Even though the jobs may be dirty, it’s important to Kirt Pelster to have a consistent, clean look along with a signature color on his septic trucks. Having a professional looking fleet, he says, shows that Deuces Wild Septic Service takes pride in what it does.

That’s why the owner of the Mandan, North Dakota-based company was eager to submit his Classy Truck — an International DT 466 — to Pumper magazine. The truck is equipped with a 2,500-gallon (all-waste) steel tank and Jurop/Chandler pump. Pelster says he likes the steel tank because it’s paintable

Deuces Wild services the entire state, is certified by the National Association of Wastewater Technicians and also cleans the grease traps for all the Walmarts and Sam’s Clubs in the region.

While he bought the International used as a 2004 model, it has only 98,000 miles on it. “I look for something that comes off a well-cared-for fleet, preferably with low mileage.”

Painted Dupont Mesa Metallic Blue, the graphics on the truck were done by Custom Stripes. The logo features a classy triangle intersected by a blue spade design — in line with the Deuces Wild name.

One of the first trucks Pelster bought a few years ago was painted that color, he says. “We just continued to use it.”

The International was custom-built to incorporate all of Pelster’s wants and needs. It features an automatic transmission (Allison Transmission), Alcoa aluminum wheels, top and rear manways, rear sign glasses, a diamond plate toolbox and lined hose trays and, of course, heated valves. “Living in North Dakota, we cannot live without heated valves,” says Pelster, who had just returned from a tropical vacation. “Right now, it’s 8 degrees below zero!”

Having an automatic transmission was a must, and that’s what attracted Pelster to this vehicle. “It’s harder to get drivers with a manual transmission,” he says.

But while the truck’s amenities are sweet — including interior perks like air conditioning, tilt wheel, cruise control and CD player — Pelster is most excited about the truck’s exterior look.

“We take a lot of pride — that’s the easiest way to explain it,” Pelster says. “I’m very particular. People will look at your equipment and the way you’re dressed. It must be very professional.”

He says it’s important to ask yourself if your truck is truly clean. “It’s a representation of your business. People think my truck is new.”

The International is one of three trucks in the Deuces Wild fleet, which also include a 2006 Columbia Freightliner and a 2000 Sterling. Pelster is in the market for an 18-wheeler to make the business more efficient and be able to accommodate a 6,000- to 8,000-gallon tank and not have to dump waste as often.