By Robert Conrad

Driving a brand new truck is a luxury that many owner-operators are doing without thanks to the tough economic conditions that our country continues to deal with in 2012.  A large number of drivers are holding onto older trucks and avoiding big truck payments each month.  This is a smart business move and means more money in their pockets after each delivery.  At first glance, Troy Coleman's Peterbilt looks like a new truck but with over 800,000 miles on it, his 2003 379 EXHD has certainly hauled its share of loads.  Troy runs Coleman Cartage out of Taunton, MA, and he's leased to LP Transportation.  He pulls propane and LNG tanker trailers with his polished Peterbilt and it's show time for Troy each Monday when he hits the interstate.

Troy delivers propane in the fall and winter months and liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the spring & summer.  His deliveries for LP Transportation take him thru much of New England and New York State.

This 2003 Peterbilt has been tastefully customized by Troy and the results are top-notch!  Troy has installed a 20" Texas square bumper and "old-school" 359 double round headlights (off of a '72 Pete) to change the trucks looks up front.  He's also added a drop visor and a set of 8" straight pipes complete with "Pickett" elbows.  The striking sand-colored base paint is accented with maroon graphics as well as maroon front fenders, air cleaners, and W.T.I. full rear fenders.  The fuel tanks are painted as well and feature polished straps and end caps.  The truck's interior looks every bit as nice as the exterior thanks to the addition of a hardwood floor and numerous wood and chrome accessories.  Power for this polished propane hauler comes from a CAT C15 (6NZ) engine rated at 550 hp.  It's paired with an 18-speed transmission and a set of 3:70 rears.

Troy is only 37 but he has over 15 years of driving experience under his belt.  He credits his uncle, Charles Medeiros (seen on the left in our photo), for getting him into driving.  Troy was living in NH when "Uncle Chuck" stopped by for a visit.  Troy asked if he could try driving "Uncle Chuck's" truck and, once he got behind the wheel, he knew what he wanted to do.  Troy said that driving Chuck's truck was his most memorable experience and Troy thanks him for "inspiring him to strive for greatness in his life."  Charles Medeiros has been an inspiration to Troy and he should be seen as an inspiration to all of us since he's fought cancer head on and come out stronger than ever and continues driving.

Troy wanted to send big thanks out to his wife as well for all of her love and support in everything he does.  In addition, he credits Gerry Curtin whose truck driving and business experience has been extremely influential to Troy.  Troy said that Gerry's friendship and dedication have made him a better person.

Troy Coleman is definitely dedicated to driving and he takes a great deal of pride in keeping his Peterbilt looking its best.  Our staff applauds him for turning this 2003 Peterbilt into a showstopper and he was an easy choice for our June Working Show Truck of the Month!