LAKE FOREST, Illinois

(October 31, 2006) - CNH AMERICA LLC, announced today that a majority of its employees belonging to the International Association of Machinists (IAM) in Fargo, North Dakota voted to ratify a new five and a half year contract, effective November 1, 2006 through April 27, 2012. The agreement was reached by the company and the union on October 30, 2006, and ratified by a majority of its 520 IAM represented employees today.

"We are pleased with this agreement," said Linda Maurer, CNH vice president, human resources. "We believe this contract will result in a success in the years ahead for our employees, customers, dealers and shareholders."

"The IAM Bargaining Committee worked hard for its members and are hopeful the agreement will bring mutual success to the Union and the Company," stated Dennis Walworth, Directing Business Director, IAM District 5.