Asplundh boom trucks used to have pony engines up here, when the guys had finished a set (powerline work, means they have to move the truck) they wanted to get into a warm cab, so they let the main engine run. This killed the fuel/engine wear savings Asplundh wanted, now all the newer/new Asplundh trucks have diesels and no ponies. The pony takes up room, more maintenence, can be noisy (if you soundproof it, it will run hot), the utility trucks are running all day, a pony doesn't seem to be worth it. If it was, newer trucks owned by Asplundh, Davey and others here would have them, don't you think? Casey, I think that the machines you are talkng about with that many hours are still going cause they get good maintenance and the ops. don't beat on them. That is probably the main reason.