CalContractor Specialty Contractor Issue 2012

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2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR

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John Deere, Coastline Equipment and Smith Paving

(Left) Smith Paving’s brand new John Deere 332D skid steer from Coastline Equipment’s Oxnard branch.

(Right L to R) Smith Paving crew, Efren Garcia, Ruben Sanchez, Edgar Hurtado, Wesley Smith, David Smith, Cliff Wigg, and Buck Baird, Coastline Equipment.

Smith Paving has been serving the asphalt construction needs of the industrial, residential and commercial markets in and around Ventura, California since 1994. They have also built a successful niche in the specialty tennis court construction business.

Smith Paving relies on an entire fleet of construction equipment in order to remain on top of their game. They recently took delivery of a brand new John Deere 332D skid steer from Coastline Equipment’s Oxnard branch.

David Smith is the Owner and he has this to say about their recent addition, “I went with John Deere because I know they’re built to last. The 332D skid steer for instance is engineered and manufactured to the highest standards in the industry. We have utilized our new JD skid steer on several jobs now and it is simply bullet proof. More importantly, our operators have responded back with rave reviews. They have reported to us that the 332D is very operator friendly and that they enjoy the ergonomic comforts of the cab, as well as the variety and versatility of the attachments available.”

Smith continues, “Coastline Equipment has been a model of integrity and have been upfront and honest with us from the beginning. These are two qualities that I hold very dear and sincerely appreciate in a vendor. They consistently give me a straight answer, even if it is what I don’t really want to hear. They have just been great to deal with. Not just in the initial sale, but also during the service and parts transactions as well. We know that we can always count on them to get us what we need as quickly as possible. Coastline’s branch manager, Buck Baird also deserves some recognition, as he has worked hard to make this particular transaction completely seamless. We couldn’t have had a better experience and I know that they will continue to work hard to ensure that we remain satisfied.”

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2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Specialty Contractor Issue

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Features 06 Stronghold Turns 21

Dunkel Bros. and

10 Trench Shoring

Company

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Do Their Part To Safely Deliver The Space Shuttle Endeavour From LAX to The California Science Center

16 Quest Ventures

Southwest-

Santa Anita Dam Sediment Removal Project

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24 Customer Input Drives

John Deere to Design New 655K Crawler Loader 26 The New CAT 966K XEEfficient. Comfortable. Sustainable.

22 Industry News 30 Index 4

2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR

CalContractor Magazine / www.calcontractor.com PUBLISER: Kerry Hoover (909) 772-3121 khoover@calcontractor.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Brian Hoover

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Yesenia Ramirez

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Southern California: Call Kerry Hoover (909) 772-3121 Northern California: Call Josh Meads (209) 679-1278

CalContractor is published twelve times each year by Construction Marketing Services, LLC. PO Box 892977, Temecula, CA 92589/Phone:909-772-3121/Fax: 951-225-9659 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

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Stronghold Turns 21 Beverly Bailey has always embraced the entrepreneurial spirit. With her husband Scott Bailey, she envisioned a life where they could live a nice modest existence, put their children through college, and sock away something for retirement. While pregnant with her third child, Beverly decided she did not want to continue to work in the real estate market. She knew the only way to accomplish this would be through some sort of self-employment. Scott and Beverly prayed about the situation and on October 1, 1991 started their own small electrical contracting business out of their home. The Baileys had no way of knowing then what an

amazing journey would unfold over the next couple of decades.

Like most new businesses, the early years were hard, especially when combined with raising three children. Ms. Bailey explains, “The early years were a bit overwhelming. I remember living on only $800 a week during this time. The rest of the money had to go right back into the business. With employees, trucks, equipment and other costs, we were forced to make some big sacrifices. Even still, people wanted more and we were already on such a tight budget that I thought to myself; it might be better to go back

Building Excellence A brief history of Stronghold

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Begins Operation 1991

First Office Building 1993

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and work for somebody else.” However, Beverly was determined to make her and Scott’s dream work and she began looking for whatever was available for women in small business. “I decided to attend a workshop in Riverside through the minority business development center, where I was introduced to the SBA 8(a) program. The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program helps small disadvantaged businesses compete and access the federal procurement market. We submitted for this program, qualified and received certification in January of 1995. This was mostly a self-marketing program and I took that to heart and just ran with it.”

Today, Stronghold has come a long way from where it began and averages around $90 to $100 million in revenue annually. They maintain around 225 employees and more than 400 individual sub-contractors and vendors working for them throughout the year. As Ms. Bailey explains, “I believe that it is our diverse capabilities within our workforce that has kept us going strong during this trying economy. We just finished a municipal auditorium seismic upgrade and renovation job in Riverside and have been very busy lately with renewable projects. We also just finished a ground up barracks project on

Stronghold Team at the San Clemente Island Ribbon Cutting

First VA Loma Linda Project 1995

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Stronghold becomes SBA 8(a) certified 1995

Design Build PV System, SPAWAR | San Diego, Ca

San Clemente Island. Talk about a logistically challenging job, we had to load everything we would need in a container and send it over on a barge, including all of the heavy machinery.”

The Baileys are very proud of all of their projects and have been recognized for the Excellence in Construction more than 200 times. In fact, Stronghold recently was notified that two of its recently completed projects will be recognized at an ENR awards dinner this coming September.

A tremendous strength of Stronghold Engineering is their ability to successfully manage and administer large design build and EPC projects in various geographic locations.

The backbone of all this growth and success is the 225 plus Team Members of Stronghold Engineering. “It is our gifted people that make the difference. We have a Ten-Year Club with employees that have been with us as long as 18 years. My husband Scott is my partner and an integral part of our day-to-day business. I should also point out that our Chief Estimator Kamel Khalil has also been very instrumental to our success and growth. He was our first real inside employee and started with us over 18 years ago.

Stronghold reaches 40 employees 1998

Beverly and Scott win Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2000

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Riverside Municipal Auditorium Riverside, Ca

In addition, Patricia McNicholas (Mackie) has been onboard many years… today she serves as our Risk Manager after working through the ranks from receptionist, payroll manager, contracts and sub-contracts manager and more.

Her husband Don McNicholas started with us a few months later as an Electrical Superintendent back in 1995. Today Don continues to work on some of Stronghold’s most complex electrical projects, receiving outstanding evaluations from the clients on a regular basis. I wish I could mention each of our employees individually because we owe so much too each and every one of them and count on them each and every day.”

The name Stronghold Engineering was inspired by the book of Psalms, chapter 18, verse 2: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliver; my God is my rock, in which I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold”.

Beverly Bailey concludes, “I mean it when I say

Stronghold wins the ABC National Eagle 2004

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First Project over $20 Million GSA Federal Building 2006

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Bachelor Enlisted Quarters San Clemente Island, Ca

that all of the glory goes to God. We started this business with just $3,000 and to grow it to where it is today is no normal everyday thing. God has truly blessed us with wonderful employees, sub contractors and suppliers that have been so instrumental to our success. Scott and I really want to sincerely thank them all. As we get ready to celebrate our company’s 21st anniversary on October 6th, I feel the need and duty to once again thank everyone who has been part of the past 21 years and to guarantee that we will continue to focus on the same principles that have led us straight thus far, namely: Safety, Quality, Integrity, Teamwork, and Commitment.”

First LEED® Project Miramar Golf Clubhouse 2007

Completed SPAWAR PV Project for the Navy 2011

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4701-B Little John St. • Baldwin Park, CA 91706 Phone: 800-813-8232 • Fax: 626-813-1594

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Dunkel Bros. and Trench Shoring Company Do Their Part To Safely Deliver The Space Shuttle Endeavour From LAX to The California Science Center

© Bill Ingles/NASA

Space Shuttle Endeavour crossing over Lincoln Blvd. just outside LAX. It was necessary to remove the center divider and then build a 50’ wide ramp at less than 5% grade and then cover that ramp with 1” steel plates provied by Trench Shoring Company.

NASA began their manned launched vehicle Space Shuttle program back in 1981 and continued on until 2011. Four to seven astronauts were launched vertically in a winged aircraft built specifically for orbital space flights. Columbia was the first official Orbiter to launch into space as a Space Shuttle, followed by the Challenger, Discovery and Atlantis. Tragically, in 1986, the Challenger and its entire crew were lost shortly after launch and the Endeavour was built as its replacement.

Endeavour’s maiden flight was in 1992 and it completed its final journey on June 1, 2011.

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The Orbiter was named after the British ‘HMS Endeavour’, which is the ship that Captain James Cook sailed on his first discovery voyage back in 1768. With an estimated price tag of around $2.2 billion, the Endeavour was launched 25 times, orbited the earth nearly 4,700 times and flew 122,853,151 miles at speeds up to 19,000 miles per hour, spending a total of 299 days in space. It is also credited for capturing and redeploying the stranded INTELSAT VI communications satellite on its very first voyage, and proudly carried the first African-

2012 CONCRETE Specialty CONSTRUCTION Contractor ISSUE ISSUECALCONTRACTOR CALCONTRACTOR

American woman astronaut, Mae Jeminson in September of 1992. In 1993, the Endeavour made its first mission to the Hubble Space Telescope, and in 1998, it delivered the Unity Module to the Zarya module at the International Space Station.

The Endeavour flew its final mission in May of 2011 and was then formally decommissioned.

Soon after decommission, in excess of twenty different organizations submitted proposals requesting the rights from NASA to display the Orbiter. After careful consideration, NASA announced that Endeavour would go to

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2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Dunkel Bros. begins laying down steel plates for stability and proper weight distribution along Space Shuttle Endeavour’s route from LAX to the California Science Center.

the California Science Center in Los Angeles. It was then delivered in its final landing to the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on September 21, 2012, and plans went into full gear to carefully transport the Endeavour to the California Science Center. Several ideas were submitted and considered that included everything from moving with a helicopter to dismantling and moving in pieces. In order to protect the delicate heat tiles and other components, the decision was made to transport the Orbiter through the streets of Los Angeles and Inglewood at a cost of just over $10 million paid for by the California Science Center and private donations.

Plumb Engineering, a fullyintegrated architecture and engineering firm, and Encon

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Construction Services, a consulting construction and design-build firm were hired to provide design, engineering and logistics management for the transport of the Space Shuttle Endeavor. These two firms in turn worked with Sarens, Caltrans, Southern California Edison and local police departments to ensure the protection of roadways, sewer and storm drain systems and underground utilities. With a 78 ft. wingspan and standing a full five stories high, the Endeavour would be extremely difficult to move through the streets of Los Angeles. The combined weight of the Space Shuttle at approximately 175,000 pounds and the transport vehicle at another 325,000 pounds was just too much for the cities infrastructure, which was initially

2012 CONCRETE Specialty CONSTRUCTION Contractor ISSUE ISSUECALCONTRACTOR CALCONTRACTOR

built back in the 1920’s and 30’s.

Moving the Endeavour required a specialized carrier typically used to haul massive loads like, bridges, oil rigs and heavy equipment. An operator walked along the side of the carrier and operated it remotely, moving its 160 wheels in any direction.

It was determined that it would be necessary to utilize steel plates for stability and weight distribution purposes at all of the above mentioned areas in question. Encon Construction Services subcontracted a large portion of this work to Dunkel Bros. Machinery Moving. Peter Dunkel, President of Dunkel Bros. further explains, “The route passed through the city of Inglewood and past the South Figueroa Corridor in the city of Los Angeles, ending just south of the University of Southern California campus at the museum. In addition, the route included some major thoroughfares including: Manchester, Crenshaw, Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and a bridge crossing over the 405 freeway. Along the way the Endeavour faced a few obstacles like telephone poles, trees and building structures. Power had to be turned off in some areas, while telephone poles were taken down and some trees had to be removed.”

This was not the first time that Dunkel Bros. has been involved with a Space Shuttle project.

As a matter of fact they recently

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© Bill Ingles/NASA

The Space Shuttle Endeavour weighs more than 175,000 lbs. and the 160 wheel transport vehicle that carried it weighed around 325,000 lbs. The 8’x10’ and 8’x20’ steel plates help to properly distribute this weight around sensitive areas like manholes, sewer lines and other worrisome subterrain.

finished dismantling one of the previous shuttles just a few months ago. They were also involved in the transport of the original wood Space Shuttle mockup that was manufactured in Downey, California. Peter Dunkel continues, “Once the Endeavour left LAX, we were contracted to lay plates over the center divider at Lincoln Blvd., which is considered a state highway. In order to accomplish this, Encon Construction Services had to first remove the center divider (k-walls) and then we proceeded to construct a 50’ wide ramp at less than a 5% grade to bridge the 9” difference between the two

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sides of the road. We built the ramp out of strips of stacked plywood with 1” steel plate laid on top. From this point on, our job consisted of continuing to install predominantly 8’x10’, 1” steel plates along the route wherever manholes, sewer lines or any other worrisome subterrain existed. We put down approximately 1,000 steel plates, however our installation trucks could only carry 12 plates at a time. So if you do the math, that comes out to 83 individual loads each way by jobs end. We had to leap frog as many as 200 plates at a time in some areas and we did the plate moving at night to avoid any additional traffic

issues. It was also necessary that we make all of the plates non-slip and we were also required to have safety lights and striping on each plate. We are extremely thankful to Trench Shoring Company, who supplied us with all of our steel plates for this job. They did a terrific job and their professionalism and experience was a welcome relief and helped to alleviate much of the pressure.”

Trench Shoring Company has been providing the construction industry with the finest in steel plates, trench plates and shoring equipment since 1973. Mike Hayet is the Operations Manager for Trench Shoring Company

2012 2012CONCRETE Specialty CONSTRUCTION Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Crowds look on as the Space Shuttle Endeavour turns one of many corners on its way to the California Science Center in Los Angeles, California.

and comments, “We were of course very pleased that Dunkel Bros. chose Trench Shoring for their trench plate needs on this high profile project. We have worked with Dunkel Bros. before delivering machinery and they have used our plates in the past for weight dispersal purposes on other jobs. We worked together very well on this project, with Trench Shoring providing and

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delivering all of the plates and Dunkel Bros. concentrating on the placement. We provided more than 1,000 steel plates, which is the equivalent of 95,000 square feet or around two acres of surface area. That is a tall order and represents our single largest steel plate job to date if you consider the amount of time this was accomplished in. The real challenge was getting all

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of the plates and other material prepped and ready for delivery.

To make things even more logistically challenging, it was necessary for Dunkel Bros. to place the plates as they were being delivered; due to the fact that leaving stacks of steel plates overnight was strictly prohibited.

In all there was around 110 truckloads of plates and other material to deliver and the same amount to pickup later.

Dropping off the material took us around eight days, while the pickup was accomplished in half that time. We fulfilled the entire order with our existing inventory by coordinating with all of our eight Southern California locations, as well as our branch in Las Vegas. We delivered to several predetermined locations, which required lane closures from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm. The plates were available in various sizes, from 8’x10’ to 8’x20’ and anywhere from 3,200 lbs to 6,500 lbs. each. This was a great team effort by everyone involved and we would like to thank everyone for his or her professionalism and hard work.”

The Space Shuttle Endeavour will continue to inspire people of all ages for many years to come.

It’s historical final journey began in the early morning hours of October 12th and reached its final destination at the Science Center on October 14th. The exhibit is now open to the public at the temporary Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Endeavour Display Pavilion and will eventually be housed in a brand new addition currently under construction. Cc

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2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Quest Civil Constructors, Inc Santa Anita Dam Sediment Removal Project

Quest Team Leader, Pat Deitchler, gives direction to dozer operators during excavation activities in the Santa Anita Reservoir.

Quest removed 500,000 tons of sediment from the reservoir.

oward Birch and Karl Banschbach met and became friends while attending Montana State University back in the mid80’s. Both earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Construction Engineering Technology and secured positions with major construction companies upon graduation. In early 2000, Howard and Karl discussed the possibility to build their own heavy civil construction company. The business concept

H

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was simple; build a profitable and progressive company, while encouraging a balance between professional and personal life commitments.

Twelve years later, Quest is operating successfully throughout the southwest with offices in Arizona, California and Texas.

Along with their team of nearly 100 employees, Quest specializes in heavy civil projects including but not limited to dams, pipelines, pump stations, treatment plants, tunnel work, and parks and recreation.

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Perhaps one of Quest’s most unique jobs to date is the Santa Anita Dam Sediment Removal Project that is to be completed in January 2013. Originally constructed back in 1927, the Santa Anita Dam was built to prevent seasonal storm floods in the Los Angeles basin. After a seismic stability analysis, the California Department of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) determined that construction modifications were necessary in order to comply with current seismic

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2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Sediment removal and rock crushing activities at the Santa Anita Reservoir.

stability standards. During the construction planning stages, it became evident that the existing sediment level in the reservoir was hindering the penstock outlet valve operation at the dam.

In order to allow for proper operation of these outlet gates and valves, approximately 48 feet of sediment needed to be removed to achieve an efficient operating elevation of 1,175 feet. In addition, a new cast-inplace concrete sluiceway riser structure was required to be constructed on the upstream face of the dam.

Quest’s scope of work consisted of dewatering the Santa Anita Reservoir and excavating approximately 595,000 tons of sediment.

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Quest also modified the dam’s inlet and outlet works, including sand blasting and recoating the existing penstock outlet pipes and riser structure trash racks.

The project also called for the installation of a new hydraulic power unit system, including a new hydraulic power unit, three new slide gates, and all associated mechanical piping.

What made this job so unique was the 3-mile long conveyor system which included a downhill (7% grade) 1,500 foot tunnel conveyor, six (6) segmental conveyors with six (6) separate transfer points, and a two (2) mile overland conveyor. Truck transport was not possible due to the limited access, so the conveyor

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belt system was utilized by Quest to mitigate noise, dust and air pollution impacts associated with transporting the sediment. Quest excavated and conveyed 500,000 tons of sediment from the reservoir before reaching final grade elevation of 1,175 feet.

Eric Matten is a Project Engineer for Quest and was responsible for all of the hydraulic system-upgrade work on the Santa Anita Dam project. Eric was also the onsite equipment coordinator and had this to say about the conveyor system that was utilized on this job, “The conveyor system used at Santa Anita is one of the most technical of its kind, featuring several vertical and horizontal

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Sediment is loaded into the dozer feeds and conveyed onto the 1,500 foot long tunnel conveyor belt.

curves. Conveyor systems are typically set up to transport material in a straight line, but due to the landscape, a straight shot conveyor was not an option. It took several months of making constant adjustments and repairs to get the system dialed-in and functional. At the beginning, the excavators would load the material into the feed system and onto the conveyor belt, but it became evident that the impact of larger rocks making it through the screens was damaging the conveyor. We engineered a special screening system that kept the larger rock material

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from hitting the conveyor belt and this helped minimize damages and ultimately our shut down time.”

Excavating and conveying more than half a million tons of material at a depth of more than 40 feet in some areas, required the support of reliable heavy machinery.

Eric Matten explains, “The Santa Anita Reservoir had not been cleaned out since the 1960’s and it was apparent that they had left behind much of the oversized rock. We knew our equipment fleet would require dozers, excavators, wheel loaders, haul trucks and even a mobile crusher

to crush the oversized rock.

The rainy season prohibits us from working in the reservoir from October 15th to April 15th, so we pre-planned all of our equipment needs in order to be as productive as possible. This time last year, we began researching rental equipment companies in Southern California. We were looking for a rental company that would provide late model industry leading equipment, but also provide timely service.

One day I simply Google searched the key words “heavy equipment rentals” and the company Heavy Equipment Rentals (HER), LLC

2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Quest’s two (2) mile long overland conveyor belt with vertical and horizontal curves.

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2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR

was the first listing that came up. HER was conveniently located in Corona, California (only an hour away from our project) and they had all of the machines we needed in their inventory. HER sales representative, Buck Schott, provided us with timely service and was very accommodating. We had a very positive experience with Buck and the other helpful people at Heavy Equipment Rentals. HER provided us with as many as eleven rental machines at one point which included: CAT D8 and D6 dozers, Komatsu and Hyundai excavators, and Komatsu haul trucks and mobile crusher. If there were any issues at all I would simply make one phone call and an HER service truck would be on our site within two hours. Heavy Equipment Rentals equipment and service were outstanding and we will definitely call them again on future projects.”

The Santa Anita Dam Sediment Removal Project began back in December of 2010 and will be completed in January 2013. Through quality, unparalleled focus, employees, safety and teamwork, it is Quest’s mission to continue to provide superior customer service. For more information on Quest Civil Constructors, Inc., please visit their website at www.qvsw.com or call their Phoenix, Arizona office at (623) 581-9700. Cc

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Komatsu America Corp. Launches New WA470-7 Wheel Loader New Machine Powered by Tier 4 Interim Engine Technology

Komatsu America Corp. introduces the WA470-7 wheel loader. With a net horsepower of 272 hp, the WA470-7 is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D125E-6 engine and is EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B emission certified. Built upon a proven Tier 3 engine platform, Komatsu has leveraged its leadership in technology and innovation to design a more environmentallyfriendly engine that increases power while decreasing fuel consumption by approximately 8 percent, compared to the WA470-6.

Weighing in at 52,007 pounds, the WA470-7 features improved efficiency, lower fuel consumption, improved operator comfort, and enhanced serviceability to maximize productivity while lowering operating costs.

The WA470-7 is equipped with the latest KOMTRAX® technology, which is fully integrated with Komatsu’s Tier 4 technology. Machine operating information such as operating 22

hours, fuel consumption, location, cautions and maintenance alerts are wirelessly relayed to a secure website for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system results in increased machine availability and, reduced risk of machine theft when compared to machines not equipped with KOMTRAX. The technology also allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency and productivity.

New features of the WA470-7 include: • EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B Emission Certified Engine Built upon proven Tier 3 technology, the SAA6D125E-6 engine provides lower emissions while also lowering fuel consumption. The Komatsu Tier 4 Interim engine uses an advanced electronic control system to manage air flow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters and aftertreatment functions

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to optimize performance, reduce emissions, reduce fuel consumption and provide advanced diagnostic capability.

As a leader in hydraulic technology, Komatsu has also developed a hydraulically actuated Komatsu Variable Geometry Turbocharger (KVGT) and an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, resulting in better precision and air management as well as longer component life.

The Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) has an integrated design that will not interfere with daily operation but will keep the operator aware of its status.

The WA470-7 also features Komatsu Smart Loader Logic (KSLL), which provides optimal engine torque for the job required. KSLL allows for fuel reduction by decreasing engine torque when the loader isn’t working hard, such as when it is driving with an empty bucket.

KSLL functions automatically with machine operation and results in saving fuel without decreasing production.

The wheel loader has greater productivity in V-cycle applications because of the increased tractive effort. The faster hill climbing ability allows the WA470-7 to up-shift gears faster because of improved acceleration. The wheel loader can also achieve higher gear ranges and maintain higher ground speeds when working in load-and-carry applications. In most applications, production is increased and fuel consumption reduced, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Cc www.calcontractor.com

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2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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Customer Input Drives John Deere to Design New 655K Crawler Loader The new 655K Crawler Loader from John Deere was designed and built using significant customer input, to provide contractors a machine that helps increase productivity and uptime and lower daily operating costs. The latest addition to the K-Series line builds on the highly successful 755K crawler loader. Both of these models are assembled in Dubuque, Iowa.

The 655K features a John Deere PowerTech™ 6.8-L IT4/Stage IIIB diesel engine that delivers a productive combination of power and torque. The new model boasts a net horsepower of 145 hp at 1,800 RPM. A key feature of the 655K is the hydrostatic transmission, a feature John Deere first pioneered in crawler dozers in North America in 1976. These transmissions provide customers infinite speed control, power

management, live power turns, counter rotation while staying in gear, and dynamic braking.

Designed with customer input, the transmission controls allow operators to pick between the V-pattern or joystick transmission control option to get work done.

In addition, Total Machine Control allows customized machine response that can be tailored to meet the needs of individual operators.

Customers can choose between two-bucket options: a general-purpose bucket or a 4-in-1 multipurpose bucket with lifetime lubricated bucket pivot pins to increase uptime by

eliminating periodic service. In addition, a rear ripper design helps turn materials on the jobsite.

John Deere’s exclusive QuadCool system isolates coolers from engine heat for increased efficiency and durability. A standard hydraulic-driven variable-speed suction fan runs only as needed, reducing noise, fuel consumption, and cooling component wear.

Onboard diagnostics include a standard display monitor that provides real time values for every temperature, pressure, and speed sensor on the machine. The crawler loader constantly monitors transmission temperature to avoid damage to the hydrostat system. If the transmission temperature is too cold or too hot, the associated light on the monitor will illuminate. Cc

Caterpillar Ships 500th D7E Track-Type Tractor with Electric Drive With more than 1.4 million gallons of diesel fuel saved to date, Caterpillar has shipped the 500th D7E Track-Type Tractor from the company’s East Peoria, Illinois facility.

The Cat® D7E features a first-of-its-kind electric drive system that boosts productivity and efficiency while lowering operating costs and dramatically reducing fuel consumption.

A key advantage of the D7E has proven to be reduced fuel consumption. Pre-production studies suggested that the 24

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D7E would provide 10 to 30 percent better fuel economy over the previous D7 model, depending on the application.

According to Cat Product Link™ data, customers using the D7E have already saved more than 1.4 million gallons (5.3 million liters) of diesel fuel as compared to the previous D7R model.

For more information on the Cat D7E Track-Type Tractor, please contact your local California Caterpillar Dealer or visit www.cat.com Cc www.calcontractor.com

Caterpillar Announces New Cat® D Series Mini Excavators

The new Cat® D Series Mini Hydraulic Excavators – models 301.7D, 302.2D and 302.4D are powerful, versatile machines that work comfortably in confined spaces and an addition to the existing D Series line-up. With model configurations that closely reflect their operating weights (1.6 to 2.5 metric tons), the new machines feature powerful hydraulics, a spacious operator environment and excellent service access.

Compact in size, the 301.7D, 302.2D and 302.4D can be easily transported on a trailer, or in a pick-up truck.

The 301.7D can be specified with either a fixed or extending undercarriage. The 302.2D is fitted with an extending undercarriage as standard and delivers a greater dig depth and lifting performance. A longer dozer blade is optional on both the 301.7D and 302.2D. In North America, the 302.4D is configured with brackets and relief valves for simple and cost effective mounting of a hydraulic thumb. www.calcontractor.com

Durable, Functional Design Enhancing overall capability, the dozer blade simplifies backfilling and clean-up chores.

A float function allows the blade to follow ground contours with no operator correction and make site clean up quick and easy.

Sturdy hoisting brackets on the cab roof enable the easy and rapid relocation of the machine.

Operator Comfort D-Series models are available with a canopy operator’s station that enables access from both sides of the machine, or with an optional enclosed cab providing premium standard features such as an efficient heater/defroster/ ventilation system, as well as a retractable front window with a strut assisted linkage that can be easily stowed in the roof space.

The lower section of the front glass can be raised and stored along with the upper screen section, increasing ventilation and visibility. All models have a sliding right side window for additional ventilation flow. Cab versions come with a radioready package.

The spacious operator’s compartment offers a comfortable suspension seat, retractable seat belts, adjustable wrist rests, and ample legroom.

The hydraulic function is operated by the proportional roller on the joystick. A switch allows the operator to vary the auxiliary hydraulic flow to suit the requirements of the different work tools. All models offer twoway auxiliary hydraulics enabling the operation of both hydraulic hammer and a bi-directional tool such as an auger. In line with the larger models in the new Cat excavator range, all controls are pilot operated, providing smooth operation with low effort and eliminating any maintenance required to cables and linkages.

The swing park brake, required during machine transportation, is automatically applied when the left hand console is raised.

Easy Routine Service Durable steel body panels offer good resistance to damage.

Hinged and removable panels provide easy access for both routine and deeper maintenance.

Extended routine service intervals for D Series models save time and reduce operating costs: oil-impregnated sinteredalloy bearings in the boom and digging-arm linkages require grease only at 500-hour intervals; engine oil changes are extended to 500 hours; and the hydraulic oil change interval is 3,000 hours.

A Cat S.O.S™ fluid-sampling port for hydraulic oil allows accurate, periodic assessment of fluid condition during its life. Cc

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The New Cat® 966K XE: Efficient. Comfortable. Sustainable.

Equipped with an advanced powertrain system, the new Cat® 966K XE wheel loader impressively delivers up to a 25 percent fuel efficiency improvement with optimum performance. The new model meets the needs for both efficiency and sustainability while simplifying the operator’s interface and operating technique.

Efficiency and Performance The 966K XE has been engineered to deliver superior efficiency by utilizing an integrated Cat continuously variable transmission system.

A hydraulic pump and motor (variator unit), allows for a smooth and continuous gear ratio change between engine speed and machine speed.

The variator provides this ratio flexibility while greatly reducing the heat load generated by the drive train when the machine is digging, pushing and climbing under heavy load. The continuously variable gear ratio of the variator also enables the engine to run at a more efficient operating range independent of machine ground speed.

Power is transmitted through the variator unit (versatile gear ratio) as well as a parallel mechanical gear path (highest efficiency). Power through the variator and mechanical paths are combined through a series of planetary gear sets in order maximize the transmission efficiency over a wide range of operating conditions.

The 966K XE is powered by a Cat C9.3 ACERTTM diesel engine, delivering a peak net horsepower rating of 220 kW 26

(290 hp). Meeting the European Union Stage IIIB emissions standards, the C9.3 ACERT™ engine incorporates a highpressure common rail injection system for a clean, efficient burn.

The proven Cat Clean Emissions Module, which incorporates a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst, a Diesel Particulate Filter and the Cat Regeneration System, functions automatically without interrupting the machine’s working cycle.

Developed especially for production loading for both 966K and 966K XE, Performance Series Buckets are standard and deliver faster fill times and better material retention to reduce cycle time and improve productivity.

Operational Benefits With the 966K XE, transmission operation is automated and transparent to the operator. The machine is well balanced and easy to operate at extremely low engine speeds, providing optimal productivity and burning less fuel. While maintaining the ability to operate effectively in moderate

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applications, this machine delivers improved performance on grade and in aggressive applications. The operator has the ability to control maximum ground speed through the use of virtual gears to provide flexibility in various machine applications.

The engine can be controlled to operate more efficiently over a wide range of conditions.

During deceleration, machine momentum can be recovered as free energy to power implements or the cooling fan, while significantly lower working engine speeds result in reduced soot build-up for longer regeneration intervals, cutting fuel use further.

Comfortable The 966K XE has just two pedals with reduced operating interface/mode complexity. In addition, the operator is free to concentrate on bucket fill and digging capabilities without the need for manual shifting.The 966K XE will be available in North America in the first quarter of 2013. Cc www.calcontractor.com

Komatsu America Corp. Launches New D61-23 Crawler Dozers Powered by Next Level of Tier 4 Interim Engine and New Innovative HST Technology

Komatsu America Corp. recently introduced its new line of D61-23 crawler dozers that were developed with extensive customer input. Utilizing this invaluable customer feedback, Komatsu America has produced a crawler dozer that is smarter, more productive, more ownerand operator-focused and that offers lower owning and operating costs. Using its popular D51-22 as a design starting point, Komatsu refined the dozer design to meet EPA Tier 4 Interim regulations while providing more owner- and operatorfocused features, all bundled in a larger 130 to 160 HP package that pushes productivity and efficiency to new levels.

New longer track-on-ground standard (EX) and low ground pressure (PX) models are available to offer customers flotation and weight distribution options that best match their applications. Operating weight ranges from 39,099 lbs. to 41,138 lbs. depending on the configuration. www.calcontractor.com

Developed as a versatile multitool, the D61-23 is designed for a wide variety of applications, including land clearing, grading, forestry and site work. A full guarding package, hydraulic winch and other attachments are available for easy customization to meet specific customer requirements.

The D61-23 crawler dozer is equipped with the latest KOMTRAX? technology, which is fully integrated with Komatsu’s Tier 4 technology and sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology.

Hour meter, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption and maintenance alerts – to name a few of its features – are relayed to the web application for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft (compared to machines not KOMTRAXequipped), allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor, and provides a wealth of other

information to drive business efficiency and productivity.

Special features of these new crawler dozers include: • EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU stage 3B emission certified engine Built upon proven Komatsu Tier 3 technology, the Tier 4 Interim SAA6D107E-2 engine provides the same horsepower as its predecessor while lowering fuel consumption by up to 10%. Komatsu’s Tier 4 Interim engine platform uses an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters, and after treatment functions to optimize performance, reduce emissions, and provide advanced diagnostic capability.

The Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) has an integrated design that will not interfere with daily operation but will keep the operator aware of its status. This smart and simplified system removes soot using “passive regeneration” the majority of the time, to minimize “active regeneration” events. For owners, this means lower fuel costs because of fewer active regeneration events as well as seamless operation for the operator.

For more information on the new Komatsu D61-23 Crawer Dozers powered by next level of Tier 4 interim engine and new innovative HST technology, please contact your local California Komatsu dealer. Cc

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Quality you can rely on

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2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR

www.calcontractor.com

For details, contact your local Komatsu distributor.

Your Volvo — just the way you want it

www.clairemontequipment.com

7651 Ronson Rd. San Diego, CA 92111 Office: 858-278-8351 Fax: 858-492-9959 San Diego 4726 Convoy St. Office: 858-278-8338 Fax: 858-278-4845 Escondido 1330 Mission Rd. Office: 760-739-9100 Fax: 760-739-8888 Fontana 8520 Cherry Ave. Office: 909-429-9100 Fax: 909-429-9397 Imperial 440 West Aten Rd. Office: 760-355-7700 Fax: 760-355-7704 Indio 81-501 Industrial Place Office: 760-863-5558 Fax: 760-863-0959 www.calcontractor.com

When the job requires something beyond a standard machine, the Volvo Construction Equipment Body Builder system allows customers to build an excavator to suit their specific requirements.

Although Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) provides an extensive and well-respected range of highly flexible excavators to choose from, sometimes customers need a machine that will even more closely meet the needs of their respective sectors.

When that’s the case, Volvo CE allows customers to build a wheeled or tracked excavator to their exact specifications via its Body Builder initiative. Each Body Builder machine is supplied with a rugged Volvo excavator superstructure, including a first-class cab, counterweight, drivetrain, undercarriage, boom and arm. But whatever the demand — whether the customer requires a modified undercarriage for an amphibious application or needs to tilt or raise the cab for work in recycling — the Volvo dealer will work with a recommended partner network to integrate specialist technology into the standard Volvo superstructure and turn the customer’s vision into a custom-built excavator.

For consistency, regardless of the modification, the partner network has access to Volvo CE’s Body Builder Instructions (BBI), which guide the partner through the process of completing the machine. Volvo technicians are also available on demand to provide additional direct support, should the partner require it.

The resulting machine may be tailor made, but it still bears the hallmarks of a Volvo machine, with the company’s core values of quality, safety and environmental care. And these specialized machines benefit from aftermarket and warranty support from Volvo CE and its partner network. Cc 2012 Specialty Contractor CALCONTRACTOR

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

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Art’s Trench Plate & K-Rail................ 17

Heavy Equipment Rentals.................. 3

A.S.A.P. Heavy Equipment Rentals... 15

Nixon-Egli Equipment Co.. Back Cover

CalAPA.............................................. 23

RDO Equipmnet Co............................ 5

CAT Group.......................................... 2

Specialty Crane & Rigging................ 19

Clairemont Equipment................ 28, 29

Trench Shoring Company................. 11

Coastline Equipment.......................... 3

UB Equipment Corp........................... 9

Coastline Equipment Crane Div........ 31

Volvo Construction Equip. & Svcs.... 15

Dynapac.............................................. 3

Westrax Machinery........................... 11

2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR

www.calcontractor.com

325 N. 5 St., Bldg. A Sacramento, CA 95811 Phone: (916) 440-8090 Fax: (916) 440-8094

3216 Westminster Ave. Santa Ana, CA 92703 Phone: (714) 265-6550 Fax: (714) 265-6551

coastlinecd.com

www.

LIEBHERR CRAWLER CRANES AND DRILLING AND PILE DRIVING

Capacity: Up to 330 tons Max Tip Height: 493 ft.

Liebherr Crawler Cranes and Drilling and Pile Driving machines with lift crane capacities to 330 ton and tip heights to 493 feet, duty cycle machines with up to 900 HP engines and line pulls to 88,000 lbs and Drilling and Pile driving machines with up to 900 HP engines and working torque to 295,000 foot pounds and leader lengths to 140 feet.

MANITEX BOOM TRUCKS Capacity: 17 to 50 ton Lift Height: 203 ft.

Liebherr Scrap Handlers are available in both Wheeled and Tracked series with multiple attachments including Grapplers, Magnets, Shells and Crane Hooks.

Cranes are available conventionally mounted tractor mounted and rear with a 360° continuous rotation and enclosed cabs.

TADANO ROUGH TERRAIN CRANES Capacity: 150 to 100 ton Lift Height: 220 ft.

PALFINGER ARTICULATED CRANES Capacity: 8 to 150 metric ton

ZOOM BOOM FORKLIFTS Capacity: 20k to 32k lbs.

Lift Height: 220 ft. to 56 ft.

Coastline Equipment is Proud to Be Your Full-Service Dealer.

We Provide Parts & Service Support for All Makes & Models of Cranes &CALCONTRACTOR Forklifts. www.calcontractor.com 2012 Specialty Contractor

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Nixon- Egli Equipment Co., Vogele and Tierra Contracting

(Above) Tierra Contracting Inc.’s new Vogele Super 700 Series Paving machine working in Carpinteria, California.

(Above) The new Vogele Super 700 Series Paving machine purchased from Nixon-Egli Equipment Co. in Ontario, California.

Tierra Contracting is based in Goleta, California and performs most of their work in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties. Their services include underground utility construction, concrete construction, cold mill grinding and machine controlled asphalt placement, as well as heavy construction transport and debris basin cleaning services.

Being in business since 1978, Tierra Contracting has learned that one important component of success is who you partner with for equipment purchases. Nixon-Egli has been the leading paving equipment dealer for over 40 years. When it came time for Tierra Contracting to purchase a new paving machine, Nixon-Egli was the clear choice.

Blair Douglas is a project manager for Tierra Contracting and he has this to say about the recent equipment acquisition, “We have been looking at the Vogele Super 700 for some time now because we really like the compact size. The Vogele fulfills our need for a specialized unit for our trench paving projects. The Super 700 also has all of the features of a larger paving machine and we utilize all of its capabilities on a regular basis. We especially appreciate the electric heated screed instead of propane heaters on competitor models. We have been using the screed crown on it as well for our county pathway projects. Our new paver is already serving us extremely well and so has Nixon-Egli Equipment Co. Our sales rep, Chris Doring has been very responsive since the beginning of our talks and Nixon-Egli’s overall service has just been great. They even sent a Vogele specialist out to one of our jobsites to further familiarize us with our new machine. This was very helpful as we gained valuable operational tips, as well as maintenance information.”

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California’s Largest General Line Construction and Municipal Equipment Dealer.

So. California: 2044 S. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91761 • (909) 930-1822 No. California: 800 E. Grant Line Rd., Tracy, CA 95304 • (209) 830-8600 www.nixon-egli.com 2012 Specialty Contractor ISSUE CALCONTRACTOR www.calcontractor.com