions as I use the transporter licence plate the company furnished. The officer did a level 3 inspection which was a paperwork inspection including my logbook. I got a clean inspection meaning there were no violations so the safety department was pleased.

I entered Vermont and the weigh scale was open but I did not get pulled in there. I made a brief pit stop then started north on Vermont 22A which merged into US7 to Interstate 189 and Interstate 89 through Burlington and I exited Vermont 15 and headed to the destination in Winooski, VT where I dropped off the truck.

I hired a taxi to BTV Burlington Airport where i got a rental car for LYH Lynchburg, VA. Because it was such a long trip it was a two-day rental. I snuck in some sightseeing in South Burlington, VT and Virgennes, VT then I saw Chimney Point State Park on the Vermont shore of Lake Champlain at sunset before crossing the bridge across Lake Champlain into New York. I cut through the woods to get to the Adirondack Northway thanks to my smartphone. I had evening rations in Queensbury, NY before heading to Albany, NY where I spent the night.

Wednesday I saw six states as I headed south. I stopped in Carlisle, PA to take some pictures at dusk then continued south and crossed the Mason-Dixon Line. I ended up in a smoky New Market, VA where I spent the night.

Thursday I continued and got up to 1850 feet above sea level at Rockfish Gap on US250 between Waynesburg and Charlottesville, VA. I headed to LYH and took the Jerry Falwell Parkway en route. I got fuel and dropped off the rental car and hired a taxi which took me to the shipper where I got the next truck.

Trip: Gretna, VA to Warminster, PA 377 paid miles
Make: 2016 Kenworth
Model: Tank Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: US29 (Jerry Falwell Parkway) to Virginia 6 to US250 to Interstate 64 to Interstate 81 to Interstate 76 Pennsylvania Turnpike to Interstate 276 Pennsylvania Turnpike to Pennsylvania 611 to Pennsylvania 132
Maximum elevation: 1,850 feet at Rockfish Gap US250 between Waynesburg and Charlottesville, VA
Highest diesel price USA: 2.499$ per gallon at Sunoco Wayne, PA
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.199$ per gallon at Flying J Winchester, VA

I got started and stopped at Goldy's in Rustburg, VA for evening rations. Then I continued and once on Interstate 64 I encountered some rain shower activity. I made it to Mt. Jackson, VA where I spent the night.

Thursday it was raining when I started but it quit by the time I made it to the Flying J at the top of Virginia where I took on fuel. I talked to the customer once I crossed the Mason-Dixon Line and entered Pennsylvania. Traffic was jammed on the Pennsylvania Turnpike from Milepost 328 to 339. I made delivery outside business hours and was taken to a convienence store where I visited with the receiver until the taxi came. I had an fairly expensive taxi ride through Philadelphia and I got a room and spent the night in Essington, PA.

Tour of Duty 13th April 2016 to 28th May 2016
Part II: 23rd April to 5th May

On the 23rd of April I awoke to a rainy Saturday in Essington, PA. I got ready then checked out of hotel and hired a taxi to PHL. I checked in and checked bags which weighed 43 and 44lbs. I cleared security after opting out and being patted down.

American #1994 PHL-ORD E-190 Group 3
Seat 7A Cruising altitude 36,000 feet Estimated flying time not announced, actual 1:46
Depart: Gate B3 Scheduled 13h30, actual 13h30 Taxi: 18 minutes
Arrive: Gate H14 Scheduled 14h50, actual 14h49 Taxi: 14 minutes
Reclaim checked bags 19-20 minutes after arrival

We boarded via jetway. The rain quit and it was starting to clear by takeoff. The plane was almost full. Pushback was on time and takeoff was to the south. I saw the Delaware River and the Delaware River Memorial Bridge within a minute of takeoff. At 0:10 I saw what looked to be York, PA and Interstate 83. At 0:15 I saw the Pennsylvania Turnpike Interstate 17 and the Susquehanna River to the distance. At 0:18 we crossed the Susquehanna River north of Harrisburg, PA.

At 0:26 I saw Interstate 99 and Altoona, PA. I got pretzels at 0:27 and a can of soda at 0:28. We crossed US219 at Johnstown, PA at 0:33 and seatbelt sign went off at 0:36. It was announced it was 54F and scattered clouds at ORD.

I felt descent begin at 1:14 and descent was announced and seatbelt sign went on at 1:23 and it was 57F at ORD. I saw Interstates 65 and 80 at 1:30 and Gary, IN at 1:31 and we went over Lake Michigan at the same time. I saw the Chicago Skyway at 1:33 and saw MDW and US Cellular Field at 1:34 and made landfall at the same time. I did not see the tall buildings of downtown but I saw Interstate 290 and the Chicago River. We overflew ORD at 1:38 and I saw Interstate 90. We swung out west then turned south and east and landed west to east and we arrived at gate one minute early. We deplaned via jetway and I got my bags and my ride came and picked me up and after a stop at Potbelly's I arrived in Streator, IL to get the next truck.

Trip: Streator, IL to Innisfil, ON 624 paid miles
Make: 2016 Western Star
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Standard 18-speed
Route: Illinois 23 to Interstate 80 to Interstate 294 to Interstate 94 to Interstate 69 to Blue Water Bridge to Ontario 402 to Ontario 401 to Ontario 400
Maximum elevation: unknown
Diesel price USA: 2.299$ per gallon at Pilot Battle Creek, MI
Diesel price Canada: 0.999$CAD/litre at Flying J Ayr, ON
Border Crossing: Port Huron, MI/Sarnia, ON

I got the truck and got underway. I made it as far as Portage, IN where I spent the night.

Sunday I got up too late to make it to morning church but I had a chat with another driver before I got rolling. I stopped in Battle Creek, MI to take on fuel then pulled in the driveway and once in had no problem parking and attended Sunday evening service at Calvary Baptist Church in Lansing, MI. It was a bit of a challenge to make the left turn into the entrance but I made it. I had an easier time turning out of the exit as that driveway was a little wider. I stopped in Imlay City, MI but Bob's Big Boy there was closed. I ended up going to their location in Marysville, MI for late evening rations and I spent the night in Marysville, MI.

Monday I had to wait for some papers that I needed to cross the border to be faxed to me. Afterward I crossed the border and Customs sent me back upstairs to the broker for a minor problem to be fixed then I was allowed to proceed. The rest of this trip was relatively uneventful but there was some rain starting in Guelph then rain off and on for the rest of the trip. I made an after hours delivery then hired a taxi and spent the night in Barrie, ON.

Tuesday I caught the Simcoe County Airport Transportation to YYZ and at the last minute the driver went to another hotel to pick up another driver from the same company. We were dropped off at YYZ then got in a rental car to MDW. That was a rather long trip. The crossing into the USA at Port Huron, MI could not have gone better and it was a cold spring day with temperatures in the 40'sF. The other driver went to his home in the Chicago area then I took custody of the vehicle and got to an expensive hotel near MDW and spent the night in Bedford Park, IL

Wednesday I got up bright and early and turned in the rental car and got the shuttle to the terminal at MDW. I checked in and the weight was OK on the bags and I cleared security and decided not to opt out in the interest of time but my boot bag was given additional screening.

Delta Connection #4473 MDW-MSP CRJ-900 Zone 1
Seat 12A Exit Row Cruising altitude not announced. Estimated flying time not announced, actual 0:58
Depart: Gate A7 Scheduled 09h11, actual 09h08 Taxi/hold: 23 minutes
Arrive: Gate C13 Scheduled 10h44, actual 10h31 Taxi: 2 minutes
My bags beat me to baggage reclaim

We boarded via jetway and the plane was mostly but not totally full. Pushback was 3 minutes early. Takeoff was to the east and seatbelt sign went off at 0:08. At 0:24 I got Biscoff and at 0:25 I got cup of soda. I felt descent begin at 0:34 and descent was announced at 0:40. There were gusty winds and it was 46F at MSP. Seatbelt sign went on at 0:42. We overflew MSP and I saw the Mississippi River. I saw downtown Minneapolis heading northwest then we turned left and landed northwest to southeast. We arrived at gate 13 minutes early and deplaned via jetway.

After I got my bags I headed over to the rental car area after stopping at ground transportation to find out what might be available for future reference. I got in a rental car and headed to Alexandria, MN. I stopped to eat in Clearwater, MN. I turned in the car in Alexandria, MN and thought I might be stuck as I was given the wrong address. I was able to drop off the car and hired a taxi to take me to the next truck in Morris, MN.

Trip: Morris, MN to Bowler, WI 400 paid miles
Make: 2016 Freightliner
Model: Tank Truck Placarded UN1075 Propane
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Minnesota 28 to Interstate 94 to Interstate 694 to Interstate 94 to Wisconsin 29 to County Road Q to County Road A
Maximum elevation: unknown
Highest LPG price: 1.75$ per gallon at Cenex Cadott, WI
Lowest LPG price 1.00$ per gallon at Petro Clearwater, MN

I made an after hours pickup and this truck ran on LPG instead of Diesel. Just after I got started it started to rain. It stopped raining in Sauk Centre and I spent the night in Melrose, MN.

Thursday it started raining around St-Cloud, MN. I stopped in Clearwater, MN to see if I could get LPG as the burn rate was greater than expected. I was able to get LPG at the Petro then I had midday rations. There was a lot of congestion on Interstate 694 in the Twin Cities area. I entered Wisconsin then exited the Interstate in Eau Claire and started east on Wisconsin 29. I spent the night in Cadott, WI.

Friday morning I got LPG after a wait then I continued toward my destination. I ended up delivering the truck to the Mohican Indian reservation just outside of Bowler, WI. After a short wait the taxi came and took me to CWA in Mosinee, WI where I got into a rental car bound for MSP. I stopped in Wausau, WI and took some pictures of the city then had evening rations at Dickeys Pit BBQ before heading toward the Twin Cities. Due to lack of rooms at a reasonable price on the Minnesota side I spent the night in Hudson, WI.

Saturday I crossed into Minnesota then crossed the Mississippi. I swung by the shipper and located the truck and loaded my gear and did safety inspection. Then I headed into Minneapolis and snuck in a little more sightseeing. I saw the famous Spoon at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden then I had midday rations in Potbelly's before heading to a filling station then turning in the car at MSP. Afterward I hired a taxi to get back to the truck.

Trip: South St-Paul, MN to Burlington, ON 925 miles
Make: 2016 Peterbilt
Model: Cab and Chassis
Transmission: Standard Straight 10-speed
Route: Interstate 94 to Interstate 90 to Interstate 39 to Interstate 80 to Interstate 294 to Interstate 94 to Interstate 69 to Blue Water Bridge to Ontario 402 to Ontario 401 to Ontario 403
Maximum elevation: unknown
Highest diesel price USA: 2.39$ per gallon at Flying J Roberts, WI
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.289$ per gallon at Mr. Fuel Lake Station, IN
Diesel price Canada: 0.999$CAD/litre at Flying J London, ON
Border Crossing: Port Huron, MI to Sarnia, ON

I got started on the trip and it was not long before I crossed the Mississippi. I headed into Wisconsin and encountered some rain showers around Osseo. I spent the night in Tomah, WI.

Sunday I attended Tomah Baptist Church in Tomah, WI and after the service a friend took me to Culver's for midday rations. There was a traffic jam west of Madison and I had to follow a detour the authorities set up. I entered Illinois and there was some fairly heavy rain in Rochelle, IL. I made it to Morris, IL where I spent the night.

Monday it was clear to start in Illinois but cool. There was a traffic jam in Joliet, IL due to an accident that resulted in a lane closure. I stopped in Lake Station, IN to take on fuel and it clouded up and was overcast in Michigan. I spent the night in Imlay City, MI.

Tuesday had to wait to get papers needed to cross the border but the crossing went smoothly once I got the required papers. I talked to the receiver to make arrangements for delivery. I went down Plains Road in Burlington for the first time in a long time and found that the Bell Motel no longer exists. When I was with another company I stayed at the Bell Motel numerous times but now it is gone and I imagine condos are going to be built in its place. I swung by motel, checked in and offloaded nearly all my gear then I proceeded to make a late night delivery. I hired a taxi back to the motel then had late evening rations at Pizza Pizza. I spent the night in Burlington, ON.

Wednesday I hired a taxi which came and took me to Bolton, ON where I got the next truck.

Trip: Bolton, ON to Northville, MI 264 miles
Make: 2016 Peterbilt
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Ontario 50 to Ontario 7 to Ontario 427 to Ontario 401 to Ontario 402 to Blue Water Bridge to Interstate 69 to Interstate 94 to Interstate 275 to Interstate 96
Maximum elevation: unknown
Diesel price Canada: 0.989$ CAD/litre at Flying J Mississauga, ON
Diesel price USA: 2.359$ per gallon at Pilot Kimball, MI
Border Crossing: Sarnia, ON/Port Huron, MI

I got the truck and had a short wait for paperwork needed to re-enter the USA. I had the normal traffic congestion in the GTA. There is a bottleneck in Mississauga where the 401 narrows from 9 lanes to 3 lanes rather quickly. I ate at the Service Centre in Cambridge, ON and made a pit stop in London. the border crossing was problem free but due to hours of service constraints I could not legally reach Northville, MI. I spent the night in Roseville, MI.

Thursday the 5th of May, I continued to my destination after learning of a long term closure due to construction so I figured out an alternate route. I learned that there was a truck in Northville for me to pick up to take to La Porte, TX. I arrived in Northville where I switched my gear to the other truck and I completed delivery.

Tour of Duty 13rd April 2016 to 28th May 2016
Part III: 5th May to 15th May

Thursday the 5th of May found me making delivery in Northville, Michigan and I switched my gear to truck bound for Texas. I did the inspection and the shipper signed the paper and I was good to go.

Trip: Northville, MI to La Porte, TX 1,392 miles
Make: 2017 Peterbilt
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Interstate 275 to Interstate 75 to Interstate 475 to US24 to Interstate 469 to Interstate 69 to Interstate 465 to Interstate 70 to Interstate 57 to Interstate 55 to US84 to Louisiana 28 to Interstate 49 to US165 to Interstate 10 to Texas 146 to Texas 225
Maximum elevation: unknown
Highest diesel price USA: 2.459$ per gallon at Pilot Toledo, OH
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.199$ per gallon at Pilot Winona, MS

Due to construction I headed south on Haggerty Road for awhile before getting on the 275. I stopped in Monroe, MI to eat then headed into Toledo and took the 475 and there was a fair amount of construction on that road. I took US24 which was a new road and that took me through Napolean and Defiance, Ohio into Indiana where I caught the 469 in the Ft. Wayne area. I did stop to see the sunset and eat again in Napolean, OH. I took on fuel just outside Ft. Wayne, IN then I spent the night in Ft. Wayne, IN.

It was a clear day and I headed south on the 69 toward Indianapolis. There was a traffic jam on the southbound 69 near Fortville, IN due to someone needing to change a tyre. After clearing the Indianapolis area I had midday rations at Steak & Shake in Plainfield, IN. I noticed that traffic was jammed going the other way near Terre Haute, IN. I continued into Illinois then caught the 57 south. There was a lot of construction in Illinois. Late at night I crossed the Mississippi into Missouri and spent the night in Sikeston, MO.

Saturday I continued south on the 55 and stopped in Hayti, MO for fuel and midday rations. I continued through Arkansas, then crossed the Mississippi and went the 12 miles through Memphis, TN and then I entered Mississippi. I stopped in Clinton, MS for late evening rations then continued farther south through Jackson and I spent the night in Brookhaven, MS.

Sunday there was a challenge but I pulled into the car park at Grace Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS where I attended Sunday morning service. The sermon was on Second Samuel 21:1-14. After the service I headed west on US84 into Natchez then I crossed the Mississippi River into Vidalia, Louisiana. I made a brief stop to stretch out and take come pictures before continuing. I stopped again in Alexandria, LA where I took a walk and I took pictures of that city. I made a stop at the Pilot in Iowa, LA (east of Lake Charles) where I had late evening rations before clearing Lake Charles and crossing the Sabine River into Texas. I spent the night in Winnie, TX.

Monday it was windy and there was some rain shower activity which quit by the time I was ready to roll. I made it to La Porte where I dropped the truck then I hired a taxi to take me to Pasadena, TX for the next truck.

Trip: Pasadena, TX to San Marcos, TX 185 miles
Make: 2016 Freightliner
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Standard Straight 10-speed
Route: Fairmont Parkway to Texas 8 to Interstate 45 to Interstate 10 to Texas 46 to Interstate 35 to FM1101
Maximum elevation: unknown
Diesel price USA: 1.959$ per gallon at Cornerstone Pipeline Seguin, TX

This truck originally had a destination of Schertz, TX (northeast suburb of San Antonio) but the destination was changed to San Marcos. I got the truck and it was after 14h00 when I left the shipper but I was told the truck needed to be delivered by 17h00 which I knew was not realistic. I followed the directions my smartphone gave me. The only trouble with that was my smartphone makes routing decisions on traffic conditions at the time but an accident could easily louse things up. That's precisely what happened in the Houston area and it took me two hours to go the first 61 miles to Brookshire, TX where I phoned up the customer to explain what happened. I then continued to Columbus, TX where I stopped for a half hour to eat. I proceeded west and exited onto Texas 46 and got diesel for under two dollars a gallon. I phoned the customer again to arrange delivery and I proceeded onto Interstate 35 and exited in New Braunfels and took FM1101 and a couple of other roads. It was dark and I saw the first fireflies of the season. I dropped off the truck at a power plant in the middle of nowhere but it was considered to be San Marcos even though New Braunfels was closer. The customer came and took custody of the truck just outside the gate of the power plant after I got my gear out. I had to wait for about an hour and a half for a taxi to arrive then I was taken to New Braunfels, TX where I spent the night.

Tuesday I ended up laying over and spending the night in New Braunfels, TX as I did not have very many hours to legally operate per hours of service rules. I was told there was a truck going from Temple, TX to Lancaster, TX then dispatch was going to send me to Gulfport, MS to get truck going to Lancaster, TX. Finally plans changed and I was to get a truck the next day going from San Antonio, TX to Delta, OH near Toledo.

Wednesday the sky was clearing but it was wet outside as a there was a thunderstorm early in the morning. I hired a taxi to San Antonio and learned the destination of the truck changed from Delta, OH to Akron, OH. I made the pickup and was dismayed to learn that the air conditioning was not working well if at all due to the very warm and humid conditions.

Trip: San Antonio, TX to Akron, OH 1,375 miles
Make: 2015 Peterbilt
Model: Boom Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Interstate 35 to Interstate 35E to Interstate 20 to Interstate 45 to US75 to US69 to Interstate 44 to Interstate 270 to Interstate 255 to Interstate 70 to Interstate 465 to Interstate 70 to Interstate 270 to Interstate 71 to Interstate 76 to Interstate 277
Maximum elevation: unknown but some sections of Ohio including Akron are over 1,000 feet above sea level
Highest diesel price: 2.299$ per gallon at Flying J Dallas, TX
Lowest diesel price: 2.059$ per gallon at Pilot Muskogee, OK

This was a larger truck with a bad turning radius and I did not like the way it handled so I took it slow and easy. I took on fuel in New Braunfels then continued north after having midday rations. I lost time as traffic was jammed up real bad in Austin, TX. Finally traffic started moving well north of Austin and I was going to make a pit stop in Jarrell, TX but the truckstop parking was full up. I did make pit stop at rest area a little farther north in Salado, TX before continuing north. I spent the night in Hillsboro, TX where I saw lightning before turning in for the night.

Thursday I continued north and stopped in Italy, TX for midday rations before continuing to Dallas where I took on fuel. Traffic moved well on Interstate 45 but that became US75 and the speed limit went up to 70 right in Dallas but traffic slowed to a crawl and I lost more time due to traffic jam. Traffic was bad on US75 through Dallas, Plano and Alvin before clearing up and moving well again. I made a pit stop in Anna, TX and it was not quite as hot and humid so it felt more pleasant in spite of little to no air conditioning. I crossed the Red River into Oklahoma and proceeded northward. I made a pit stop near Atoka, OK to eat then I spent the night in Muskogee, OK.

Friday I took on fuel in Muskogee, OK then proceeded to Big Cabin, OK where I had midday rations before hopping on the Oklahoma Turnpike eastbound Interstate 44. I made a pit stop in Joplin, MO then had evening rations and saw the sunset in Marshfield, MO. I spent the night in Cuba, MO.

Saturday it was much cooler with temperatures in the 40'sF to start. I stopped to take on fuel and get midday rations in Villa Ridge, MO. I crossed the Mississippi into Illinois and made it to Cloverdale, IN where I spent the night.

Sunday I got rolling. I took on fuel in Indianapolis then stopped to stretch out and take pictures in Knightstown, IN. I continued east and went to Southgate Baptist Church in Springfield, OH. Afterward I continued to Akron and went to hotel to check in and get a room. I offloaded almost all my gear into the room then proceeded to where I thought the receiver would be. I found out the driveway at the address given was not big enough for the truck so I went around the corner to the same property and found a parking area where I safely did after hours drop then I hired a taxi and spent the night in Akron, OH.

Tour of Duty 13th April 2016 to 28th May 2016
Part IV: 16th May to 24th May

On Monday the 16th of May I had a late checkout in Akron, Ohio. The company rented me a car from Akron, OH to Logansport, IN as the next trip was from Winamac, IN to Albany, NY. I hired a taxi to the car rental place then I took several dozen pictures of downtown Akron before heading west. I headed west on Interstate 76 to Interstate 71 and took some pictures of downtown Ashland, OH before continuing and then heading west on US30. I took pictures of downtown Bucyrus, OH before darkness fell. I continued into Indiana and spent the night in Huntington, IN.

Tuesday I headed into Logansport and the rental car company extended my time without charge as there was another driver coming in who needed to be taken to the same shipper where I was to get the truck so I took some pictures of downtown Logansport and got midday rations. The temperature was in the 50'sF with light sprinkles at times. Finally I turned the car in and the other driver arrived and away we went to the shipper.

Trip: Winamac, IN to Albany, NY 800 miles
Make: 2016 Mack
Model: Roll Off (Garbage Truck without body)
Transmission: Standard 9-speed
Route: US35 to Indiana 10 to Indiana 17 to US30 to Interstate 69 to Interstate 469 to US30 to Interstate 71 to Interstate 271 to Interstate 90 to Interstate 787 to New York 378 to New York 32
Highest Diesel price USA: 2.839$ per gallon at Pilot Erie, PA
Lowest Diesel price USA: 2.19$ per gallon at BP Winamac, IN

This truck was a garbage truck without the body. I took on some fuel in Winamac, IN and it is good that I did as it became apparent that the fuel gauge was inaccurate and showed higher than it should. I took some new roads to get to US30 and thus I avoided the Indiana Toll Road and later the Ohio Turnpike. The rain quit and I spent the night in Warsaw, IN.

Wednesday it was clear and I continued on US30 to Interstate 71 to the 271 to Interstate 90. I spent the night in Erie, PA.

Thursday I took on fuel in Erie and had the highest USA diesel price for the entire tour of duty. I stopped in North East, PA for midday rations then continued into New York and onto the Thruway. I ended up spending the night in Amsterdam, NY.

Friday I finished up the trip and after a wait the rental car company came to get me. I got into the rental car bound for Rockaway, NJ and ate before heading south on the Thruway. I had late evening rations at the Empire Diner in Parsippany, NJ. The food was good but not so much for the service, in my opinion. I spent the night in Parsippany, NJ.

Saturday I swung by the shipper and loaded my gear into the truck and did inspection. Then I went to a filling station to fill the fuel tank of the car and turned in the car and was taken back to the truck.

Trip: Wharton, NJ to Artemas, PA 290 miles
Make: 2014 Western Star
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: New Jersey 15 to Interstate 80 to Pennsylvania 33 to Interstate 78 to Interstate 81 to Interstate 70 to Interstate 68 to ALT US40 to Orleans Road to Pennsylvania 26 to Pennsylvania 2003
Maximum elevation: 1,269 feet Sideling Hill Interstate 68 about 8 miles west of Hancock, MD
Highest diesel price USA: 2.459$ per gallon at Pilot Ledgewood, NJ
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.299$ per gallon at Exxon Little Orleans, MD

This truck did not have a radio or tape or CD player. During the safety inspection, I found out the front and rear left flashers were not working so I took on fuel in Ledgewood, NJ then I headed to the TA in Columbia, NJ where there was a shop where repairs could be made. I had a long wait before I was told to pull the truck into the repair bay. During that wait I ate and there was rain off and on. Finally repairs were made and the 95$ or so for the repair would have been cheaper than a traffic citation would have been for failing to use the left blinker had I been intercepted by a police officer. I spent the night in Bartonsville, PA.

Sunday morning a friend picked me up and took me to Sunday School and morning church service at Fellowship Baptist Church in Marshall's Creek, PA (near Stroudsburg) This was the beginning of a Biblical Origins & Design Seminar. Afterward I took some pictures of Stroudsburg and treated my friend and his family to midday rations at Dickey's BBQ (where kids ate free that day) before being taken back to the truck.
I proceeded south on Route 33 then west on the 78 and there were some raindrops starting in Kutztown but the road stayed dry until the rain intensified around Harrisburg. I had evening rations at Sheetz in Greencastle, PA then spent the night in Hagerstown, MD.

Monday I headed west on the 70 before catching the 68 and I stopped at a truckstop in Little Orleans, MD and the receiver came to me and escorted me to a lift station in the middle of nowhere which was considered to be Artemas, PA where I switched my gear into the other truck and completed delivery. There was no cellphone service where I was and I tried to text dispatch but the text failed.

Trip: Artemas, PA to Wharton, NJ 290 miles
Make: 2015 Western Star
Model: Vacuum Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Pennsylvania 2003 to Pennsylvania 26 to Orleans Road to ALT US40 to Interstate 68 to Interstate 70 to Interstate 81 to Interstate 78 to Pennsylvania 33 to Interstate 80 to New Jersey 15
Maximum elevation: 1,269 feet Sideling Hill Interstate 68 8 miles west of Hancock, MD
Diesel price USA: 2.499$ per gallon at Pilot Hagerstown, MD

Unlike the other truck this truck did have a radio and CD player but the air conditioning was not working. I basically did the same route in reverse. The customer escorted me back to the truckstop in Little Orleans, MD and rain started falling before I left Pennsylvania. At the truckstop I bade farewell to the customer and had midday rations before proceeding. There was rain off and on and I took on fuel in Hagerstown, MD before crossing the Mason-Dixon Line back into Pennsylvania for the final time. I saw the sunset in Newville, PA and near the end of the day got caught in a huge traffic jam and lost well over an hour as Interstate 78 was totally closed at the exit I intended to take so everyone had to exit and through traffic was put back on the Interstate. This was due to a bridge being replaced. I exited and turned right and spent the night in Kutztown, PA.

Tuesday I stopped in Columbia, NJ for midday rations then continued and once I exited onto New Jersey 15 another driver from the same company followed me and we dropped off our trucks at the same time in Wharton, NJ. We were picked up and taken to Rockaway, NJ where I got the rental car and I took the other driver to New Brunswick, NJ before I headed toward Connecticut. I was told the next truck would be at a casino where a trade show was going on. I stopped in Newton, CT for evening rations then proceeded to New Haven, CT where I spent the night.

Thank you for taking the time to write these trip reports, as you see America from such a different viewpoint vs. airline or car travel. Your writing style is also very good.

On Wednesday 25th May I awoke in New Haven, CT. I took a little time to look at the city and take some pictures. I ended up going into a parking structure and drove to the top floor and had a ready-made observation deck which was handy because my time was limited.

I got on the Interstate and continued toward the Foxwoods Casino Resort in Mashantucket, CT. This resort is owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. When I got there I attempted to contact the customer by phone. There was a trade show and the trucks were inside a building. I finally got a hold of the customer and found out where on the property the trucks were. I parked in the garage and found the Convention Center section in the Fox Tower. I learned it would be awhile before I would be able to drive the trucks out of the building due to other exhibits that needed to be removed. I asked the hotel staff for the use of a luggage cart so I would not have to lug my gear from the parking garage to the truck which was a long distance. The staff person told me I was NOT allowed to use the luggage cart. Very helpful...NOT! I lugged my two large bags and loaded them into the truck I was to take to NY.

I realised I was going bingo on time so I headed toward the New London Airport in Groton where I thought I was to drop the rental car. I stopped at filling station then went to the airport and found out I was at the wrong location and found that the proper location was near but not at the airport. I finally made it a little after the deadline and I dropped off the car and after I explained what happened no charges were made for an extra day.

I hired a taxi back to the Fox Tower then I loaded the rest of my gear into the truck and did what I could of the safety inspection without starting the motor. I had to wait and wait and finally I drove another truck that was there out of the building. I had to be careful because the truck barely fit through the doors and there were people guiding me. I parked the truck outside and hid the keys so another driver could come and take it to Virginia. Then I got into the truck I was to take.

Trip: Mashantucket, CT to Gardiner, NY 155 miles
Make: 2016 Kenworth
Model: Tank Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: Connecticut 2 to Interstate 95 to Connecticut 9 to Connecticut 66 to Interstate 691 to Interstate 84 to New York 32 to US44
Maximum elevation: 970 feet Interstate 84 near East Fishkill, NY
Highest diesel price USA: 2.659$ per gallon at Pilot North Stonington, CT
Lowest diesel price USA: 2.469$ per gallon at Mobil Mashantucket, CT

The truck assigned to me was easier to get out of the building as it was smaller. I went to the filling station to take on fuel then I had evening rations and took enough time off duty to remain compliant with federal hours of service regulations. Then I headed to North Stonington where I took on more fuel and it dawned on me that the fuel gauge was not working as it showed empty though I put in enough that the level should have been over half. After that I headed to hotel where I parked and spent the night in Mystic, CT.

Thursday I headed west or south depending on the highway. I made it to Gardiner, NY late in the afternoon and it was 90F there when I dropped the truck. I hired taxi to SWF Stewart International Airport in Newburgh, NY where I hopped in rental car. The company set up the rental to be dropped at the airport in Teterboro, NJ. I made it to Fairfield, NJ where I spent the night.

Friday I got up early and stopped by the shipper where I loaded my gear into the truck then I headed toward Teterboro. Interstate 80 eastbound was wide open and I was going about 5mph or so above the posted limit but a state trooper blew right by me. Traffic started to get congested in Paterson, NJ. I followed directions on my smartphone and stopped by the gas bar at Costco where unleaded was 1.95$ per gallon and in New Jersey self serve is not allowed for unleaded gasoline. Then I went to the address indicated and there was a guard shack. I told the guard I was to drop off the rental car at this address and he asked me if I am flying out. I said no and he told me I could not drop off the car there but gave me a paper with directions to a location nearby in Lodi, NJ. I went there and dropped off the car and after a short wait got a ride back to the shipper.

Trip: Fairfield, NJ to Boston, MA 240 miles
Make: 2015 GM
Model: Crash Truck
Transmission: Automatic
Route: US46 to local roads to Interstate 287 to Interstate 87 to Interstate 90 to Interstate 93
Maximum elevation: 1,729 feet Interstate 90 Becket, MA about 20 miles east of the NY/MA state line
Diesel price USA: 2.439$ per gallon at Gulf Natick, MA

I finished the inspection, the shipper signed the bill of lading/inspection sheet and I was good to go. My smartphone told me to take some local roads so I did not touch Interstate 80 and I got the 287 several miles north of the interchange with the 80. I made a pit stop in Sloatsburg, NY as I knew I would not make it to Boston by 16h00. I phoned up the receiver to let him know I was coming. I opted to take a longer route mileagewise but hopefully shorter timewise as I decided to avoid Interstate 84 which would have exposed me to the risk of congestion in Danbury, Waterbury and Hartford, Connecticut. Instead I continued on the Thruway to the cutoff to get to eastbound Interstate 90 and the Mass Pike.

I was in contact with the receiver throughout the trip to keep him abreast of my progress and I ended driving truck in the city of Boston proper for the first time ever. I had to cross a bunch of lanes once I got on Interstate 93 to get to my exit which was coming up quick. I arrived after business hours but the receiver was there and still took the truck. Dispatch was relieved and I was relieved because I thought I might get stuck in Boston for the long Memorial Day weekend. I was glad that did not happen.

I hired a taxi to BOS and asked to be dropped at the rental car location. After a wait I rented a car and ended up getting a room in Tewksbury, MA. I had evening rations and ended up eating too many Ipswich Clams and regretted it later. I spent the night in Tewksbury, MA

Saturday it was warm and my camera malfunctioned so I used my smartphone to guide me and went to Best Buy in Burlington, MA where I got a new camera and case. Though I was not happy my camera malfunctioned I was very pleased with the service I received. However that cost me some time. I went into downtown Boston and went to an underground car park. I went to the 50th floor of the Prudential Center where I took in the view of Boston and took over a hundred pictures. Then I took the lift back down and took a few more pictures. The temperature was about 92F so I opted to head back to the airport. I found the filling station nearest to the airport and took on fuel there then I dropped off the rental car.

I got the shuttle from the rental car place to Terminal B. I found out my upgrade request cleared (I used miles but was put on a wait list as I suppose AA was going to see if someone was going to pony up full fare for the First Class seat). I checked in and checked my bags free of charge and asked for a window seat which was granted. Then I was able to skip the regular queue as my Boarding Pass said TSA Pre Check. I went through the metal detector but there was a beep and I was told I was randomly selected for additional screening through the Scanner then I received a partial patdown.

American #223 BOS-LAX B-737-800 Priority Boarding
Seat 6A First Class Cruising altitude 36,000 feet Estimated flying time 5:46, actual 5:45
Depart: Gate B32 Scheduled 18h55, actual 18h57 Taxi: 11 minutes
Arrive: Gate 48A Scheduled 22h32, actual 22h04 Taxi/hold: 9 minutes
Reclaim checked bags 22-23 minutes after arrival

We boarded via jetway and the load in F was 13/16 and I was told there were about 40 empty seats in Y. The plane had the new Boeing Sky Interior. A Pre-departure beverage was offered with a choice of orange juice or water. I chose water which was served in a plastic cup. It was announced it was partly cloudy and 66F at LAX.

Pushback was 2 minutes late followed by takeoff to the south then turn east and I was on the wrong side to see downtown Boston but I saw the Bay and some islands. We turned to the southwest and I saw part of Massachusetts but not Cape Cod. At 0:10 I saw Providence, RI and at 0:12 I saw Interstate 395 in eastern Connecticut. Then I saw Hartford, CT to the distance.

At 0:16 the stewardess came and told me there was no printed menu but the meal choices were either Lasagna or Chicken Breast with mushrooms. I do not care for mushrooms so I chose the Lasagna. I mentioned that there was a time when printed menus were given to passengers in coach.

At 0:19 the captain announced cruising altitude of 32,000 feet just west of Hartford, CT and we were going to be on time and maybe a little early and it was 65F with winds out of the west at 15mph at LAX. The route was announced as going over southern New York, Pennsylvania, central Ohio and Indiana, southern Colorado and northern New Mexico and Arizona, south of Las Vegas, Big Bear, the Inland Empire into LAX.

We crossed the Hudson River at 0:25 possibly near Poughkeepsie, NY. Seatbelt sign went off at 0:34 and back on at 0:38. At 0:50 I got mixed nuts and a can of soda and a glass with ice. At 0:52 I got headphones. It was hazy outside so that detracted from the view. At 0:55 I saw Interstate 99 and Altoona, PA. Later I saw Washington, PA and at 1:10 we crossed the Ohio River. By 1:18 clouds blocked the view below.

At about 1:20 the stewardess came with the meal which was supposed to be Lasagna but it may have been Manicotti, either way it was good. There was a salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing as well as Hummus and a choice of French Bread or Pretzel Roll with butter. I chose the Pretzel Roll. At 1:35 I got another can of soda. The meal was good with the exception of the Hummus. After the meal the stewardess asked if I would like to watch a movie on a tablet but I declined. At 2:01 I got a made to order hot fudge sundae for dessert. That was the best part of the meal, just like the old days. Seatbelt sign went off at 2:36 but I was unsure of location.

At 2:44 I saw the Kansas City area and at 2:50 I saw Lawrence, KS and at 2:51 I saw Topeka, KS. I used the washroom which was quite small and at 3:05 I saw Salina, KS and Interstate 135 in the gathering darkness. Somewhere over western Kansas or southeast Colorado I saw lightning to the distance after darkness fell.

At 4:05 the stewardess came through with a Snack Basket and I chose Potato Chips and Cashews. I dozed off. At 5:20 I felt descent begin and I saw the lights of the Coachella Valley and the lights of the Imperial Valley and Mexicali farther out.

Descent was announced at 5:21 and seatbelt sign went on at 5:22. I saw the lights of 29 Palms and the Morongo Basin close in. It was announced it was overcast and 65F at LAX. I saw the lights of Beaumont and Banning at 5:29. I saw Moreno Valley at 5:30. I got a hot towel at 5:34 abreast of Corona/Norco. Clouds increased and blocked the view below.

We went into the clouds at 5:41 and under the clouds at 5:42 and crossed Interstate 110 at the same time. We crossed the 405 at 5:44 and landed east to west a minute later and after a short hold due to gate being occupied we arrived at gate 28 minutes early and deplaned via jetway. I reclaimed my checked bags and took shuttle home and thus ends this tour of duty as I got home after 46 days on the road.

Hey there, LC! Took me awhile to get around to this but it's good to see you're still out on the road and evidently enjoying it as much as ever. Here's to your next road trip! ^