Heated in the summer, cooled in the winter... Had to have at least some kind of heat, probably a open flame, or oil fired source. A/C was ice with a fan, if you were creative.. Our safety dept. would have a stroke if they were still in use....
When I left the West Coast on my maiden voyage, I explained to my boss that when I left MO in August, I had no idea I would be gone so long. I needed a coat and sleeping bag. He said no problem, get something nice to keep you warm. I bought the best that Northface had to offer at the time. When I finally turned in my expense report for my marathon trip, he blew a gasket over the $300 receipt. But he paid it. I still have them both.
My career path was much the same as yours, I am fortunate that my son seen my struggles dealing with Trucking issues,and the company that I was employed with while he was growing up, He went to school and choose a different path. For that , I am very grateful.
My first trucT ride was in a H. 67 Mack with my Dad. I rode a lot with my Grandpa in his last Truck before he retired 1974 Mack F Model Sleeper Cab with the 300 Maxidine.
Sure it was which ever way the wind was blowing that day
When the 300 plus came it was cutting edge, 300 plus HP from a 672 cubic inch. The whine was the tip turbine fan, the first forced air intercooler in production. We had a few with ten speeds, some with the five. pulling SOB's they were...
Really had to use the clutch, push it all the way in to get the clutch brake to slow the shaft down... And the smoke would pour out.... We had a 12V 71 in an old Freightliner, turned fuel into noise....
A lot of oil in the bilge also?
Dragging a loaded wag, lights & sirens.
