Written by Brittany Millwood , Econoline Trailers
Raymond “ Rusty ” Banks was born on a diary farm in Macon , Mississippi on April 28 , 1950 . He learned two things at an early age – he loved aviation and he would rather do anything in life than be a dairy farmer .
Upon graduating high school , Banks moved to Alabama where he studied aviation mechanics . It was there , under a streetlight in 1981 , that he built his very first equipment trailer . Though built for his personal use , he was asked to sell it . So , he built another copy – only to sell it , too . Thus , Econoline Trailers was born .
Banks dove headfirst into manufacturing , and equipment trailers quickly consumed his life . Endowed with a visionary mind , he began developing many different trailer models geared towards the heavy equipment market . Some called him a perfectionist , but Banks ’ ultimate objective was to build a heavy-duty equipment trailer that would perform well and withstand the test of time .
After establishing himself in the equipment trailer industry , Banks began to focus on improving and expanding the options offered at Econoline Trailers . He realized that not every job was performed in a perfect setting and that equipment trailers , typically , were not built to withstand unconventional conditions . It inspired him to develop and patent the Multi-Max Suspension . Now , consumers could opt for axles with an independent suspension that would be much more stable and reliable on uneven terrain . This design has endured decades of use and continues to be an option commonly requested by consumers .
In addition to the Multi-Max Suspension , Banks began manufacturing a tailored wheel that quickly became Econoline Trailers ’ standard for many years . Instead of buying a design from others , he recognized the opportunity to expand employment while keeping the cost of goods as low as possible . So , he went about patenting the design . He was turned down , though . Curious as to why , Banks was informed that the concept of the “ wheel ” – he was told – had already been invented centuries prior .
Though the patent office did not quite understand his idea , his efforts provide a remarkable insight into Banks ’ mind – he would do anything to lessen the difficulties of his staff , dealers and consumers .
Banks liked meeting new people and sharing what he considered to be his pride and joy – Econoline Trailers . He was intriguing , captivating , strong-willed , intelligent and was a man who ‘ never met a stranger .’ He thoroughly enjoyed attending trade shows to build both lasting business relationship and outright friendships .
Almost twenty years ago , Banks handed over Econoline Trailers ’ reins to his son , Shannon . He had established a product he was proud of and was ready to focus his efforts on other interests . Banks never fully stepped away , though , and could regularly be found in the midst of production lines , inspecting trailers and reminiscing on his years in the industry .
Banks ’ fingerprints in the trailer industry will live on and Econoline Trailers will continue to manufacture top-of-the-line heavy-duty equipment trailers , just as he would have wanted .
“ We appreciate all the past and present dealers , customers and employees that contributed to my father ’ s success and are fortunate to have had his foundation and guidance ,” said President Shannon Banks . “ We will forever make it our honor and priority to uphold the legacy of Rusty Banks and the business he built .”
Raymond “ Rusty “ Banks was a man who simply had a passion for the trailer industry , and the industry is far better off for having people like him .
62 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org