Communication_David H. Parrett_Air Brakes City VehiclesAugust 13, 2008
TO: Roy Buol, Mayor
City of Dubuque, City Hall, 13th and Central,
Dubuque, IA 52001
FROM: David H. Parrett, 9349 April Lynne Ct., Dubuque, IA 52003,
563-583-4792
SUBJECT: Fuel Savings, Air-Brake, Air Tank Modification
I managed BFI Waste Systems in Dubuque for 16 years. During inclement and cold weather we
garaged seven (7) air-operated equipped trucks inside our facilities to accommodate an early
morning start,
Due to the loss of air-pressure overnite, to speed-up the starting and trLnimi~ing the dirty air in
this small area we modified the plumbing at the air-tank on each truck so we could build up the
air-pressure from our electric-motor stationary air compressor. At that time fuel cost was
incidental to the air-quality in the shop and the administative office.
While I am not sure how long it takes an engine to build up air pressure so the truck or bus can
be moved, at the current price of fuel it becomes another economical reason to further this
practice. I visualize this practice becoming a definite economical and mechanical benefit inside
or outside any area air-operated trucks or buses are stored or parked.
I believe if this is not currently being done, it has an immediate application to all air-brake
operated trucks and buses operated by the city. You have the resources and the ability to expand
this idea and immediately realize it's financial and efficiency benefits. The initial cost is
nominal.
There is no need to reply to this correspondence but you are welcome to use me or this letter as a
basis for expanding the idea.