“We look at what drives that investment, and we see industrial production, and those numbers are up, and we see capacity utilization, and those numbers have come back, but they’ve kind of plateaued,” Regalia noted. “Now, we’re finally starting to see some upward pressure on that capacity, and what that means is, more people will choose to invest and increase that capacity.”

Some economic sub-indicators show that consumption is growing, with truck tonnage on the rise, for example.

“We’re also seeing that equipment and equipment leasing is up. People, in many cases, coming out of a recession, will tend to lease rather than buy because they’re not sure the improvement they’re looking at is long-lasting,” Regalia said. “So, when you look at these sub-indicators and see modest upward slopes, that’s a good thing."

But what will continue to weigh on the economy until a solution is devised are unemployment, entitlements and the national debt, Regalia added.

“I think there’s reason to be guardedly optimistic that we’re seeing an improvement that is fundamental and will last,” Regalia said.

Long-term infrastructure funding remains a big issue for equipment dealers, as infrastructure projects tend to be large drivers of equipment sales.

"In 2015, the [Highway Trust Fund] will be broke," said Brian P. McGuire, AED's CEO, who stepped into his new role of president earlier this month. "It will hit a level where it will no longer be able to afford any new projects."

As vehicles improve fuel economy, legislators need to adjust the current financing mechanism, which is based on fuel taxes, to one that takes into account miles driven, he added.

Dealers said that, despite all the challenges, they look forward to steady business in 2014.

"Most of North America is doing OK," said Mike Quirk, vice president of operations at Wagner Equipment Co., Aurora, Colo., and past AED chairman. "It’s not gangbusters, but we’re hiring people, [and] we’re making investments in facilities. So, we’re pleased with where we’re at, and we’re heading in the right direction."