Haven't even started this yet but I'm already super excited. Chris you have truly outdone yourself this time and yes I know it already with out even watching it yet. Been watching you progress for years now. If it wasn't for your damn videos I don't think i would have ever said screw it and signed up for cdl school. Watching all the o/O's on here has made me want to do this so badly not even for the money. Its judt truly something special about being a trucker. You are so good at pointing that out to the average Joe also.
Michael Heathman have you ever considered that trucking maybe this mans dream. Its not for everyone but those that have the drive and passion for it would rather not do anything else but drive. How is it your place to put down someones elses career and/or life goal. Just because you cant hack it doesnt mean there arent guys willing and capable of doing it. Maybe think before you reply to something like that again
@Michael Heathman What negative view point you have if it was not for the lose of eye sight in one eye i would be out on the road driving truck. If the man wants to drive let him not beat him up for wanting to.
This guy help me back in 1983 when my kw's radiator hose blew on the side of the road I couldn't thank him enough and for that I'll always be great full to this man.
Rondal Simonds I bet if someone told u that day that u would see this man on the internet 30 years later giving a interview , u would say thats insane. What's the internet ? Lol
I love people like this! As they're not about holding on to what they know as a means to feel like they have some kind of awesome power whomever.........or they'll sit back and watch others suffer with whatever they're going through that they can help them with! I knew a lot of folk like him back in the day.............that had no problem showing me whatever (whether or not I asked them to). That's how you know you're dealing with someone that's good peoples! It's like they're not only knowledgeable and an asset to those around them, but they're productive, as well as truly serve others lives when it comes to having solutions vs those that are not productive and get off on standing by and watching others either fail or suffer, even though they can be an asset or assist them. I guess the leaves do really fall where they may, as Life has a way of allowing amazing folk to cross your paths, no different than the scoundrels that Life will allow to cross paths with you for reasons only Life knows (and if you're paying attention you will know as well as understand in time!)
On behalf of everyone in this world both far and wide, Thank You Chris. And a even bigger Thank You to Bob for spending time to share his life with us. Most heroes ware capes but mine drives a yellow Pete !
Think about this: 6.5 million miles in 57 years. That's a bit over 114,000 miles per year!!! FOR 57 YEARS IN A ROW!!!!! Are you kidding me??? This guy needs to be at the top of the list for the truckers HALL OF FAME!!! A true gentleman and a true trucker. A great guy - what else is there to say? Thanks so much for bringing us this great history and information and super entertaining stories, Chris! You're the best!
Used to be if you weren't driving at least a 1000 miles a day, you were being lazy. Now with the GPS units in all the trucks and only driving 10.5 hrs a day, you can't do but about 3/5 of that today. Can't make enough money to make it worth it now. The industry is about 85,000 drivers short today because of all the short-sighted ill-informed rules. And theres way more mentally ill dangerous wackos out there today.
...i sat and ...LISTENED ...& LEARNED ...even though i thought i knew everything ...over 70 ...years of WisDOM''...right ...there ...'''MAY GOD BLESS'''...
Small world. Spooner delivered railroad equipment to my gang in Morgan City, LA around 2011. Recognized the truck and and the man. He had recently upgraded to the n14 and told me all about it. Enjoyed talking to him then. Makes me wish I had more time to talk to him. They don't make them like that anymore...the truck or the man. Great video!
I have to say coming from a 3rd generation driver most my family drives , I idolize and look up to gentleman like these! I love this series Chris please make more !
Chris, I’ve just spent 2 of the best hours I could have in years. I started trucking in 72 and actually had the pleasure of meeting Mr Spooner at a Red Ball in Indiana back in 74/75. Coming from the times when we all had 2-3 drivers luv and funny books I smiled when he brought it up. Thank You for what you do I never miss a video and watch them over several times. Trucking has changed so much over the years and will keep going even when dinosaurs like us aren’t here so Thanks again an please keep it up.
Elijah Mumford Awe, ya'll don't wanna listen to us. I'm hardcore and been known to gather a few drivers to catch a mustang (illegal driver and truck) to get him off the road. That was a little crazy but I hate to think what other damage he would've done if we hadn't caught and gotten him off the road. It's one thing to forget your manners, especially to another driver, but to steal tires or cause a truck to leave the road, I gotta do something. I can't turn my head and pretend I didn't see something. But I also know that companies don't do anything to their bad drivers. They're not disciplined or taken off the road. Wow. You know it's a pain to finally get to sleep at a truck stop and be bumped completely out of your bed at 2 am cuz a driver from your own company has just backed into the back of your truck. I can go on all day but it's hard to get past some of the tricks and evasive action by some of these companies and drivers. I ALWAYS drive like all of you are watching. Cuz you are.
I often wonder how many of us learned to drive truck from guys like him--old school , it really is the only way to really learn. These schools are a ripp off from what I see, out here in Washington state the most prestigious school is now ran by a guy who never drove, his dad worked for the company I worked for as a damned sales man he drove a shuttle for about six months the next thing you know he's talked himself into being a instructor at the school, then he was running it he turned it over to his kid and what else can you say
Would love to ride with him and learn his ways. Tell him I said hello. And if he ever needs anything when he is around Oklahoma to get ahold of me I'll help him In a heartbeat
@@normangilbert1236Different time back then. There wasnt 15% of the cars on the road that there are today, and people are much more ignorent today because they have so many things done for them. Esspecially in the citys, most times you just cant avoid some dumb fuck running into you. And they do! I had some asshole in NYC driving a prius during a traffic jam come up my right side while we were all moving only maybe 10mph tops, his head hadnt even made it past grill yet and he turned right into me like he was in his right mind. Idiot couldnt speak one word of english either. Sadest part is ones just like him are riding around in trucks.
@@kylemorice4870 ...right...He's a Wonderful ...PERSON...i Myself ...Grew Up Around...''ATCO''-DRAGWAY...people like ''Bill-GRUMPY-jenkins ...Don-snake-Prudomme-...Big-Daddy-DON-Garlits...Then that cooled...Down...around The TIME ...They went from ...C.I-D...(-cubic-inch-displacement-)-...That pissed Me OFF ...WHO UNDERSTANDS ''L-I-T-E-R-S-''...My ...$ 5,000...Dollar SEARS-&-ROEBUCK''s ...TOOL-cart became WORTHLESS... i THEN TOOK up ...AIRCRAFT-MECHANICS-...-(Worked on SirKorSky-& BELL-Helicopters-0-...They Then TRYED to sucker Me into GOING AFGANISHTAN-&-IRAQ"...i told them ...No-THK/s ...Used My ...G.I. Bill for ''DIESEL-INSTITUTE-of-AMERICA...Mostly LOUD-screaming DETROIT-DIESEL-...But LOVED that ...400...CUMMINS...My TRACTOR was that ...379-265-Wheelbase-24''Rubber-&-3406-A-425-cat-ENGINE...it cruised ...@...75...mph...well Like They say Now you Know ...REST of The story ...THK/s-for''POSTING...and ''MAY-GOD-BLESS-YOU-&-your Wonderful...family...''Hammer-Down-...Lets-GO-Make-...some...$$$
@@PedalToTheMetal61888 thanks for the reply man. I know some drag racing names you mentioned an I like some sikorsky choppers tho I never served or flew em. I don't have a badass rig myself yet I run more or less local now but I like to think I will one day. All the best to you an yours as well.
@@kylemorice4870 ...''My Man if you''re still ...into TRUCKING''...have your OWN...Rig''...Both My Uncle and a Brother-in-Law-...ran with...-(N.F.L.-)-NationalFreightLines-''ParK-Avenue''...HeadQUARTERS''..'Vineland-New-Jersey...35-pallets=20 per/pallet EQUALS 700 cartons of SCOTT-TOILET-TISSUE-...pick/Up-CHESTER-PA.-...we were doing 4-Loads per/day...@...$ 85.00 dollars Per/LOAD...company Driver & $ 125.00 per/LOAD Owner-OPERATOR...i call it ...''round the HOUSE ...$$$ money This was BacK in ...1986...and Then there's SHOP-RITE-...Grocery LOADS just Up the ROAD from (N.F.L.)-...you know the RUMORS about ..''GROCERY-LOADS-...just Thought i THROW that out there if you Have BUNCHA...couch POTATOs ...Neices-&-Nephews-..& -cousins free-loading ...@...your ''HOUSE"'
Respect !!! Big big RESPECT for the older guys ,I listened learned and did as I was told and I was taught by the best of the best that have all backed up more miles then I've ever went forward lol. They watched me made sure I wasn't going to fast on certain Ben's or roads and when to do this that and I just learned and here I am and these legends are slowly passing on and it's a shame ,,work all your life become top notch and then nothing!! 😞 Just makes no sense to me but guess it never will ...take care and I'll pass it on if anyone is wanting to learn ,,,,great interview thanks Mr Spooner appreciate your time and effort in this industry
That is by far the most enjoyable 2:09:08 I have spent in a long time. What an honor to hear for this man and YES, legend. Thank you sir for all you have done and continue to do. Stay safe and keep her greasy side down driver.
..THAT WAS SCARY...sounds like TALES FROM THE CRYPT''...or TWiLIGHT-ZONE...mine would be those ..LOT-LiZARDS""...@...04:00...HRS. DAMN...GirL...scared ...shit outta...me ...WAS AFRAID TO GO BACK TO SLEEP''...they say Women...are spooky like ...that ...(Lorena-BobbiTT-)...does that ''RiNG''...a BeLL...yeahhh...GOOGLE...that ...shit...!!!...???...
Grew up in the era he talks about, when we were all family and took care of each other, helped each other thru everything, whatever it took to get the job done. I really miss that part of trucking. I only have about 4 million on me,, just a trainee... Thanks for sharing Chris, you make my day!
Hats off to, Mr Spooner, sir........could sit all day and listen to your stories of "back in the day" trucking......hope to meet you one day at a show........from what I understand, if I'm not mistaken, I don't live to far from where "Southern Shaker" lived!! Never met him but a friend of mine did. Safe travels and God bless!!!
When you realize Bob is 79 yrs old and does stepdeck work yet we hire 2 or 3 guys in their early 20's every month and they quit within a few weeks because "flat and stepdecks are too much work".
I started hauling flatbed at on a 97 shaker with a 12.7 at 21 and at 23 started pulling a stretch flatbed that opened up to 80’. Best money/experience. Hauled everything from oversize pipe, bridges, and the smaller 100’ windmill blades.
Mr. Spooner IS a legend, and the younger set of drivers/steering wheel holders would do well to listen to this interview, take heed, and learn. 95% is having the right attitude, being humble enough to know you don't know it all, and seeking out advice from gentlemen like Mr. Spooner who have a lifetime of experience to share. BTW - he wasn't kidding when he said $15,700 was a lot of money for that Pete when he bought it in September of 1960. That equates to the same buying power as $133,682.32 in November of 2018, which is close to what a new Pete 389 costs today. Keep on truckin' Mr. Spooner, and thanks for this wonderful retrospective Chris!
...Pete...389...ain''t a ...Pete...379...LONGNOSE...265...WheeLbase...13-spd-...24-inch-RUBBER...3406-A-...CATERPILLAR-ENGINE''...22..feet TRACTOR ...and ...53-foot-TRAILER...75,...feet of ...MONSTER-TRUCK''....
@@PedalToTheMetal61888 When I was running from 2012-2014, I ran a '79 K100C big bunk with a 48' skateboard. I get the sentiment that a 389 isn't a 'real' truck, but I was simply making the point that Mr. Spooner's needlenose purchase price back then, when adjusted for inflation, is right around what you would pay for a new Pete today. Since they don't make 379s anymore, I stated 389. It would probably have to be a little couple of year old 389 at that, since they are going for $150-165K new now.
@@charliealpha11f3b2 ...i will apologize...simply stating-KW-900-W/400-Cummins-13-spd-W/24-inch-RuBBER-To-THE-ROAd-...and 84-inch-Studio-Sleeper-was ...my next ...TRACTOR...ran...outta ...Farmer-City-...ILLINOIS...believe it was ...pft-Roberson...before he ...Bellied...Up...went back to Hauling ...GaLLO-Wine-...They GOT Greedy ...and Had to Leave them ...alone ...like the say ...and you KNOW the REST of The STORY ...NOT EVEN TRUCKING ANYMORE ...they''re trying to RUN a...TRUCK sitting back at TERMINAL with just a ...COMPUTER ...''thus...D-R-i-V-E-R-L-E-S-S-''...TRUCKING...but still need you ...to back..it into the ..Docks...WHAT-A-...joke...
This is a whole new page for BRV. Capturing history of the industry and life as it was... so fascinating! Truly awesome interview. The strides being made by BRV are historical, they will be remembered and viewed by generations... In addition to generating enthusiasm in the spirit of the industry. So awesome!
Chris, I think that this is your best interview yet! I could have listened to Mr. Spooner for another 2 hours! I have never left a comment before, but I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed hearing the memories.
Chris, your amazing. And I hope Spooner is checking the comments here because I want him to know that he is truly a legend in the trucking industry. I don’t know anyone that can come close. Please keep doing what you do. I truly enjoy it.
Great interview Chris. I've been out here pushing 28 years, and I started near the end of this great era of trucking. Mr. Spooner is a great and honorable man, as were most of the driver's back then. I remember some of the old truck stops and just sitting and listening to the older drivers conversations and not interrupting them unless I was invited into the conversation. I learned alot just by listening, let alone all the times the older drivers would go out of their way to help a younger driver such as myself back then. It was a great era that I wish we could go back to. I now try to return the favor and help young drivers, unfortunately alot don't have the same attitude like we did back then and think they know it all, but no matter, I will still keep trying and hopefully will be able to help a few. Again, thanks Chris for this great interview. Brought back some good old memories
What I wouldn't give to have been part of this generation and to have gotten to experience trucking back then. This man is worlds apart from the flip flop wearing, always on the phone, can't back into a parking spot "truckers" that are out there today. Truly inspiring.
Dennis Knop if people like you can’t mind your fucking business and drive your own shit without crying over what another grown ass man has on his feet what makes you think you would’ve survived the days where there was no air conditioning, no power steering, no airbags ,Hell this guys truck originally had no front brakes. You cry baby “truckers” wouldn’t of lasted a week out there when this gentlemen began driving. Dream on though!
Those were the bad old days. However drivers were paid more than they are today. The only reasonable observation you made is about backing up which is learned from practice. The driver doesn't have experience. Those with experience gets smart and finds another job. Refer to what I just wrote about pay. These drivers your worship are the people responsible for the way FMCSA and DOT is today and tens of thousands of fatalities from wreck that lose millions of $. They are why every second there is a commercial for a lawyer somewhere asking "hurt by a big truck?" They are the drivers who undercut each other in prices and pay hauling cheap freight. Spooner recalls driving from coast to coast in 52 hours- not doubt high. All these drivers were high on drugs to stay up. Why do you think a job you have to be high to do and working for days without a break is something to aspire to? Not respectable or inspiring. And those trucks, as David T pointed out, were junk. You think a job that is average paying at best (only if you're a drug addict working weeks on end 24 hours a day) and pays less every year while putting your life and other people at risk and angering the motoring public is inspiring.
Mn09lfV6f I do not desire to be a drug addicted truck driver. These men worked their ass off to provide goods for the people of this country. Without truck drivers you wouldn't have the minimum wage Walmart job you probably work at.
...NOW i don''t know WHY but you KNOW GOOD LORD...must of brought me to this ...page ...here''s why ...''FLiP-Flop''...wearing TRUCK DRIVERS...even if you''re Driving ...around the Parking ...LOT ...you don''t WEAR-...sissy-Ass...flip-flops...CELL-PHONES-GLUED-TO-YOUR-FACE-AND...running your stupid MOUTH at ...100...MPH...
I seen Mr. Spooner rolling east on US 60 in Mansfield, Mo few weeks ago. Never would have thought I would see his truck out here but I was surprised, my eyes was drawed on it when I seen it in view. You just can't miss that truck from being seen. Thanks for all the content BRV.
I will admit. When I seen this video was over 2 hours, I knew I would only watch some and jump ahead. 2 hours and 9 minutes later...yep, watched it all! Lol! This has got to be one of the most interesting interviews i've watched! Seriously! I really enjoyed the interview and the stories! Mr. Spooner has some great insight and is a very humble gentleman. I like how you let him talk and not cut him off to hear yourself talk. Some interviewers need to learn that trait. I have always liked your interviews, but this one is tops so far. That's a very nice truck you got there Mr. Spooner! Continued success to you sir! Much respect!!! Keep her rolln'!! How could over 6k people watch this and not leave a like?
Amen good job from Chris to have a great interview with a trucker who has seen much. And, on top of that a Veteran. Thanks to Bob Spooner for his Service.
I've been looking forward to this more than any new movie or tv show coming out! Now I'm going to watch it on the big screen in my living room and drive my wife crazy! Keep the rubber side down bros.
...did your OLD LADY RUN YOU OUTTA THE HOUSE...well just get you a ...P.O.-Box...and LIVE OUTTA ...The BACKWOODS-TRUCKSTOPS...''i/m ...over ...here in ...DUNCANWOOD-PENNA. Nice ...''n''...peacefuL...
Damn that's pretty late man what were you doing before? And what made you make such a drastic change so late in life? Are you retired no disrespect in any way but just curious man. Good luck to you hope you stick it out and learn a lot being out there
This gentleman reminds me of my dad wean he would tell me about the old days I'm still out here doing this trucking stuff the best I can thanks mr. Spooner keep on trucking
I am a trucker with thirty two years under my wheels and this is a GREAT VIDEO !! Well done Christopher. Thanks for keeping the trucking history alive. keep-em coming and keep on trucking!!!!!!!!!!
29 thumbs down is bollocks. This is one of the best vids on the tube IMO. What a great story and amazing man. Definately a vid ill be watching many times over. 🤙🤙
God Chris this was great Mr Spooner is great man that had great stories my grandfather is from the same era of truck and tells us great stories also keep great videos coming thanks Chris
I respect all truck driver's for what they do and what weather they drive through all year all long and for the stuff they bring to stores and the stress they go through long away from home missing their families on holidays and birthdays and God Bless to all truck driver's out on the highways
Outstanding interview I really appreciate the time the 2of you put into it. Its a piece of history and guys like this need to be heard before its too late.
Memberable moments for me: 1- Delivered 165 high back office chairs for the temporary set up for the Pentagon on Sunday September 16th,2001. 2- 11 by 20 foot sheets of aluminum for the space shuttle.3- Hand rails for the bridge in wheeling West Virginia,3- 1300 miles in 16 hours, Beaumont Texas to sky harbor airport. 4- safety for a family that had a blow out right in front of me on 75 in Florida while on a bridge and it was a two lane each way, changed out their tire for them and got them to a tire shop. Last but not least: Riding the full length of I-80 on July 4th,2001 week. Only run I did this on to Hunts point where I started my driving days 21 years earlier. Love this video, best ever.
Hey there chris, you do some great things with this channel, showing some amazing trucks and the superb rolling interviews, but this one with Mr Spooner has been so interesting listening to a lifetime of experience. I'm 60 and can relate to a lot of what he said about the changes in trucking over the years, i came over to the Anaheim international trucking show at the convention center in 1982 and remember looking at a Pete with the same double eagle sleeper on, it blew me away when i saw the toilet, shower and the size of the bed as we had nothing remotely like it over here in the UK. All the best to Mr Spooner for sitting down with you and sharing some of his experience's of the road and once again thanks to you Chris for taking the time and effort to make this channel what it is, looking forward to the next one. Stay safe man. Pat. Scarborough. UK.
No words for this. Just thank you for doing what you do and sharing this with us. I grew up listening to my great uncles stories from his 40 years behind the wheel. Never gets old.
...right...i/m still listening to ...convoy ...by cw mccall...''and ...''BiLL-O'Reilly...TRUCKING'''...''OLD-GeeZER''...IMUS-in-The-MORNING''...and...""WOLFMAN''...JACK''...and ...''WiLDMAN...steve...coasT-To-coasT-'''......
Hi. I'm watching the Spooner interview for the 3rd time.Every time I pay attention to Bob's words about Family.It's a very important thing for me especially since last year I passed 40 years behind the whell of truck,including 35 years in International transport. Many thanks to You Chris for this interview,for meetening Bob. Thanks Chris a lot for showing our profession. Greetings from Poland Jurek
I got a n14e eclectic plus 1850 torque 525 horse power . It’s a basic inline 6. I only been driving 5 years and been a owner operator for 4 years but I have been around trucking all my life. I can tell you all make and model of all trucks motors and transmission. I started out logging in a r model Mack with a Mack 350 and 9 speed. And then moved on hauling cows. Then lease to Kaplin for 4 years hauling heavy steel and oversized booking my own loads. now I haul gas and fuel and I’m only 33 and I started with nothing I mean nothing! But I’m compassionate about trucking and most truckers are not that’s the problem! Another thing they won’t stick together or stand up for our rights! If all truckers would shut down for just 1 week we could make some big changes for the better for all of us for the future! But it won’t happen. People are in a big hurry all the time and just don’t have no patients or curtsy these days!
I been driving for 16yrs and damm chris.. this interview makes me realize how important is to listen to legends like Spooner .. keep on the good work ..
I love listening to the words of wisdom from the older generations. They had it so rough but thought they still had it so good. Most any older lady or gent has a very particular story they tell that is so unique in their own way. For as long as I can remember I’ve always gone by the saying “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” & “keep it simple”.
It is because of this interview that I clicked the notification bell. Interviews with people who have been in major industries for a very long time are fascinating. Hearing about the changes and or evolution they have witnessed and experienced is intriguing. Thanks Chris.
Out of all the videos I've watched on CZcams,I sincerely enjoyed this one the most. Nothing like hearing old trucker stories from someone that really started at the beginning.
This is the type of guy you could sit at the kitchen table with and listen to him talk all day over a few pints! Great interview and great stories from this guy. The world needs more guys like this.
Chris, Like so many others, I have been watching you progress through the years now. Your Rolling CB Interviews are an informative works of art with the likes of Heath Church driving his 1979 W900A called "Black Betty", Bryan Levernier aka “Foxfire Cummins” driving his 1976 Peterbilt 359, Bob Davis in his 1977 Kenworth W900A and the couples like Earl "Doc" Blackmon with Rita Russell and to the comical interview with Kendall and Amy Mays. But this “In-Person” video interview with Mr. Bob Spooner, I have to say Chris, you truly got yourself winner with this new format this time. This must be my favorite interview to date! This interview took me back to the early days on the road. This interview also reminds me something like the oral historic interviews of war veterans. We need to capture this history before it is lost, I must say that you are doing a fantastic job in doing so! Listening to Mr. Spooner got me to reflect when I got my Chauffeur licenses back in 1983. “Wink, Wink, Wink”. I did just shy of 8 years in the Marines and the stories by Spooner of being taught by the “School of Hard Knocks” is exactly like I experienced. My Mentor had a prosthetic clutch leg and taught me how to drive and shift smooth. Always telling me to “Pay Attention to those gauges and ease into the gears”. “Listen to your truck and get to know its character”. Like it has be stated in many of your interviews, I do miss the comradery we had on the road back then. Like in the Marines, we would help one another, as somedays you would not see another truck for hours/miles. Also, the stories of running hard to get the load delivered, brought back memories I could relate to, like trips of 2,500 miles in 37 hours, which is a little more than 67mph average. That was moving in a truck back then. My logbooks were always in time, “Wink, Wink”. I have been blessed to work my way up to drive during the heyday of some of the most beautiful 359’s with big power V8 Cat’s in long hood Pete’s with long legs to get down the road. We could talk to our friends on the big radio and if needed, fire up the “Black Widow” and make the oil cans melt snow.
Thank You and Semper Fi to Bob Spooner for taking the time to share his life’s adventures with us. Chris, as always beautiful job! Semper Fi Daryl “Fish” Greenlee
What great video thank you for spending the time putting it together. I am 63 years young and always wanted to drive OTR and my life went another direction and still wanting to drive. But i get to watch your videos and that helps take the edge off a bit. Again thank you for your trucking videos and look forward to the next one. 👍
Mr Spooner was an "old school driver." It's hard but you know one by the way they drive you've found one and after a few words on the box, you know it's another "old school driver." It's an honor to find one and talk a bit on the cb, or to follow each other through 2 or 3 states before you have to peel off and go your own way to your own delivery points. It hasn't happened often, but I remember each guy and the connected story behind each driver. You can learn a lot from them and it reinforces what you know is right, so you are renewed and strengthened by sharing those moments with another "old school driver." Nowadays, these new guys not only dont respect other drivers, they dont even see a reason why they should! We call them "dropouts!"
Car Nissan I’m young but I was old school taught. Learned from my grandpa. He trucked cattle for 78 years. Passed away last year at the age of 98 in the passenger seat of my w900
WE'LL PUT BROTHER. I've been out here 27 years,and for the 1st time ( in a while) I ran with a Canadian driver . We talked trucks and trucking for a few miles. Felt great and I ALWAYS respect my elder drivers. They DESERVE IT.
That Pete 351 front end makes me remember watching the Duel, as the first thriller I've ever watched, 4 years ago, when I was 12. Hella good. And this old man... favourite. 2 hours of knowledge, I don't even know why did I go to school today.
It took me 2 days 1/2 to see the hole video, I just couldn't get enough. I kept rewinding and rewinding until I finally finished it. Now I'm off to cut the grass.
My word, what a video! Superb stuff Chris. Mr Spooner, what a legend! Sir you have a big fan here in the UK. Keep on trucking Sir! Love that ole Pete! Love the stories. Could listen for hours more👍👍👍 who knows, one day we may get back to a time when drivers enjoyed being the professionals they are. Good points and bad, it’s all part of the job. If you love it, you live it. !
Holy cow this is awesome . It's going to take me a week to get through it all, but loving every minute. I'm a young truck driver trying to do it right, listening to this guy talk is making me a better truck driver
The real deal. Met Bob in 83. In 2010 him and a guy from Florida came to my barn and bought a52 needlenose pete I had. Bob is truckers trucker. Much respect. Many more miles. My hats off to this old outlaw. Bad to the Bone
We met at Mc Cormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. He had Snap on. I had Allen Bradley. 1983.I had a double bunk K100 with aV8. 14 speed spicer blue knob. He had that yellow pete with a hot rod Cummins. Hood was up in the marshaling yard. Everybody was gawking at that machine. If I’m not mistaken he had a mercury sleeper on it then.
I went to truck driving school back in the early 90s and after I got my class A the company flew me to Seattle to pick up a 88 Mack super liner. And my first load was in British Columbia. . I was clueless and didn’t have the right equipment or permits . I had fun driving all over the US but I made every mistake in the book . Got fined numerous times . But I got a chance to see every city and town across the United States . I’ll never forget that experience. I haven’t driven a tractor trailer since 92 but I would do it Again. Nowadays I just drive box trucks . I may get my class A again and drive again . But I think the laws and everything is completely different than the early 90s with log books and permits . Great interview . That man is a Legend. I love his stories
My Dad and Grandpa taught me the same way he learned but in the late 1990's. Shifting was done by listening to the motor; grind or buzz a gear and Dad would crack my hand with a stick of 1/4" ready rod. I was taught how to take care of the truck before I ever drove one - washing, greasing, polishing, cleaning and rolling tarps/straps between 6 and 10. Then changing oil, brakes, lights, u-joints, etc. At 12, they had me moving trucks in and out of the shop and around the yard and by 14 I was "teaming" with them during the summer and on school breaks. I'm glad I was taught the old school way of trucking. I don't drive any more but I logged 2.4 million accident free miles pulling tankers and open equipment and run a division of a company now. Learning from the "old hands" taught me more than you could in a lifetime of school or starting in trucking now.
40:55 - Now that is some REAL ADVICE for new drivers from one of the most knowledgeable truck drivers who has the experience and history to back it up. 👌👍🙌🙌
A true legend! And I've definitely been inspired..as a trucker since 1995, I am truly impressed. A big shout out to those who are just like Bob who still have the hammer down ( even if they're not in a truck atm) !! God bless.
Chris this is an awesome video Mr. spooner is a real true blue trucker i appreciate your time and Bobs that you guys put in to this video thank you have a great night be safe to both of you.
One of the best interviews on trucking and getting to know Mr. Spooner. Very cool man and smart ole outlaw. We started driving truck at about the same. I was nineteen when I started but had to leave it when I was 59 yrs. old because of an injury. I had to go on disability retirement. I am 80 now and still wish I could be pounding the pavement pouring out that stream of smoke. Stay safe out there all of you drivers and keep on trucking. Dave
Had the pleasure of meeting this Gentleman today. True Marine, too bad he had to go so soon, life of a trucker. Talked for an hour and realized we are from the same town.
I could listen to his stories all day, so much to learn frim thus man and what a memory. My dad drive interstate here in oz in the 70's, 80's and 90's so listening to this man talk about his truckn life in another country was very insightful,similar stories or things they did over there to what id geard my dad and his mates talk about with the scales and such.. cheers for that.. his dogs name is the best, trucker...beautiful truck,you dont see sleepers like that here in oz,well not many.love peterbuilt trucks.
Man I kinda feel like you’re demanding this Old man to give up his secrets but fortunately this wise ol man of the trucking industry is wiser then that!
Started watching and just couldn't stop. Chris is the best interviewer i have seen in a very long time. Very clear and patient and he doesn't interrupt . This is a piece of history!! Thank you for this great documentary.
Good old days of driving truck. I love the history behind the industry, yes I remember getting the hand hit for grinding gears. These young guys today don’t know what it’s like driving these trucks cross country with poor heating and no air conditioning, air wipers that worked when they wanted to. Great memories of those old trucks! Thanks for doing this video, great work.
When I started trucking in 87 I was 6'2 and 185lbs now I'm 6'1" 320lbs this man has been trucking a little over 20 years longer than me and he looks younger and in better shape than I do, thats the truly amazing feat
Guys like these i could listen to for hours! Every chance I get ill talk to the older truckers get advice hear some hard lessons ect.. just a great time
What an interesting story he is certainly a legend , I’m an old trucker from the 60s through to 2000 retired now ,used to run all over Europe, wish we had your big sleepers ,thank you
Just saw this video today for the first time it was a great video I would have loved to have been born in this mans era and drove trucks then hearing his stories and experiences was just very great overall great interview watching these videos is my new thing now
Haven't even started this yet but I'm already super excited. Chris you have truly outdone yourself this time and yes I know it already with out even watching it yet. Been watching you progress for years now. If it wasn't for your damn videos I don't think i would have ever said screw it and signed up for cdl school. Watching all the o/O's on here has made me want to do this so badly not even for the money. Its judt truly something special about being a trucker. You are so good at pointing that out to the average Joe also.
Michael Heathman have you ever considered that trucking maybe this mans dream. Its not for everyone but those that have the drive and passion for it would rather not do anything else but drive. How is it your place to put down someones elses career and/or life goal. Just because you cant hack it doesnt mean there arent guys willing and capable of doing it. Maybe think before you reply to something like that again
@Michael Heathman What negative view point you have if it was not for the lose of eye sight in one eye i would be out on the road driving truck. If the man wants to drive let him not beat him up for wanting to.
Bu ub i.v
Yes.., Mr. Chris is squared away for sure. Excellent interview!
I've been off the road for ~10 years. Been in a class room chained to a desk! Ugh...looking to get back out there this summer. Good luck...
This guy help me back in 1983 when my kw's radiator hose blew on the side of the road I couldn't thank him enough and for that I'll always be great full to this man.
Rondal Simonds really? That's awesome
Rondal Simonds I bet if someone told u that day that u would see this man on the internet 30 years later giving a interview , u would say thats insane. What's the internet ? Lol
Wow that's amazing!..Truly awesome!
I love people like this! As they're not about holding on to what they know as a means to feel like they have some kind of awesome power whomever.........or they'll sit back and watch others suffer with whatever they're going through that they can help them with! I knew a lot of folk like him back in the day.............that had no problem showing me whatever (whether or not I asked them to). That's how you know you're dealing with someone that's good peoples! It's like they're not only knowledgeable and an asset to those around them, but they're productive, as well as truly serve others lives when it comes to having solutions vs those that are not productive and get off on standing by and watching others either fail or suffer, even though they can be an asset or assist them. I guess the leaves do really fall where they may, as Life has a way of allowing amazing folk to cross your paths, no different than the scoundrels that Life will allow to cross paths with you for reasons only Life knows (and if you're paying attention you will know as well as understand in time!)
I've been driving 30 years and
miss the drivers of yesteryear. Southern shaker...haven't heard of him in a day or two
On behalf of everyone in this world both far and wide, Thank You Chris. And a even bigger Thank You to Bob for spending time to share his life with us.
Most heroes ware capes but mine drives a yellow Pete !
Think about this: 6.5 million miles in 57 years. That's a bit over 114,000 miles per year!!! FOR 57 YEARS IN A ROW!!!!! Are you kidding me??? This guy needs to be at the top of the list for the truckers HALL OF FAME!!! A true gentleman and a true trucker. A great guy - what else is there to say? Thanks so much for bringing us this great history and information and super entertaining stories, Chris! You're the best!
Frank Swain, you are welcome. Bob is at 7,800,000 now. Your calculations are impressive nonetheless.
...THANK YOU FOR ...CALCULATING"""...
Youd have to think he may be at 10 million with miles off the books ya know
LEGEND!
Used to be if you weren't driving at least a 1000 miles a day, you were being lazy. Now with the GPS units in all the trucks and only driving 10.5 hrs a day, you can't do but about 3/5 of that today. Can't make enough money to make it worth it now.
The industry is about 85,000 drivers short today because of all the short-sighted ill-informed rules. And theres way more mentally ill dangerous wackos out there today.
Nothing like old school driver who is humble and learned the hard way and has the scars. Great video.👍
...i sat and ...LISTENED ...& LEARNED ...even though i thought i knew everything ...over 70 ...years of WisDOM''...right ...there ...'''MAY GOD BLESS'''...
Small world. Spooner delivered railroad equipment to my gang in Morgan City, LA around 2011. Recognized the truck and and the man. He had recently upgraded to the n14 and told me all about it. Enjoyed talking to him then. Makes me wish I had more time to talk to him. They don't make them like that anymore...the truck or the man. Great video!
...''W-H-A-T-''...so he was still...out there ... i retired...2013... ''WoW'''...
I sure look up to that man. I've been trucking for 15 years and i don't plan on ever stopping. He remains me of my grandpa.
...my ..Grand-Pa WORKED-GEORGIA-LUMBER-MiLLS-...Then him and his Brothers...GOT their ...Own...HAULING THOSE TRAILER-PARK-HOMES-"""...
I have to say coming from a 3rd generation driver most my family drives , I idolize and look up to gentleman like these! I love this series Chris please make more !
Chris, I’ve just spent 2 of the best hours I could have in years. I started trucking in 72 and actually had the pleasure of meeting Mr Spooner at a Red Ball in Indiana back in 74/75. Coming from the times when we all had 2-3 drivers luv and funny books I smiled when he brought it up.
Thank You for what you do I never miss a video and watch them over several times. Trucking has changed so much over the years and will keep going even when dinosaurs like us aren’t here so Thanks again an please keep it up.
People like this man are slowly fading away into the past and its sad. I am gonna miss good men and women like this
...yeahhh...LETS HEAR MORE WOMEN OF TRUCKING...stories...!?...
Elijah Mumford
Awe, ya'll don't wanna listen to us. I'm hardcore and been known to gather a few drivers to catch a mustang (illegal driver and truck) to get him off the road. That was a little crazy but I hate to think what other damage he would've done if we hadn't caught and gotten him off the road.
It's one thing to forget your manners, especially to another driver, but to steal tires or cause a truck to leave the road, I gotta do something. I can't turn my head and pretend I didn't see something. But I also know that companies don't do anything to their bad drivers. They're not disciplined or taken off the road. Wow.
You know it's a pain to finally get to sleep at a truck stop and be bumped completely out of your bed at 2 am cuz a driver from your own company has just backed into the back of your truck.
I can go on all day but it's hard to get past some of the tricks and evasive action by some of these companies and drivers.
I ALWAYS drive like all of you are watching.
Cuz you are.
Instead of missing them we could actually become like them and motivate other people to do the same...
stay healthy and this'll be us one day
Sadly, a lot of the young generation in trucking want us dinosaurs to die off. Read the comments on trucker path and it's blatantly obvious.
Nearly brought tears to my eyes..I learned to drive trucks from men just like Mr Spooner . I sure was Lucky
...you too ...it did bring Tears to My EYES''...my silly wife GOT OUT AND NEVER GOT BACK ...in...
I often wonder how many of us learned to drive truck from guys like him--old school , it really is the only way to really learn. These schools are a ripp off from what I see, out here in Washington state the most prestigious school is now ran by a guy who never drove, his dad worked for the company I worked for as a damned sales man he drove a shuttle for about six months the next thing you know he's talked himself into being a instructor at the school, then he was running it he turned it over to his kid and what else can you say
Same here, 4th generation. Bob is a great guy.
I learned a lot I didn't know about my grandpa! Glad I got to watch it!
Heather Pratt you have a cool grandpa!
Would love to ride with him and learn his ways. Tell him I said hello. And if he ever needs anything when he is around Oklahoma to get ahold of me I'll help him In a heartbeat
Your grandpa, is a true gentleman, love his stories, I drove 45 + years without an accident, enjoyed it.
@@normangilbert1236Different time back then. There wasnt 15% of the cars on the road that there are today, and people are much more ignorent today because they have so many things done for them. Esspecially in the citys, most times you just cant avoid some dumb fuck running into you. And they do! I had some asshole in NYC driving a prius during a traffic jam come up my right side while we were all moving only maybe 10mph tops, his head hadnt even made it past grill yet and he turned right into me like he was in his right mind. Idiot couldnt speak one word of english either. Sadest part is ones just like him are riding around in trucks.
Yes he is special ❤️
Those are the greatest words any great trucker could give a new trucker. Pay Attention!
..'''THAT IS THE PROBLEM...they too ...Busy...taking...selfi's ...!!!...
@@PedalToTheMetal61888 not all of us. Some of us grew up round rigs an idolized drivers like this man.
@@kylemorice4870 ...right...He's a Wonderful ...PERSON...i Myself ...Grew Up Around...''ATCO''-DRAGWAY...people like ''Bill-GRUMPY-jenkins ...Don-snake-Prudomme-...Big-Daddy-DON-Garlits...Then that cooled...Down...around The TIME ...They went from ...C.I-D...(-cubic-inch-displacement-)-...That pissed Me OFF ...WHO UNDERSTANDS ''L-I-T-E-R-S-''...My ...$ 5,000...Dollar SEARS-&-ROEBUCK''s ...TOOL-cart became WORTHLESS... i THEN TOOK up ...AIRCRAFT-MECHANICS-...-(Worked on SirKorSky-& BELL-Helicopters-0-...They Then TRYED to sucker Me into GOING AFGANISHTAN-&-IRAQ"...i told them ...No-THK/s ...Used My ...G.I. Bill for ''DIESEL-INSTITUTE-of-AMERICA...Mostly LOUD-screaming DETROIT-DIESEL-...But LOVED that ...400...CUMMINS...My TRACTOR was that ...379-265-Wheelbase-24''Rubber-&-3406-A-425-cat-ENGINE...it cruised ...@...75...mph...well Like They say Now you Know ...REST of The story ...THK/s-for''POSTING...and ''MAY-GOD-BLESS-YOU-&-your Wonderful...family...''Hammer-Down-...Lets-GO-Make-...some...$$$
@@PedalToTheMetal61888 thanks for the reply man. I know some drag racing names you mentioned an I like some sikorsky choppers tho I never served or flew em. I don't have a badass rig myself yet I run more or less local now but I like to think I will one day. All the best to you an yours as well.
@@kylemorice4870 ...''My Man if you''re still ...into TRUCKING''...have your OWN...Rig''...Both My Uncle and a Brother-in-Law-...ran with...-(N.F.L.-)-NationalFreightLines-''ParK-Avenue''...HeadQUARTERS''..'Vineland-New-Jersey...35-pallets=20 per/pallet EQUALS 700 cartons of SCOTT-TOILET-TISSUE-...pick/Up-CHESTER-PA.-...we were doing 4-Loads per/day...@...$ 85.00 dollars Per/LOAD...company Driver & $ 125.00 per/LOAD Owner-OPERATOR...i call it ...''round the HOUSE ...$$$ money This was BacK in ...1986...and Then there's SHOP-RITE-...Grocery LOADS just Up the ROAD from (N.F.L.)-...you know the RUMORS about ..''GROCERY-LOADS-...just Thought i THROW that out there if you Have BUNCHA...couch POTATOs ...Neices-&-Nephews-..& -cousins free-loading ...@...your ''HOUSE"'
Respect !!!
Big big RESPECT for the older guys ,I listened learned and did as I was told and I was taught by the best of the best that have all backed up more miles then I've ever went forward lol.
They watched me made sure I wasn't going to fast on certain Ben's or roads and when to do this that and I just learned and here I am and these legends are slowly passing on and it's a shame ,,work all your life become top notch and then nothing!! 😞 Just makes no sense to me but guess it never will ...take care and I'll pass it on if anyone is wanting to learn ,,,,great interview thanks Mr Spooner appreciate your time and effort in this industry
Have so much respect for this great man what a stand up person💯%
...right'...
My kind of a vision of a wonderful and legendary trucker.
A treasure trove of knowledge. This video needs to be archived. Great work.
What a true craftsman! Wish the interview was longer. Thanks MR. Spooner and Chris. God Bless
That is by far the most enjoyable 2:09:08 I have spent in a long time. What an honor to hear for this man and YES, legend. Thank you sir for all you have done and continue to do. Stay safe and keep her greasy side down driver.
That fuel tank story was the best! And the outlaw stories
..THAT WAS SCARY...sounds like TALES FROM THE CRYPT''...or TWiLIGHT-ZONE...mine would be those ..LOT-LiZARDS""...@...04:00...HRS. DAMN...GirL...scared ...shit outta...me ...WAS AFRAID TO GO BACK TO SLEEP''...they say Women...are spooky like ...that ...(Lorena-BobbiTT-)...does that ''RiNG''...a BeLL...yeahhh...GOOGLE...that ...shit...!!!...???...
Grew up in the era he talks about, when we were all family and took care of each other, helped each other thru everything, whatever it took to get the job done. I really miss that part of trucking. I only have about 4 million on me,, just a trainee... Thanks for sharing Chris, you make my day!
Hats off to, Mr Spooner, sir........could sit all day and listen to your stories of "back in the day" trucking......hope to meet you one day at a show........from what I understand, if I'm not mistaken, I don't live to far from where "Southern Shaker" lived!! Never met him but a friend of mine did. Safe travels and God bless!!!
Let me correct myself.....i live further from Shaker then I was told.......I'm in NC and he lived in SC .........😋
Chris you outdone yourself with this one,fantastic...your time and Mr Spooner's time is very much appreciated...A big thank you from Ireland...
Great video bud. I could sit and listen to Mr Spooner tell old trucking stories all day long . Thanks for the work you do Chris
When you realize Bob is 79 yrs old and does stepdeck work yet we hire 2 or 3 guys in their early 20's every month and they quit within a few weeks because "flat and stepdecks are too much work".
Yessir
I’m 22 and would love to do flatbed work
TheRoadhammer379 that’s why you don’t see young drivers because it’s hard work.
Good hard work keeps the body loose. It’s part of Bob’s “secret”
I started hauling flatbed at on a 97 shaker with a 12.7 at 21 and at 23 started pulling a stretch flatbed that opened up to 80’. Best money/experience. Hauled everything from oversize pipe, bridges, and the smaller 100’ windmill blades.
Prayers for Bob as he continues recovering from the wreck he was involved in!
I love all of these interviews. These are real American Gems.
Watched this video 2 times already and it’s like a good movie that never gets old.
I'm almost at 6 and a half million times watching spooner
Mr. Spooner IS a legend, and the younger set of drivers/steering wheel holders would do well to listen to this interview, take heed, and learn. 95% is having the right attitude, being humble enough to know you don't know it all, and seeking out advice from gentlemen like Mr. Spooner who have a lifetime of experience to share. BTW - he wasn't kidding when he said $15,700 was a lot of money for that Pete when he bought it in September of 1960. That equates to the same buying power as $133,682.32 in November of 2018, which is close to what a new Pete 389 costs today. Keep on truckin' Mr. Spooner, and thanks for this wonderful retrospective Chris!
...Pete...389...ain''t a ...Pete...379...LONGNOSE...265...WheeLbase...13-spd-...24-inch-RUBBER...3406-A-...CATERPILLAR-ENGINE''...22..feet TRACTOR ...and ...53-foot-TRAILER...75,...feet of ...MONSTER-TRUCK''....
@@PedalToTheMetal61888 When I was running from 2012-2014, I ran a '79 K100C big bunk with a 48' skateboard. I get the sentiment that a 389 isn't a 'real' truck, but I was simply making the point that Mr. Spooner's needlenose purchase price back then, when adjusted for inflation, is right around what you would pay for a new Pete today. Since they don't make 379s anymore, I stated 389. It would probably have to be a little couple of year old 389 at that, since they are going for $150-165K new now.
@@charliealpha11f3b2 ...i will apologize...simply stating-KW-900-W/400-Cummins-13-spd-W/24-inch-RuBBER-To-THE-ROAd-...and 84-inch-Studio-Sleeper-was ...my next ...TRACTOR...ran...outta ...Farmer-City-...ILLINOIS...believe it was ...pft-Roberson...before he ...Bellied...Up...went back to Hauling ...GaLLO-Wine-...They GOT Greedy ...and Had to Leave them ...alone ...like the say ...and you KNOW the REST of The STORY ...NOT EVEN TRUCKING ANYMORE ...they''re trying to RUN a...TRUCK sitting back at TERMINAL with just a ...COMPUTER ...''thus...D-R-i-V-E-R-L-E-S-S-''...TRUCKING...but still need you ...to back..it into the ..Docks...WHAT-A-...joke...
Longest single show I have watched on CZcams, I couldn’t stop listening!!!
This guys memory is amazing
I bought Me.Spooners lunch one time.. longest and best lunch I ever had!! Could listen to the ole timers all day!!
This is a whole new page for BRV. Capturing history of the industry and life as it was... so fascinating! Truly awesome interview. The strides being made by BRV are historical, they will be remembered and viewed by generations... In addition to generating enthusiasm in the spirit of the industry. So awesome!
Chris, I think that this is your best interview yet! I could have listened to Mr. Spooner for another 2 hours! I have never left a comment before, but I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed hearing the memories.
Thank you. I appreciate you taking a moment to share what you think. I am glad you are here on the channel along with everyone else.
We love your video's just amazing !##
...WHAT REALLY BROUGHT ME TO TEARS WAS ...fact that TRUCKING ...ain''t TRUCKING ...anyMORE'''...Damn...Shame..."'...!!!...???...
This is my third time watching it over!
Chris, your amazing. And I hope Spooner is checking the comments here because I want him to know that he is truly a legend in the trucking industry. I don’t know anyone that can come close. Please keep doing what you do. I truly enjoy it.
Great interview Chris. I've been out here pushing 28 years, and I started near the end of this great era of trucking. Mr. Spooner is a great and honorable man, as were most of the driver's back then. I remember some of the old truck stops and just sitting and listening to the older drivers conversations and not interrupting them unless I was invited into the conversation. I learned alot just by listening, let alone all the times the older drivers would go out of their way to help a younger driver such as myself back then. It was a great era that I wish we could go back to. I now try to return the favor and help young drivers, unfortunately alot don't have the same attitude like we did back then and think they know it all, but no matter, I will still keep trying and hopefully will be able to help a few. Again, thanks Chris for this great interview. Brought back some good old memories
Wow That's great.. Keep it up
What I wouldn't give to have been part of this generation and to have gotten to experience trucking back then. This man is worlds apart from the flip flop wearing, always on the phone, can't back into a parking spot "truckers" that are out there today. Truly inspiring.
Dennis Knop if people like you can’t mind your fucking business and drive your own shit without crying over what another grown ass man has on his feet what makes you think you would’ve survived the days where there was no air conditioning, no power steering, no airbags ,Hell this guys truck originally had no front brakes. You cry baby “truckers” wouldn’t of lasted a week out there when this gentlemen began driving. Dream on though!
Those were the bad old days. However drivers were paid more than they are today. The only reasonable observation you made is about backing up which is learned from practice. The driver doesn't have experience. Those with experience gets smart and finds another job. Refer to what I just wrote about pay.
These drivers your worship are the people responsible for the way FMCSA and DOT is today and tens of thousands of fatalities from wreck that lose millions of $. They are why every second there is a commercial for a lawyer somewhere asking "hurt by a big truck?" They are the drivers who undercut each other in prices and pay hauling cheap freight.
Spooner recalls driving from coast to coast in 52 hours- not doubt high. All these drivers were high on drugs to stay up. Why do you think a job you have to be high to do and working for days without a break is something to aspire to? Not respectable or inspiring. And those trucks, as David T pointed out, were junk.
You think a job that is average paying at best (only if you're a drug addict working weeks on end 24 hours a day) and pays less every year while putting your life and other people at risk and angering the motoring public is inspiring.
David T I'm sorry I made fun of your flip flops.
Mn09lfV6f I do not desire to be a drug addicted truck driver. These men worked their ass off to provide goods for the people of this country. Without truck drivers you wouldn't have the minimum wage Walmart job you probably work at.
...NOW i don''t know WHY but you KNOW GOOD LORD...must of brought me to this ...page ...here''s why ...''FLiP-Flop''...wearing TRUCK DRIVERS...even if you''re Driving ...around the Parking ...LOT ...you don''t WEAR-...sissy-Ass...flip-flops...CELL-PHONES-GLUED-TO-YOUR-FACE-AND...running your stupid MOUTH at ...100...MPH...
I seen Mr. Spooner rolling east on US 60 in Mansfield, Mo few weeks ago. Never would have thought I would see his truck out here but I was surprised, my eyes was drawed on it when I seen it in view. You just can't miss that truck from being seen. Thanks for all the content BRV.
I will admit. When I seen this video was over 2 hours, I knew I would only watch some and jump ahead. 2 hours and 9 minutes later...yep, watched it all! Lol! This has got to be one of the most interesting interviews i've watched! Seriously! I really enjoyed the interview and the stories! Mr. Spooner has some great insight and is a very humble gentleman. I like how you let him talk and not cut him off to hear yourself talk. Some interviewers need to learn that trait. I have always liked your interviews, but this one is tops so far. That's a very nice truck you got there Mr. Spooner! Continued success to you sir! Much respect!!! Keep her rolln'!!
How could over 6k people watch this and not leave a like?
haroldlm64 You are welcome. Glad you enjoyed it.
Amen good job from Chris to have a great interview with a trucker who has seen much. And, on top of that a Veteran. Thanks to Bob Spooner for his Service.
Obviously those that do not like a good interview or a trucker at heart.
Me too
...''BECAUSE THE ...6-k-...people are ..All...silly ...20...year OLDS...STiLL UNDER THEIR ...Momma's ...skirt...TaiL...
I've been looking forward to this more than any new movie or tv show coming out! Now I'm going to watch it on the big screen in my living room and drive my wife crazy! Keep the rubber side down bros.
Trucking My life away hahaha! Enjoy!
GREAT INTERVIEW!! I'm 51 and just getting into trucking.
...did your OLD LADY RUN YOU OUTTA THE HOUSE...well just get you a ...P.O.-Box...and LIVE OUTTA ...The BACKWOODS-TRUCKSTOPS...''i/m ...over ...here in ...DUNCANWOOD-PENNA. Nice ...''n''...peacefuL...
Damn that's pretty late man what were you doing before? And what made you make such a drastic change so late in life? Are you retired no disrespect in any way but just curious man. Good luck to you hope you stick it out and learn a lot being out there
So awesome thank you for this. I could listen to these old timers talk all day long 7 days a week.
I am 57 and feel the exact same way, there is a lot of wisdom to gain from fellas like this.
EXACTLY.
This gentleman reminds me of my dad wean he would tell me about the old days I'm still out here doing this trucking stuff the best I can thanks mr. Spooner keep on trucking
Thank you Mr Spooner for sharing your life with us. Chris thank you for bringing it, awesome video hats off to both of you.
Thank You! Reminded me of the younger years when all it was, was to tell your stories. Loved every minute of Spooner's Story! Bravo!
You only Provide a service! Great advice to every job. He seems to be an honest, humble, and genuine man. Thank you for posting.
$15,700 in 1960 would equat to $133,656, in 2018. Excellent interview!
Not sure about the math but I did hear a credible report on driver pay that it is less than in the past.
...THK/s...Professor-'''... i never knew HOW TO use a ...CalcuLator'''...
Mn09lfV6f, Inflation Calculator.
@@Mn09lfV6f it isn't even math. We can try to project future inflation, but past inflation is a mere matter of fact.
I am a trucker with thirty two years under my wheels and this is a GREAT VIDEO !! Well done Christopher. Thanks for keeping the trucking history alive. keep-em coming and keep on trucking!!!!!!!!!!
The stories this guy has is amazing
Chris..... you just raised the bar for yourself....WOW. Thanks so much for this. Words fail me
...yeahhh...like ...song ...says...'''FEET DON""T FAiL...me ...now...and...''KeeP ON PUSHING...(IMPRESSIONS)...
29 thumbs down is bollocks. This is one of the best vids on the tube IMO. What a great story and amazing man. Definately a vid ill be watching many times over. 🤙🤙
God Chris this was great Mr Spooner is great man that had great stories my grandfather is from the same era of truck and tells us great stories also keep great videos coming thanks Chris
I respect all truck driver's for what they do and what weather they drive through all year all long and for the stuff they bring to stores and the stress they go through long away from home missing their families on holidays and birthdays and God Bless to all truck driver's out on the highways
Outstanding interview
I really appreciate the time the 2of you put into it. Its a piece of history and guys like this need to be heard before its too late.
Memberable moments for me: 1- Delivered 165 high back office chairs for the temporary set up for the Pentagon on Sunday September 16th,2001. 2- 11 by 20 foot sheets of aluminum for the space shuttle.3- Hand rails for the bridge in wheeling West Virginia,3- 1300 miles in 16 hours, Beaumont Texas to sky harbor airport. 4- safety for a family that had a blow out right in front of me on 75 in Florida while on a bridge and it was a two lane each way, changed out their tire for them and got them to a tire shop. Last but not least: Riding the full length of I-80 on July 4th,2001 week. Only run I did this on to Hunts point where I started my driving days 21 years earlier. Love this video, best ever.
I absolutely loved this interview reminded me of my dad he's shifting in the sky right now
Chris you did a bang up job to bad there are not more people like Bob Spooner.
Around keep up with him please
REAL TALK.
Hey there chris, you do some great things with this channel, showing some amazing trucks and the superb rolling interviews, but this one with Mr Spooner has been so interesting listening to a lifetime of experience. I'm 60 and can relate to a lot of what he said about the changes in trucking over the years, i came over to the Anaheim international trucking show at the convention center in 1982 and remember looking at a Pete with the same double eagle sleeper on, it blew me away when i saw the toilet, shower and the size of the bed as we had nothing remotely like it over here in the UK. All the best to Mr Spooner for sitting down with you and sharing some of his experience's of the road and once again thanks to you Chris for taking the time and effort to make this channel what it is, looking forward to the next one. Stay safe man. Pat. Scarborough. UK.
No words for this. Just thank you for doing what you do and sharing this with us. I grew up listening to my great uncles stories from his 40 years behind the wheel. Never gets old.
...right...i/m still listening to ...convoy ...by cw mccall...''and ...''BiLL-O'Reilly...TRUCKING'''...''OLD-GeeZER''...IMUS-in-The-MORNING''...and...""WOLFMAN''...JACK''...and ...''WiLDMAN...steve...coasT-To-coasT-'''......
Hi.
I'm watching the Spooner interview for the 3rd time.Every time I pay attention to Bob's words about Family.It's a very important thing for me especially since last year I passed 40 years behind the whell of truck,including 35 years in International transport.
Many thanks to You Chris for this interview,for meetening Bob.
Thanks Chris a lot for showing our profession.
Greetings from Poland
Jurek
I got a n14e eclectic plus 1850 torque 525 horse power . It’s a basic inline 6. I only been driving 5 years and been a owner operator for 4 years but I have been around trucking all my life. I can tell you all make and model of all trucks motors and transmission. I started out logging in a r model Mack with a Mack 350 and 9 speed. And then moved on hauling cows. Then lease to Kaplin for 4 years hauling heavy steel and oversized booking my own loads. now I haul gas and fuel and I’m only 33 and I started with nothing I mean nothing! But I’m compassionate about trucking and most truckers are not that’s the problem! Another thing they won’t stick together or stand up for our rights! If all truckers would shut down for just 1 week we could make some big changes for the better for all of us for the future! But it won’t happen. People are in a big hurry all the time and just don’t have no patients or curtsy these days!
...STOP CALLING IT A ""M-O-T-O-R-""...its ...DIESEL-ENGINE-"""...
I been driving for 16yrs and damm chris.. this interview makes me realize how important is to listen to legends like Spooner .. keep on the good work ..
I love listening to the words of wisdom from the older generations. They had it so rough but thought they still had it so good. Most any older lady or gent has a very particular story they tell that is so unique in their own way. For as long as I can remember I’ve always gone by the saying “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” & “keep it simple”.
It is because of this interview that I clicked the notification bell. Interviews with people who have been in major industries for a very long time are fascinating. Hearing about the changes and or evolution they have witnessed and experienced is intriguing. Thanks Chris.
Out of all the videos I've watched on CZcams,I sincerely enjoyed this one the most. Nothing like hearing old trucker stories from someone that really started at the beginning.
He really reminds me of my grandfather. He used to talk the exact same way. I could listen to him for hours and not get bored. I miss my grandpa 😞
This is the type of guy you could sit at the kitchen table with and listen to him talk all day over a few pints! Great interview and great stories from this guy. The world needs more guys like this.
Chris,
Like so many others, I have been watching you progress through the years now.
Your Rolling CB Interviews are an informative works of art with the likes of Heath Church driving his 1979 W900A called "Black Betty", Bryan Levernier aka “Foxfire Cummins” driving his 1976 Peterbilt 359, Bob Davis in his 1977 Kenworth W900A and the couples like Earl "Doc" Blackmon with Rita Russell and to the comical interview with Kendall and Amy Mays.
But this “In-Person” video interview with Mr. Bob Spooner, I have to say Chris, you truly got yourself winner with this new format this time. This must be my favorite interview to date! This interview took me back to the early days on the road. This interview also reminds me something like the oral historic interviews of war veterans. We need to capture this history before it is lost, I must say that you are doing a fantastic job in doing so!
Listening to Mr. Spooner got me to reflect when I got my Chauffeur licenses back in 1983. “Wink, Wink, Wink”. I did just shy of 8 years in the Marines and the stories by Spooner of being taught by the “School of Hard Knocks” is exactly like I experienced. My Mentor had a prosthetic clutch leg and taught me how to drive and shift smooth. Always telling me to “Pay Attention to those gauges and ease into the gears”. “Listen to your truck and get to know its character”. Like it has be stated in many of your interviews, I do miss the comradery we had on the road back then. Like in the Marines, we would help one another, as somedays you would not see another truck for hours/miles.
Also, the stories of running hard to get the load delivered, brought back memories I could relate to, like trips of 2,500 miles in 37 hours, which is a little more than 67mph average. That was moving in a truck back then. My logbooks were always in time, “Wink, Wink”. I have been blessed to work my way up to drive during the heyday of some of the most beautiful 359’s with big power V8 Cat’s in long hood Pete’s with long legs to get down the road. We could talk to our friends on the big radio and if needed, fire up the “Black Widow” and make the oil cans melt snow.
Thank You and Semper Fi to Bob Spooner for taking the time to share his life’s adventures with us.
Chris, as always beautiful job!
Semper Fi
Daryl “Fish” Greenlee
Thank you interviewing this wonderful n joyful elder. His life reflections make me happy to be a trucker blessing to him n his family n friends
What great video thank you for spending the time putting it together.
I am 63 years young and always wanted to drive OTR and my life went another direction and still wanting to drive. But i get to watch your videos and that helps take the edge off a bit. Again thank you for your trucking videos and look forward to the next one. 👍
Mr Spooner was an "old school driver." It's hard but you know one by the way they drive you've found one and after a few words on the box, you know it's another "old school driver." It's an honor to find one and talk a bit on the cb, or to follow each other through 2 or 3 states before you have to peel off and go your own way to your own delivery points. It hasn't happened often, but I remember each guy and the connected story behind each driver.
You can learn a lot from them and it reinforces what you know is right, so you are renewed and strengthened by sharing those moments with another "old school driver."
Nowadays, these new guys not only dont respect other drivers, they dont even see a reason why they should! We call them "dropouts!"
Car Nissan I’m young but I was old school taught. Learned from my grandpa. He trucked cattle for 78 years. Passed away last year at the age of 98 in the passenger seat of my w900
WE'LL PUT BROTHER. I've been out here 27 years,and for the 1st time ( in a while) I ran with a Canadian driver . We talked trucks and trucking for a few miles. Felt great and I ALWAYS respect my elder drivers. They DESERVE IT.
I truly appreciate this documentary. Having been in the industry over 30yrs, some of this is news and an education to me.
That Pete 351 front end makes me remember watching the Duel, as the first thriller I've ever watched, 4 years ago, when I was 12. Hella good.
And this old man... favourite. 2 hours of knowledge, I don't even know why did I go to school today.
I could listen to this guy tell stories all day thanks for interviewing him
It took me 2 days 1/2 to see the hole video, I just couldn't get enough. I kept rewinding and rewinding until I finally finished it. Now I'm off to cut the grass.
...you must be ...my...NEXT Door...NeighBor'...
Who cares jose
My word, what a video! Superb stuff Chris. Mr Spooner, what a legend! Sir you have a big fan here in the UK. Keep on trucking Sir! Love that ole Pete! Love the stories. Could listen for hours more👍👍👍 who knows, one day we may get back to a time when drivers enjoyed being the professionals they are. Good points and bad, it’s all part of the job. If you love it, you live it. !
Thanks!
...BACK WHEN TRUCKING ...was ..fun...now its a ...joke...
Holy cow this is awesome . It's going to take me a week to get through it all, but loving every minute. I'm a young truck driver trying to do it right, listening to this guy talk is making me a better truck driver
The real deal. Met Bob in 83. In 2010 him and a guy from Florida came to my barn and bought a52 needlenose pete I had. Bob is truckers trucker. Much respect. Many more miles. My hats off to this old outlaw. Bad to the Bone
We met at Mc Cormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. He had Snap on. I had Allen Bradley. 1983.I had a double bunk K100 with aV8. 14 speed spicer blue knob. He had that yellow pete with a hot rod Cummins. Hood was up in the marshaling yard. Everybody was gawking at that machine. If I’m not mistaken he had a mercury sleeper on it then.
I went to truck driving school back in the early 90s and after I got my class A the company flew me to Seattle to pick up a 88 Mack super liner. And my first load was in British Columbia. . I was clueless and didn’t have the right equipment or permits . I had fun driving all over the US but I made every mistake in the book . Got fined numerous times . But I got a chance to see every city and town across the United States . I’ll never forget that experience. I haven’t driven a tractor trailer since 92 but I would do it Again. Nowadays I just drive box trucks . I may get my class A again and drive again . But I think the laws and everything is completely different than the early 90s with log books and permits . Great interview . That man is a Legend. I love his stories
I just want all of you truck drivers to know your awesome. Thank you for all you do!!!
My Dad and Grandpa taught me the same way he learned but in the late 1990's. Shifting was done by listening to the motor; grind or buzz a gear and Dad would crack my hand with a stick of 1/4" ready rod. I was taught how to take care of the truck before I ever drove one - washing, greasing, polishing, cleaning and rolling tarps/straps between 6 and 10. Then changing oil, brakes, lights, u-joints, etc. At 12, they had me moving trucks in and out of the shop and around the yard and by 14 I was "teaming" with them during the summer and on school breaks. I'm glad I was taught the old school way of trucking. I don't drive any more but I logged 2.4 million accident free miles pulling tankers and open equipment and run a division of a company now. Learning from the "old hands" taught me more than you could in a lifetime of school or starting in trucking now.
40:55 - Now that is some REAL ADVICE for new drivers from one of the most knowledgeable truck drivers who has the experience and history to back it up. 👌👍🙌🙌
A true legend! And I've definitely been inspired..as a trucker since 1995, I am truly impressed. A big shout out to those who are just like Bob who still have the hammer down ( even if they're not in a truck atm) !! God bless.
Chris this is an awesome video Mr. spooner is a real true blue trucker i appreciate your time and Bobs that you guys put in to this video thank you have a great night be safe to both of you.
Absolutely the best trucking interview I have seen, so many similarities from when I started in the early 60,s, great job.
One of the best interviews on trucking and getting to know Mr. Spooner. Very cool man and smart ole outlaw. We started driving truck at about the same. I was nineteen when I started but had to leave it when I was 59 yrs. old because of an injury. I had to go on disability retirement. I am 80 now and still wish I could be pounding the pavement pouring out that stream of smoke. Stay safe out there all of you drivers and keep on trucking. Dave
Had the pleasure of meeting this Gentleman today. True Marine, too bad he had to go so soon, life of a trucker. Talked for an hour and realized we are from the same town.
Hes gone? Dang. I wish I coulda met him myself I think I coulda learned alot from him. May he rest in peace.
Man, I learned alot by this interview. Think an do things a whole lot different now. Much respect👌
Man Bro. This is one of the best videos I’ve seen. Thanks Mr. Spooner. Chris awesome job bro. 💯💯💯
Wow this is a joy to watch👍
I could listen to his stories all day, so much to learn frim thus man and what a memory. My dad drive interstate here in oz in the 70's, 80's and 90's so listening to this man talk about his truckn life in another country was very insightful,similar stories or things they did over there to what id geard my dad and his mates talk about with the scales and such.. cheers for that.. his dogs name is the best, trucker...beautiful truck,you dont see sleepers like that here in oz,well not many.love peterbuilt trucks.
Man I kinda feel like you’re demanding this Old man to give up his secrets but fortunately this wise ol man of the trucking industry is wiser then that!
Started watching and just couldn't stop. Chris is the best interviewer i have seen in a very long time. Very clear and patient and he doesn't interrupt . This is a piece of history!! Thank you for this great documentary.
Thanks, I try. Glad you enjoyed it.
I just been a spooner truck passing through St. Louis a week ago. I got Soooo excited. It was like seeing a legend.
Good old days of driving truck. I love the history behind the industry, yes I remember getting the hand hit for grinding gears. These young guys today don’t know what it’s like driving these trucks cross country with poor heating and no air conditioning, air wipers that worked when they wanted to. Great memories of those old trucks! Thanks for doing this video, great work.
When I started trucking in 87 I was 6'2 and 185lbs now I'm 6'1" 320lbs this man has been trucking a little over 20 years longer than me and he looks younger and in better shape than I do, thats the truly amazing feat
He is the definition of a true legend.
Thanks for the information you gave a new trucker like myself. Stay Blessed by the Best
Guys like these i could listen to for hours! Every chance I get ill talk to the older truckers get advice hear some hard lessons ect.. just a great time
What an interesting story he is certainly a legend , I’m an old trucker from the 60s through to 2000 retired now ,used to run all over Europe, wish we had your big sleepers ,thank you
Just saw this video today for the first time it was a great video I would have loved to have been born in this mans era and drove trucks then hearing his stories and experiences was just very great overall great interview watching these videos is my new thing now