American Semi Trucks

9 x 12 160 pgs 225 color & b&w photos & artwork index

After WWII Americans were anxious to re-stoke the economy after a long “make-do with what you have” dry spell. By the 1950s new highways were being built, new trucking companies were being formed and old ones revived. Americans were buying newly-styled cars and the latest technologies once again. Semi-trucks helped pave the way for this huge growth spurt in America with dependable trucks built by Mack, GMC, Chevrolet, Ford, Dodge, International, White Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Diamond T, Reo, Autocar, Brockway, Sterling and others, many using the increasingly popular diesel engines made by Buda, Hercules, Waukesha, and Cummins, which helped their heavy loads haul quicker. Ron Adams portrays this booming era with over 300 superb photos of trucks hauling cement, fuel, and a variety of goods to enthusiastic Americans.

Presents classic photographs and detailed description of 1,250 work vehicles from 1891 to 1996, including fire trucks, earth movers, buses, coaches and military vehicles and offers information on their histories and manufacturers.

Prepare for a photo-packed look at trucks in action! Ron Adams has combed his huge archive of vintage truck photos to assemble this collection of over 300 black-and-white and color photos of postwar trucks. Prior to deregulation in the 1980s, distinctly branded trucks from hundreds of independent trucking firms worked America’s roads. Organized by decade, American Semi Trucks 1943-1979 features trucks from all makers including Freightliner, Kenworth, Mack, White-Freighliner, and more. Complete with detailed captions, this is a complete look at this period of trucking history.

From the first turn-of-the-century haulers to the 18-wheelers truckin' down the nation's highways today, ten full decades of big rigs fill the pages of this hardbound chronological retrospective. Lengthy captions accompany each of more than 500 black-and-white photographs and a special section of 75 color photos featuring major manufacturers like Mack, Peterbilt, Ford, Freightliner, International, and GMC, along with trailer manufacturers and minor truckbuilders that have gone by the wayside. The main focus is on semis built from the 1940s through the 1970s.

A truck driver's tractor-trailer is more than just a vehicle or a tool for making a living. It is a calling card, a personal statement, a way of life. Truckers take as much joy and pride in modifying their rigs as hot-rodders and car customizers. Bette Garber present some two dozen of the most interesting and creative custom trucks to be seen on the roads today. Each feature tells the story of the men and women who modify and drive these trucks, including the tricks of the trade. All are featured in full-color photography that highlights the flash, incredible detail, and personal touches of custom semi trucks. The book also provides an overview of the truck-show scene and what makes for an award-winning rig.