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May 26, 1999 1:26 PM, EDT

Fears of a Teamsters strike against major carhauling companies grew as the May 31 contract deadline approached.

While both sides professed hope that the negotiations could be concluded without a walkout, a number of issues remain unresolved.

On May 17, union members voted 5,705 to 251 to authorize a strike against any or all of the 17 companies negotiating as a unit and represented by the National Automobile Transporters Labor Division.

"There are some serious issues," said R. Ian Hunter, executive director of NALTD. "And I am concerned."

However, Hunter said he remained hopeful a settlement would be reached.

We are prepared to meet with the Teamsters through the weekend," he said.