Tim Heddins of Gruver, Texas, Hendrik Kramer of Albuquerque, N.M., and Donald Wolford Jr. of Greencastle, Pa., are the finalists in Castrol Tection Extra’s 2008 “Big Honkin’ Truck Makeover” contest.
Which of the three wins a $50,000 truck makeover by the Chrome Shop Mafia, stars of “Trick My Truck” on CMT, will be decided by visitors to the contest website in an online vote that ends Feb. 28 and by attendees at the 2008 Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. The winner will be announced March 29 at MATS.
The three finalists have more than 35 years of combined experience in the trucking industry and have driven millions of miles across the United States.
Heddins hopes a makeover not only will help keep his truck on the road, but also allow his wife to travel with him by expanding the size of the cab. “My wife alerted me about the contest when she was surfing online one day,” Heddins says. “It would be wonderful to share the winning experience with my wife. What better way to thank her?”
Kramer, originally from South Africa, says his 1984 Freightliner is his family’s livelihood. “Although the truck is dependable, I spend most of my free time on the maintenance of the truck, hours that could instead be spent with my family.”
Wolford comes from a long line of truck drivers. “My grandfather drove the big trucks, and for me there was never a second choice,” he says. “It was the only thing I ever wanted to do. I take pride in my work and in the appearance of my truck.”
The winning truck will receive a $50,000 interior, exterior and communications makeover customized by the Chrome Shop Mafia and 4 State Trucks of Joplin, Mo. The makeover will feature products from sponsors including Alcoa Wheels, Continental Tire North America, Go Green Fuel Systems, Grote Industries, National Seating, Sirius Satellite Radio and Your Truck Stop.
The runner-up will receive a $3,000 BP gift card, and the third finalist will receive a $500 electronics gift card. All three finalists will receive a year’s supply of Castrol Tection Extra.
“We are extremely impressed with the amount of amazing entries we received and are excited to know that so many drivers continue to possess a passion for their trucks,” says Tracy Drelich, Castrol assistant promotions manager.
For more information on the three finalists and to vote online, visit www.castroltruckmakeover.com.
