U S RENTALS INC
S-1, 1996-12-13
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<PAGE>
 
   AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON DECEMBER 13, 1996
                                                     REGISTRATION NO. 333-______
================================================================================
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                             _____________________
                                    FORM S-1
                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                             _____________________
                               U.S. RENTALS, INC.
               (Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
<TABLE>
<S>                                  <C>                              <C>
           DELAWARE                               7353                94-3061974
(State or other jurisdiction of      (Primary Standard Industrial     (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)       Classification Code Number)      (Identification No.)
</TABLE>
                         1581 CUMMINS DRIVE, SUITE 155
                           MODESTO, CALIFORNIA  95358
                                 (209) 544-9000
  (Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of
                    registrant's principal executive office)

                                JOHN S. MCKINNEY
                         1581 CUMMINS DRIVE, SUITE 155
                           MODESTO, CALIFORNIA  95358
                                 (209) 544-9000
 (Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
                             of agent for service)

                                   COPIES TO:
         KENT V. GRAHAM, ESQ.                        BRYANT B. EDWARDS, ESQ.
        O'MELVENY & MYERS LLP                           LATHAM & WATKINS
  1999 AVENUE OF THE STARS, SUITE 700          633 WEST FIFTH STREET, SUITE 4000
     LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA  90067             LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA  90071
            (310) 246-6820                               (213) 485-1234

                              ____________________

        APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC:
  As soon as practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective.
                              ____________________

          If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be
offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the
Securities Act of 1933, check the following box.  [_]

          If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an
offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the
following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the
earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  [_]

          If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule
462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities
Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration
statement for the same offering.  [_]

          If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule
434, please check the following box:  [_]
                        CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
===================================================================================================================================
                                                                 PROPOSED              PROPOSED MAXIMUM             AMOUNT OF
   TITLE OF EACH CLASS OF       AMOUNT TO BE REGISTERED          OFFERING                  AGGREGATE             REGISTRATION FEE
 SECURITIES TO BE REGISTERED                                    PRICE PER              OFFERING PRICE(1)
                                                                  SHARE
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>                             <C>                      <C>                         <C>
Common Stock, par value
  $.01 per share                ________ Shares                 $________                $207,000,000                $62,728
===================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
(1) Estimated solely for purposes of determining the registration fee pursuant
    to Rule 457 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
                      ___________________________________

    THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(A) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID
SECTION 8(A), MAY DETERMINE.

================================================================================
<PAGE>
 
                                EXPLANATORY NOTE

     This Registration Statement contains a Prospectus relating to a public
offering in the United States (the "U.S. Offering") of an aggregate of [   ]
shares of Common Stock of U.S. Rentals, Inc. ([     ] shares if the
Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in full) (the "Common Stock"),
together with separate Prospectus pages relating to a concurrent offering
outside the United States of an aggregate of [    ] shares of Common Stock (the
"International Offering").  The complete Prospectus for the U.S. Offering
follows immediately.  After such Prospectus are the following alternate pages
for the International Offering:  a front cover page, a "Certain United States
Federal Tax Consequences to Non-United States Holders of Common Stock" section
and a back cover page.  All other pages of the Prospectus for the U.S. Offering
are to be used for both the U.S. Offering and the International Offering.
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT.  A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION.  THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY
OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT BECOMES
EFFECTIVE.  THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE SECURITIES
IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR
TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH STATE.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

                SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED DECEMBER 13, 1996
PROSPECTUS
         , 1997
                              ____________ SHARES
                                        
                           [U.S. RENTALS, INC. LOGO]
                                  COMMON STOCK
                                        
     All of the _______ shares of common stock, $.01 par value per share (the
"Common Stock"), offered hereby are being sold by U.S. Rentals, Inc. ("U.S.
Rentals" or the "Company"). Of the ______ shares of Common Stock offered by the
Company, _______ shares are being offered for sale in the United States and
Canada by the U.S. Underwriters (the "U.S. Offering") and _______ shares are
being offered for sale outside the United States and Canada in a concurrent
offering by the International Managers (the "International Offering" and,
together with the U.S. Offering, the "Offerings"), subject to transfers between
the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers. See "Underwriting."

     Prior to the Offerings, there has been no public market for the Common
Stock. It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price will be
between $_____ and $_____ per share. See "Underwriting" for a discussion of the
factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price.

     Application has been made to list the Common Stock on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol "USR."


     SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 9 FOR INFORMATION THAT SHOULD BE
CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.

    THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
         AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR
            HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE
               SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
                ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS.  ANY REPRESENTATION
                     TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   PRICE           UNDERWRITING      PROCEEDS
                                   TO THE         DISCOUNTS AND       TO THE
                                   PUBLIC         COMMISSIONS(1)    COMPANY(2)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>           <C>                <C>
                                             
Per Share .......................     $             $                  $

Total(3) ........................  $             $                  $
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)   The Company has agreed to indemnify the several U.S. Underwriters and
      International Managers (collectively, the "Underwriters") against certain
      liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as
      amended.  See "Underwriting."
(2)   Before deducting expenses payable by the Company, estimated at
      $___________.
(3)   The Company has granted to the U.S. Underwriters a 30-day option to
      purchase up to ____________ additional shares of Common Stock solely to
      cover over-allotments, if any.  If such option is exercised in full, the
      total Price to the Public, Underwriting Discounts and Commissions, and
      Proceeds to the Company will be $            , $             and 
      $            , respectively.  See "Underwriting."

          The shares of Common Stock are being offered by the several
Underwriters, subject to prior sale, when, as and if delivered to and accepted
by the Underwriters, subject to various prior conditions, including their right
to reject any order in whole or in part.  It is expected that delivery of share
certificates will be made in New York, New York, on or about ____________, 1997.

      DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
            SECURITIES CORPORATION
                            MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
                                          SALOMON BROTHERS INC
<PAGE>
 
IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERINGS, THE UNDERWRITERS MAY OVER-ALLOT OR EFFECT
TRANSACTIONS THAT STABILIZE OR MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE COMMON STOCK OF
THE COMPANY AT A LEVEL ABOVE THAT WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN
MARKET.  SUCH TRANSACTIONS MAY BE EFFECTED ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE OR
OTHERWISE.  SUCH STABILIZING, IF COMMENCED, MAY BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME.



                                   [Graphics]


                                       2
<PAGE>
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

          The following summary information is qualified in its entirety by the
more detailed information, including "Risk Factors" and the Combined Financial
Statements and notes thereto, appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus.  Unless
otherwise indicated, the information in this Prospectus (i) gives effect to the
Offering Related Transactions described below, (ii) assumes no exercise of the
over-allotment option granted to the U.S. Underwriters as described in
"Underwriting" and (iii) assumes an initial public offering price of $_______
per share of Common Stock of the Company (the "Common Stock"), the midpoint of
the offering price range set forth on the cover of this Prospectus. Unless
otherwise indicated, all references to the "Company" and "U.S. Rentals" refer to
U.S. Rentals, Inc. and its predecessor (the "Predecessor"). See "Offering
Related Transactions."

                                  THE COMPANY

          U.S. Rentals is the second largest equipment rental company in the
United States based on 1995 rental revenues.  The Company currently operates 78
equipment rental yards ("Profit Centers") in 11 states and generates more than
100,000 rental contracts per month from a diverse base of approximately 200,000
active customers including commercial and residential construction, industrial
and homeowner customers.  U.S. Rentals owns more than 60,000 pieces of rental
equipment, comprised of approximately 600 equipment types, including aerial work
platforms, forklifts, paving and concrete equipment, compaction equipment, air
compressors, hand tools and plumbing, landscaping and gardening equipment.
Management believes that the Company's fleet, which had a weighted average age
of approximately 28 months and an original equipment cost of approximately $360
million at September 30, 1996, is one of the most comprehensive and well-
maintained equipment rental fleets in the industry. U.S. Rentals also sells new
equipment manufactured by nationally known companies, used equipment from its
rental fleet, and rental-related merchandise, parts and supplies.

          The Company's strategic objective is to continue to grow profitably in
both existing and new markets by acquiring rental yards, opening
start-up rental yards and expanding its equipment fleet.  U.S. Rentals 
continually evaluates attractive markets for expansion where a leading position 
can be created by acquiring an existing business or opening a new rental yard.
The Company has grown internally through the expansion of its equipment fleet at
existing locations and through the integration of 25 start-up and acquired
equipment rental yards since January 1992. As a result of the Company's
strategy, total revenues increased to $242.8 million in 1995 from $120.2 million
in 1992, a compound annual growth rate of 26.4%. During the same period,
operating income before non-rental depreciation increased to $43.5 million from
$11.7 million, a compound annual growth rate of 55.0%. U.S. Rentals has been
profitable in every year since 1984.

          U.S. Rentals attributes its leadership position in the equipment
rental industry primarily to its innovative operating philosophy, which is based
upon a decentralized management structure, a unique profit sharing program
available to all levels of employees, a strong emphasis on personalized customer
service, and maintenance of one of the most comprehensive and modern rental
fleets of brand name equipment in the industry. The Company's bottoms-up
management structure allows each Profit Center manager to tailor the equipment
fleet to the local market, make equipment fleet purchases and sales, and pricing
and staffing decisions. Corporate headquarters coordinates equipment purchases
and supports Profit Center managers by providing capital, accounting, internal
audit, risk management and other services to each Profit Center. The Company's
unique incentive-based profit sharing program does not limit employee
compensation. This program motivates Profit Center managers to act as
entrepreneurs, to purchase only equipment that can be profitably deployed, to
sell rental equipment from the fleet as maintenance costs increase or as rental
demand for such equipment decreases and to minimize operating expenses. In 1995,
employees earned approximately $9 million of profit sharing compensation, with
managers of profitable locations earning on average approximately 110% of their
base salaries. Management believes that its innovative operating and
compensation philosophy significantly contributed to same Profit Center revenue
growth of 23.5% and 20.0% in 1994 and 1995, respectively.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                                   INDUSTRY

          The equipment rental industry serves a wide variety of commercial and
residential construction, industrial and homeowner customers.  Equipment
available for rent ranges from small hand tools costing less than $100 to large
earth-moving equipment costing over $200,000.  According to a survey conducted
for the Associated Equipment Distributors ("AED"), an industry trade
association, the United States equipment rental industry has grown from
approximately $610 million in annual revenues in 1982 to an estimated $15
billion in annual revenues in 1995, a compound annual growth rate of
approximately 28%.  Management believes that this growth reflects, in part,
increased outsourcing trends by commercial and industrial construction customers
that increasingly seek to reduce their capital invested in equipment and to
reduce the costs associated with maintaining and servicing such equipment.
While equipment users traditionally have rented equipment for specific purposes,
such as supplementing capacity during peak periods and in connection with
special projects, the convenience and cost-saving factors of utilizing rental
equipment have encouraged customers to look to suppliers such as the Company as
ongoing, comprehensive sources of equipment.  Management believes that demand
for rental equipment by the commercial and industrial segments will continue to
increase as these customers continue to outsource non-core operations. A 1995
survey conducted by The CIT Group showed that commercial construction
contractors intended to increase the percentage of equipment they rent without a
purchase option to an estimated 8% of their total equipment requirements in
1996, from less than 5% in 1994.

          The equipment rental industry is highly fragmented and primarily
consists of a large number of relatively small, independent businesses serving
discrete local markets and a small number of multi-yard regional and multi-
regional operators.  Management believes that an estimated 85% of the
approximately 20,000 equipment rental operators in the United States have fewer
than five locations and, therefore, believes the equipment rental industry
offers substantial consolidation opportunities for large, well-capitalized
rental companies such as U.S. Rentals. Relative to smaller competitors, multi-
regional operators such as the Company benefit from several competitive
advantages, including access to capital, the ability to offer a broad range of
modern equipment, purchasing power with equipment suppliers, sophisticated
management information systems, national brand identity and the ability to
service national accounts. In addition, multi-regional operators such as the
Company are less sensitive to local economic downturns.

                               BUSINESS STRATEGY

          U.S. Rentals' strategic objective is to continue its profitable growth
in both existing and new markets by acquiring rental yards, opening start-up
rental yards and expanding its equipment fleet. U.S. Rentals continually
evaluates attractive markets for expansion where a leading position can be
created by acquiring an existing business or opening a new rental yard.
Primarily due to its entrepreneurial, decentralized organizational structure
that focuses on bottoms-up management and an innovative profit-driven
compensation program, the Company has been profitable each of the past 11 years.
Specifically, U.S. Rentals' business strategy centers upon the following
factors:

          Profitable Expansion.  The Company strives to operate the most
profitable equipment rental yards in each of its markets.  Management
believes U.S. Rentals is well positioned to be a leader in the consolidation of
the highly fragmented equipment rental industry. Management believes that there
are numerous attractive acquisition opportunities available and that its
reputation, stability, access to capital, sophisticated management information
systems and operating expertise provide competitive advantages in making
acquisitions. These strengths allow U.S. Rentals to (i) quickly integrate
acquired companies into its information systems and operating structure, (ii)
realize synergies in the form of reduced overhead and lower costs through
greater purchasing power and (iii) significantly enhance revenue by supplying
acquired yards with additional equipment to optimize the mix of rental equipment
and modernize the fleet. In addition, the Company will open new rental yards
when a suitable business is not available for acquisition on favorable terms.
Pursuant to this strategy, U.S. Rentals has acquired 13 rental yards and has
opened 12 start-up rental yards since January 1, 1992.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
          Market Leadership.  Management estimates that U.S. Rentals has a
leading market position in most of the markets in which its Profit Centers have
been open for more than one year.  The Company has been able to create this
leadership position by capitalizing on its substantial competitive advantages,
which include offering personalized customer service, flexible rental terms,
seven-days-a-week operating hours and a diverse and modern equipment rental
fleet specifically tailored to the needs of local customers.  Further, U.S.
Rentals' historical strength has been in small and medium-sized markets that the
Company believes are not well served by its competition.

          Extensive Customer Base.  U.S. Rentals generates in excess of 100,000
customer contracts per month and has developed a diverse customer base that
includes approximately 200,000 customers that have done business with the
Company within the last six months. Historically, U.S. Rentals has served a 
large number of small and medium-sized customers, which the Company believes are
not well served by its competition. The Company is also increasing its emphasis
on multi-regional and national customers through its national accounts program.
In addition to the Company's strong brand name recognition, comprehensive and
modern equipment rental fleet, well-located rental yards and competitive
pricing, management believes that the Company's customers value the convenience
of U.S. Rentals Profit Centers' seven-days-a-week operating hours and flexible
rental terms. Further, U.S. Rentals offers its customers "one-stop shopping"
through the sale of rental-related merchandise, parts and supplies, sales of new
and used equipment and maintenance and delivery services.

          Innovative, Decentralized Operating Philosophy.  U.S. Rentals'
decentralized operating philosophy encourages entrepreneurial behavior at each
Profit Center and rewards managers and employees through a profit-driven
incentive compensation program.  Profit Center managers are given the necessary
freedom and flexibility to operate their respective equipment rental yards to
maximize profits.  Each Profit Center manager is responsible for every
aspect of a yard's operation, including establishing rental rates, selecting
equipment and determining employee compensation.  Managers and employees of
profitable locations are rewarded by the Company's profit sharing program that
is based on each location's operating income in excess of a pre-determined
return on its net assets. In 1995, the Company's employees earned approximately
$9 million in profit sharing compensation, with managers of profitable locations
earning on average approximately 110% of their base salaries.

          Strong Internal Controls.  U.S. Rentals balances its decentralized
organizational structure and entrepreneurial operating philosophy with extensive
systems and procedures to monitor and track the performance of each Profit
Center.  The Company's proprietary management information systems, including the
Company's point-of-sale ("POS") system, allow management and Profit Center
managers to review all aspects of each Profit Center's business and assist
management in closely monitoring and quickly reacting to opportunities to
increase profits at each Profit Center. These systems are used to open customer
accounts, generate rental contracts, track equipment usage, report customer
credit histories, compile accounts receivable aging reports and monitor monthly
profitability. Seven internal auditors monitor and ensure adherence to the
Company's well-established, disciplined and documented policies and procedures.
In addition, six independent division credit offices review and approve all
credit applications submitted to the Profit Centers. Management believes that
the Company's strong internal controls and proprietary management information
systems lower overall costs and increase profitability for the Company.

          Attracting, Motivating and Retaining the Best People in the Industry.
Through its decentralized, entrepreneurial approach and innovative profit
sharing program, the Company believes it has generally been able to attract,
motivate and retain the most successful, experienced group of employees in the
industry. Management believes U.S. Rentals' successful employees are more highly
compensated than those of its competitors because of the Company's unique profit
sharing program.  As a result, the Company has had voluntary turnover of only
two Profit Center managers during the past five years.  In addition, U.S.
Rentals' senior operating management, which has an average of 21 years of rental
experience in the industry, is among the most experienced in the industry.
William F. Berry, the Company's 44-year old President and Chief Executive
Officer, has over 30 years of experience in the equipment rental business and
has worked in virtually every operational capacity in the Company during his
career.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
          The Company was incorporated in Delaware in November 1987 but has not 
had operations prior to the Offerings. The Company's principal executive offices
are located at 1581 Cummins Drive, Suite 155, Modesto, California 95358, and its
telephone number is (209) 544-9000. See "Offering Related Transactions."

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                                 THE OFFERINGS

<TABLE> 
<S>                                                   <C> 
Common Stock offered hereby:

     U.S. Offering .................................  ______________ shares

     International Offering ........................  ______________ shares

       Total........................................  ______________ shares

Common Stock to be outstanding after the Offerings..  ______________ shares/(a)/

Use of proceeds ....................................  The estimated net proceeds to the Company 
                                                      of $__ million from the Offerings will be
                                                      used to repay substantially all outstanding 
                                                      indebtedness of the Company and for working 
                                                      capital and general corporate purposes, 
                                                      including possible future acquisitions. See 
                                                      "Use of Proceeds."

Proposed New York Stock Exchange symbol ............  USR
</TABLE> 
____________________
(a) Excludes ________ shares reserved for future issuance under the Company's
    1997 Performance Award Plan (the "1997 Plan"). See "Management - Employment
    Agreements" and "- 1997 Performance Award Plan."

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
                            SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA

 
The following summary historical and pro forma financial data should be read in
conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations," the Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto
and the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto,
included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The financial data for each of the nine-
month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996 are not necessarily indicative
of the results which may be expected for any other interim period or for a full 
year.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                           Nine Months
                                                   Year Ended December 31,                            Ended September 30,
                                         --------------------------------------------------       ------------------------------
                                                                                  Pro Forma        (unaudited)         Pro Forma
                                                                                As Adjusted(a)                       As Adjusted(a)
                                         1992       1993      1994      1995        1995          1995      1996         1996
                                         ----       ----      ----      ----        ----          ----      ----         ----
                                                           (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
<S>                                     <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>           <C>       <C>          <C>
Statement of Operations Data:
Total revenues......................... $120,172  $143,582  $187,758  $242,847    $242,847      $172,854  $216,462     $216,462
Gross profit...........................   27,213    36,129    55,151    74,975      74,975        52,083    57,798       57,798
Operating income.......................    8,638    12,686    23,786    38,022      38,697        28,291    28,326       28,784
Other income (expense), net............      782       (31)     (242)   (1,620)     (1,840)         (423)      342          (60)
Interest income (expense), net.........    1,219     1,236    (1,060)   (5,310)        127        (3,918)   (5,716)         (39)
Income before income taxes.............   10,639    13,891    22,484    31,092      36,984        23,950    22,952       28,685
Income taxes...........................      529       405       499       468      15,163           379       316       11,586
Net income.............................   10,110    13,486    21,985    30,624                    23,571    22,636
Pro forma net income(b)................    6,318     8,181    13,263    18,312      21,821        14,105    13,676       17,099
Pro forma net income per share.........

Balance Sheet Data (end of period):
Rental equipment, net.................. $ 49,326  $ 65,606  $112,563  $152,848                            $203,913     $203,913
Total assets...........................  102,085   125,390   187,525   245,184                             321,390      305,523
Total debt.............................   31,392    48,419    84,751   105,696                             176,008          500
Total stockholder's equity.............   51,739    48,608    57,951    83,077                              90,976      247,229

Selected Operating Data:
Profit Centers (end of period).........       58        58        66        73                        71        77
Gross equipment capital expenditures... $ 24,279  $ 42,892  $ 83,157  $ 88,861                  $ 63,859  $ 98,904
Same Profit Center revenue growth(c)...      2.6%     16.0%     23.5%     20.0%                     18.8%     17.4%
</TABLE>

(a)  Gives effect to (i) the Offering Related Transactions, (ii) the sale of
     ________ shares of Common Stock in the Offerings (assuming no exercise of
     the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option), at an assumed initial public
     offering price of $___ per share, (iii) a reduction in interest expense as
     a result of reductions in indebtedness upon application of a portion of the
     net proceeds to the Company from the Offerings, (iv) change from S
     corporation income tax expense to C corporation income tax expense and
     recording of the related deferred tax liabilities and (v) termination of
     deferred incentive compensation agreements with certain employees. See "Use
     of Proceeds," "Capitalization," "Offering Related Transactions,"
     "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
     Operations," the Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto and the
     Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto
     included elsewhere in this Prospectus.

(b)  The pro forma net income reflects the estimated pro forma effect of income
     taxes as if the Predecessor had been taxed as a C corporation for all
     periods presented. See "Offering Related Transactions."

(c)  Same Profit Center revenue growth is calculated based on the change in
     total revenue of all Profit Centers open as of the beginning of the 
     preceding fiscal year.
                                       8
<PAGE>
 
                                  RISK FACTORS

   In addition to the other information in this Prospectus, the following
factors should be considered carefully in evaluating the Company and its
business before purchasing shares of Common Stock.

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS; GEOGRAPHICAL CONCENTRATION

   The Company believes that the equipment rental industry is sensitive to
economic and competitive conditions, including national, regional and local
changes in construction and industrial activity.  Most of U.S. Rentals' revenues
are derived from customers in industries that are cyclical in nature and subject
to changes in general economic conditions.  The Company's operating results may
be adversely affected by events or conditions in a particular region, such as
regional economic slowdowns, adverse weather and other factors.  Although the
Company operates in 11 states, the Company derived approximately 64.3% and
16.5% of its total revenues from its California and Texas locations,
respectively, in 1995. Thus, a significant economic downturn in California or
Texas may have a material adverse effect on the Company's operating results. In
addition, the Company's operating results may be adversely affected by increases
in interest rates that may lead to a decline in economic activity. There can be
no assurance that changes in economic conditions will not have a material
adverse effect on the Company's operating results and financial condition.


COMPETITION

   The equipment rental industry is highly fragmented and very competitive.  The
Company's competitors include national and multi-regional companies, regional
competitors that operate in a small number of states, small, independent
businesses with a small number of local rental locations, and equipment vendors
and dealers that both sell and rent equipment directly to customers.  Certain of
the Company's competitors may have greater financial resources, are more
geographically diverse and have greater name recognition than the Company.
There can be no assurance that the Company will not encounter increased
competition from existing competitors or new market entrants.  There can be no
assurance that manufacturers of the equipment that the Company rents will not
commence or increase their efforts to rent or sell such equipment directly to
the Company's customers.  In addition, to the extent existing or future
competitors seek to gain or retain market share by reducing prices, the Company
might be required to lower its prices, thereby affecting operating results.
Existing or future competitors also may seek to compete with the Company for
acquisition candidates, which could have the effect of increasing the price for
acquisitions or reducing the number of suitable acquisition candidates.  In
addition, such competitors may also compete with the Company for start-up
locations, thereby limiting the number of attractive locations for expansion.
See "Business - Competition."


RISKS RELATING TO GROWTH

   A principal component of the Company's strategy is to continue to grow
profitably in both existing and new markets by acquiring rental yards, 
opening start-up rental yards and expanding its equipment fleet.  The Company's
future growth will be dependent upon a number of factors including the Company's
ability to identify acceptable acquisition candidates and suitable start-up
locations, consummate acquisitions and obtain sites for start-up locations on
favorable terms, successfully integrate acquired businesses and start-up
locations with the Company's existing operations, expand its customer base at
existing and acquired locations and obtain financing to support expansion.
Historically, the Company's acquired businesses and start-up locations generally
have not been profitable until after their first year of operations and there
can be no assurance that future acquired businesses and start-up locations will
become profitable within their first several years of operations, if at all, or
achieve the results anticipated by the Company.  There can be no assurance that
the Company will successfully expand or that any expansion will result in
profitability.  The failure to identify, evaluate and integrate acquired
businesses and start-up locations effectively could adversely affect the
Company's operating results, possibly causing adverse effects on the market
price of the Common Stock.  In addition, the results 

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
achieved to date by the Company may not be indicative of its prospects or its
ability to penetrate new markets, many of which may have different competitive
conditions and demographic characteristics than the Company's current markets.
Further, the Company's emphasis on long-term business strategy may result in
reduced profitability in the short-term, and there can be no assurance that its
long-term strategy will result in increased profitability.

   As a result of acquisitions and the opening of start-up locations, the
Company will experience growth in the number of its employees, the scope of its
operating and financial systems, and the geographic area of its operations.
This growth will increase the operating complexity of the Company and the level
of responsibility for both existing and new management personnel.  To manage
this expected growth, the Company intends to invest further in its operating and
financial systems and to continue to expand, train and manage its employee base.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to attract and retain
qualified management and employees, that the Company's current operating and
financial systems and controls will be adequate as the Company grows, or that
any steps taken to attract and retain such employees and to improve such systems
and controls will be sufficient.  See "Business - Business Strategy."


DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL

   The Company's future performance and development will depend to a great
extent on the efforts and abilities of certain members of senior management,
particularly William F. Berry, President and Chief Executive Officer, and John
S. McKinney, Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial Officer. The loss of
service of one or more members of senior management could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's business. The Company uses several methods to
retain key employees, including employment agreements with Messrs. Berry and
McKinney. The Company's ongoing success also will depend on its continuing
ability to attract, train and retain skilled personnel in all areas of its
business. See "Management."


CONTROL BY PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDER

   Upon consummation of the Offerings, Richard D. Colburn (the "Principal
Stockholder") will beneficially own approximately ___% of the outstanding Common
Stock (___% if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in
full), and will have the same percentage of the overall voting power of the
Company.  Accordingly, he will be able to elect all of the directors and
exercise significant control over the business, policies and affairs of the
Company.  Similarly, he will be in a position to prevent a takeover of the
Company by one or more third parties, or sell or otherwise transfer his stock to
a third party, which could deprive the Company's stockholders of a control
premium that might otherwise be realized by them in connection with an
acquisition of the Company.  See "Principal Stockholders."


SEASONALITY AND QUARTERLY FLUCTUATIONS

   The Company's revenues and operating results historically have fluctuated
from quarter to quarter, and the Company expects them to continue to do so in
the future.  These fluctuations have been and will be caused by a number of
factors, including seasonal rental patterns of the Company's customers
(principally due to the effect of weather on construction activities), general
economic conditions in the Company's markets, the timing of acquisitions and the
development of start-up locations and related costs, the effectiveness of
integrating acquired businesses and start-up locations, and the timing of
capital expenditures for new rental equipment.  The Company incurs substantial
costs in establishing or integrating newly acquired or start-up locations, and
the profitability of a new location is generally lower in the first year of
operations than in subsequent years of operations.  These factors, among others,
make it likely that in some future quarters the Company's results of operations
may be below the expectations of securities analysts and investors, which could
have a material adverse effect on the market price of the 

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
Common Stock. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations - Quarterly Results."


GOVERNMENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION

   The Company's operations are subject to various federal, state and local laws
and regulations governing, among other things, worker safety, air emissions,
water discharge and the generation, handling, storage, transportation, treatment
and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes.  Under such laws, an owner or
lessee of real estate may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of
certain hazardous or toxic substances located on or in, or emanating from, such
property, as well as related costs of investigation and property damage and
substantial penalties for violations of such laws.  Such laws often impose such
liability without regard to whether the owner or lessee knew of, or was
responsible for, the presence of such hazardous or toxic substances.  There can
be no assurance that the Company's locations have been operated in compliance
with environmental laws and regulations or that future uses or conditions will
not result in the imposition of environmental liability upon the Company or
expose the Company to liability to third-parties even if the Company has been
indemnified by third-parties against such liabilities.  The Company dispenses
petroleum products from above-ground storage tanks at a majority of its Profit
Centers.  The remainder of its Profit Centers dispense petroleum products from
underground storage tanks.  The Company maintains an environmental compliance
program that includes the implementation of required technical and operational
activities designed to minimize the potential for leaks and spills.  There can
be no assurance, however, that these tank systems have been or will at all times
remain free from leaks or that the use of these tanks has not or will not result
in spills or other releases.  The Company incurs ongoing expenses associated
with the removal of older underground storage tanks and the performance of
appropriate remediation at certain of its locations.  The actual cost of
remediating environmental conditions may be different from that anticipated by
the Company due to the difficulty in estimating such cost and due to potential
changes in the status of legislation and state reimbursement programs.  The
Company has identified certain of its facilities as having released hazardous
substances, with remediation either ongoing or likely at three facilities.  The
Company also uses other hazardous materials in the ordinary course of its
business.  In addition, the Company generates and disposes of hazardous waste
such as used motor oil, radiator fluid and solvents, and may be liable under
various federal, state and local laws for environmental contamination at
facilities where its waste is or has been disposed.  See "Business -
Governmental and Environmental Regulation."


DEPENDENCE ON ADDITIONAL CAPITAL TO FINANCE GROWTH

   Expansion of the Company through acquisitions, development of start-up
locations and growth at existing locations will require significant capital
expenditures.  To remain competitive, the Company must provide its customers
with relatively new, high-quality, well-maintained equipment and rental
facilities, requiring continual capital expenditures.  The Company historically
has financed capital expenditures, acquisitions and start-up locations primarily
through internally generated cash flow, bank borrowings and proceeds from
privately placed notes (the "Senior Notes"). To implement its strategy and meet
its capital needs, the Company will incur indebtedness and may issue additional
equity securities (which could result in dilution to the purchasers of Common
Stock offered hereby). Such additional indebtedness would increase the Company's
leverage, may make the Company more vulnerable to economic downturns and may
limit its ability to withstand competitive pressures. There can be no assurance
that additional capital, if and when required, will be available on terms
acceptable to the Company, or at all. Failure by the Company to obtain
sufficient additional capital in the future could have a material adverse effect
on the Company's results of operations and financial condition. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations."

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
LIABILITY AND INSURANCE

   The Company's business exposes it to claims for personal injury or death
resulting from the use of equipment rented or sold by the Company, from injuries
caused in motor vehicle accidents in which Company delivery and service
personnel are involved, as well as workers' compensation claims and other
employment-related claims by the Company's employees. The Company carries
substantial coverage for product liability, general and automobile liability and
employment-related claims from various national insurance carriers. Such
coverage ranges from $3 million to $50 million per occurrence. However,
claims under $3 million and certain types of claims such as claims for punitive
damages or for damages arising from intentional misconduct, which are often
alleged in third party lawsuits, are generally not covered by the Company's
insurance. There can be no assurance that existing or future claims will not
exceed the level of the Company's insurance, that the Company will have
sufficient capital available to pay any uninsured claims, or that its insurance
will continue to be available on economically reasonable terms, if at all. See
"Business - Legal Proceedings."


ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS

   The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the "Certificate of
Incorporation") and its Bylaws ("Bylaws") include provisions that could delay,
defer or prevent a takeover attempt that may be in the best interest of
stockholders.  These provisions include the ability of the Board of Directors to
issue up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock without any further stockholder
approval, a provision under which only the Board of Directors may call meetings
of stockholders, and certain advance notice procedures for nominating candidates
for election to the Board of Directors.  Issuance of preferred stock could also
discourage bids for the Common Stock at a premium as well as create a depressive
effect on the market price of the Common Stock.  In addition, under certain
conditions, Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL")
would prohibit the Company from engaging in a "business combination" with an
"interested stockholder" (in general, a stockholder owning 15% or more of the
Company's outstanding voting stock) for a period of three years unless the
business combination is approved in a prescribed manner.  See "Description of
Capital Stock."


NO PRIOR PUBLIC MARKET; POSSIBLE VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE

   Prior to the Offerings, there has been no public market for the Common Stock,
and there can be no assurance that an active trading market will develop as a
result of the Offerings or, if a trading market does develop, that it will be
sustained or that the shares of Common Stock could be resold at or above the
initial public offering price.  The initial public offering price of the Common
Stock offered hereby will be determined through negotiations between the Company
and the representatives of the Underwriters and may not be indicative of the
price at which the Common Stock will actually trade after the Offerings.  After
completion of the Offerings, the market price of the Common Stock could be
subject to significant variation due to fluctuations in the Company's operating
results, changes in earnings estimates by securities analysts, the degree of
success the Company achieves in implementing its business strategy, changes in
business or regulatory conditions affecting the Company, its customers or its
competitors, and other factors.  In addition, the stock market may experience
volatility that affects the market prices of companies in ways unrelated to the
operating performance of such companies, and such volatility may adversely
affect the market price of the Common Stock.


SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE; REGISTRATION RIGHTS

   Upon consummation of the Offerings, the Company will have outstanding an
aggregate of ________ shares of Common Stock (_______ shares if the U.S.
Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in full).  Future sales of
substantial amounts of Common Stock by the Principal Stockholder after the
Offerings, or the perception that such sales could occur, could adversely affect
the market price of the Common Stock.  No prediction can be made as to the
effect, if any, that future sales of shares, or 

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
the availability of shares for future sale, will have on the market price of the
Common Stock. In addition, the Company has the authority to issue additional
shares of Common Stock and shares of one or more series of preferred stock. The
Company also intends to register ______shares of Common Stock reserved for
issuance under the 1997 Plan as soon as practicable following the consummation
of the Offerings. The issuance of such shares could result in the dilution of
the voting power of the shares of Common Stock purchased in the Offerings and
could have a dilutive effect on earnings per share. The Company currently has no
plans to designate and/or issue any shares of preferred stock.

   The Company and the Principal Stockholder, subject to certain exceptions
described in "Underwriting," have agreed not to directly or indirectly offer,
sell, contract to sell or otherwise dispose of or transfer any capital stock of
the Company, or any security convertible into, or exercisable or exchangeable
for, such capital stock, or in any other manner transfer all or a portion of the
economic consequences associated with the ownership of such capital stock, or to
cause a registration statement covering any shares of capital stock to be filed,
for a period of 180 days after the date of this Prospectus, without the prior
written consent of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation ("DLJ").
The Principal Stockholder through a holding company is entitled to certain
rights to register his shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act"), for resale, at the expense of the Company. The Principal
Stockholder may also sell shares under Rule 144 of the Securities Act. See
"Management - 1997 Performance Award Plan," "Certain Transactions - Registration
Rights," "Description of Capital Stock," "Principal Stockholders," "Shares
Eligible for Future Sale" and "Underwriting."


SUBSTANTIAL AND IMMEDIATE DILUTION

   The initial public offering price is substantially higher than the pro forma
net tangible book value per share of Common Stock.  Investors purchasing shares
of Common Stock in the Offerings will be subject to immediate dilution of
$________ per share in net tangible book value.  See "Dilution."


ABSENCE OF DIVIDENDS

   The Company does not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends on the
Common Stock following the Offerings. Future dividend policy will depend on the
Company's earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and other factors
considered relevant by the Board of Directors. The Company's existing credit
facility (the "Credit Facility") restricts, and the Company expects that its new
credit facility (the "New Credit Facility") will restrict, the payment of cash
dividends on the Common Stock. See "Dividend Policy" and "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -
Liquidity and Capital Resources."


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

   This Prospectus contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by
the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "should,"
"expect," "anticipate," "estimate" or "continue" or the negative thereof or
other variations thereon or comparable terminology.  The matters set forth under
"Risk Factors" constitute cautionary statements identifying important factors
with respect to such forward-looking statements, including certain risks and
uncertainties, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
in such forward-looking statements.

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
                         OFFERING RELATED TRANSACTIONS

   The Principal Stockholder has owned all of the outstanding stock of the
Predecessor, USR Holdings, Inc. (formerly named U.S. Rentals, Inc.), a
California corporation, since 1984 and has been its majority shareholder since
1975. The Predecessor has been in the equipment rental business since 1969.
Prior to the consummation of the Offerings, the Predecessor will transfer all of
its operating assets and associated liabilities to the Company in exchange for
all of the Common Stock of the Company. The Predecessor will retain only non-
operating assets and liabilities, including approximately $25.5 million of notes
receivable from related parties and approximately $24.0 million of notes payable
to related parties and certain other assets and liabilities. These transactions
(collectively, the "Offering Related Transactions") are reflected in the pro
forma financial information in this Prospectus, and all references to the
Company or U.S. Rentals reflect these transactions, unless otherwise indicated.

   In 1985, the Predecessor elected to be treated as an S corporation under the
Internal Revenue Code and comparable provisions of certain state tax laws and
since then has paid no federal income tax. Accordingly, federal and California
taxes were paid by the Principal Stockholder and the provision for income taxes
in all historical periods in the Combined Financial Statements reflects certain
state taxes. Upon consummation of the Offering Related Transactions, all
operating assets and liabilities will be transferred to the Company, a C
corporation. Income generated by the Company will be subject to federal income
taxes and applicable state income taxes, as reflected in the unaudited pro forma
financial information included herein.


                                USE OF PROCEEDS

   The net proceeds to the Company from the sale of the _______ shares of Common
Stock offered hereby, after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and
commissions and offering expenses payable by the Company, are estimated to be
$____ million ($____ million if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option is
exercised in full), assuming an initial public offering price of $_____ per
share (the midpoint of the offering range set forth on the cover page of this
Prospectus). The Company intends to use approximately $151.5 million of the net
proceeds from the Offerings to repay substantially all of its outstanding
indebtedness, and approximately $____ million for working capital and general
corporate purposes, including possible future acquisitions. See Note 5 of Notes
to Combined Financial Statements for interest rates and maturity of indebtedness
being repaid.


                                DIVIDEND POLICY

   The Predecessor has paid dividends on its Common Stock to the Principal
Stockholder from time to time, including, but not limited to, cash dividends to
cover taxes payable by the Principal Stockholder due to the Predecessor's
election to be treated as an S corporation. Such cash dividends totalled
$3,642,000 and $5,498,000 in the years 1994 and 1995, respectively.

   Future dividend policy will depend on the Company's earnings, capital
requirements, financial condition and other factors considered relevant by the
Company's Board of Directors. The Company intends to retain future earnings to
finance its operations and growth and does not anticipate paying any cash
dividends on the Common Stock in the foreseeable future. The Credit Facility
restricts, and the Company expects that its New Credit Facility will restrict,
the payment of cash dividends on the Common Stock. See "Risk

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
Factors - Absence of Dividends" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital
Resources."

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
                                    DILUTION

   As of September 30, 1996, the Company had a pro forma net tangible book value
of $__________________, or $________ per share of Common Stock based upon
___________________ shares of Common Stock outstanding.  Pro forma net tangible
book value per share is determined by dividing the pro forma net tangible book
value of the Company (total tangible assets less total liabilities), giving
effect to the Offering Related Transactions on such date, by the number of
shares of Common Stock outstanding as of such date. After giving effect to the
Offering Related Transactions and the sale by the Company of the shares of
Common Stock offered hereby at an assumed initial public offering price of
$_____ per share (after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and
commissions and offering expenses payable by the Company) and the application of
the net proceeds therefrom, the Company's pro forma net tangible book value as
of September 30, 1996 would have been $_______ million or $_____ per share of
Common Stock. This represents an immediate increase in pro forma net tangible
book value of $_____ per share to the Principal Stockholder and an immediate
dilution of $____ per share to new investors purchasing shares in the Offerings.
The following table illustrates this per share dilution to new investors:


<TABLE>
<S>                                               <C>             <C>
Initial public offering price per share.........                  $___________
Pro forma net tangible book value per             
  share before the Offerings....................  $____________ 
Increase in pro forma net tangible book  
  value per share attributable to new     
  investors.....................................   ____________ 
Pro forma net tangible book value per                
  share after giving effect to the 
  Offerings.....................................                  ____________ 
Pro forma net tangible book value                  
  dilution per share to new investors...........                  $
                                                                  ============
</TABLE>

   The following table sets forth, as of September 30, 1996 on a pro forma
basis, the number of shares purchased from the Company, the total consideration
paid and the average price per share paid by the Principal Stockholder and new
investors purchasing shares of Common Stock from the Company in the Offerings.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Shares                    Total
                                Purchased               Consideration
                            ------------------    -----------------------
                                                                             Average Price
                            Number     Percent       Amount       Percent      Per Share
<S>                         <C>        <C>        <C>             <C>        <C>
Principal Stockholder.....                . %     $                  . %       $
                            --------   ------     ----------      ------       --------
New investors.............                .                          .         
                            --------   ------     ----------      ------       --------
   Total..................             100.0%     $               100.0%
                            ========   ======     ==========      ======
</TABLE>

   The foregoing table excludes ______ shares reserved for future issuance under
the 1997 Plan. See "Management - Employment Agreements" and "- 1997 Performance
Award Plan."

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
                                 CAPITALIZATION

   The following table sets forth the capitalization of the Company as of
September 30, 1996 on (i) a historical basis, (ii) a pro forma basis to give
effect to the Offering Related Transactions and taxation as a C corporation and
(iii) a pro forma as adjusted basis to give effect to the sale by the Company of
shares of Common Stock in the Offerings and the application of the estimated net
proceeds therefrom. The capitalization of the Company should be read in
conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations," "Use of Proceeds," the Combined Financial Statements
and notes thereto and Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Statements included
elsewhere in this Prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 1996
                                                            -------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                   PRO FORMA 
                                                            ACTUAL(a)            PRO FORMA        AS ADJUSTED
                                                            ---------            ---------        -----------
                                                                               (in thousands)
<S>                                                         <C>                <C>                <C>
Cash and cash equivalents................................   $  3,766              $  3,766            $16,957
                                                            ========              ========           ========
Debt:
  Senior Notes...........................................   $ 90,000              $ 90,000            $    --
  Credit Facility........................................     58,000                58,000                 -- (b)
  Other debt.............................................     28,008                 4,043                500
                                                            --------              --------           --------
Total debt...............................................    176,008               152,043                500
                                                            --------              --------           --------
Stockholder's equity:
  Common stock of the Predecessor........................        699                    --                 --
  Preferred stock of the Company, par
    value $.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares
    authorized, none issued or outstanding
    as adjusted..........................................         --                    --                 --
  Common Stock of the Company, par value
    $.01 per share; 100,000,000 shares
    authorized and _______ shares issued
    and outstanding as adjusted(c).......................         --                    --
  Additional paid-in capital..............................    13,186                88,036            256,036
  Retained earnings.......................................    77,091                (5,541)            (8,807)
                                                            --------              --------           --------
Total stockholder's equity...............................     90,976                82,495            247,229
                                                            --------              --------           --------
     Total capitalization................................   $266,984              $234,538           $247,729
                                                            ========              ========           ========
</TABLE>
- ------------------
(a) Reflects the Predecessor's capitalization on a historical basis.

(b) In conjunction with the Offerings, the Company expects to obtain a
    commitment letter with its existing lenders for the New Credit Facility
    which will provide availability of $300 million.  See "Management's
    Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -
    Liquidity and Capital Resources."

(c) Excludes ______ shares reserved for future issuance under the 1997 Plan. See
    "Management - Employment Agreements" and "- 1997 Performance Award Plan."

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
                            SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA


 
    The following selected financial data for the years ended December 31, 1993,
1994 and 1995 and as of December 31, 1994 and 1995 have been derived from the
Combined Financial Statements of the Predecessor, which have been audited by
Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, included elsewhere in this
Prospectus. The selected financial data for the year ended December 31, 1992 and
as of December 31, 1992 and 1993 have been derived from the combined financial
statements of the Predecessor, which have been audited but are not contained
herein. The financial data as of September 30, 1996 and for each of the
nine-month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996 are unaudited. Interim
results, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (consisting
solely of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the
financial information for such periods; however, such results are not
necessarily indicative of the results which may be expected for any other
interim period or for a full year. This information should be read in
conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations," the Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto
and the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto
included elsewhere in this Prospectus.

                   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                            Nine Months
                                                          Year Ended December 31,                      Ended September 30,
                                           -----------------------------------------------------   -------------------------------
                                                                                        Pro Forma     (unaudited)       Pro Forma
                                                                                     As Adjusted(a)                   As Adjusted(a)
                                            1992         1993       1994       1995       1995       1995       1996       1996
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
                                                                 (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
<S>                                        <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Revenues:                                 
  Rental revenue.......................... $104,802    $127,752   $167,589   $214,849   $214,849   $153,766   $183,233   $183,233
  Rental equipment sales..................    7,047       6,323      8,098     10,832     10,832      7,664     16,165     16,165
  Merchandise and new equipment sales.....    8,323       9,507     12,071     17,166     17,166     11,424     17,064     17,064
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Total revenues............................  120,172     143,582    187,758    242,847    242,847    172,854    216,462    216,462
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Cost of revenues:                         
  Rental equipment expense................   27,590      33,298     42,034     51,370     51,370     37,205     45,708     45,708
  Rental equipment depreciation...........   20,231      24,300     33,754     43,885     43,885     31,866     41,054     41,054
  Cost of rental equipment sales..........    2,443       2,298      2,946      4,693      4,693      2,587      6,785      6,785
  Cost of merchandise and new             
    equipment sales.......................    4,695       5,948      7,428     11,418     11,418      7,459     12,418     12,418
  Direct operating expense................   38,000      41,609     46,445     56,506     56,506     41,654     52,699     52,699
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Total cost of revenues....................   92,959     107,453    132,607    167,872    167,872    120,771    158,664    158,664
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Gross profit..............................   27,213      36,129     55,151     74,975     74,975     52,083     57,798     57,798
                                          
Selling, general and administrative       
  expense.................................   15,515      20,149     27,273     31,440     30,765     19,867     24,086     23,628
Non-rental depreciation and amortization..    3,060       3,294      4,092      5,513      5,513      4,105      5,386      5,386
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Operating income..........................    8,638      12,686     23,786     38,022     38,697     28,291     28,326     28,784
Other income (expense), net...............      782         (31)      (242)    (1,620)    (1,840)      (423)       342        (60)
Interest income (expense), net............    1,219       1,236     (1,060)    (5,310)       127     (3,918)    (5,716)       (39)
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Income before income taxes................   10,639      13,891     22,484     31,092     36,984     23,950     22,952     28,685
Income taxes..............................      529         405        499        468     15,163        379        316     11,586
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Net income................................ $ 10,110    $ 13,486   $ 21,985   $ 30,624   $ 21,821   $ 23,571   $ 22,636   $ 17,099
                                           ========    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
                                          
Pro forma net income(b)................... $  6,318    $  8,181   $ 13,263   $ 18,312   $ 21,821   $ 14,105   $ 13,676   $ 17,099
                                           ========    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
                                          
Pro forma net income per share            
                                                                                        ========                         ========
Number of shares outstanding                      
                                                                                        ========                         ========
                                          
Balance Sheet Data (end of period):       
Rental equipment, net..................... $ 49,326    $ 65,606   $112,563   $152,848                         $203,913   $203,913
Total assets..............................  102,085     125,390    187,525    245,184                          321,390    305,523
Total debt................................   31,392      48,419     84,751    105,696                          176,008        500
Total stockholder's equity................   51,739      49,608     57,951     83,077                           90,976    247,229
                                          
Selected Operating Data:                  
Beginning Profit Centers..................       53          58         58         66                    66         73
Profit Centers added......................        5           -          8          7                     5          4
                                           --------    --------   --------   --------              --------   --------
Ending Profit Centers.....................       58          58         66         73                    71         77
                                           ========    ========   ========   ========              ========   ========
                                          
Gross equipment capital expenditures...... $ 24,279    $ 42,892   $ 83,157   $ 88,861              $ 63,859   $ 98,904
Same Profit Center revenue growth(c)......      2.6%       16.0%      23.5%      20.0%                 18.8%      17.4%
</TABLE>

(a)  Gives effect to (i) the Offering Related Transactions, (ii) the sale of
     ________ shares of Common Stock in the Offerings (assuming the exercise
     of the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option) at an assumed initial
     public offering price of $__ per share, (iii) a reduction in interest
     expense as a result of reductions in indebtedness upon application of a
     portion of the net proceeds to the Company from the Offerings, (iv) change
     from S corporation income tax expense to C corporation income tax expense
     and recording of the related deferred tax liabilities and (v) termination
     of deferred incentive compensation agreements with certain employees. See
     "Use of Proceeds," "Capitalization," "Offering Related Transactions,"
     "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
     Operations," the Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto and the
     Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements and notes thereto
     included elsewhere in this Prospectus.

(b)  The pro forma net income reflects the estimated pro forma effect of income
     taxes as if the Predecessor had been taxed as a C corporation for all
     periods presented.

(c)  Same Profit Center revenue growth is calculated based on the change in
     total revenues of all Profit Centers open as of the beginning of the
     preceding fiscal year.
     
                                       18
<PAGE>
 
               MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                      CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

   The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Combined
Financial Statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus.


GENERAL

   U.S. Rentals attributes its profitability, long-term growth and market 
leadership to its innovative operating philosophy, which is based upon a
decentralized management structure, a unique profit sharing program, a strong
emphasis on personalized customer service and maintenance of one of the most
comprehensive and modern rental fleets of brand name equipment in the industry.
From 1992 through 1995, the Company's rental revenue has grown at a compound
annual growth rate of 27.0% during which period industry rental revenue grew at
a compound annual growth rate of 11.9%. In the same period, the Company's pro
forma net income grew to $18.3 million from $6.3 million, a compound annual
growth rate of 42.5%. U.S. Rentals has been profitable every year since 1984.

   The Company derives revenue from three sources: (i) rental of equipment, (ii)
sales of used rental equipment and (iii) sales of new equipment and rental-
related merchandise, parts and supplies. The Company's primary source of revenue
is the rental of equipment to commercial and residential construction,
industrial and homeowner customers. Growth in rental revenue is dependent on
several factors, including demand for rental equipment, the amount of equipment
available for rent, rental rates and general economic conditions. The Company
also generates revenues from the service and delivery of equipment as well as
income associated with a customer damage waiver offered at the time of rental.
The Company's revenues derived from the sale of used equipment are affected by
price, general economic conditions and U.S. Rentals' fleet maintenance
practices. Revenue from the sale of merchandise and new equipment, including
parts and convenience consumables sold at the Company's rental locations, are
affected by demand for new and rental equipment.

   The Company has historically financed its acquisitions, start-up locations
and capital expenditures primarily through internally generated cash flow,
borrowings under the Credit Facility and proceeds from the Senior Notes. During
the initial phase of an acquisition or start-up location, the Company typically
incurs expenses related to installing or converting information systems,
training employees and increased depreciation charges resulting from upgrading
or expanding the rental fleet. As a result, the Company's acquired businesses
and start-up locations generally have not been profitable until after their
first year of operation. The Company has accounted for all its acquisitions
since 1985 as asset purchases and records acquired rental equipment at fair
market value. Past acquisitions have not resulted in the recognition of a
significant amount of goodwill or other intangibles (including covenants not to
compete). The Company anticipates that as it continues to implement its
strategy, new locations will negatively impact the Company's net income until
such locations achieve profitability.
 
   Cost of revenues consists primarily of rental equipment depreciation,
merchandise and equipment costs, wages and benefits, facility occupancy costs,
vehicle and other equipment costs and supplies. Of these costs, rental equipment
depreciation has increased over the past several years due to the Company's
substantial investment in new equipment of $83.2 million, $88.9 million and
$98.9 million in years ended December 31, 1994 and 1995 and the nine-month
period ended September 30, 1996, respectively. The Company records rental
equipment expenditures at cost and depreciates equipment using the straight-line
method over an estimated useful life of seven years, after giving effect to an
estimated 10% salvage value. Rental equipment acquired prior to January 1, 1996
is depreciated on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of five
years with no estimated salvage value.

   In 1985, the Predecessor elected to be treated as an S corporation under the
Internal Revenue Code and comparable provisions of certain state tax laws, and
since then has paid no federal income tax. Accordingly, federal and California
taxes were paid by the Principal Stockholder and the provisions for income taxes
represented income taxes payable to certain states. Upon the consummation of the
Offering Related Transactions, 

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
all operating assets and liabilities will be transferred to the Company, a C
corporation. Income generated by the Company will be subject to federal income
taxes and applicable state income taxes which will result in the recognition of 
a one-time deferred income tax liability and corresponding expense of $5.5
million during the period in which the Offering Related Transactions are
consummated, presently expected to be the first quarter of 1997. Because of the
Company's expected change in tax status, historical results of operations,
including income tax expense, are not, in all cases, comparable to or indicative
of future financial results. Pro forma net income reflects the estimated pro
forma effect of income taxes as if the Company had been taxed as a C
corporation.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

   The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain statement
of operations data expressed as a percentage of total revenues:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                            Nine Months
                                                                                                               Ended
                                                                  Years Ended December 31,                 September 30,
                                                              --------------------------------            --------------
                                                               1992     1993     1994     1995             1995     1996
                                                              ------   ------   ------   ------           ------   ------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>              <C>      <C>
Revenues:
 Rental revenue.............................................   87.2%    89.0%    89.3%    88.5%            89.0%    84.7%
 Rental equipment sales.....................................    5.9      4.4      4.3      4.5              4.4      7.5
 Merchandise and new equipment sales........................    6.9      6.6      6.4      7.0              6.6      7.8
                                                              -----    -----    -----    -----            -----    -----
Total revenues..............................................  100.0    100.0    100.0    100.0            100.0    100.0
Cost of revenues(a).........................................   77.4     74.8     70.6     69.1             69.9     73.3
                                                              -----    -----    -----    -----            -----    -----
Gross profit................................................   22.6     25.2     29.4     30.9             30.1     26.7
Selling, general and administrative expense.................   12.9     14.0     14.5     12.9             11.4     11.1
Non-rental depreciation(b)..................................    2.5      2.4      2.2      2.3              2.4      2.5
                                                              -----    -----    -----    -----            -----    -----
Operating income............................................    7.2      8.8     12.7     15.7             16.3     13.1
Other income (expense), net.................................    0.7     (0.0)    (0.1)    (0.7)            (0.2)     0.1
Interest income (expense), net..............................    1.0      0.9     (0.6)    (2.2)            (2.3)    (2.6)
                                                              -----    -----    -----    -----            -----    -----
Income before income taxes..................................    8.9      9.7     12.0     12.8             13.8     10.6
Income taxes(c).............................................    0.4      0.3      0.3      0.2              0.2      0.1
                                                              -----    -----    -----    -----            -----    -----
Net income..................................................    8.5%     9.4%    11.7%    12.6%            13.6%    10.5%
                                                              =====    =====    =====    =====            =====    =====

Pro forma net income(c).....................................    5.3%     5.7%     7.1%     7.5%             8.2%     6.3%
                                                              =====    =====    =====    =====            =====    =====
</TABLE>
____________________

(a)  Includes rental equipment depreciation.
(b)  Excludes rental equipment depreciation.
(c)  The pro forma net income reflects the estimated pro forma effect of income
     taxes as if the Predecessor had been taxed as a C corporation for all
     periods presented.


NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 COMPARED TO NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
1995

     Revenues.  Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 1996
     --------                                                              
increased 25.2% to $216.5 million from $172.9 million for the same period in the
prior year.  Rental revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 1996
increased 19.2% to $183.2 million, as compared to rental revenue of $153.8
million for the corresponding period in 1995.  Of the $29.4 million increase in
1996, $25.1 

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
million was due primarily to increased equipment rental fleet at existing
locations. The remaining increase of approximately $4.3 million was primarily
due to five new locations which were added subsequent to September 30, 1995.
Rental equipment sales of $16.2 million increased 110.9% from 1995 sales of $7.7
million in the nine months ended September 30, 1995 due to increased customer
demand and increased sales efforts. Merchandise and new equipment sales
increased 49.4% in the nine months ended September 30, 1996 to $17.1 million or
7.8% of total revenues compared to $11.4 million or 6.6% of total revenues in
the corresponding period in 1995, primarily due to increased rental revenue and
demand for new equipment.

     Gross Profit.  Gross profit for the nine months ended September 30, 1996
     ------------                                                            
increased 11.0% to $57.8 million from $52.1 million for the same period in 1995
primarily due to increased rental revenue. Gross profit as a percentage of total
revenues decreased to 26.7% from 30.1% for the nine months ended September 30,
1995. This decrease was due primarily to a 28.8% increase in rental equipment
depreciation resulting from the increase in rental fleet, offset in part by a
change in depreciation method for acquisitions subsequent to January 1, 1996
(see Note 1 to the Notes to Combined Financial Statements). In addition, rental
equipment expense increased 22.9% due to the impact of increased rental volume.
Gross profit was also impacted by an increase in direct operating expenses which
increased 26.5% to $52.7 million as compared to $41.7 million in the
corresponding period in 1995. The increase reflects staffing costs resulting
from an increased number of rental yards and higher maintenance costs necessary
to support the increased size of the rental fleet. Gross profit from sales of
merchandise and new equipment increased 17.2% in the nine months ended September
30, 1996 as compared to the corresponding period in 1995 due to the impact of
increased rental volume on the sale of merchandise and an increase in new
equipment sales.

     Selling, General and Administrative Expense.  Selling, general and
     -------------------------------------------                       
administrative expense for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 decreased to
11.1% of total revenues from 11.4% of total revenues in the corresponding period
in 1995. Selling, general and administrative expense for the nine months ended
September 30, 1996 increased 22.3% to $24.1 million compared to $19.7 million
for the same period in 1995. The increase was primarily due to higher
advertising, bad debt and liability insurance expenses, the total of which were
partially offset by lower profit sharing expense in the nine months ended
September 30, 1996 as compared to the corresponding period in 1995.

     Interest Expense.  Interest expense net of interest income for the nine 
     ----------------      
months ended September 30, 1996 increased 45.9% to $5.7 million from $3.9
million in the same period in 1995. The increase was primarily the result of
higher average borrowings under the Credit Facility and other debt outstanding
of $114.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 as compared to
$70.4 million for the same period in the prior year. However, this increase was 
partially offset by a decrease in the average interest rate to 6.7% in the nine 
months ended September 30, 1996 as compared to 7.4% in the corresponding period 
in 1995.

     Income Taxes.  Under the Predecessor's election to be taxed as an S
     ------------
corporation for federal and state purposes, income tax expense was approximately
1.4% of pre-tax income for the nine months ended September 30, 1996, as compared
to 1.6% of pre-tax income in 1995. On a pro forma C corporation basis, the
Predecessor's effective tax rate and net income would have been 40.4% and $13.7
million for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 as compared to 41.1% and
$14.1 million for the corresponding period in 1995.


YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994

     Revenues.  Total revenues in 1995 increased 29.3% to $242.8 million from
     --------                                                                
$187.8 million in 1994. Rental revenue increased 28.2% to $214.8 million in 1995
compared to $167.6 million in 1994, primarily due to the increase in average
equipment available for rental along with the full year impact of eight new
locations added in 1994. In addition, a total of seven new locations were
opened during 1995, providing $4.9 million in rental revenue. Rental equipment
sales totaled $10.8 million in 1995, an increase of 33.8% from 1994 sales of
$8.1 million. Merchandise and new equipment sales increased 42.2% in 1995 to
$17.2 million or 7.0% of total revenues compared to $12.1 million or 6.4% of
total revenues in 1994, due to the increase in rental revenue and as a result of
a new program to sell new equipment to the Company's existing rental customer
base.

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
     Gross Profit.  Gross profit in 1995 increased 35.9% to $75.0 million from
     ------------                                                             
$55.2 million in 1994 due primarily to increased rental revenue which was
partially offset by a 30.0% increase in rental equipment depreciation.  The
increased depreciation resulted from a 42.1% increase in average equipment
available for rental.  The impact of an increase in the number of employees to
staff the 15 new locations added in 1994 and 1995 and increased maintenance
costs necessary to support the increased size of the rental fleet resulted in a
21.7% increase in 1995 direct operating expenses over the prior year.  Gross
profit from sales of merchandise and new equipment increased in dollar
contribution by 23.8% in 1995 compared to 1994 but decreased to 2.4% of total
revenues in 1995 from 2.5% of total revenues in 1994, due to increased rental
volume. As a result of the above factors, gross profit as a percentage of total
revenues increased to 30.9% from 29.4% for 1994.

     Selling, General and Administrative Expense.  Selling, general and
     -------------------------------------------                       
administrative expense for 1995 increased 15.3% to $31.4 million or 12.9% of
total revenues compared to $27.3 million or 14.5% of total revenues for 1994.
The increase was due to a $1.7 million increase in profit sharing expense in
1995 and an increase in administrative costs associated with 15 locations added 
in 1994 and 1995.

     Other Income (Expense), Net.  Other income (expense), net increased by $1.4
     ---------------------------                                                
million to ($1.6) million as a result of charitable contributions made at the
direction of the Principal Stockholder.

     Interest Expense.  Interest expense net of interest income increased to 
     ----------------     
$5.3 million for 1995 from $1.1 million in 1994 primarily due to the issuance of
a $10.0 million note payable to the Principal Stockholder in the form of a
dividend at the end 1994 that bears interest at prime plus 5.0%. This note
payable will not be transferred by the Predecessor to the Company. See "Offering
Related Transactions." Interest expense also increased as a result of higher
average borrowings under the Credit Facility and other debt outstanding of $72.5
million during 1995 as compared to $43.9 million in 1994 as well as an average 
interest rate change from 5.9% to 7.2%.

     Income Taxes.  Under the Predecessor's election to be taxed as an S
     -------------                                                   
corporation for federal and state purposes, income tax expense was approximately
1.5% of pre-tax income for 1995.  On a pro forma C corporation basis, the
Predecessor's effective tax rate and net income would have been 41.1% and $18.3
million for 1995 as compared to 41.0% and $13.3 million for 1994.


YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993

     Revenues.  Total revenues in 1994 increased 30.8% to $187.8 million from
     --------                                                                
$143.6 million in 1993.  Rental revenue increased 31.2% to $167.6 million
compared to $127.8 million for 1993, primarily due to an expansion of the
existing rental fleet. In addition, a total of eight new locations that opened
in 1994 provided $9.0 million in rental revenue. Rental equipment sales of $8.1
million increased 28.1% from 1993 sales of $6.3 million. Merchandise and new
equipment sales increased 27.0% in 1994 to $12.1 million, as compared to $9.5
million in 1993 due to increased rental revenues.

     Gross Profit.  Gross profit in 1994 increased 52.7% to $55.2 million from
     ------------                                                             
$36.1 million in 1993 due primarily to increased rental revenue which was
partially offset by a 38.9% increase in rental equipment depreciation.  Direct
operating expenses decreased to 24.7% of total revenue in 1994 from 29.0% of
total revenue in 1993.  The improvement was due to the fixed component of direct
operating expenses such as facility and labor costs that do not increase with
increased revenue from existing locations.  Headcount at the Company's rental
yards increased 19% in 1994.  Gross profit from sales of merchandise and new
equipment remained constant at 2.5% of total revenue in both 1994 and 1993 but
increased in dollar contribution by 30.5% in 1994 due to the impact of increased
rental volume.  As a result of the above factors, gross profit as a percentage
of total revenues increased to 29.4% in 1994 from 25.2% in 1993.

     Selling, General and Administrative Expense.  Selling, general and
     -------------------------------------------                       
administrative expense for 1994 increased 35.4% to $27.3 million or 14.5% of
total revenues as compared to $20.1 million or 14.0% of total revenues in 1993
as a result of increased rental and sales volume. The increase was due primarily
to a $4.2 million increase in profit sharing expense in 1994.

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
     Interest Expense.  Interest expense net of interest income was $1.1 million
     ----------------                                                           
for the year ended December 31, 1994 compared to net interest income of $1.2
million in 1993 primarily due to the issuance of a $10.0 million note payable to
the Principal Stockholder in the form of a dividend at the end of 1993 that
bears interest at prime plus 5.0%. Interest expense also increased as a result
of higher average borrowings under the Credit Facility during 1994 required to
facilitate increases in rental fleet. Interest expense was also affected by
higher average interest costs on the Credit Facility as the average rate
increased from 4.68% in 1993 to 5.9% in 1994.

     Income Taxes.  Under the Predecessor's election to be taxed as an S
     ------------                                                   
corporation for federal and state purposes, income tax expense was approximately
2.2% of taxable income.  On a pro forma C corporation basis, the Predecessor's
effective tax rate and net income would have been 41.0% and $13.3 million for
the year ended December 31, 1994 as compared to 41.1% and $8.2 million for 1993.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     The Company has primarily used cash to purchase rental equipment, invest in
acquired and start-up rental yards and pay dividends to the Principal
Stockholder. The Company historically has financed its cash requirements
primarily through net cash provided by operating activities, borrowings under
the Credit Facility and the issuance of Senior Notes.

     During the nine months ended September 30, 1996, the Company's operating
activities provided net cash flow of $43.9 million as compared to $44.7 million
for the same period in the prior year.  The principal causes for the variation
in cash flow between the periods were increased depreciation attributable to a
larger rental equipment fleet to support growth in revenues, partially offset by
a decrease in accounts payable in 1996 attributable to shorter payment terms
from suppliers in exchange for pricing discounts to obtain lower rental
equipment purchase prices. For the years ended December 31, 1994 and 1995, net
cash provided by operating activities was $65.4 million and $75.0 million,
respectively. The net increase was attributable primarily to increased net
income from higher revenues and an increase in depreciation, partially offset by
a smaller increase in accounts payable in 1995 as compared to 1994. Net cash
provided by operating activities excludes proceeds from the sale of equipment,
which were $16.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 compared
to $7.7 million for the same period in the prior year.

     Net cash used in investing activities was $97.7 million in the nine months
ended September 30, 1996 as compared to $64.2 million in the same period for the
prior year. The principal causes for the variation in cash flow between the
periods were increased purchases of rental equipment and investment in property
and equipment, partially offset by increased sales of rental equipment.
Purchases of rental equipment for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 were
$98.9 million as compared to $63.9 million for the corresponding period in 1995.
During the years ended December 31, 1994 and 1995, the Company's net cash used
in investing activities increased from $86.5 million to $89.9 million, primarily
as a result of an increase in purchases of rental equipment.

     Net cash provided by financing activities was $54.1 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1996 as compared to $17.8 million for the nine months
ended September 30, 1995.  The principal cause for the variation between periods
was borrowing of $29.0 million under the Credit Facility in 1996, compared to
net payments of $26.9 million in 1995, partially offset by decreases in
issuances of Senior Notes and an increase in dividends paid in 1996 as compared
to 1995.  In 1995, cash flow provided by financing activities decreased to $15.6
million from $22.1 million in 1994.  The principal causes for the variation
between the periods were payments on the Credit Facility in 1995 of $28.2
million as compared to net proceeds under the Credit Facility in 1994 of $35.7
million, partially offset by proceeds from issuances of Senior Notes in 1995.

     The principal sources of the Company's liquidity have been cash flow from
operations, issuances of Senior Notes and borrowings under the Credit Facility.
The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds from the Offerings to
repay all of the Senior Notes and borrowings under the Credit Facility. In
conjunction with the Offerings, the Company expects to obtain a commitment
letter with its existing lenders
                                       23
<PAGE>
 
for the New Credit Facility which will provide availability of up to $300
million. The Credit Facility contains, and the New Credit Facility is expected
to contain, covenants which restrict, among other things, dividends and
acquisitions exceeding certain thresholds without prior written consent. The 
Company believes that cash flow from operations, proceeds from the Offerings 
and together with availability under the New Credit Facility will be sufficient 
to support its operations and capital liquidity requirements for at least the 
next 12 months.

     The Company incurs capital expenditures to expand the fleet at existing
equipment rental yards, to satisfy the equipment needs of current and new
customers, to provide for the equipment needs of new and acquired rental
equipment yards and to maintain and expand the rental fleet at existing rental
yards. As of September 30, 1996, the Company had open purchase orders of
$5.8 million for new equipment. Such purchases will be financed through
the sources of funds described above. The Company has no minimum purchase
commitments for equipment. Management has budgeted $81.5 million of gross fleet
capital expenditures (exclusive of acquisitions) in 1997. These expenditures are
anticipated to be partially offset by expected proceeds from the sale of used
equipment of approximately $29.4 million. The Company also expects to spend
approximately $10.0 million in 1997 on non-rental equipment capital expenditures
consisting of vehicles, buildings, land and furniture and fixtures.


INFLATION AND GENERAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

     Although the Company cannot accurately anticipate the effect of inflation
on its operations, the Company does not believe that inflation has had, or is
likely in the foreseeable future to have, a material effect on its results of
operations or financial condition. The Company's operating results may be
adversely affected by events or conditions in a particular region, such as
economic conditions, weather and other factors. In addition, the Company's
operating results may be adversely affected by increases in interest rates that
may lead to a decline in economic activity, while simultaneously resulting in
higher interest payments by the Company under the Credit Facility. See "Risk
Factors - Economic Conditions; Geographical Concentration" and "- Seasonality
and Quarterly Fluctuations."


QUARTERLY RESULTS

     The following table sets forth certain unaudited statement of
operations data for the quarters in the year ended December 31, 1995 and
the nine months ended September 30, 1996.  The unaudited quarterly information
has been prepared on the same basis as the annual information and, in
management's opinion, includes all adjustments necessary to present fairly the
information for the quarters presented.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1995 Quarters Ended                        1996 Quarters Ended
                                       -----------------------------------------        ------------------------------
                                       Mar. 31    June 30    Sept. 30    Dec. 31        Mar. 31    June 30    Sept. 30
                                       -------    -------    --------    -------        -------    -------    --------
                                                                             (in thousands)
<S>                                    <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>            <C>        <C>        <C>
Total revenues........................ $45,866    $58,144     $68,844    $69,993        $58,643    $71,172     $86,647
Gross profit..........................  10,904     18,448      22,731     22,892         14,262     18,292      25,244
Operating income......................   5,122     10,370      12,799      9,731          5,575      8,714      14,037
Other income (expense), net...........    (145)      (260)        (18)    (1,197)           134         74         134
Interest income (expense), net........  (1,216)    (1,310)     (1,392)    (1,392)        (1,475)    (1,822)     (2,419)
Income before income taxes............   3,761      8,800      11,389      7,142          4,234      6,966      11,752
Income tax expense....................      24        308          47         89             29        131         156
Net income............................   3,737      8,492      11,342      7,053          4,205      6,835      11,596
Pro forma net income(a)...............   2,225      5,163       6,717      4,207          2,523      4,151       7,002
</TABLE>
____________________

(a)  Reflects the estimated pro forma effect of income taxes as if the
     Predecessor had been taxed as a C corporation for all periods presented.

                                       24
<PAGE>
 
     The Company's revenues and operating results historically have fluctuated
from quarter to quarter, and the Company expects that they will continue to do
so in the future.  These fluctuations have been caused by a number of factors,
including seasonal rental patterns of the Company's customers (principally due
to the effect of weather on construction activity), general economic conditions
in the Company's markets, the timing of acquisitions and the development of
start-up locations and related costs, the effectiveness of integrating acquired
businesses and start-up locations and the timing of capital expenditures for
fleet expansion.  The Company incurs substantial costs in establishing or
integrating newly acquired and start-up locations.  Historically, the Company's 
acquired businesses and start-up locations generally have not been profitable 
until after their first year of operation. The operating results for any
historical quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for any future
period. See "Risk Factors -- Seasonality and Quarterly Fluctuations."

                                       25
<PAGE>
 
                                   BUSINESS

GENERAL

     U.S. Rentals is the second largest equipment rental company in the United
States based on 1995 rental revenues. The Company currently operates 78 Profit
Centers in 11 states and generates more than 100,000 rental contracts per month
from a diverse base of approximately 200,000 active customers including
commercial and residential construction, industrial and homeowner customers.
U.S. Rentals owns more than 60,000 pieces of rental equipment, comprised of
approximately 600 equipment types, including aerial work platforms, forklifts,
paving and concrete equipment, compaction equipment, air compressors, hand tools
and plumbing, landscaping and gardening equipment. Management believes that the
Company's fleet, which had a weighted average age of approximately 28 months and
an original equipment cost of approximately $360 million at September 30, 1996,
is one of the most comprehensive and well-maintained equipment rental fleets in
the industry. U.S. Rentals also sells new equipment manufactured by nationally
known companies, used equipment from its rental fleet, and rental-related
merchandise, parts and supplies.

     The Company's strategic objective is to continue to grow profitably in both
existing and new markets by acquiring rental yards, opening start-up rental
yards and expanding its equipment fleet. U.S. Rentals continually evaluates
attractive markets for expansion where a leading position can be created by
acquiring an existing business or opening a new rental yard. The Company has
grown internally through the expansion of its equipment fleet at existing
locations and through the integration of 25 start-up and acquired equipment
rental yards since January 1992. As a result of the Company's strategy, total
revenues increased to $242.8 million in 1995 from $120.2 million in 1992, a
compound annual growth rate of 26.4%. During the same period, operating income
before non-rental depreciation increased to $43.5 million from $11.7 million, a
compound annual growth rate of 55.0%. U.S. Rentals has been profitable in every
year since 1984.

     U.S. Rentals attributes its leadership position in the equipment rental
industry primarily to its innovative operating philosophy, which is based upon a
decentralized management structure, a unique profit sharing program available to
all levels of employees, a strong emphasis on personalized customer service, and
maintenance of one of the most comprehensive and modern rental fleets of brand
name equipment in the industry. The Company's bottoms-up management structure
allows each Profit Center manager to tailor the equipment fleet to the local
market, make equipment fleet purchases and sales, and pricing and staffing
decisions. Corporate headquarters coordinates equipment purchases and supports
Profit Center managers by providing capital, accounting, internal audit, risk
management and other services to each Profit Center. The Company's unique
incentive-based profit sharing program does not limit employee compensation.
This program motivates Profit Center managers to act as entrepreneurs, to
purchase only equipment that can be profitably deployed, to sell rental
equipment from the fleet as maintenance costs increase or as rental demand for
such equipment decreases, and to minimize operating expenses. In 1995, employees
earned approximately $9 million of profit sharing compensation, with managers of
profitable locations earning on average approximately 110% of their base
salaries. Management believes that its innovative operating and compensation
philosophy significantly contributed to same Profit Center revenue growth of
23.5% and 20.0% in 1994 and 1995.

INDUSTRY

     The equipment rental industry serves a wide variety of commercial and
residential construction, industrial and homeowner customers.  Equipment
available for rent ranges from small hand tools costing less than $100 to large
earth-moving equipment costing over $200,000.  According to a survey conducted
for the Associated Equipment Distributors ("AED"), an industry trade
association, the United States equipment rental industry has grown from
approximately $610 million in annual revenues in 1982 to an estimated $15
billion in annual revenues in 1995, a compound annual growth rate of
approximately 28%.  Management believes that this growth reflects, in part,
increased outsourcing trends by commercial and industrial construction customers
that increasingly seek to reduce their capital invested in equipment, and to
reduce the costs associated with maintaining and servicing such equipment.
While equipment users

                                       26
<PAGE>
 
traditionally have rented equipment for specific purposes, such as supplementing
capacity during peak periods and in connection with special projects, the
convenience and cost-saving factors of utilizing rental equipment have
encouraged customers to look to suppliers such as the Company as ongoing,
comprehensive sources of equipment.  Management believes that demand for rental
equipment by the commercial and industrial segments will continue to increase as
these customers continue to outsource non-core operations. A 1995 survey
conducted by The CIT Group showed that commercial construction contractors
intended to increase the percentage of equipment they rent without a purchase
option to an estimated 8% of their total equipment requirements in 1996, from
less than 5% in 1994.

     The equipment rental industry is highly fragmented and primarily consists
of a large number of relatively small, independent businesses serving discrete
local markets and a small number of multi-yard regional and multi-regional
operators.  Management believes that an estimated 85% of the approximately
20,000 equipment rental operators in the United States have fewer than five
locations and, therefore, believes the equipment rental industry offers
substantial consolidation opportunities for large, well-capitalized rental
companies such as U.S. Rentals. Relative to smaller competitors, multi-regional
operators such as the Company benefit from several competitive advantages,
including access to capital, the ability to offer a broad range of modern
equipment, purchasing power with equipment suppliers, sophisticated management
information systems, national brand identity and the ability to service national
accounts. In addition, multi-regional operators such as the Company are less
sensitive to local economic downturns.

BUSINESS STRATEGY

     U.S. Rentals' strategic objective is to continue its profitable growth by
acquiring rental yards, opening start-up rental yards in both existing and new
markets and expanding its equipment fleet. U.S. Rentals continually evaluates
attractive markets for expansion where a leading position can be created by
acquiring an existing business or opening a new rental yard. Primarily due to
its entrepreneurial, decentralized organizational structure that focuses on
bottoms-up management and an innovative profit-driven compensation policy, the
Company has been profitable each of the past 11 years. Specifically, U.S.
Rentals' business strategy centers upon the following factors:

     Profitable Expansion.  The Company strives to operate the most profitable
equipment rental yards in each of its markets. Management believes U.S.
Rentals is well positioned to be a leader in the consolidation of the highly
fragmented equipment rental industry. Management believes that there are
numerous attractive acquisition opportunities available and that its reputation,
stability, access to capital, sophisticated management information systems and
operating expertise provide competitive advantages in making acquisitions.
These strengths allow U.S. Rentals to (i) quickly integrate acquired companies
into its information systems and operating structure, (ii) realize synergies in
the form of reduced overhead and lower costs through greater purchasing power
and (iii) significantly enhance revenue by supplying acquired yards with
additional equipment to optimize the mix of rental equipment and modernize the
fleet. In addition, the Company will open new rental yards when a suitable
business is not available for acquisition on favorable terms. Pursuant to this
strategy, U.S. Rentals has acquired 13 rental yards and has opened 12 start-up
rental yards since January 1, 1992. The Company continually analyzes potential
acquisitions of rental yards but is not a party to any material acquisition
agreement. See "Risk Factors -- Risks Relating to Growth" and "-- Dependence on
Additional Capital to Finance Growth."

     Market Leadership.  Management estimates that U.S. Rentals has a leading
market position in most of the markets in which its Profit Centers have been
open for more than one year.  The Company has been able to create this
leadership position by capitalizing on its substantial competitive advantages,
which include offering personalized customer service, flexible rental terms,
seven-days-a-week operating hours and a diverse and modern equipment rental
fleet specifically tailored to the needs of local customers.  Further, U.S.
Rentals' historical strength has been in small and medium-sized markets that the
Company believes are not well served by its competition. 

                                       27
<PAGE>
 
     Extensive Customer Base.  U.S. Rentals generates in excess of 100,000
customer contracts per month and has developed a diverse customer base that
includes approximately 200,000 customers that have done business with the
Company within the last six months.  U.S. Rentals' historical strength has been
with small and medium-sized customers, which the Company believes are not well
served by its competition.  The Company is also increasing its emphasis on
multi-regional and national customers through its national accounts program.  In
addition to the Company's strong brand name recognition, comprehensive and
modern equipment rental fleet, well-located rental yards and competitive
pricing, management believes that the Company's customers value the convenience
of U.S. Rentals Profit Centers' seven-days-a-week operating hours and flexible
rental terms.  Further, U.S. Rentals offers its customers "one-stop shopping"
through the sale of rental-related merchandise, parts and supplies, sales of new
and used equipment and maintenance and delivery services.

     Innovative, Decentralized Operating Philosophy.  U.S. Rentals'
decentralized operating philosophy encourages entrepreneurial behavior at each
Profit Center and rewards managers and employees through a profit-driven
incentive compensation program.  Profit Center managers are given the necessary
freedom and flexibility to operate their respective equipment rental yards to
maximize profits. Each Profit Center manager is responsible for every aspect of
a yard's operation, including establishing rental rates, selecting equipment and
determining employee compensation. Managers and employees of profitable
locations are rewarded by the Company's profit sharing program that is based on
each location's operating income in excess of a pre-determined return on its net
assets. In 1995, the Company's employees earned approximately $9 million in
profit sharing compensation, with managers of profitable locations earning on
average approximately 110% of their base salaries.

     Strong Internal Controls. U.S. Rentals balances its decentralized
organizational structure and entrepreneurial operating philosophy with extensive
systems and procedures to monitor and track the performance of each Profit
Center. The Company's proprietary management information systems, including the
Company's POS system, allow management and Profit Center managers to review all
aspects of each Profit Center's business and assist management in closely
monitoring and quickly reacting to opportunities to increase profits at each
Profit Center. These systems are used to open customer accounts, generate rental
contracts, track equipment usage, report customers' credit histories, compile
accounts receivable aging reports, and monitor monthly profitability. Seven
internal auditors monitor and ensure adherence to the Company's well-
established, disciplined and documented policies and procedures. In addition,
six independent division credit offices review and approve all credit
applications submitted to the Profit Centers. Management believes that the
Company's strong internal controls and proprietary management information
systems result in lower overall costs and increase profitability for the
Company.

     Attracting, Motivating and Retaining the Best People in the Industry.
Through its decentralized, entrepreneurial approach and innovative profit
sharing program, the Company believes it has generally been able to attract,
motivate and retain the most successful, experienced group of employees in the
industry. Management believes U.S. Rentals' successful employees are more highly
compensated than those of its competitors because of the Company's unique profit
sharing program.  As a result, the Company has had voluntary turnover of only
two Profit Center managers during the past five years.  In addition, U.S.
Rentals' senior operating management, which has an average of 21 years of rental
experience in the industry, is among the most experienced in the industry.
William F. Berry, the Company's 44-year-old President and Chief Executive
Officer, has over 30 years of experience in the equipment rental business and
has worked in virtually every operational capacity in the Company during his
career. See "Risk Factors -- Risks Relating to Growth" and "-- Dependence on Key
Personnel."


CUSTOMERS

     U.S. Rentals estimates that more than 200,000 customers, ranging from
Fortune 100 companies to small contractors and homeowners, have done business
with the Company in the last six months.  During 1995, no one customer accounted
for more than 1% of the Company's total revenues, and the top 10 customers
represented less than 4% of total revenues.  Customers look to U.S. Rentals as
an ongoing,

                                       28
<PAGE>
 
comprehensive source of rental equipment because of the economic advantages and
convenience of renting, as well as the high costs associated with equipment
ownership.  The Company classifies its customer base into the following
categories:  (i) commercial and residential construction, including contractors;
(ii) industrial, including manufacturers, petrochemical facilities, chemical
companies, paper mills, and public utilities; and (iii) homeowners and others.
In addition to maintaining its historically strong relationships with small and
medium-sized customers, the Company is increasing its emphasis on larger
national and multi-regional accounts.  Management estimates that in 1995,
commercial and residential construction, industrial, and homeowner and other
customers accounted for approximately 67%, 17% and 16%, respectively, of the
Company's total revenues.

     Commercial and Residential Construction.  U.S. Rentals' commercial and
residential construction customers include national and regional contractors and
subcontractors involved in commercial and residential construction projects such
as residential developments, apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, airports,
roads, bridges and highways, chemical plants and other manufacturing facilities.
U.S. Rentals' commercial construction customers range from Fortune 100 companies
to local independent businesses.  A 1995 survey conducted by The CIT Group
estimated that contractors intended to increase the percentage of equipment they
rent without a purchase option to an estimated 8% of their total equipment
requirements in 1996 from less than 5% in 1994.  Management believes U.S.
Rentals is one of the largest suppliers of rental equipment to contractors in
its markets and is well positioned to benefit from the increased rental of
equipment by contractors and other commercial construction customers.

     Industrial.  The Company's industrial customers, many of which operate 24
hours per day, utilize U.S. Rentals to outsource equipment requirements to
reduce their capital investment and minimize the ongoing maintenance, repair and
storage costs associated with equipment ownership.  Management believes that, as
the second largest equipment rental company in the United States based on 1995
rental revenues, the Company is well-positioned to take advantage of the
increasing trend among customers to outsource equipment needs.  Generally, U.S.
Rentals' industrial customers tend to rent for longer periods of time than
commercial construction customers, contractors or homeowners.  While
historically not a primary focus, the Company believes its recently increased
emphasis on national and multi-regional accounts will enhance its ability to
provide an ongoing, comprehensive supply of equipment to industrial customers.

     Homeowners and Others.  U.S. Rentals rents landscaping, plumbing,
remodeling and home improvement tools to homeowners and other customers.  The
Company believes these customers value the convenience of U.S. Rentals' seven-
days-a-week operating hours, pick up and delivery service and flexible rental
terms.  Rentals to homeowners are often for periods as short as two hours and
provide higher gross margins relative to other customer segments.  The Company
believes that its rental yards, which are generally highly visible and well-
located, its comprehensive and well-maintained rental fleet and the Company's
brand name recognition provide a significant competitive advantage in attracting
the homeowner segment of the market.


PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

     Equipment rental represents U.S. Rentals' principal line of business.  In
1995, equipment rental revenue together with rental-related revenue such as
repair services, delivery and damage waiver income accounted for approximately
89% of the Company's total revenues.  U.S. Rentals also acts as a distributor of
new equipment on behalf of certain nationally known equipment manufacturers.
Revenues from the sale of parts, merchandise and new equipment accounted for
approximately 7% of U.S. Rentals' total revenues in 1995. The balance of U.S.
Rentals' 1995 total revenues (4%) was derived from the sale of used rental
equipment.

     Rental Equipment.  U.S. Rentals rents over 600 different types of
equipment, and management believes that the Company's rental fleet, which
consists of more than 60,000 pieces of equipment, is one of the most
comprehensive and well-maintained fleets in the equipment rental industry.  The
original equipment cost of the Company's rental fleet was approximately $360
million at September 30, 1996.

                                       29
<PAGE>
 
Five categories of equipment represented approximately 75% of U.S. Rentals'
total rental equipment fleet (based on original equipment cost) as of December
31, 1995: (i) earth-moving equipment (23%); (ii) aerial work platforms (17%);
(iii) forklifts (17%); (iv) trucks (12%); and (v) compaction rollers (6%). The
mix of rental equipment at each of U.S. Rentals' 78 Profit Centers is tailored
to meet the demands of the local customer base.

     U.S. Rentals seeks to maintain a modern, efficient rental fleet through
regular sales of used rental equipment and ongoing capital investment in new
rental equipment.  At September 30, 1996, the weighted average age of the
Company's rental equipment fleet was approximately 28 months.  In addition,
management believes U.S. Rentals has one of the most advanced preventive
maintenance programs in the equipment rental industry.  This program extends the
useful life of the Company's rental equipment, typically resulting in higher
resale prices.  U.S. Rentals also generates revenues from maintenance service
for its customers that own equipment and from delivery charges, particularly for
larger pieces of equipment.

     Sales of Used Equipment.  U.S. Rentals routinely sells used rental
equipment to adjust the size and composition of its rental fleet to changing
market conditions and as part of its ongoing commitment to maintain a new, top
quality fleet.  The Company achieves favorable sales prices for its used
equipment due to its strong preventive maintenance program and its practice of
selling used equipment before it becomes irreparable or obsolete.  The
incentives created by the Company's profit sharing program motivate Profit
Center managers to optimize the timing of sales of used rental equipment by
taking into account maintenance costs, rental demand patterns and resale prices.
The Company sells used equipment to its existing rental customers, as well as to
domestic and international used equipment buyers.

     Sales of Parts and Merchandise.  U.S. Rentals also sells a wide range of
parts, supplies and merchandise, including diamond and regular saw blades, drill
bits, shovels, goggles, hard hats and other safety gear and coolers, as a
complement to its core equipment rental business.  This sales activity allows
the Company to attract and retain customers by offering the convenience of "one-
stop shopping."

     Sales of New Equipment.  In addition to equipment rental, the Company is a
distributor for certain equipment manufacturers, including Upright and Genie
Industries (booms and high reach equipment), Sky Trak (rough terrain forklifts
and skid-steer loaders), LeRoi and Atlas-Copco (air compressors), and Multiquip
and Ingersoll Rand (earth compaction equipment and portable generators). U.S.
Rentals is also the exclusive distributor for certain manufacturers in several
of its markets. The Company believes that the volume of its equipment purchases
creates significant purchasing power with suppliers, which leads to favorable
prices and terms on equipment purchased for its rental fleet and for sale as new
equipment. The Company's ability to sell new equipment offers flexibility to its
customers while enhancing U.S. Rentals' customer relations.


OPERATIONS

     The Company's equipment rental yards occupy an average of over 2.2 acres
and include:  (i) a customer service center and showroom displaying selected
rental equipment, new equipment offered for sale and related merchandise; (ii)
an equipment service area; and (iii) storage facilities for equipment requiring
protection from inclement weather.  Each Profit Center is staffed by an average
of approximately 20 full-time employees and two part-time employees, including a
manager, assistant manager, sales assistants, back office clerks, truck drivers,
mechanics and yard personnel.  Each equipment rental yard offers a broad range
of equipment for rental, with the actual equipment mix tailored to meet the
anticipated needs of the customers in each location.  The rental yard employees'
knowledge of the equipment enables them to recommend the best equipment for a
customer's particular application.  The Company's yards are open seven days a
week and provide customers with 24-hour maintenance, repair and support
services, including service at the customer's job site.  Each Profit Center
manager is responsible for every aspect of the yard's operation, including
establishing rental rates, selecting equipment, and determining employee
compensation at such location.  The Company's 78 Profit Center managers have an
average of 16 years of rental experience in the industry.

                                       30
<PAGE>
 
The Company operates all of its Profit Centers under the name USRentals(R).


SALES, MARKETING AND ADVERTISING

     U.S. Rentals strives to create a partnership with each customer in order to
satisfy all the customer's equipment needs.  As a result of the Company's
innovative profit sharing program, employees are motivated to know the customers
in their markets and tailor the equipment fleet to local demand patterns.  Since
U.S. Rentals believes that many customers choose to rent in order to reduce
their capital investment and maintenance costs and to maximize flexibility, the
Company offers flexible rental terms to its customers.  Customers may rent
equipment by the hour, day, week or month, with the periodic cost declining as
the duration of the rental term increases.  The Company, through its six
regional credit offices, offers credit to its commercial and residential
construction and industrial customers.

     The Company markets its products and value-added services locally primarily
through its sales force of approximately 165 field-based salespersons and
approximately 865 store-based customer service representatives.  The Company's
sales force is knowledgeable about all of U.S. Rentals' services and products,
including the rental of equipment, sales of new and used equipment, sales of
parts and merchandise, and U.S. Rentals' value-added services, including
equipment training, delivery and maintenance.  The field-based sales force calls
regularly on contractors' offices and job sites and industrial facilities,
regularly assisting customers in planning for their equipment requirements.
U.S. Rentals also provides its sales force with extensive training, including
frequent in-house training by supplier representatives about the operating
features and maintenance requirements of new equipment.  The Company's sales
force does not earn commissions on equipment rentals; instead, they participate
in the Company's profit sharing program along with all other employees in the
Company.  Management believes that the Company's sales personnel, through the
Company's innovative profit sharing program, are among the most highly
compensated in the industry.

     U.S. Rentals recently began a national accounts program that is dedicated
to marketing to customers with a multi-regional or national presence.  The
national accounts program supplements the efforts of the Profit Centers, which
deal directly with management of the local facilities of multi-regional and
national firms.  National account sales personnel call on the corporate
headquarters of U.S. Rentals' large commercial and residential and industrial
customers in order to expand existing business relationships to include
additional facilities and construction sites.  The national accounts program
simplifies billing and pricing for large customers while allowing their local
representatives to continue to deal primarily with local Profit Centers.

     The Company promotes its services primarily in the telephone directories in
the markets it serves, as well as by direct mail, and advertising in newspapers
and on local television and radio.  Each Profit Center manager determines the
frequency and type of advertising in the local market.  Profit Centers also host
open houses, customer appreciation events and other special promotional events.
The Company also selectively advertises in national industry publications and
trade journals, and provides a toll-free telephone number (1-800-US-RENTS) that
automatically connects each caller to the Company's closest equipment rental
yard.  In addition to its principal marketing methods, the Company has launched
an Internet web page (www.usrentals.com) that describes the Company's locations,
product lines and used equipment available for sale.


PURCHASING AND SUPPLIERS

     The Company's size and stature in the equipment rental industry, as well as
its strong and long-standing vendor relationships, enable it to purchase
equipment directly from manufacturers at what management believes are among the
best prices and terms in the industry.  The Company employs a Director of Vendor
Relations to negotiate favorable terms with preferred vendors.  However,
individual Profit Center managers operate independently in evaluating and
selecting additional fleet based on local

                                       31
<PAGE>
 
demand.  U.S. Rentals has developed strong relationships with many leading
equipment manufacturers, which has led to exclusive distribution rights for
certain lines of equipment in several of its markets.  Management believes that
the favorable pricing, service, training and information that U.S. Rentals
receives from its suppliers represent a significant competitive advantage for
the Company.  During 1995, the Company purchased approximately $89 million of
new rental equipment, of which approximately 53% was obtained from its top 10
suppliers.  No single supplier accounted for more than 14% of the Company's
total purchases.  U.S. Rentals believes it could readily replace any of its
existing suppliers if it were to lose its ability to purchase equipment from
such supplier.


INFORMATION SYSTEMS

     U.S. Rentals' proprietary POS system was initially installed in the
Company's equipment rental yards in 1992 and is used for the day-to-day
management of its more than 60,000 pieces of rental equipment.  The data
generated from each Profit Center's POS system is uploaded daily to the
Company's mainframe computer at its headquarters.  The Company's proprietary
management information systems, including the Company's POS system, allow
management and Profit Center managers to review all aspects of each Profit
Center's business, including profitability, equipment utilization rates, rental
rates, number of contracts generated and collection of receivables.  Management
at all levels uses these systems to generate rental contracts, track equipment
usage, report customer credit histories, compile accounts receivables aging
reports, and monitor monthly profitability.  Access to such data significantly
assists management in closely monitoring and quickly reacting to the ongoing
operations at each Profit Center.  Additionally, the statements generated by the
Company's management information systems are consistently reviewed by corporate,
regional and divisional managers, as well as by each Profit Center manager, to
monitor profit sharing earnings and detect areas for improvement at each
location.  This type of decentralized processing, with centralized management
information system reporting, provides for timely and effective reporting of
information for auditing and control purposes.  U.S. Rentals' data processing
center, located at its headquarters in Modesto, California, utilizes a Hewlett
Packard mainframe computer for its flexibility and capacity to accommodate the
Company's future systems needs.  The Company's computer system is updated and
maintained by a staff of three systems development professionals, who also
developed U.S. Rentals' customized and proprietary management information
systems software.


LOCATIONS AND PROPERTIES

     The Company operates 78 Profit Centers in the following 11 states:  Arizona
(2), Arkansas (3), California (46), Idaho (1), Kansas (1), Louisiana (3), Nevada
(6), New Mexico (1), Oklahoma (1), Texas (13) and Washington (1).  U.S. Rentals
owns 32 of its rental locations and leases 46 of its rental locations, as well
as its approximately 8,300 square foot headquarters space in Modesto,
California.  The Company's leases have terms expiring from 1997 to 2001, with
the majority of its leases having multiple five-year renewal options.  The
Company also maintains six credit offices, all of which are leased.  The net
book value of owned facilities was approximately $18.5 million at September 30,
1996, and the average annual base rent on each leased facilities was
approximately $65,000 in 1995.  Management believes that none of U.S. Rentals'
leased facilities, individually, is material to the Company's operations.  In
addition, as of September 30, 1996 U.S. Rentals owned a fleet of approximately
550 non-rental delivery, fleet service and sales personnel vehicles.


COMPETITION

     The equipment rental industry is highly fragmented and competitive.  Each
market in which U.S. Rentals operates is served by numerous competitors, ranging
from national and multi-regional companies such as Hertz Equipment Rental
Corporation, an affiliate of Ford Motor Company, to small, independent
businesses with a limited number of locations.  Management believes that
participants in the equipment rental industry compete on the basis of customer
relationships, customer service, breadth and

                                       32
<PAGE>
 
quality of product line and price.  In general, the Company believes that
national and multi-regional operators, especially larger operators such as U.S.
Rentals, enjoy substantial competitive advantages over small, independent rental
businesses that cannot afford to maintain the comprehensive rental equipment
fleet and high level of maintenance and service that U.S. Rentals offers.  U.S.
Rentals believes that its commitment to personalized customer service, highly
motivated and experienced employees, decentralized management structure,
proprietary information systems and the breadth and the quality of its rental
fleet enable it to compete successfully.  See "Risk Factors -- Competition."


EMPLOYEES

     At September 30, 1996, U.S. Rentals had a total of 1,789 employees, of
which 285 were salaried and 1,504 were hourly personnel.  U.S. Rentals' work
force is not unionized, and management believes that its relationship with
employees is excellent.  The Company is committed to, and has realized
significant benefits from, its formal employee training programs.  Management
believes that this investment in training and safety awareness programs for
employees is a competitive advantage that positions U.S. Rentals to be
responsive to customer needs.


MATERIAL PATENTS, LICENSES, FRANCHISES AND CONCESSIONS

     The Company does not hold or depend upon any material patent, government
license, franchise or concession, except for the "USRentals(R)" service mark,
which is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.


GOVERNMENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION

     The Company's operations are subject to a variety of federal, state and
local laws and regulations governing, among other things, worker safety, air
emissions, water discharge and the generation, handling, storage,
transportation, treatment and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes.
Under such laws, an owner or lessee of real estate may be liable for the costs
of removal or remediation of certain hazardous or toxic substances located on or
in, or emanating from, such property, as well as related costs of investigation
and property damage.  Such laws often impose such liability without regard to
whether the owner or lessee knew of, or was responsible for, the presence of
such hazardous or toxic substances.  The Company is often indemnified against
environmental liabilities as a purchaser or lessee of the properties it acquires
or leases.  In connection with its acquisitions and start-up locations that
include the purchase of real property, the Company usually obtains Phase I
environmental assessment reports prepared by independent environmental
consultants for each piece of real property it purchases.  A Phase I assessment
consists of a site visit, historical record review, interviews and report, with
the purpose of identifying potential environmental conditions associated with
the subject real estate.

     The Company dispenses petroleum products from above-ground storage tanks at
a majority of its Profit Centers.  The remainder of its Profit Centers dispense
petroleum products from underground storage tanks.  The Company maintains an
environmental compliance program that includes the implementation of required
technical and operational activities designed to minimize the potential for
leaks and spills, maintenance of records and the regular testing and monitoring
of tank systems for tightness.  The Company also uses other hazardous materials
in the ordinary course of its business.  In addition, the Company generates and
disposes of hazardous waste such as used motor oil, radiator fluid and solvents,
and may be liable under various federal, state and local laws for environmental
contamination at facilities where its waste is or has been disposed.  See "Risk
Factors -- Governmental and Environmental Regulation."  The Company incurs
ongoing expenses associated with the removal of older underground storage tanks
and the performance of appropriate remediation at certain of its locations.  The
Company has identified certain of its facilities as having released hazardous
substances, with remediation either ongoing or likely at three facilities.  The
Company has reserved approximately $1.1 million for such remediation and removal
of additional underground storage tanks and associated potential liability.  The

                                       33
<PAGE>
 
Company does not believe that costs associated with such remediation and
potential liability will have a material adverse effect on the Company's results
of operations or financial condition.  See "Risk Factors -- Governmental and
Environmental Regulation."


LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

          The Company is involved in numerous claims and potential claims that
have arisen in the ordinary course of the Company's business.  Claims (including
litigation) for property damage, personal injury and death from users of its
equipment and the estates of such users, as well as employee claims relating to
workers' compensation and other employee-related issues, are inherent in the
nature of the Company's business.  The Company cannot predict the ultimate
outcome of any of its current claims; however, due to the amount of the
Company's self-insurance reserves and the existence of insurance for claims
between $3 million and $50 million, management does not believe that any of such
claims, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on
the Company's results of operations or financial condition.  See "Risk Factors -
- - Liability and Insurance."

                                       34
<PAGE>
 
                                   MANAGEMENT

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

     The following table sets forth the executive officers and directors of the
Company:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

   NAME                 AGE                POSITION
   ----                 ---                --------
<S>                     <C>       <C>
Richard D. Colburn       85       Chairman of the Board
William F. Berry         44       President, Chief Executive
                                  Officer and Director
John S. McKinney         42       Vice President - Finance, Chief
                                  Financial Officer and Director
Bernard E. Lyons         62       Vice President, Secretary and
                                  Director
Grace M. Crickette       35       Vice President - Risk Management
William F. Locklin       44       Vice President and Region Manager
Steven E. Nadelman       34       Vice President and Region Manager
</TABLE>

     Richard D. Colburn purchased the Company (under its previous name of
Leasing Enterprises, Inc.) on December 31, 1975 and has been Chairman of the
Board since that date. Mr. Colburn, a private investor, currently owns 100% of
the Company.

     William F. Berry has been an employee of the Company and one of its
predecessors since 1966, became the Company's President and Chief Executive
Officer in January 1987 and became a Director in 1996. In his over 30 years with
the Company and its predecessor, Mr. Berry has held virtually every operational
position in the Company.

     John S. McKinney has been the Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial
Officer of the Company since 1990 and became a Director in 1996.  Mr. McKinney
joined the Company in 1988 as Controller, and held that position until being
promoted to his current positions.  Prior to joining the Company, Mr. McKinney
served as the controller of an electrical wholesale company, held various
financial positions with Iomega Corporation and spent several years as a
certified public accountant with Arthur Andersen & Co.

     Bernard E. Lyons has been a Director, Vice President, Secretary and the
General Counsel of the Company since 1976.  Mr. Lyons, a corporate lawyer, has
represented numerous clients in his over 35 years of legal practice.

     Grace M. Crickette has been the Company's Vice President - Risk Management
since March 1996.  Ms. Crickette served as a Risk Management Director from 1994
until March 1996 and Risk Management Analyst from 1991 to 1994.  Prior to
joining the Company, Ms. Crickette was a legal assistant for five years at a
Southern California law firm that specializes in insurance defense.

     William F. Locklin has been a Vice President and Region Manager since
joining the Company in 1987.  Mr. Locklin has over 19 years of experience in the
equipment rental business.  Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Locklin held
numerous management positions in the equipment rental industry over a seven-year
period with Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation.

     Steven E. Nadelman has been a Vice President and Region Manager since 1993.
Mr. Nadelman joined the Company in 1991 and served as a Profit Center Manager
and a Division Manager before being promoted to his current position.  Mr.
Nadelman has over 17 years of experience in the equipment rental business.
Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Nadelman held numerous service, sales and
management positions in the equipment rental industry, including over seven
years with Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation.

                                       35
<PAGE>
 
     The executive officers of the Company serve at the discretion of its Board
of Directors.  Each director of the Company serves until such director's
successor is elected and qualified or until the director's death, retirement,
resignation or removal.

     The Company intends to appoint an independent director within three months
of the consummation of the Offerings and an additional independent director
within one year of the consummation of the Offerings.


COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

     Audit Committee.  Following the Offerings, the Board of Directors intends
to establish an audit committee (the "Audit Committee"), to be comprised of at
least two independent directors, to make recommendations concerning the
engagement of independent public accountants, review with the independent public
accountants the plans and results of the audit engagement, approve professional
services provided by the independent public accountants, review independence of
the independent public accountants, consider the range of audit and non-audit
fees and review the adequacy of the Company's internal accounting controls.

     Compensation Committee.  Following the Offerings, the Board of Directors
intends to establish a compensation committee (the "Compensation Committee"), to
be comprised of at least two independent directors, to determine compensation of
the Company's executive officers and to administer the 1997 Plan.  The current
executive officer salaries were set by the Board of Directors prior to
establishment of the Compensation Committee.


DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

     Following the Offerings, the Company does not intend to pay additional
remuneration to employees who also serve as directors.  The Company will
reimburse all directors for their out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection
with their duties as directors.  Non-employee directors will receive an annual
retainer of $_________ in cash and $_________ for each regular or special
meeting attended as well as annual stock option grants under the 1997 Plan.


COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

     In 1996, the Company had no compensation committee or other committee of
the Board of Directors performing similar functions.  Decisions concerning
compensation of executive officers were made by the Company's Board of
Directors.  Other than William F. Berry, John S. McKinney and Bernard E. Lyons,
there are no officers or employees of the Company who participated in
deliberations concerning such compensation matters.


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

     The following table shows the compensation paid by the Company to the Chief
Executive Officer and each of the Company's other three most highly compensated
executive officers (collectively, the "Named Executive Officers") with respect
to fiscal 1995.

                                       36
<PAGE>
 
                          SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     ANNUAL COMPENSATION
                                                     -------------------
                                                                                ALL OTHER
              NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION        SALARY         BONUSES(1)     COMPENSATION
              ---------------------------        ------         ---------      ------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>            <C>
William F. Berry
  President and Chief Executive
  Officer.........................                $120,000       $400,000         $70,730 (2)(3)
John S. McKinney
  Vice President - Finance and
  Chief Financial Officer.........                 100,000        110,000          35,565 (2)(3)
William F. Locklin
  Vice President and
  Region Manager..................                 100,000        110,000             600 (2)
Steven E. Nadelman
  Vice President and
  Region Manager..................                 100,000        110,000             600 (2)
</TABLE>

_______________

(1)  All amounts were earned in 1995 pursuant to the Company's profit sharing
     program, but were paid in 1996.

(2)  Includes matching amounts contributed by the Company pursuant to the
     Company's 401(k) plan.

(3)  Includes director and executive committee fees paid for 1995, as well as
     deferred compensation earned in 1995.  See "-- Employment Agreements."


EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS

     The Company will enter into seven-year employment agreements with each of
William F. Berry and John S. McKinney effective upon consummation of the
Offerings. Messrs. Berry and McKinney will have the option to extend their
respective agreements for up to three years. During the term of Mr. Berry's
employment agreement, his compensation will consist of a minimum annual base
salary of $150,000, participation in the Company's profit sharing program,
deferred compensation (as described below), a percentage of the Company's net
income (as described below), and fringe benefits similar to those of other
senior executives of the Company. If Mr. Berry's employment is terminated, he
will also be subject to a two-year restriction on competition upon termination.
Under Mr. Berry's agreement, he will be entitled to receive deferred
compensation (the "Deferred Compensation") of $1,402,605 on the earliest of
2007, death, disability, a Change of Control (as defined in 1997 Plan) or
termination without cause (each a "Trigger Event Date"). If, however, Mr. Berry
voluntarily terminates his employment with the Company or if he is terminated
for cause, he will be entitled to an amount equal to the vested portion of such
amount, initially equal to 10% and increasing 10% per year. In addition, Mr.
Berry will be entitled to receive an amount equal to 10% of the Company's
cumulative net income from January 1, 1997 through a Trigger Event Date, reduced
by an amount equal to the appreciation in the price of the Common Stock from the
date of this Prospectus to the Trigger Event Date multiplied by ________ shares
of Common Stock. Mr. McKinney's employment agreement will be substantially
identical to Mr. Berry's except that Mr. McKinney's Deferred Compensation will
be $701,302, his minimum annual base salary will be $105,000 and he will be
entitled to receive 5% of cumulative net income reduced by an amount equal to
the appreciation in the price of the Common Stock from the date of this
Prospectus to the Trigger Event Date multiplied by ________ shares of Common
Stock. See "--1997 Performance Award Plan."

     Upon consummation of the Offerings, Messrs. Berry and McKinney will be
issued 10-year options to purchase _______ and _____ shares, respectively, of
Common Stock under the 1997 Plan with an exercise price equal to the initial
public offering price. The options will vest in 10 equal installments over a 10-
year period commencing upon the consummation of the Offerings.

                                       37
<PAGE>
 
PROFIT SHARING PROGRAM

     An integral part of the Company's operating philosophy is an innovative
profit sharing program applicable to all levels of employees.  Profit sharing is
earned at each Profit Center location based on each Profit Center's operating
income in excess of a pre-determined return on net assets at such location.
Profit sharing is accrued throughout the year and paid in cash in March of the
following year. The program does not limit the amount of profit sharing
compensation an employee may earn. For example, at the Company's top performing
Profit Center in 1995, the Profit Center manager earned approximately 3.6 times
his base salary in profit sharing. In 1995 the Company's employees earned
approximately $9 million in profit sharing compensation, with managers of
profitable locations earning an average of approximately 110% of their base
salaries.

     Profit sharing is paid only to locations that are profitable, with
discretionary exceptions in some cases for start-up locations that generally
are not profitable until after their first year of operation. Unprofitable
locations generally must make up cumulative prior losses for the prior two years
before becoming eligible for profit sharing.


401(k) SAVINGS AND THRIFT PLAN

     The Company has a defined contribution 401(k) plan that covers
substantially all full-time employees who have been employed by the Company for
over one year and have worked at least 1,000 hours.  The 401(k) plan allows all
employees to defer amounts up to the statutory limit each year.  The Company has
a discretionary matching program under which, in 1995, the Company matched 50%
of employee contributions up to a maximum contribution by the Company of $600
per employee.


1997 PERFORMANCE AWARD PLAN

     The Company has established the 1997 Plan to attract, reward and retain
talented and experienced officers, other key employees and certain other
eligible persons ("Eligible Persons") who may be granted awards from time to
time by the Company's Board of Directors or the Committee (as defined below).

     Awards under the 1997 Plan may be in the form of nonqualified stock
options, incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted
stock, performance shares, stock bonuses, or cash bonuses based on performance.
Awards may be granted singly or in combination with other awards.  Any cash
bonuses would be paid based upon the extent to which performance goals set by
the Committee are met during the performance period.  Awards under the 1997 Plan
generally will be nontransferable by a holder (other than by will or the laws of
descent and distribution) and rights thereunder generally will be exercisable,
during the holder's lifetime, only by the holder, subject to such exceptions as
may be authorized by the Committee.

     Administration; Change in Control.  The 1997 Plan provides that it will be
administered by the Board of Directors or a committee appointed by the Company's
Board of Directors (the "Committee").  The Board of Directors intends to appoint
the Company's Compensation Committee to serve as the Committee under the 1997
Plan.  The Committee will have the authority to (i) designate recipients of
awards, (ii) determine or modify the provisions of awards, including vesting
provisions, terms of exercise of an award and expiration dates, (iii) approve
the form of award agreements, and (iv) construe and interpret the 1997 Plan.
The Committee has the discretion to accelerate and extend the exercisability or
term and establish the events of termination or reversion of outstanding awards.

     Upon a Change in Control Event each option and SAR will become immediately
exercisable, restricted stock will immediately vest free of restrictions and the
number of shares, cash or other property covered by each performance share award
will be issued to the grantee of such award, unless the Committee determines to
the contrary.  A "Change in Control Event" is defined generally to include the
acquisition of 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the Company
by any person other than

                                       38
<PAGE>
 
the Principal Stockholder, a transfer of substantially all of the Company's
assets, the dissolution or liquidation of the Company, or a merger,
consolidation or reorganization whereby stockholders immediately prior to such
event own less than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the surviving
entity after such event.

     Plan Amendment; Termination and Term.  The Company's Board of Directors
will have the authority to amend, suspend or discontinue the 1997 Plan at any
time, but no such action will affect any outstanding award in any manner adverse
to the participant without the consent of the participant.  The 1997 Plan may be
amended by the Board of Directors without stockholder approval unless such
approval is required by applicable law.

     The 1997 Plan will remain in existence as to all outstanding awards until
such awards are exercised or terminated.  The maximum term of unvested or
unexercised options, SARs and other rights to acquire Common Stock under the
1997 Plan is 10 years after the initial date of award.  No award can be made
after the tenth anniversary of the date on which the Board of Directors approved
the 1997 Plan.

     Authorized Shares and Other Provisions.  The maximum number of shares of
Common Stock that may be issued in respect of awards under the 1997 Plan is
________ shares.  The maximum number of shares of Common Stock subject to
options and SARs granted to any individual in any calendar year is _______ and
after 1997 the maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be subject to
awards granted in any calendar year is _________.

     The number and kind of shares available for grant and the shares subject to
outstanding awards (as well as individual share and share unit limits on awards,
performance standards and exercise prices of awards) will be adjusted to reflect
the effect of a stock dividend, stock split, recapitalization, merger,
consolidation, reorganization, combination or exchange of shares, extraordinary
dividend or other distribution or other similar transaction.  If any award
expires or is cancelled or terminated without having been exercised or paid in
full, or if any Common Stock subject to a restricted stock award does not vest
or is not delivered, the unpurchased, unvested or undelivered shares will again
be available for award under the 1997 Plan.  No award may be granted at a price
that is less than fair market value, as determined by the Committee, on the date
of grant.  No award, other than awards granted in lieu of cash bonuses, may vest
more quickly than 25% per year.

     Automatic Annual Grants to Non-Employee Directors.  Under the 1997 Plan,
each non-employee director will be granted a 10-year stock option to purchase
_________ shares of Common Stock upon becoming a director at an exercise price
equal to the market price on that date.  In addition, on the first business day
in each calendar year beginning in 1998 and continuing for each subsequent year
during the term of the 1997 Plan, each person who is a non-employee director as
of such date will be granted a stock option to purchase ________ shares of
Common Stock at the then current fair market value of the Common Stock.  All
non-employee director stock options will vest in _____ equal installments over a
_____ year period commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date.  If a
non-employee director's services are terminated for any reason [other than
_____], stock options held by such director shall remain exercisable for ___
months after such option terminates or until the expiration of the 10-year term
of such option, whichever occurs first.

     Federal Tax Consequences.  The current federal income tax consequences of
awards authorized under the 1997 Plan follow certain basic patterns.  Generally,
awards under the 1997 Plan that are includable in income of the recipient at the
time of award or exercise (such as nonqualified stock options, SARs, restricted
stock and performance awards) are deductible by the Company, and awards that are
not required to be included in income of the recipient at such times (such as
incentive stock options) are not deductible by the Company.

          Grant of Options.  As of the date of this Prospectus, the Committee
granted 10-year options relating to approximately ________ shares of Common
Stock to Eligible Persons.  The exercise price of each option granted is the
initial public offering price per share of the Common Stock offered hereby.
Such options vest in equal installments over a period of __ years.

                                       39
<PAGE>
 
                             CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS


     While the following is a description of certain agreements involving the
Principal Stockholder, the Company's directors and officer, the Company and
certain of its affiliates, the descriptions set forth below do not purport to be
a complete summary of all such agreements.

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

     The Principal Stockholder and the Company have entered into a Registration
Rights Agreement under which the Principal Stockholder (and subsequent holders
of his shares, if any, through the Predecessor, will be entitled to certain
rights with respect to the registration of his shares under the Securities Act.
Under this agreement, the Principal Stockholder will have the right to cause the
Company to file a registration statement on Form S-1 with respect to his Common
Stock on two separate occasions after the expiration of his lock-up agreement.
Additionally, if the Company proposes to register any of its securities under
the Securities Act, either for its own account or for the account of others, the
Principal Stockholder is entitled, subject to certain limitations and
exceptions, to notice of such registration and is entitled to include shares of
Common Stock therein. In addition, at any time after the Company becomes
eligible to file registration statements on Form S-3 under the Securities Act,
the Principal Stockholder may require from time to time that the Company file
such a registration statement with respect to his shares of Common Stock. All
fees, costs and expenses of any such registration (other than underwriting fees
and commissions) will be borne by the Company.


AGREEMENT REGARDING PRE-OFFERING TAXES

     The Company and the Principal Stockholder have entered into a tax-related
agreement effective as of the consummation of the Offerings.  Under this
agreement, if any adjustment is made after the consummation of the Offerings to
the Predecessor's taxable income attributable to the operating assets and
liabilities transferred to the Company for any period prior to the consummation
of the Offerings that results in additional taxes being owed by the Principal
Stockholder, the Company will pay the Principal Stockholder an amount equal to
such additional taxes.


NOTES PAYABLE AND RECEIVABLE

     The Predecessor made a dividend in the form of a subordinated note in the
principal amount of $10.0 million in favor of the Principal Stockholder, in each
of 1993 and 1994. Such notes bear interest at prime plus 5.0%. The notes, which
mature on December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively, were subsequently donated to
a charitable organization. None of the obligations under such notes will be
transferred to the Company. See "Offering Related Transactions."

     Certain notes have also been issued from time to time in favor of
affiliates of the Principal Stockholder.  None of the Predecessor's
obligations under such notes will be transferred to the Company.  See "Offering
Related Transactions" and Note 5 to Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

     In 1984, the Predecessor received notes in connection with transactions
with an affiliate of the Principal Stockholder.  Interest on these notes is due
quarterly at the rate of 13.5%.  Annual principal payments of $100,000 are due
through December 31, 2013 and the remaining unpaid principal balance is due on
December 31, 2014.  The notes provide for positive or negative annual
adjustments of principal based on the change in the Consumer Price Index,
limited to certain percentages of the issuer's cumulative net income from
December 31, 1984.  Principal adjustments of such notes receivable reflected in
other

                                       40
<PAGE>
 
income totalled $402,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 1996.  None of
the notes will be transferred by the Predecessor to the Company.  See "Offering
Related Transactions."

     The Predecessor received two notes in connection with transactions with an
immediate family member of the Principal Stockholder on May 1, 1995 and August
6, 1996, respectively. The first note, with an outstanding principal balance as
of December 31, 1995 of approximately $840,000, was repaid in full in 1996. The
second note, issued for $300,000 in August 1996, bears interest at the
Predecessor's borrowing rate from Bank of America NT&SA. Principal payments of
$3,000 plus all accrued interest are due monthly until July 31, 1998, at which
time all amounts outstanding under the note will be due. The second note will
not be distributed by the Predecessor to the Company. See "Offering Related
Transactions."

REAL PROPERTY

     The Predecessor leases two pieces of property from each of Mr. Berry, the
Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, and a member of his immediate
family. The total annual lease payments for 1996 to Mr. Berry and to such family
member are expected to be approximately $103,500 and $88,750, respectively.
Further, Mr. Berry purchased one of the aforementioned properties from the
Predecessor in March 1996 for $640,000, a price the Predecessor believed to be
the fair market value. The Predecessor leases two pieces of property from an
immediate family member of the Principal Stockholder. The total annual lease
payments made to such family member in 1996 were approximately $63,500. The
Company believes that these leases are on commercially fair and reasonable
terms. All four leases will be transferred by the Predecessor to the Company
prior to consummation of the Offerings.

MISCELLANEOUS

     The Predecessor estimates that it paid legal fees of approximately $67,750
to an affiliate of the Principal Stockholder as reimbursement to such affiliate
for legal services rendered during the 12 months ended October 31, 1996 for the
Predecessor by Bernard E. Lyons, a Director and officer of the Company.

     Prior to the 1996 merger of USR Leasing Company ("USRL") (an entity owned
by the Principal Stockholder) into the Predecessor, the Predecessor had a
$2,500,000 revolving credit arrangement with USRL (which provided for interest
at a bank reference rate plus 0.5%), leased non-rental vehicles from USRL under
operating leases and agreed with USRL's lender to guarantee up to $7 million of
USRL's indebtedness. Lease charges from USRL amounted to $3,802,000 and
$2,555,000 for 1995 and the nine months ended September 30, 1996, respectively.
USRL's accounts have been combined with those of the Predecessor in the Combined
Financial Statements. See Note 1 to Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

    The Predecessor has made various investments in unrelated businesses through
entities controlled by the Principal Stockholder. Such investments will not be
transferred by the Predecessor to the Company.

FUTURE TRANSACTIONS

     The Company has implemented a policy requiring that any material
transaction with an affiliated party is subject to approval by a majority of the
directors not interested in such transaction, who must determine that the terms
of any such transaction are no less favorable to the Company than those that
could be obtained from an unaffiliated third party.

                                       41
<PAGE>
 
                            PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

     The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Common Stock after giving effect to the Offering Related
Transactions and as adjusted to reflect the Offerings by (i) the Principal
Stockholder, (ii) each of the Company's directors and executive officers, and
(iii) all directors and executive officers as a group. Except as otherwise
indicated, the persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power
with respect to all shares beneficially owned.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     OWNERSHIP AFTER OFFERINGS
                                                     -------------------------
                                                     NUMBER OF
NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER (1)              SHARES         PERCENTAGE
- ----------------------------------------             ---------       ----------
<S>                                                  <C>             <C>
Richard D. Colburn (2).....................                                %
William F. Berry...........................              *               *
John S. McKinney...........................              *               *
Bernard E. Lyons...........................              *               *
Grace M. Crickette.........................              *               *
William F. Locklin.........................              *               *
Steven E. Nadelman.........................              *               *
All directors and executive officers
   as a group (7 persons)..................
</TABLE>

______________

* Less than one percent

(1)  The business address of each of the persons listed in the table (other than
     Bernard E. Lyons) is 1581 Cummins Drive, Suite 155, Modesto, California
     95358.  Mr. Lyons' address is 1516 Pontius Avenue, Los Angeles, California
     90025.

(2)  The Principal Stockholder owns 100% of the Predecessor, which was the sole
     stockholder of the Company prior to the Offerings.  See "Offering Related
     Transactions."


                         DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

     The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of 100,000,000 shares
of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, and 10,000,000 shares of Preferred
Stock, which can be issued in one or more series.  Immediately following the
completion of the Offerings, an aggregate of _________ shares of Common Stock
will be issued and outstanding, and no shares of Preferred Stock will be issued
or outstanding (assuming no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment
option).

     The following description of the Company's capital stock is a summary of
the material terms of such stock.  It does not purport to be complete and is
subject in all respects to applicable Delaware law and to the provisions of the
Company's Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, copies of which have been
filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus is a
part.


COMMON STOCK

     The Board of Directors of Company in its sole discretion may issue shares
of Common Stock from the authorized and unissued shares of Common Stock.
Holders of Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters to be
voted upon by the stockholders, including the election of directors.  The
Company's Certificate of Incorporation does not provide for cumulative voting in
the election of directors.

                                       42
<PAGE>
 
     Holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive such dividends as may be
declared from time to time by the Board of Directors out of funds legally
available therefor.  The Company does not anticipate paying any cash dividends
in the foreseeable future.  See "Dividend Policy" and "Risk Factors -- Absence
of Dividends."  In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the
Company, holders of Common Stock are entitled to share ratably in all assets
remaining after payment of liabilities and after satisfaction of the liquidation
preference of any outstanding Preferred Stock.

     Holders of Common Stock have no preemptive, conversion or redemption rights
and are not subject to further assessments by the Company.  Upon consummation of
the Offerings, all of the then outstanding shares of Common Stock will be
validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.


PREFERRED STOCK

     The Company's Board of Directors is authorized to issue from time to time,
without stockholder authorization, in one or more designated series, any or all
of the authorized but unissued shares of Preferred Stock with such dividend,
redemption, conversion and exchange provisions as may be provided for the
particular series.  Any series of Preferred Stock may possess voting, dividend,
liquidation and redemption rights superior to those of the Common Stock.  The
rights of holders of Common Stock will be subject to and may be adversely
affected by the rights of the holders of any Preferred Stock that may be issued
in the future.  Issuance of a new series of Preferred Stock, while providing
desirable flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions and other
corporate purposes, could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire,
or discourage a third party from acquiring, the outstanding voting stock of the
Company, and make removal of the present Board of Directors more difficult.  The
Company has no present plans to issue any shares of Preferred Stock.  See "Risk
Factors -- Anti-takeover Provisions."


CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF DELAWARE LAW

     The Company is a Delaware corporation and is subject to Section 203 of the
DGCL.  In general, Section 203 prevents an "interested stockholder" (defined
generally as a person owning 15% or more of a corporation's outstanding voting
stock) from engaging in a "business combination" (as defined) with a Delaware
corporation for three years following the date such person became an interested
stockholder unless (i) before such person became an interested stockholder, the
board of directors of the corporation approved the transaction in which the
interested stockholder became an interested stockholder or approved the business
combination, (ii) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the
interested stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested
stockholder owns at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding
at the time the transaction commenced (excluding shares owned by persons who are
both officers and directors of the corporation and shares held by certain
employee stock ownership plans) or (iii) following the transaction in which such
person became an interested stockholder, the business combination is approved by
the board of directors of the corporation and authorized at a meeting of
stockholders by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of
the outstanding voting stock of the corporation not owned by the interested
stockholder.


LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENTS

     The Company's Certificate of Incorporation provides that to the fullest
extent permitted by the DGCL, a director of the Company shall not be liable to
the Company or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary
duty as a director.  Under the DGCL, liability of a director may not be limited
(i) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the Company or its
stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve
intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) in respect of
certain unlawful dividend payments or stock redemptions or repurchases and (iv)
for any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal
benefit.  The effect of the provisions of the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation is to eliminate the rights of the Company and its stockholders
(through stockholders' derivative suits on behalf of the Company) to recover
monetary

                                       43
<PAGE>
 
damages against a director for breach of the fiduciary duty of care as a
director (including breaches resulting from negligent or grossly negligent
behavior), except in the situations described in clauses (i) through (iv) above.
This provision does not limit or eliminate the rights of the Company or any
stockholder to seek nonmonetary relief such as an injunction or rescission in
the event of a breach of a director's duty of care.  In addition, the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation provides that the Company shall indemnify its
directors, officers, employees and agents against losses incurred by any such
person by reason of the fact that such person was acting in such capacity.

     The Company has entered into agreements with each of the directors and
officers of the Company pursuant to which the Company has agreed to indemnify
such director or officer from claims, liabilities, damages, expenses, losses,
costs, penalties or amounts paid in settlement incurred by such director or
officer in or arising out of his capacity as a director, officer, employee
and/or agent of the Company or any other corporation of which such person is a
director or officer at the request of the Company to the maximum extent provided
by applicable law.  In addition, such director or officer is entitled to an
advance of expenses to the maximum extent authorized or permitted by law.


CERTAIN ANTI-TAKEOVER EFFECTS

     The provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws of the
Company summarized above may be deemed to have anti-takeover effects and may
delay, defer or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a stockholder
might consider to be in such stockholder's best interest, including those
attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares
held by stockholders.  See "Risk Factors -- Anti-takeover Provisions."


TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR

     The Transfer Agent and Registrar for the Common Stock is _________________.


LISTING

     There is no public trading market for the Common Stock.  Application has
been made to list the Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under
the symbol "USR."

                                       44
<PAGE>
 
                        SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

     Upon the consummation of the Offerings, the Company will have outstanding
________ shares of Common Stock (assuming no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters'
over-allotment option).  All of the shares of Common Stock sold in the Offerings
will be freely tradeable under the Securities Act, unless purchased by
"affiliates" of the Company as that term is defined under the Securities Act.
Upon the expiration of lock-up agreements between the Company and the Principal
Stockholder and the Underwriters, which will occur 180 days after the date of
this Prospectus (the "Effective Date"), all of the ________ shares of Common
Stock owned by the Principal Stockholder, through the Predecessor (the
"Restricted Shares"), will become eligible for sale, subject to compliance with
Rule 144 of the Securities Act as described below.

     In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person (or persons
whose shares are aggregated) who has beneficially owned Restricted Shares for at
least two years, will be entitled to sell in any three-month period a number of
shares that does not exceed the greater of:  (i) 1% of the number of shares of
Common Stock then outstanding (approximately _________ shares immediately after
the Offerings) or (ii) the average weekly trading volume of the Company's Common
Stock on the NYSE during the four calendar weeks immediately preceding the date
on which the notice of sale is filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.  Sales pursuant to Rule 144 are subject to certain requirements
relating to manner of sale, notice and availability of current public
information about the Company.  A person (or persons whose shares are
aggregated) who is not deemed to have been an affiliate of the Company at any
time during the 90 days immediately preceding the sale and who has beneficially
owned Restricted Shares for at least three years is entitled to sell such shares
pursuant to Rule 144(k) without regard to the limitations and requirements
described above. If a proposed amendment to Rule 144 is adopted, the two- and 
three-year holding period requirements described above will be reduced to one 
and two years, respectively.

     The Principal Stockholder has agreed with the Underwriters that until 180
days after the Effective Date he will not directly or indirectly, offer, sell,
contract to sell, grant any option to purchase or otherwise dispose of any
Common Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable
for Common Stock, or in any manner transfer all or a portion of the economic
consequences associated with the ownership of the Common Stock, or cause a
registration statement covering any shares of Common Stock to be filed, without
the prior written consent of DLJ, subject to certain limited exceptions. The
Company has also agreed not to directly or indirectly, offer, sell, contract to
sell, grant any option to purchase or otherwise dispose of any Common Stock or
any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock
or, in any manner, transfer all or a portion of the economic consequences
associated with the ownership of the Common Stock or cause a registration
statement covering any shares of Common Stock to be filed, for a period of 180
days after the Effective Date, without the prior written consent of DLJ, subject
to certain limited exceptions including grants of options pursuant to, and
issuance of shares of Common Stock upon exercise of options under, the 1997
Plan. The lock-up agreements may be released at any time as to all or any
portion of the shares subject to such agreements at the sole discretion of DLJ.
See "Risk Factors -- Shares Eligible for Future Sale; Registration Rights."

                                       45
<PAGE>
 
                                 UNDERWRITING

     Subject to certain terms and conditions contained in an underwriting
agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement"), the U.S. Underwriters named below (the
"U.S. Underwriters") for whom DLJ, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated and Salomon Brothers Inc are acting as representatives (the "U.S.
Representatives"), and the international managers named below (the
"International Managers"), for whom DLJ, Merrill Lynch International and Salomon
Brothers International Limited are acting as representatives the ("International
Representatives" and together with the U.S. Representatives, the
"Representatives") have severally agreed to purchase from the Company the number
of shares of Common Stock set forth opposite their names below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                        NAME                               NUMBER OF SHARES
                        ----                               ----------------
<S>                                                        <C>
U.S. Underwriters
- ----------------
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation...
                                                             ----------------
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated....
                                                             ----------------
Salomon Brothers Inc..................................
                                                             ----------------
     U.S. Offering subtotal...........................
                                                             ----------------

International Managers
- ----------------------
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation...
                                                             ----------------
Merrill Lynch International...........................
                                                             ----------------
Salomon Brothers International Limited................
                                                             ----------------
     International Offering subtotal..................
                                                             ----------------

          TOTAL.......................................
                                                             ================
</TABLE>

     The Underwriting Agreement provides that the obligations of the several
Underwriters to purchase shares of Common Stock are subject to the approval of
certain legal matters by counsel and to certain other conditions.  If any of the
shares of Common Stock are purchased by the Underwriters pursuant to the
Underwriting Agreement, all such shares of Common Stock (other than the shares
of Common Stock covered by the over-allotment option described below) must be so
purchased.  The offering price and underwriting discounts and commissions per
share for the U.S. Offering and the International Offering are identical.

     Prior to the Offerings, there has been no established trading market for
the Common Stock.  The initial price to the public for the Common Stock offered
hereby will be determined by negotiation between the Company and the
Representatives.  The factors to be considered in determining the initial price
to the public include the history of and the prospects for the industry in which
the Company competes, the ability of the Company's management, the past and
present operations of the Company, the historical results of operations of the
Company, the prospects for future earnings of the Company, the general condition
of the securities markets at the time of the Offerings and the recent market
prices of securities of generally comparable companies.

     The Company has agreed to indemnify the Underwriters against certain
liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to
payments that the Underwriters may be required to make in respect thereof.

     The Company has been advised by the Representatives that the Underwriters
propose to offer the shares of Common Stock to the public initially at the price
to the public set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus and to certain
dealers (who may include the Underwriters) at such price less a concession not
to exceed $___ per share.  The Underwriters may allow, and such dealers may
reallow, discounts not in excess of $__ per share to any other Underwriter and
certain other dealers.

                                       46
<PAGE>
 
 
     The Company has granted to the U.S. Underwriters an option to purchase up
to an aggregate of ________ additional shares of Common Stock at the initial
public offering price less underwriting discounts and commissions solely to
cover over-allotments.  Such option may be exercised in whole or in part from
time to time during the 30-day period after the date of this Prospectus.  To the
extent that the U.S. Underwriters exercise such option, each of the U.S.
Underwriters will be committed, subject to certain conditions, to purchase a
number of option shares proportionate to such U.S. Underwriter's initial
commitment as indicated in the preceding table.

     The Company and the Principal Stockholder have agreed not to offer, sell,
contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any shares of Common Stock or any
securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock, or
in any manner transfer all or a portion of the economic consequences associated
with the ownership of such Common Stock, or to cause a registration statement
covering any shares of Common Stock to be filed, for 180 days after the
Effective Date without the prior written consent of DLJ, subject to certain
limited exceptions, and provided that the Company may grant options pursuant to,
and issue shares of Common Stock upon the exercise of options under, the 1997
Plan. See "Shares Eligible for Future Sale."

     Pursuant to an Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International 
Managers, each U.S. Underwriter has represented and agreed that, with respect to
the shares included in the U.S. Offering and with certain exceptions, (a) it is
not purchasing any Common Stock for the account of anyone other than a U.S. or 
Canadian Person (as defined below) and (b) it has not offered or sold, and will 
not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any Common Stock or distribute this 
Prospectus outside of the U.S. or Canada or to anyone other than a U.S. or 
Canadian Person. Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and 
International Managers, each International Manager has represented and agreed 
that, with respect to the shares included in the International Offering and with
certain exceptions, (a) it is not purchasing any Common Stock for the account of
any U.S. or Canadian Person and (b) it has not offered or sold, and will not 
offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any Common Stock or distribute this 
Prospectus within the U.S. or Canada or to any U.S. or Canadian Person. The 
foregoing limitations do not apply to stabilization transactions and to certain 
other transactions among the International Managers and the U.S. Underwriters. 
As used herein, "U.S. or Canadian Person" means any national or resident of the 
U.S. or Canada or any corporation, pension, profit-sharing or other trust or 
other entity organized under the laws of the U.S. or Canada or of any political 
subdivision thereof (other than a branch located outside the U.S. or Canada of 
any U.S. or Canadian Person) and includes any U.S. or Canadian branch of a 
person who is not otherwise a U.S. or Canadian Person, and "U.S." means the 
United States of America, its territories, its possessions and all areas subject
to its jurisdiction.

     Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International 
Managers, sales may be made between the U.S. Underwriters and the International 
Managers of any number of shares of Common Stock to be purchased pursuant to the
Underwriting Agreement as may be mutually agreed. The per share price and 
currency of settlement of any shares so sold shall be the public offering price 
set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus, in U.S. dollars, less an amount 
not greater than the per share amount of the concession to the dealers set forth
above.

     Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International 
Managers, each U.S. Underwriter has represented that it has not offered or sold,
and has agreed not to offer or sell, any Common Stock, directly or indirectly in
Canada in contravention of the securities laws of Canada or any province or 
territory thereof and has represented that any offer of Common Stock in Canada 
will be made only pursuant to an exemption from the requirement to file a 
prospectus in the province or territory of Canada in which such offer is made. 
Each U.S. Underwriter has further agreed to send to any dealer who purchases 
from it any Common Stock a notice stating in substance that, by purchasing such 
Common Stock, such dealer represents and agrees that it has not offered or sold,
and will not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any of such Common Stock in 
Canada in contravention of the securities laws of Canada or any province or 
territory thereof and that any offer of Common Stock in Canada will be made only
pursuant to an exemption from the requirement to file a prospectus in the 
province or territory of Canada in which such offer is made, and that such 
dealer will deliver to any other dealer to whom it sells any of such Common 
Stock a notice to the foregoing effect.

     Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International
Managers, each International Manager has represented that (i) it has not offered
or sold and during the period of six months from the date of this Prospectus
will not offer or sell any shares of Common Stock to persons in the United
Kingdom except to persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring,
holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the
purposes of their businesses or otherwise in circumstances which do not
constitute an offer to the public in the United Kingdom for the purposes of the
Public Offers of Securities Regulations 1995 (the "Regulations"); (ii) it has
complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the Financial
Services Act 1986 of Great Britain and the Regulations with respect to anything
done by it in relation to the Common Stock in, from or otherwise involving the
United Kingdom; and (iii) it has only issued or passed on and will only issue or
pass on in the United Kingdom any document received by it in connection with the
issue of the Common Stock to a person who is of a kind described in Article 8 of
the Financial Services Act 1986 (Investment Advertisements) (Exemptions) (No. 2)
Order 1995 of Great Britain or is a person to whom such document may otherwise
lawfully be issued or passed on.

     The Representatives have informed the Company that they do not expect to
make sales to accounts over which they exercise discretionary authority in
excess of 5% of the number of shares of Common Stock offered hereby.

     The Company has applied for listing of the Common Stock on the NYSE. In 
order to meet the requirements for listing on the NYSE, the Underwriters will 
undertake to sell lots of 100 or more shares of Common Stock to a minimum of 
2,000 beneficial holders.


                                       47
<PAGE>
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS

     The validity of the shares of the Common Stock offered hereby will be
passed upon for the Company by O'Melveny & Myers LLP, Los Angeles, California.
Certain legal matters will be passed upon for the Underwriters by Latham &
Watkins, Los Angeles, California.


                                    EXPERTS

     The financial statements as U.S. Rentals, Inc., the Predecessor, as of
December 31, 1994 and 1995 and for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1995 and of U.S. Rentals, Inc. as of September 30, 1996 included in
this Prospectus have been so included in reliance on the report of Price
Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.


                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"Commission") a Registration Statement on Form S-1 (together with all
amendments, exhibits, schedules and supplements thereto, the "Registration
Statement"), of which this Prospectus forms a part, covering the Common Stock to
be sold pursuant to the Offerings.  As permitted by the rules and regulations of
the Commission, this Prospectus omits certain information, exhibits and
undertakings contained in the Registration Statement.  Such additional
information, exhibits and undertakings can be inspected at and obtained from the
Commission at prescribed rates at the public reference facilities maintained by
the Commission at Room 1024, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Judiciary Plaza,
Washington, D.C. 20549 and at certain regional offices of the Commission located
at Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661 and 13th Floor, 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York, 10048.
The Commission maintains a Web site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports,
proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants
that file electronically with the Commission. In addition, application has been
made to list the Common Stock on the NYSE, and reports and other information
concerning the Company may be inspected at the offices of such exchange. For
additional information with respect to the Company, the Common Stock and related
matters and documents, reference is made to the Registration Statement.
Statements contained herein concerning any such document are not necessarily
complete and, in each instance, reference is made to the copy of such document
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. Each such statement is
qualified in its entirety by such reference.

    The Company will issue annual reports and unaudited quarterly reports to its
stockholders for the first three quarters of each fiscal year.  Annual reports
will include audited consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and a report
of its independent public accountants with respect to the examination of such
financial statements.  In addition, the Company will issue such other interim
reports as it deems appropriate.

                                       48
<PAGE>
 
                               U.S. RENTALS INC.
                         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                          Page
                                                                          ---- 
<S>                                                                       <C> 
U.S. Rentals, Inc. (Predecessor):

  Report of Independent Accountants......................................  F-2
  Combined Balance Sheets................................................  F-3
  Combined Statements of Operations......................................  F-4
  Combined Statements of Stockholder's Equity............................  F-5
  Combined Statements of Cash Flows......................................  F-6
  Notes to Combined Financial Statements.................................  F-7

U.S. Rentals, Inc.:

  Report of Independent Accountants......................................  F-16
  Balance Sheet..........................................................  F-17
  Note to Balance Sheet..................................................  F-18

Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements:

  Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheets as of September 30, 1996.............  F-19
  Pro Forma Combined Statements of Operations for the year ended
   December 31, 1995.....................................................  F-20
  Pro Forma Combined Statements of Operations for the nine-month
   period ended September 30, 1996.......................................  F-21
  Notes to Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements.......................  F-22
</TABLE> 

                                      F-1
 
<PAGE>
 
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


To the Board of Directors of
U.S. Rentals, Inc.

In our opinion, the accompanying combined balance sheets and the related 
combined statements of operations, of stockholder's equity and of cash flows 
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of U.S. 
Rentals, Inc. at December 31, 1994 and 1995, and the results of their operations
and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These
financial statements are the responsibility of management of U.S. Rentals, 
Inc.; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements
based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards which require that we plan and
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed
above.


Price Waterhouse LLP
Sacramento, California
May 24, 1996

                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.
                           COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
                     (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                          Pro Forma
                                                                December 31,                               (Note 1)
                                                           ----------------------   September 30,       September 30,
                                                            1994            1995        1996                1996
                                                           ------          ------       ----                ----
                                                                                     (unaudited)         (unaudited)
<S>                                                        <C>          <C>            <C>                 <C>
ASSETS
Cash..................................................      $  2,714     $  3,479       $  3,766            $  3,766
Accounts receivable, net..............................        21,496       28,581         39,401              39,401
Notes receivable from affiliate.......................        24,823       24,891         25,212                   -
Notes receivable, other...............................           276        1,350            848                 196
Inventories...........................................         2,525        3,938          4,278               4,278
Rental equipment, net.................................       112,563      152,848        203,913             203,913
Property and equipment, net...........................        20,916       26,370         38,504              38,504
Prepaid expenses and other assets.....................         2,212        3,727          5,468               2,274
                                                            --------     --------       --------            --------
Total assets..........................................      $187,525     $245,184       $321,390            $292,332
                                                            ========     ========       ========            ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

Accounts payable and other liabilities................      $ 44,823     $ 56,411       $ 54,406            $ 52,253
Notes payable to related parties......................        23,852       23,884         23,965                   -
Notes payable, other..................................        60,899       81,812        152,043             152,043
Deferred taxes........................................             -            -              -               5,541
                                                            --------     --------       --------            --------

Total liabilities.....................................       129,574      162,107        230,414             209,837
                                                            --------     --------       --------            --------

Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)

Stockholder's equity:
 Common stock 2,500 shares authorized,
  900 shares issued and outstanding, at
  stated value........................................           699          699            699                  -
 Paid-in capital......................................        13,186       13,186         13,186              88,036
 Retained earnings....................................        44,066       69,192         77,091              (5,541)
                                                            --------     --------       --------            --------

Total stockholder's equity............................        57,951       83,077         90,976              82,495
                                                            --------     --------       --------            --------

Total liabilities and stockholder's equity............      $187,525     $245,184       $321,390            $292,332
                                                            ========     ========       ========            ========
</TABLE>
 
                            See accompanying notes.

                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.
                       COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                            Nine Months Ended
                                                           Year Ended December 31,            September 30,
                                                           -----------------------         -------------------
                                                        1993        1994         1995        1995        1996
                                                        ----        ----         ----        ----        ----
                                                                                              (unaudited)
<S>                                                    <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Revenues:
 Rental revenue....................................    $127,752    $167,589    $214,849    $153,766    $183,233
 Rental equipment sales............................       6,323       8,098      10,832       7,664      16,165
 Merchandise and new equipment sales...............       9,507      12,071      17,166      11,424      17,064
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Total revenues.....................................     143,582     187,758     242,847     172,854     216,462
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Cost of revenues:
 Rental equipment expense..........................      33,298      42,034      51,370      37,205      45,708
 Rental equipment depreciation.....................      24,300      33,754      43,885      31,866      41,054
 Cost of rental equipment sales....................       2,298       2,946       4,693       2,587       6,785
 Cost of merchandise and new equipment sales.......       5,948       7,428      11,418       7,459      12,418
 Direct operating expense..........................      41,609      46,445      56,506      41,654      52,699
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Total cost of revenues.............................     107,453     132,607     167,872     120,771     158,664
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Gross profit.......................................      36,129      55,151      74,975      52,083      57,798

Selling, general and administrative expense........      20,149      27,273      31,440      19,687      24,086
Non-rental depreciation............................       3,294       4,092       5,513       4,105       5,386
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Operating income...................................      12,686      23,786      38,022      28,291      28,326
Other income (expense), net........................         (31)       (242)     (1,620)       (423)        342
Interest income....................................       3,314       3,506       3,566       2,537       2,570
Interest expense...................................      (2,078)     (4,566)     (8,876)     (6,455)     (8,286)
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Income before income taxes.........................      13,891      22,484      31,092      23,950      22,952
Income taxes.......................................         405         499         468         379         316
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

Net income.........................................    $ 13,486    $ 21,985    $ 30,624    $ 23,571    $ 22,636
                                                       ========    ========    ========    ========    ========

Unaudited pro forma data (Note 6):
 Historical income before income taxes.............    $ 13,891    $ 22,484    $ 31,092    $ 23,950    $ 22,952
 Provision for income taxes........................       5,710       9,221      12,780       9,845       9,276
                                                       --------    --------    --------    --------    --------

 Pro forma net income..............................    $  8,181    $ 13,263    $ 18,312    $ 14,105    $ 13,676
                                                       ========    ========    ========    ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
                            See accompanying notes.

                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.
                  COMBINED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
                            (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Common Stock                                    Total
                                               ----------------------    Paid-In    Retained    Stockholder's
                                               Shares   Stated Value     Capital    Earnings       Equity
                                               ------   -------------   ---------   ---------   -------------
<S>                                            <C>      <C>             <C>         <C>         <C>

Balance at December 31, 1992...................   900           $699     $13,186    $ 37,854    $ 51,739
Net income.....................................                                       13,486      13,486
Dividends......................................                                      (15,617)    (15,617)
                                                  ---           ----     -------    --------    --------
Balance at December 31, 1993...................   900            699      13,186      35,723      49,608
Net income.....................................                                       21,985      21,985
Dividends......................................                                      (13,642)    (13,642)
                                                  ---           ----     -------    --------    --------
Balance at December 31, 1994...................   900            699      13,186      44,066      57,951
Net income.....................................                                       30,624      30,624
Dividends......................................                                       (5,498)     (5,498)
                                                  ---           ----     -------    --------    --------
Balance at December 31, 1995...................   900            699      13,186      69,192      83,077
Net income (unaudited).........................                                       22,636      22,636
Dividends (unaudited)..........................                                      (14,737)    (14,737)
                                                  ---           ----     -------    --------    --------

Balance at September 30, 1996 (unaudited)......   900           $699     $13,186    $ 77,091    $ 90,976
                                                  ===           ====     =======    ========    ========
</TABLE>

                            See accompanying notes.

                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.
                      COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS) 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                              Nine Months Ended
                                                              Year Ended December 31,           September 30,
                                                             -------------------------        -----------------
                                                             1993       1994      1995         1995       1996
                                                             ----       ----      ----         ----       ---- 
                                                                                                 (unaudited)
<S>                                                       <C>        <C>       <C>         <C>         <C>
Operating activities:
 Net income.............................................  $ 13,486   $ 21,985  $ 30,624    $ 23,571    $ 22,636
  Adjustments to reconcile net income
   to net cash provided by operating activities:
   Depreciation........................................     27,594     37,846    49,398      35,971      46,440
   Gain on sale of equipment...........................     (4,289)    (5,322)   (6,342)     (4,624)     (9,838)
   Principal adjustment on notes receivable............       (534)      (243)     (220)       (165)       (402)
   Provision for doubtful accounts.....................      3,463      2,807     3,441       2,431       4,176
   Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
    Accounts receivable................................     (7,059)    (8,633)  (10,526)    (15,660)    (14,996)
    Inventories........................................       (497)      (514)   (1,413)       (363)       (340)
    Prepaid expenses and other assets..................        404         17    (1,515)     (1,085)     (1,741)
    Accounts payable and other liabilities.............      8,409     17,462    11,588       4,641      (2,005)
                                                          --------   --------  --------    --------    --------

Net cash provided by operating activities..............     40,977     65,405    75,035      44,717      43,930

Investing activities:
 Purchases of rental equipment.........................    (42,892)   (83,157)  (88,861)    (63,859)    (98,904)
 Proceeds from sale of rental equipment................      6,323      8,098    10,832       7,664      16,165
 Purchases of property and equipment, net..............     (5,821)   (10,514)  (10,764)     (7,940)    (17,064)
 Funding of notes receivable, net......................        (26)      (922)   (1,061)        (91)      2,086
                                                          --------   --------  --------    --------    --------

Net cash used in investing activities..................    (42,416)   (86,495)  (89,854)    (64,226)    (97,717)

Financing activities:
 Proceeds from (payments on) line of credit, net.......     18,122     35,697   (28,200)    (26,859)     28,979
 Proceeds from senior notes............................         -          -    50,000      50,000      40,000
 Payments on other obligations.........................    (10,646)    (9,975)     (718)       (410)       (168)
 Dividends paid........................................     (5,617)    (3,642)   (5,498)     (4,940)    (14,737)
                                                          --------   --------  --------    --------    --------

Net cash provided by financing activities..............      1,859     22,080    15,584      17,791      54,074
                                                          --------   --------  --------    --------    --------

Net increase (decrease) in cash........................        420        990       765      (1,718)        287
Cash at beginning of period............................      1,304      1,724     2,714       2,714       3,479
                                                          --------   --------  --------    --------    --------
Cash at end of period..................................   $  1,724   $  2,714  $  3,479    $    996    $  3,766
                                                          ========   ========  ========    ========    ========
Supplemental non-cash flow information:

Dividends declared to stockholder in the form of
 notes payable (subsequently assigned to
 The Colburn School of Performing Arts)................   $ 10,000   $ 10,000         -           -           -

Note payable issued as partial payment for
 property purchased....................................          -      1,000         -           -           -

Note payable issued as partial payment for
 assets acquired in conjunction with a business
 acquisition...........................................          -        500         -           -           -
</TABLE>

                            See accompanying notes.

                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

                    NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
         (The information presented as of September 30, 1995 and 1996 
        and for each of the nine-month periods then ended is unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

   ORGANIZATION

   U.S. Rentals, Inc. (the "Predecessor") is a California corporation primarily
   involved in the short-term rental of general purpose construction equipment,
   and to a lesser extent, selling complementary parts, merchandise, new and
   used equipment to commercial and residential construction, industrial and
   homeowner customers. At September 30, 1996, the Company operated 77
   equipment rental yards located in 10 states across the western and southern
   regions of the United States.

   PLANNED OFFERING
   
   In connection with the planned initial public offering (the "Offerings"), the
   Predecessor intends to transfer all of its operating assets and associated
   liabilities to U.S. Rentals, Inc. ("U.S. Rentals"), a Delaware corporation,
   in exchange for all of the outstanding shares of common stock of U.S.
   Rentals. In addition, prior to the Offerings, USR Leasing Company ("USRL"), a
   special purpose entity, will be merged into the Predecessor. Because the
   Predecessor and USRL are under common control, the merger will be accounted
   for as pooling of interests.

   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

   As disclosed in these financial statements, the Predecessor has participated
   in certain transactions with related parties during the current and previous
   years. In the opinion of management, all transactions with related parties
   have been conducted on terms which are fair and equitable; however, the
   transactions are not necessarily on the same terms as those which would have
   been made between wholly unrelated parties.

   COMBINATION

   The combined financial statements of U.S. Rentals, Inc. include the accounts
   of the Predecessor and USR Leasing Company, a special purpose entity under
   common control. All intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in
   combination.

   FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
   accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
   that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
   contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
   the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period.
   Actual results could differ from those estimates.

   PRO FORMA AMOUNTS

   The pro forma amounts presented on the combined balance sheets reflect the
   transfer of all of the operating assets and associated liabilities to U.S.
   Rentals as discussed above and the recognition of a deferred tax liability of
   $5,541,000 related to federal and state income taxes as if the Predecessor
   had been taxed as a C corporation rather than an S corporation since
   inception. A pro forma provision for income taxes has been presented on the
   combined statement of operations as if the Company had been taxed as a C
   corporation rather than an S corporation for all periods presented.

   INTERIM FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

   The Combined Balance Sheet as of September 30, 1996 and the Combined
   Statements of Operations and of Cash Flows for the nine-month periods ended
   September 30, 1995 and 1996 have been prepared on the same basis as the
   audited combined financial statements and, in the opinion of management,
   include all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments,
   necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of
   operations,

                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
   in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. All data
   disclosed in the Notes to the Combined Financial Statements at such dates
   and for such periods is unaudited.

   RENTAL REVENUE

   Rental revenue is recognized upon the earliest occurrence of either the
   return of the equipment or the end of one month's rental term.
 
   RENTAL EQUIPMENT

   Rental equipment is recorded at cost. Depreciation for rental equipment
   acquired prior to January 1, 1996 is computed using the straight-line method
   over an estimated five-year useful life with no salvage value. Rental
   equipment acquired subsequent to January 1, 1996 is depreciated using the
   straight-line method over an estimated seven-year useful life, after giving
   effect to an estimated salvage value of 10%. Included in purchases of rental
   equipment are the costs of minor equipment which are fully depreciated in the
   month of acquisition. Accumulated depreciation on rental equipment was
   $107,003,000, $136,573,000, and $156,047,000 at December 31, 1994 and 1995
   and September 30, 1996, respectively.

   Ordinary maintenance and repair costs are charged to operations as incurred.
   When rental equipment is disposed of, the related cost and accumulated
   depreciation are removed from the respective accounts.  Proceeds from the
   disposal and the related net book value of the equipment are recognized in
   the period of disposal and reported as revenue from rental equipment sales
   and cost of equipment sales in the statement of operations.

   PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

   Property and equipment is recorded at cost.  Depreciation is computed using
   the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.

   The estimated useful lives for property and equipment range from 10 to 39
   years for buildings, 1 to 8 years for vehicles, delivery and yard equipment,
   and 5 to 10 years for fixtures and leasehold improvements.

   Ordinary maintenance and repairs costs are charged to operations as incurred.
   When property and equipment is disposed of, the related cost and accumulated
   depreciation are removed from the respective accounts, and any gains or
   losses are included in results of operations.

   ADOPTION OF NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

   On January 1, 1996, the Predecessor adopted Statement of Financial Accounting
   Standards (SFAS) No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
   and Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of, which requires impairment losses to
   be recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of
   impairment are present and the assets' carrying amounts exceed the
   undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets. SFAS No.
   121 also requires impairment losses to be recorded when the carrying amount
   of long-lived assets that are expected to be disposed of, exceed their fair
   values, net of disposal costs. Adoption of SFAS No. 121 did not have a
   material impact on the Predecessor's financial position at September 30, 1996
   or results of operations for the period then ended.

                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
   INVENTORIES

   The Predecessor's inventories primarily consist of items such as hand tools
   and accessories held for resale. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost,
   determined by the first-in, first-out method, or market.

   SELF-INSURANCE

   The Predecessor is self-insured for general liability, workers' compensation
   and group medical insurance claims up to specified per claim and aggregate
   amounts. Self-insurance costs are accrued based upon the aggregate liability
   for reported claims incurred and an estimated liability for claims incurred
   but not reported. These liabilities are not discounted.

   EARNINGS PER SHARE

   Historical earnings per share data have not been presented due to the planned
   change in capital structure as previously described.

   FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

   The carrying amounts reported in the combined balance sheets for trade
   accounts receivable, accounts payable and other liabilities approximate fair
   value due to the immediate to short-term maturity of these financial
   instruments. The fair value of notes receivable and notes payable is
   determined using current interest rates for similar instruments as of
   December 31, 1995 and approximates the carrying value of these notes due to
   the fact that the underlying instruments include provisions to adjust note
   balances and interest rates to approximate fair market value.

   CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

   Financial instruments that potentially subject the Predecessor to significant
   concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of trade accounts receivable
   from construction and industrial customers. Concentrations of credit risk
   with respect to trade accounts receivable are limited due to the large number
   of customers and the Predecessor's geographic dispersion. The Predecessor
   performs credit evaluations of its customers' financial condition and
   generally does not require collateral on accounts receivable. The Predecessor
   maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts on its receivables based upon
   expected collectibility. Allowance for doubtful accounts was $5,201,000,
   $6,166,000 and $10,397,000 at December 31, 1994 and 1995 and September 30,
   1996, respectively.

   ADVERTISING COSTS

   The Company advertises primarily through trade journals and the media.
   Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

   INCOME TAXES

   The Predecessor has elected S corporation status under the U.S. Internal
   Revenue Code. Pursuant to this election (and similar elections in California
   and certain other states), the Predecessor's income, deductions, and credits
   are reported on the income tax return of the Predecessor's stockholder for
   federal purposes and, accordingly, no provision for federal income taxes has
   been made.

                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
   California assesses a corporate level income tax on S corporations and
   certain states in which the Company does business do not recognize S
   corporation status.  Therefore, the Company remains subject to, and has made
   provision for, taxes in those states.

   Because of certain transactions discussed under Planned Offering, historical
   results of operations, including income taxes, is not, in all cases,
   indicative of future results. The unaudited pro forma income tax provision is
   computed using the asset and liability method under which deferred tax assets
   and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of
   temporary differences between tax bases and financial reporting bases of
   assets and liabilities.

2. NOTES RECEIVABLE FROM AFFILIATE

   Interest on notes receivable from affiliate is due quarterly at the rate of
   13.5%.  Annual principal payments of $100,000 are due through December 31,
   2013 and the remaining unpaid principal balance is due on December 31, 2014.
   The Company earned interest income from the affiliate of $3,268,000,
   $3,324,000, $3,343,000, $2,500,000 and $2,515,000 for each of the three years
   in the period ended December 31, 1995, and for the nine-month periods then
   ended September 30, 1995 and 1996, respectively.  The notes provide for
   positive or negative annual adjustments of principal based on the change in
   the Consumer Price Index, limited to certain percentages of the affiliated
   entity's cumulative net income from December 31, 1984. The accompanying
   financial statements include principal adjustments in notes receivable and
   other income in the amounts of $534,000, $243,000, $220,000, $165,000 and
   $402,000 for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995,
   and for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996,
   respectively.

3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

   Property and equipment, net, consists of the following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 December 31,             
                                        ------------------------------    September 30,
                                            1994             1995             1996
                                        -------------   --------------    -------------
                                                                           (unaudited)
<S>                                     <C>             <C>                   <C>
                                                                       
   Land................................     $  7,707         $  8,233         $ 13,442
   Buildings...........................        6,265            9,736           11,786
   Vehicles and delivery equipment.....       16,088           20,111           26,228
   Yard equipment......................        2,376            2,660            2,883
   Furniture and fixtures..............        3,105            3,826            4,401
   Leaseholds..........................        4,934            5,672            7,718
                                            --------         --------         --------
                                              40,475           50,238           66,458
   Less accumulated depreciation.......      (19,559)         (23,868)         (27,954)
                                            --------         --------         --------
                                            $ 20,916         $ 26,370         $ 38,504
                                            ========         ========         ======== 
</TABLE>

                                     F-10
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
4. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND OTHER LIABILITIES
 
   Accounts payable and other liabilities consist of the following (in
   thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   December 31,      
                                                              --------------------   September 30,
                                                                1994         1995         1996
                                                              -------      -------   -------------
                                                                                      (unaudited)
  <S>                                                        <C>          <C>           <C>
    Trade payables and other accruals....................     $25,473      $36,556       $36,487
    Profit sharing accrual...............................       7,249        8,945         4,624
    Self-insurance reserve...............................      12,101       10,910        13,295
                                                              -------      -------       ------
                                                              $44,823      $56,411       $54,406
                                                              =======      =======       =======
</TABLE>

5.  NOTES PAYABLE

    Notes payable consist of the following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   December 31,          
                                                               ---------------------     September 30,
                                                                  1994       1995            1996
                                                               ----------  ---------     -------------
                                                                                          (unaudited)
   <S>                                                        <C>          <C>           <C>
    Notes payable to related parties:

    Subordinated note payable to The Colburn School
    of Performing Arts, interest payable quarterly at
    prime rate plus 5%, due in 2013 and 2014
    (13.5% at December 31, 1995)...........................     $20,000      $20,000       $20,000

    Demand notes payable to related parties, interest
    at various rates tied to the Predecessor's average
    bank borrowing rate. Interest rates ranged from
    8.45% to 10.5% at December 31, 1995....................       3,852        3,884         3,965
                                                                -------      -------       -------
                                                                 23,852       23,884        23,965
                                                                -------      -------       -------
</TABLE>

                                     F-11
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
 
5. NOTES PAYABLE (CONTINUED)

   <TABLE>                                                      
   <S>                                                           <C>         <C>         <C>
   Notes payable, other:                                       
                                                               
   Senior notes payable to various parties, interest           
   payable semi-annually ranging from 6.82% to 7.76%,          
   due 1999 to 2002.........................................        -       50,000        90,000
                                                               
   Revolving line of credit, interest payable monthly          
   at reference rate plus .125% (8.5% at                       
   December 31, 1995).......................................        -        3,900             -
                                                               
   Revolving line of credit, interest payable monthly          
   at money market rate (6.375% at December 31, 1995).......   55,900       23,000        58,000
                                                               
   Notes payable to a bank, interest and principal             
   payable monthly at rates ranging from 5.74% to              
   9.51% due 1997...........................................    3,499        4,162         3,543
                                                               
   Notes payable related to the purchase of certain            
   businesses, imputed interest averaging 7%, due              
   through 1999.............................................    1,500          750           500
                                                              -------     --------      --------
                                                               60,899       81,812       152,043
                                                              -------     --------      --------
                                                              $84,751     $105,696      $176,008
                                                              =======     ========      ========
</TABLE>

   The Predecessor's agreement with the bank provides for a secured line of
   credit of $110,000,000 maturing no later than October 31, 1997. The bank and
   senior note agreements include restrictions as to limitations upon certain
   ratios of liabilities to net worth and upon the minimum net worth of the
   Predecessor. The Predecessor is in compliance with covenants in all
   agreements. Substantially all rental equipment, property and equipment, and
   notes and accounts receivable of the Predecessor are pledged as collateral
   for the bank line of credit, senior notes, demand notes, and notes related to
   purchases of certain businesses. The Predecessor pays a commitment fee of
   0.125% on the unused portion of the outstanding line of credit balance less
   outstanding letters of credit calculated quarterly based on the average daily
   balance.

   The Predecessor incurred interest expense of $1,275,000, $2,899,000,
   $4,078,000, $3,378,000, and $2,306,000 on borrowings from related parties for
   each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995 and for the
   nine-month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996, respectively.

   Cash paid for interest was $1,871,000, $4,535,000, $7,340,000, $5,692,000 and
   $7,760,000 for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995
   and for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996,
   respectively.

   Maturities of debt are as follows at December 31, 1995 (in thousands):

                         <TABLE>                                     
                         <S>                                 <C>     
                         1996.............................   $ 53,275
                         1997.............................      1,516
                         1998.............................        805
                         1999.............................     10,100
                         2000.............................     10,000
                         Thereafter.......................     30,000
                                                             --------
                                                             $105,696
                                                             ========
                   </TABLE>

6. INCOME TAXES

   The income tax provision is comprised of current state income tax expense of
   $405,000, $499,000, $468,000, $379,000 and $316,000 for each of the three
   years in the period ended December 31, 1995 and for the nine-month periods
   ended September 30, 1995 and 1996, respectively.  Deferred taxes for such
   periods have been immaterial.

                                     F-12
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
   Cash payments of state income taxes made by the Predecessor were $575,000,
   $353,000, $597,000, $184,000 and $107,000 for each of the three years in the
   period ended December 31, 1995 and for the nine-month periods ended September
   30, 1995 and 1996, respectively.

   The unaudited pro forma provision for income taxes included in the
   accompanying combined statements of operations shows the results as if the
   Predecessor had always been subject to income taxes as a C corporation.

   The unaudited pro forma provision for income taxes differs from the amount of
   income tax determined by applying the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate
   of 35% to income before income taxes as a result of the following (in
   thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            Year ended December 31,
                                           --------------------------
                                            1993      1994      1995
                                           -------   -------   ------
<S>                                        <C>       <C>       <C>
   Federal income taxes..................    35.0%     35.0%    35.0%
   State income taxes, net of federal
    benefit..............................     5.5%      5.3%     5.3%
   Other.................................      .6%       .7%      .8%
                                             -----     -----    -----
                                             41.1%     41.0%    41.1%
                                             =====     =====    =====
</TABLE>

   Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed based on temporary
   differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets
   and liabilities using the enacted marginal income tax rate in effect for the
   year in which the differences are expected to reverse.  Deferred income tax
   expenses or credits are based on the changes in the deferred income tax
   assets or liabilities from period to period.

   Pro forma deferred taxes are provided for the temporary differences between
   the financial reporting bases and the tax bases of the Predecessor's assets
   and liabilities. Pro forma deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows
   (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            September 30,
                                                                1996     
                                                            -------------
                                                             (unaudited) 
<S>                                                         <C>           
         Self-insurance reserves......................        $  5,329
         Compensation related accruals................           1,288
         Allowances for doubtful accounts.............           2,772
         State income taxes...........................           1,014
         Others, net..................................             965
                                                              -------- 
                                                                11,368 
         Depreciation.................................         (16,909)
                                                              -------- 
                                                              $ (5,541)
                                                              ========  
</TABLE>

                                     F-13
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

   OPERATING LEASES

   The Predecessor leases certain facilities under operating leases which
   contain renewal options and provide for periodic cost of living adjustments.
   Rental expense was $2,986,000, $3,160,000, $3,365,000, $2,481,000 and
   $2,687,000 for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995
   and for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 1995 and 1996,
   respectively.

   Future minimum rental commitments as of December 31, 1995 under noncancelable
   operating leases are (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S>                                   <C>
       1996.......................    $ 6,941
       1997.......................      5,179
       1998.......................      2,122
       1999.......................      1,789
       2000.......................      1,059
       Thereafter.................      1,238
                                      -------
                                      $18,328
                                      =======
</TABLE>

   LEGAL MATTERS

   The Predecessor is party to legal proceedings and potential claims arising in
   the ordinary course of its business. In the opinion of management, the
   Predecessor has adequate legal defense, reserves or insurance coverage with
   respect to these matters so that the ultimate resolution will have no
   material adverse effect on the Predecessor's financial position, results of
   operations or cash flows. The Predecessor has accrued $8,247,000, $7,730,000
   and $9,384,000 at December 31, 1994 and 1995 and September 30, 1996,
   respectively, to cover the uninsured portion of possible costs arising from
   these pending claims and other potential unasserted claims.

   ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

   The Predecessor and its operations are subject to various laws and related
   regulations governing environmental matters. Under such laws, an owner or
   lessee of real estate may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation
   of certain hazardous or toxic substances located on or in, or emanating from,
   such property, as well as investigation of property damage. The Predecessor
   incurs ongoing expenses associated with the removal of underground storage
   tanks and the performance of appropriate remediation at certain of its
   locations. The Predecessor does not believe that such removal and remediation
   will have a material adverse effect on the Predecessor's financial position
   or results of operations.

                                     F-14
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (Predecessor)

             NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
 
8. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

   The Predecessor sponsors a defined contribution 401(k) retirement plan (the
   Plan) which is subject to the provisions of ERISA. Under the plan, which was
   implemented in 1994, the Predecessor matches a minimum of 50% of the
   participants' contributions up to a specified amount as determined by the
   Board of Directors. Predecessor contributions to the plan were $533,000 and
   $246,000 for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1995, and
   $68,000 for the nine-months ended September 30, 1996.

                                     F-15
<PAGE>
 
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors 
of U.S. Rentals, Inc.

In our opinion, the accompanying balance sheet presents fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of U.S. Rentals, Inc., a Delaware corporation,
at September 30, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles. This financial statement is the responsibility of the management of
U.S. Rentals, Inc.; our responsibility is to express an opinion on this
financial statement based on our audit. We conducted our audit of this statement
in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which require that we
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statement is free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statement, assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis
for the opinion expressed above.

Price Waterhouse LLP
Sacramento, California
December 6, 1996

                                     F-16

<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (the Company)
                                 BALANCE SHEET

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            September 30,
                                                                1996
                                                                ----
ASSETS
<S>                                                          <C>
Total assets...............................................   $     --
                                                              ========

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

Total liabilities..........................................   $     --
                                                              --------


Stockholder's equity:
  Preferred stock, $.01 par value; no shares authorized,
  no shares issued or outstanding..........................         --

  Common stock, $.01 par value; 1,000 shares authorized,
  no shares issued or outstanding..........................         --

  Paid-in capital..........................................         --
                                                              --------


Total stockholder's equity.................................         --
                                                              --------

Total liabilities and stockholder's equity.................   $     --
                                                              ========
</TABLE>

                            See accompanying note.

                                      F-17
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (the Company)

                             NOTE TO BALANCE SHEET
                           As of September 30, 1996
 
1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
   ORGANIZATION

   U.S. Rentals, Inc. (the "Company") is a Delaware Corporation and primarily
   involved in the short-term rental of general purpose construction equipment,
   and to a lesser extent, selling complementary parts, merchandise, new and
   used equipment to commercial and residential construction companies,
   industrial enterprises, homeowners and other customers. At September 30,
   1996, the Company owned 77 equipment rental yards located in 10 states across
   the western and southern regions of the United States.

   The Company was incorporated in 1987 in anticipation of a reorganization of
   certain entities under common control. The reorganization will be undertaken
   in connection with the planned offerings of Common Stock.

   The balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the historical Combined
   Financial Statements of U.S. Rentals, Inc. (the "Predecessor") included
   elsewhere in this registration statement.

   FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

   The preparation of the balance sheet in conformity with generally accepted
   accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
   that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
   contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the balance sheet. Actual
   results could differ from those estimates.

   INCOME TAXES

   Income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method under which
   deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future
   tax consequences of temporary differences between tax bases and financial
   reporting bases of assets and liabilities.

   STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

   The Company has adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123
   ("SFAS No. 123"), Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation effective January
   1, 1996. SFAS No. 123 becomes effective during 1996. The Company will measure
   compensation expense for its stock-based employee compensation plans using
   the intrinsic value method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion
   No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and will provide pro forma
   disclosures of net income and net income per share as if the fair value-based
   method prescribed by SFAS No. 123 had been applied in measuring compensation
   expense.

                                      F-18
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (THE COMPANY)
                  UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
                           AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 1996
                     (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                       Pro Forma
                                                                                                                        for the
                                                              Pro Forma                                                 Offering
                                                             Adjustments            Pro Forma           Pro Forma       Related
                                                           for the Offering          for the           Adjustments    Transactions
                                      The         The           Related          Offering Related         for the        and the
                                    Company    Predecessor    Transactions         Transactions          Offerings      Offerings
                                    -------    ----------- ----------------      ----------------      -----------    ------------
<S>                                 <C>       <C>            <C>                <C>                    <C>           <C>
ASSETS
Cash............................... $     -      $  3,766       $      -            $  3,766            $  13,191  (e)    $ 16,957
Accounts receivable, net...........                39,401                             39,401                                39,401
Notes receivable from
 affiliate.........................       -        25,212        (25,212)   (a)            -                    -                -
Notes receivables, other...........       -           848           (652)   (a)          196                    -              196 
Inventories........................       -         4,278                              4,278                                 4,278
Rental equipment, net..............       -       203,913              -             203,913                    -          203,913
Property and equipment, net........       -        38,504              -              38,504                    -           38,504
Prepaid expenses and other
 assets............................       -         5,468         (3,194)   (a)        2,274                    -            2,274
                                    -------      --------       --------            --------            ---------         --------
Total assets....................... $     -      $321,390       $(29,058)           $292,332            $  13,191         $305,523
                                    =======      ========       ========            ========            =========         ========

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Liabilities
  Accounts payable and other
    liabilities.................... $     -      $ 54,406       $ (2,153)   (a)     $ 52,253            $       -         $ 52,253
  Notes payable to related
    parties........................       -        23,965        (23,965)   (a)            -                    -                -
  Notes payable, other.............       -       152,043              -             152,043             (151,543) (e)         500
  Deferred taxes...................       -             -          5,541    (b)        5,541                    -            5,541
                                    -------      --------       --------            --------            ---------         --------
Total liabilities..................       -       230,414        (20,577)            209,837             (151,543)          58,294
                                    -------      --------       --------            --------            ---------         --------
Stockholder's equity
  Common stock of Predecessor......       -           699           (699)   (a)            -                    -                -
  Preferred stock, par value $.01
    per share; no shares authorized
    or outstanding.................       -             -              -                   -                    -                -
  Common stock; par value $.01
    per share; 1,000 shares 
    authorized and none 
    outstanding....................       -             -              -                                           
  Paid-in capital..................       -        13,186         74,850    (d)       88,036              168,000  (f)     256,036
  Retained earnings................       -        77,091         (2,241)   (a)       (5,541)              (3,266) (g)      (8,807)
                                                                                           -                    -                -
                                                                 (74,850)   (d)            -                    -                -
                                                                  (5,541)   (b)            -                    -                -
                                    -------      --------       --------            --------            ---------         --------
Total stockholder's equity.........       -        90,976         (8,481)             82,495              164,734          247,229
                                    -------      --------       --------            --------            ---------         --------
Total liabilities and
 stockholder's equity.............  $     -      $321,390       $(29,058)           $292,332            $  13,191         $305,523
                                    =======      ========       ========            ========            =========         ========

</TABLE>
                            See accompanying notes.

                                     F-19
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (THE COMPANY)
             UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                     FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
                   (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                        Pro Forma
                                                                                                                         for the
                                                                  Pro Forma                                              Offering
                                                                 Adjustments               Pro Forma       Pro Forma     Related
                                                              for the Offering              for the       Adjustments  Transactions
                                      The         The             Related              Offering Related     for the      and the
                                    Company   Predecessor       Transactions              Transactions      Offerings    Offerings
                                    -------   -----------     ----------------         ----------------   ------------  -----------
<S>                                 <C>       <C>             <C>                      <C>                <C>            <C>
Revenues:
  Rental revenue.................   $     -      $214,849           $      -                $214,849          $    -     $214,849
  Rental equipment sales.........         -        10,832                  -                  10,832               -       10,832
  Merchandise and new
   equipment sales...............         -        17,166                  -                  17,166               -       17,166
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Total revenues...................         -       242,847                  -                 242,847               -      242,847
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------

Cost of Revenues:
  Rental equipment expense.......         -        51,370                  -                  51,370               -       51,370
  Rental equipment depreciation..         -        43,885                  -                  43,885               -       43,885
  Cost of rental equipment sales.         -         4,693                  -                   4,693               -        4,693
  Cost of merchandise and new
    equipment sales..............         -        11,418                  -                  11,418               -       11,418
  Direct operating expense.......         -        56,506                  -                  56,506               -       56,506
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Total cost of revenues...........         -       167,872                  -                 167,872               -      167,872
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Gross profit.....................         -        74,975                  -                  74,975               -       74,975

Selling, general and
 administrative expense..........         -        31,440                  -                  31,440            (675) (j)  30,765
Non-rental depreciation..........         -         5,513                  -                   5,513                        5,513
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Operating income.................         -        38,022                                     38,022             675       38,697
Other income (expense), net......         -        (1,620)              (220)  (c)            (1,840)                      (1,840)
Interest income..................         -         3,566             (3,400)  (c)               166                          166
Interest expense.................         -        (8,876)             4,078   (c)            (4,798)          4,759  (i)     (39)
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Income before income taxes.......         -        31,092                458                  31,550           5,434       36,984
Income taxes.....................         -           468             12,467   (h)            12,935           2,228  (i)  15,163
                                    -------      --------           --------                --------          ------     --------
Net income.......................   $     -      $ 30,624           $(12,009)               $ 18,615          $3,206     $ 21,821
                                    =======      ========           ========                ========          ======     ========
Net income per share.............                                                                                        $      -
                                                                                                                         ========
Weighted average common
 shares outstanding..............                                                                                               -
                                                                                                                         ========
</TABLE>

                            See accompanying notes.

                                     F-20
<PAGE>
 
                        U.S. RENTALS, INC. (THE COMPANY)
             UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                 FOR THE NINE-MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996
                   (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                                                                        Pro Forma
                                                               Pro Forma                                            for the Offering
                                                              Adjustments        Pro Forma       Pro Forma               Related
                                                            for the Offering      for the       Adjustments           Transactions
                                      The         The           Related      Offering Related     for the                and the
                                    Company   Predecessor    Transactions      Transactions      Offerings              Offerings
                                    -------   -----------   ---------------- -----------------  -----------         ----------------
<S>                                 <C>       <C>            <C>             <C>                <C>                  <C>
Revenues:
 Rental revenue................     $  -         $183,233      $   -              $183,233       $    -                   $183,233
 Rental equipment sales........        -           16,165          -                16,165            -                     16,165
 Merchandise and new
  equipment sales..............        -           17,064          -                17,064            -                     17,064
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------
Total revenues.................        -          216,462          -               216,462            -                    216,462
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------

Cost of Revenues:
 Rental equipment expense......        -           45,708          -                45,708            -                     45,708
 Rental equipment depreciation.        -           41,054          -                41,054            -                     41,054
 Cost of rental equipment sales        -            6,785          -                 6,785            -                      6,785
 Cost of merchandise and new
  equipment sales..............        -           12,418          -                12,418            -                     12,418
 Direct operating expense......        -           52,699          -                52,699            -                     52,699
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------
Total cost of revenues.........        -          158,664          -               158,664            -                    158,664
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------

Gross profit...................        -           57,798          -                57,798            -                     57,798

Selling, general and 
 administrative expense........        -           24,086          -                24,086         (458)   (j)              23,628
Non-rental depreciation........        -            5,386          -                 5,386           -                       5,386
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------

Operating income...............        -           28,326          -                28,326          458                     28,784
Other income (expense), net....        -              342         (402)      (c)       (60)          -                         (60)
Interest income................        -            2,570       (2,570)      (c)       -             -                         -
Interest expense...............        -           (8,286)       2,306       (c)    (5,980)       5,941    (i)                 (39)
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------
Income before income taxes.....        -           22,952         (666)             22,286        6,399                     28,685
Income taxes...................        -              316        8,685       (h)     9,001        2,585    (i)              11,586
                                    -------      --------      -------            --------       ------                   --------

Net income.....................     $  -         $ 22,636      $(9,351)            $13,285       $3,814                   $ 17,099
                                    =======      ========      =======            ========       ======                   ========

Net income per share...........                                                                                           $    -
                                                                                                                          ========
Weighted average common
shares outstanding.............                                                                                                -
                                                                                                                          ========
</TABLE>
 
                            See accompanying notes.

                                     F-21
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (THE COMPANY)
                         NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
             COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS AND STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


1. Basis of Presentation
 
   Prior to the initial public offerings (the "Offering"), U.S. Rentals, Inc.
   (the "Predecessor") will transfer all of its operating assets and associated
   liabilities to U.S. Rentals, Inc. (the "Company"), a Delaware corporation, in
   exchange for all of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company. In
   addition, prior to the Offerings, USR Leasing Company ("USRL"), a special
   purpose entity, will be merged into the Predecessor. Because the Predecessor
   and USRL are under common control, the merger will be accounted for as
   pooling of interests.

   The unaudited pro forma financial data reflects the offering related
   transactions and the Offerings as if such transactions had been completed as
   of September 30, 1996 for pro forma combined balance sheet data purposes and
   as of January 1, 1995 for pro forma combined statement of operations data
   purposes. These data do not necessarily reflect the results of operations or
   financial position of the Company that would have resulted had such
   transactions actually been consummated as of such dates. Also, these data are
   not necessarily indicative of the future results of operations or future
   financial position of the Company.

2. PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS
 
   Offering related transactions

  a)  Reflects the planned transfer of all operating assets and associated
      liabilities of the Predecessor to the Company in exchange for all the
      outstanding Common Stock of the Company.

  b)  Reflects the recognition of a deferred tax liability relating to federal
      and state income taxes as if the Company had been taxed as a C corporation
      rather than as an S corporation since inception.

  c)  Reflects the pro forma effect on interest expense, interest income and 
      other income from the planned transfer of all operating assets and
      associated liabilities of the Predecessor to the Company.

  d)  Reflects the reclassification of retained earnings of the Predecessor to
      paid-in capital of the Company in connection with the transfer of all 
      operating assets and associated liabilities of the Predecessor in exchange
      for all the outstanding Common Stock of the Company.

  Offerings

  e)  Reflects the retirement of debt as described in i) below with a portion of
      the proceeds from the Offerings.

  f)  Reflects the net proceeds to the Company from the Offerings less the
      retirement of debt as described below in h).

                                     F-22
<PAGE>
 
                       U.S. RENTALS, INC. (THE COMPANY)
                         NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
             COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS AND STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
  g)  Reflects the pro forma effect on retained earnings of the penalty
      associated with early repayment of senior notes.

  h)  Adjustment to record the pro forma C corporation tax provision, including
      effects of adjustments from (c) above.

  i)  Reflects the pro forma effect on interest expense and the related tax
      effect of retiring debt with a portion of the net proceeds from the
      Offerings. Such debt includes bank borrowings under a credit and security
      agreement, senior notes payable and other notes payable.

  j)  Reflects the pro forma effect on selling, general and administrative
      expense related to the termination of deferred incentive compensation
      agreements with certain employees. Such compensation agreements are
      intended to be replaced with stock options which will be granted at fair
      value resulting in no compensation expense to the Company.

3. PRO FORMA NET INCOME PER SHARE

   Pro forma per share data is computed based on _________________ shares of
   Common Stock outstanding and Common Stock equivalents after giving effect to
   the Offering Related Transactions and the Offerings and options granted to
   executive officers of the Company to purchase _____________ shares of Common
   Stock.

                                     F-23

<PAGE>
 
================================================================================
     No dealer, salesperson or other person has been authorized to give any
information or to make any representations other than those contained in this
Prospectus, and, if given or made, such information or representations must not
be relied upon as having been authorized by the Company or the Underwriters.
This Prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any
offer to buy, the Common Stock in any jurisdiction where, or to any person to
whom, it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.  Neither the
delivery of this Prospectus nor any sale made hereunder shall, under any
circumstances, create any implication that there has not been any change in the
facts set forth in this Prospectus or in the affairs of the Company since the
date hereof.

                                _______________

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                                            PAGE
                                                                            ----
Prospectus Summary.....................................................
Risk Factors...........................................................
Offering Related Transactions..........................................
Use of Proceeds........................................................
Dividend Policy........................................................
Dilution...............................................................
Capitalization.........................................................
Selected Financial Data................................................
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
 and Results of Operations.............................................
Business...............................................................
Management.............................................................
Certain Transactions...................................................
Principal Stockholders.................................................
Description of Capital Stock...........................................
Shares Eligible for Future Sale........................................
Underwriting...........................................................
Legal Matters..........................................................
Experts................................................................
Available Information..................................................
Index to Financial Statements..........................................

                         ____________________________

  Until _____, 1997 (25 days after the date of this Prospectus), all dealers
effecting transactions in the Common Stock, whether or not participating in this
distribution, may be required to deliver a Prospectus.  This is in addition to
the obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as Underwriters
and with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.

================================================================================


================================================================================




                               __________ Shares



                           [U.S. RENTALS, INC. LOGO]



                                 Common Stock



                                ______________

                                  PROSPECTUS
                                ______________



                         DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                            SECURITIES CORPORATION



                              MERRILL LYNCH & CO.



                             SALOMON BROTHERS INC



                                         , 1997

================================================================================
<PAGE>
 
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT.  A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION.  THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY
OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT BECOMES
EFFECTIVE.  THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE SECURITIES
IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR
TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH STATE.

               [ALTERNATE SECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTUS]

                 SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED DECEMBER 13, 1996
PROSPECTUS
       , 1997
                              ____________ SHARES

                           [U.S. RENTALS, INC. LOGO]
                                 COMMON STOCK

     All of the _______ shares of common stock, $.01 par value per share (the
"Common Stock"), offered hereby are being sold by U.S. Rentals, Inc. ("U.S.
Rentals" or the "Company").  Of the ______ shares of Common Stock offered by the
Company, _______ shares are being offered for sale in the United States and
Canada by the U.S. Underwriters (the "U.S. Offering") and _______ shares are
being offered for sale outside the United States and Canada in a concurrent
offering by the International Managers (the "International Offering" and,
together with the U.S. Offering, the "Offerings"), subject to transfers between
the U.S. Underwriters and the International Managers.  See "Underwriting."

     Prior to the Offerings, there has been no public market for the Common
Stock.  It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price will be
between $_____ and $_____ per share.  See "Underwriting" for a discussion of the
factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price.

     Application has been made to list the Common Stock on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol "USR."

     SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 9 FOR INFORMATION THAT SHOULD BE
CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.

    THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
         AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR
            HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE
               SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
                ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS.  ANY REPRESENTATION
                     TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION> 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       PRICE      UNDERWRITING      PROCEEDS
                                       TO THE    DISCOUNTS AND       TO THE
                                       PUBLIC    COMMISSIONS(1)    COMPANY(2)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>      <C>                <C>
Per Share..........................       $        $                  $
Total(3)...........................     $        $                  $
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1)  The Company has agreed to indemnify the several U.S. Underwriters and
     International Managers (collectively, the "Underwriters") against certain
     liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as
     amended.  See "Underwriting."
(2)  Before deducting expenses payable by the Company, estimated at
     $___________.
(3)  The Company has granted to the U.S. Underwriters a 30-day option to
     purchase up to ____________ additional shares of Common Stock solely to
     cover over-allotments, if any.  If such option is exercised in full, the
     total Price to the Public, Underwriting Discounts and Commissions, and
     Proceeds to the Company will be $            , $             and $
     , respectively.  See "Underwriting."

     The shares of Common Stock are being offered by the several Underwriters,
subject to prior sale, when, as and if delivered to and accepted by the
Underwriters, subject to various prior conditions, including their right to
reject any order in whole or in part.  It is expected that delivery of share
certificates will be made in New York, New York, on or about ____________, 1997.

     DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
           SECURITIES CORPORATION
                       MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
                                    SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
<PAGE>
 
               [ALTERNATE SECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTUS]

                 CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX CONSEQUENCES
                  TO NON-UNITED STATES HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK

     The following is a general summary of certain United States federal income
and estate tax consequences of the ownership, sale or other disposition of
Common Stock by a person (a "non-U.S. holder") that, for United States federal
income tax purposes, is a nonresident alien individual, a foreign corporation, a
foreign partnership or a foreign estate or trust, as such terms are defined in
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").  This summary does
not address all aspects of United States federal income and estate taxes that
may be relevant to non-U.S. holders in light of their particular facts and
circumstances or to certain types of non-U.S. holders that may be subject to
special treatment under United States federal income tax laws (for example,
individual non-U.S. holders who are former citizens or former long-term
residents of the United States, insurance companies, tax exempt organizations,
financial institutions or broker-dealers).  Furthermore, this summary does not
discuss any aspects of foreign, state or local taxation.  This summary is based
on current provisions of the Code, existing and proposed regulations promulgated
thereunder and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all of which
are subject to change, possibly retroactively.

DIVIDENDS

     Dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder of Common Stock will generally be
subject to withholding of United States federal income tax at a 30% rate or such
lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty, unless the
dividends are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business of
the non-U.S. holder within the United States.  To claim the benefit of an
applicable tax treaty rate, a non-U.S. holder may have to file with the Company
or its dividend paying agent an exemption or reduced treaty rate certificate or
letter in accordance with the terms of such treaty.

     Dividends that are effectively connected with such holder's conduct of a
trade or business in the United States are generally subject to tax on a net
income basis (that is, after allowance for applicable deductions) at rates
applicable to United States citizens, resident aliens and domestic United States
corporations, and are not generally subject to withholding.  Any such
effectively connected dividends received by a non-U.S. corporation may also,
under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional "branch profits tax" at
a 30% rate on such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax
treaty.

     Under current United States Treasury regulations, dividends paid to an
address outside the United States are presumed to be paid to a resident of such
country for purposes of the withholding discussed above (unless the payor has
knowledge to the contrary).  Under the current interpretation of United States
Treasury regulations, the same presumption applies for purposes of determining
the applicability of a tax treaty rate; however, under proposed United States
Treasury regulations not currently in effect, a non-U.S. holder of Common Stock
who wishes to claim the benefit of an applicable treaty rate would be required
to satisfy applicable certification and other requirements.  Certain
certification and disclosure requirements must be complied with in order to be
exempt from withholding under the effectively connected income exemption
discussed above.

     A non-U.S. holder of Common Stock that is eligible for a reduced rate of
United States tax withholding pursuant to an income tax treaty may obtain a
refund of any excess amounts currently withheld by filing an appropriate claim
for refund with the United States Internal Revenue Service.

DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK

     A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to United States federal
income tax in respect of gain recognized on the disposition of Common Stock
unless (i) the gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or
business of a non-U.S. holder in the United States, and if a tax treaty applies,
attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. holder,
(ii) in the case of a non-U.S. holder who is a nonresident alien individual and
holds Common Stock as a capital asset, such holder is present in the United
States for 183 or more days in the taxable year of the sale and either (a) such
<PAGE>
 
               [ALTERNATE SECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTUS]

individual's "tax home" for United States federal income tax purposes is in the
United States or (b) the gain is attributable to an office or other fixed place
of business maintained in the United States by such individual, or (iii) if the
Company is or has been a "U.S. real property holding corporation" for federal
income tax purposes at any time during the five-year period ending on the date
of the disposition or, if shorter, the period during which the non-U.S. holder
held the Common Stock and the non-U.S. holder holds, actually or constructively,
at any time during the applicable period, more than 5% of the Common Stock.
Although the Company owns some real estate assets, it is not now and does not
expect in the foreseeable future to be a United States real property holding
corporation for United States federal tax purposes.

FEDERAL ESTATE TAXES

     Common Stock owned or treated as owned by a holder who is neither a United
States citizen nor a United States resident (as specially defined for United
States federal estate tax purposes) at the time of death will be included in
such holder's gross estate for United States federal estate tax purposes, unless
an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.

UNITED STATES INFORMATION REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING TAX

     The Company must report annually to the Internal Revenue Service and to
each non-U.S. holder the amount of dividends paid to such holder and the tax
withheld with respect to such dividends.  These information reporting
requirements apply regardless of whether withholding is required.  Copies of the
information returns reporting such dividends and withholding may also be made
available to the tax authorities in the country in which the non-U.S. holder
resides under the provisions of an applicable income tax treaty.

     United States backup withholding (which generally is imposed at a 31% rate)
generally will not apply to (i) the payment of dividends paid on Common Stock to
a non-U.S. holder at an address outside the United States or (ii) the payment of
the proceeds of the sale of Common Stock to or through the foreign office of a
foreign broker.  In the case of the payment of proceeds from such a sale of
Common Stock through foreign offices of United States brokers, or foreign
brokers with certain types of relationships to the United States, however,
information reporting (but not backup withholding) is required with respect to
the payment unless the broker has documentary evidence in its files that the
owner is a non-U.S. holder (and has no actual knowledge to the contrary) and
certain other requirements are met or the holder otherwise establishes an
exemption.  The payment of the proceeds of a sale of shares of Common Stock to
or through a U.S. office of a broker is subject to information reporting and
possible backup withholding at a rate of 31% unless the owner certifies its non-
U.S. status under penalties of perjury or otherwise establishes an exemption.
Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a non-
U.S. holder will be allowed as a refund or a credit against such non-U.S.
holder's United States federal income tax liability, provided that the required
information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.

     The United States Treasury has recently issued proposed regulations
regarding the withholding and information reporting rules discussed above.  In
general, the proposed regulations do not alter the substantive withholding and
information reporting requirements but unify current certification procedures
and forms and clarify and modify reliance standards.  For instance, the proposed
regulations would, among other changes, eliminate the presumption under current
regulations with respect to dividends paid to addresses outside the United
States.  If finalized in their current form, the proposed regulations would
generally be effective for payments made after December 31, 1997, subject to
certain transition rules.

    THE FOREGOING SUMMARY IS INCLUDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY.
ACCORDINGLY, INVESTORS ARE URGED TO CONSULT WITH THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT
TO THE UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE OWNERSHIP AND
DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF THE LAWS OF
ANY STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN OR OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION.
<PAGE>
 
               [ALTERNATE SECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTUS]

================================================================================

     No dealer, salesperson or other person has been authorized to give any
information or to make any representations other than those contained in this
Prospectus, and, if given or made, such information or representations must not
be relied upon as having been authorized by the Company or the Underwriters.
This Prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any
offer to buy, the Common Stock in any jurisdiction where, or to any person to
whom, it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.  Neither the
delivery of this Prospectus nor any sale made hereunder shall, under any
circumstances, create any implication that there has not been any change in the
facts set forth in this Prospectus or in the affairs of the Company since the
date hereof.

                                _______________

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                                           PAGE
                                                                           ----
Prospectus Summary.....................................................
Risk Factors...........................................................
Offering Related Transactions..........................................
Use of Proceeds........................................................
Dividend Policy........................................................
Dilution...............................................................
Capitalization.........................................................
Selected Financial Data................................................
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition 
 and Results of Operations.............................................
Business...............................................................
Management.............................................................
Certain Transactions...................................................
Principal Stockholders.................................................
Description of Capital Stock...........................................
Shares Eligible for Future Sale........................................
Certain United States Federal Tax Consequences to Non-United 
 States Holders of Common Stock........................................
Underwriting...........................................................
Legal Matters..........................................................
Experts................................................................
Available Information..................................................
Index to Financial Statements
                           ________________________

  Until _____, 1997 (25 days after the date of this prospectus), all dealers
effecting transactions in the Common Stock, whether or not participating in this
distribution, may be required to deliver a Prospectus.  This is in addition to
the obligation of dealers to deliver a Prospectus when acting as Underwriters
and with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.

================================================================================


================================================================================


                               __________ Shares



                           [U.S. RENTALS, INC. LOGO]



                                 Common Stock



                                ______________

                                  PROSPECTUS
                                ______________



                         DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                            SECURITIES CORPORATION



                          MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL



                    SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED



                                     , 1997


================================================================================
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II

                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS


ITEM 13.  OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION

     The following table sets forth the expenses, other than underwriting
discounts and commissions, payable by the Company in connection with the
issuance and distribution of the Common Stock being registered.  All amounts are
estimates except the SEC registration fee, the NASD filing fee and the NYSE
listing fee.
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
  Securities and Exchange Commission registration fee            $62,728
  NASD filing fee                                                 21,200
  NYSE listing fee
  Accounting fees and expenses                                         *
  Legal fees and expenses                                              *
  Blue Sky qualification fees and expenses                             *
  Printing and engraving expenses                                      *
  Transfer agent and registrar fees                                    *
  D&O Insurance                                                        *
  Miscellaneous                                                        *
                                                                 -------


          Total                                                  $     *
                                                                 =======
</TABLE>

___________

*  To be completed by amendment.

ITEM 14.  INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

     The Company's Certificate of Incorporation provides that to the fullest
extent permitted by the DGCL, a director of the Company shall not be liable to
the Company or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary
duty as a director. Under the DGCL, liability of a director may not be limited
(i) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the Company or its
stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve
intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) in respect of
certain unlawful dividend payments or stock redemptions or repurchases and (iv)
for any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal
benefit. The effect of the provisions of the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation is to eliminate the rights of the Company and its stockholders
(through stockholders' derivative suits on behalf of the Company) to recover
monetary damages against a director for breach of the fiduciary duty of care as
a director (including breaches resulting from negligent or grossly negligent
behavior), except in the situations described in clauses (i) through (iv) above.
This provision does not limit or eliminate the rights of the Company or any
stockholder to seek nonmonetary relief such as an injunction or rescission in
the event of a breach of a director's duty of care. In addition, the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation provides that the Company shall indemnify its
directors, officers, employees and agents against losses incurred by any such
person by reason of the fact that such person was acting in such capacity.

     The Company has entered into agreements (the "Indemnification Agreements")
with each of the directors and officers of the Company pursuant to which the
Company has agreed to indemnify such director or officer from claims,
liabilities, damages, expenses, losses, costs, penalties or amounts paid in
settlement incurred by such director or officer in or arising out of such 
person's capacity as a director,

                                     II-1
<PAGE>
 
officer, employee and/or agent of the Company or any other corporation of which 
such person is a director or officer at the request of the Company to the 
maximum extent provided by applicable law.  In addition, such director or 
officer is entitled to an advance of expenses to the maximum extent authorized 
or permitted by law.

     To the extent that the Board of Directors or the stockholders of the 
Company wish to limit or repeal the ability of the Company to provide 
indemnification as set forth in the Company's Certificate of Incorporation, such
repeal or limitation may not be effective as to directors and officers who are 
parties to the Indemnification Agreements, because their rights to full 
protection would be contractually assured by the Indemnification Agreements.  It
is anticipated that similar contracts may be entered into, from time to time, 
with future directors of the Company.

     The Form of Underwriting Agreement filed as Exhibit 1.1 to this 
Registration Statement provides for indemnification by the Underwriters of the 
Company and its directors and officers for certain liabilities arising under the
Securities Act or otherwise.

ITEM 15.  RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

     Immediately prior to the closing of the Offerings, in connection with a 
reorganization of the Company, the Company intends to issue an aggregate of 
______________ shares of the Company's Common Stock to the Principal 
Stockholder.  See "Offering Related Transactions."  The Company intends to issue
the shares without registration under the Securities Act, in reliance upon the 
exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

ITEM 16.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)  EXHIBITS.

Exhibit Number      Description of Exhibit
- --------------      ----------------------

    1.1*       Form of Underwriting Agreement
    3.1*       Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company
    3.2*       Bylaws of the Company
    4.1*       Specimen Common Stock certificate
    5.1*       Opinion of O'Melveny & Myers LLP
   10.1*       Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Company and each of
               its executive officers and directors
   10.2*       Form of Agreement Regarding Pre-Offering Taxes
   10.3*       Form of Registration Rights Agreement
   10.4*       1997 Performance Award Plan
   10.5*       Form of Employment Agreement
   10.6        Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
   10.7        Privately Placed Note Agreement
   10.8*       Security Agreement
   10.9*       Form of Intercreditor Agreement
   10.10       Schedule to Forms of Note Agreement and Intercreditor Agreement
   23.1        Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP
   23.3*       Consent of O'Melveny & Myers LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1)
   24.1        Power of Attorney (contained on page II-4)
   27.1        Financial Data Schedule

- --------------------
*To be filed by amendment

                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 
(b)  FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

     All schedules are omitted because they are not required, are not 
applicable, or the information is included in the Financial Statements or notes 
thereto.

ITEM 17.  UNDERTAKINGS

          (a)  The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the 
     Underwriters at the closing specified in the Underwriting Agreement 
     certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required
     by the Underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

          (b)  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the 
     Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
     persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
     otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC 
     such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 
     Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.  If a claim for
     indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the 
     Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or 
     controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any 
     action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or 
     controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the 
     Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been 
     settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate 
     jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against 
     public policy as expressed in the Securities Act, and will be governed by 
     the final adjudication of such issue.

          (c)  The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that:

               (1)  For purposes of determining any liability under the 
          Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus 
          filed as part of a registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A 
          and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant
          to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be 
          deemed to be part of the registration statement as of the time it was 
          declared effective.

               (2)  For purposes of determining any liability under the 
          Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of 
          prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating
          to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities
          at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering 
          thereof.

                                     II-3
<PAGE>
 
                                  SIGNATURES

          Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of
Modesto, State of California, on December 13, 1996.


                                         U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                         By: /s/ John S. McKinney
                                            --------------------------- 
                                                   John S. McKinney
                                               Chief Financial Officer



                               POWER OF ATTORNEY

          We, the undersigned directors and officers of U.S. Rentals, Inc.
hereby constitute and appoint Richard D. Colburn, William F. Berry, John S.
McKinney, and Bernard E. Lyons or any of them, our true and lawful attorneys and
agents, to do any and all acts and things in our name and behalf in our
capacities as directors and officers and to execute any and all instruments for
us and in our names in the capacities indicated below, that said attorneys and
agents, or either of them, may deem necessary or advisable to enable said
corporation to comply with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any
rules, regulations, and requirements of the SEC, in connection with this
Registration Statement, including specifically, but not limited to, power and
authority to sign for us or any of us in our names and in the capacities
indicated below, any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to
this Registraton Statement, or any related registration statement that is to be
effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended; and we hereby ratify and confirm all that the said attorneys and
agents, or any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

                                     II-4 
<PAGE>
 
          Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as 
amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in
the capacities and on the dates indicated.

         Signature                      Title                       Date
         ---------                      -----                       ----


/s/ Richard D. Colburn        Chairman of the Board          December 13, 1996
- -------------------------- 
    Richard D. Colburn

/s/ William F. Berry          President, Chief Executive     December 13, 1996
- --------------------------    Officer and Director
    William F. Berry          

/s/ John S. McKinney          Vice President - Finance,      December 13, 1996
- --------------------------    Chief Financial Officer, and
    John S. McKinney          Director (chief financial   
                              officer and principal       
                              accounting officer)          
                              
/s/ Bernard E. Lyons          Director                       December 13, 1996
- -------------------------- 
    Bernard E. Lyons


                                     II-5

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.6
================================================================================


                          SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED
                                CREDIT AGREEMENT


                          DATED AS OF AUGUST 21, 1996


                                     AMONG


                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.,


                         BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST
                            AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION


                            AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT,
                              COLLATERAL AGENT AND
                         LETTER OF CREDIT ISSUING BANK


                                      AND


                              THE OTHER FINANCIAL
                           INSTITUTIONS PARTY HERETO

[LOGO FOR BANK OF AMERICA]
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                               -----------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Page
                                                             ----
<S>                                                          <C>
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS.................................................  1
    1.01   Certain Defined Terms............................  1
    1.02   Other Interpretive Provisions....................  23
    1.03   Accounting Principles............................  23

SECTION 2
THE CREDITS.................................................  24
    2.01   Amounts and Terms of Commitments.................  24
    2.02   Loan Accounts....................................  24
    2.03   Procedure for Borrowing..........................  25
    2.04   Conversion and Continuation Elections............  25
    2.05   Voluntary Termination or Reduction of
           Commitments......................................  27
    2.06   Optional Prepayments.............................  27
    2.07   Mandatory Prepayments of Loans; Cash
           Collateralization of L/C Obligations.............  27
    2.08   Repayment........................................  28
    2.09   Interest.........................................  28
    2.10   Fees.............................................  28
           (a)  Arrangement, Agency Fees....................  28
           (b)  Commitment Fees.............................  28
    2.11   Computation of Fees and Interest.................  29
    2.12   Payments by the Borrower.........................  29
    2.13   Payments by the Banks to the
           Administrative Agent.............................  30
    2.14   Sharing of Payments, Etc.........................  31
    2.15   Security.........................................  31

SECTION 3
THE LETTERS OF CREDIT.......................................  31
    3.01   The Letter of - Credit Subfacility...............  31
    3.02   Issuance, Amendment and Renewal of Letters
           of Credit........................................  33
    3.03   Existing BofA Letters of Credit; Risk
           Participations, Drawings and Reimbursements......  35
</TABLE> 

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>

<S>                                                           <C>
    3.04   Repayment of Participations......................  37
    3.05   Role of the Issuing Bank.........................  38
    3.06   Obligations Absolute.............................  39
    3.07   Cash Collateral Pledge...........................  40
    3.08   Letter of Credit Fees............................  40
    3.09   Uniform Customs and Practice.....................  41

SECTION 4
TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY......................  41
    4.01   Taxes............................................  41
    4.02   Illegality.......................................  42
    4.03   Increased Costs and Reduction of Return..........  43
    4.04   Funding Losses...................................  43
    4.05   Inability to Determine Rates.....................  44
    4.06   Survival.........................................  44

SECTION 5
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT........................................  45
    5.01   Conditions of Initial Credit Extension...........  45
           (a)  Credit Agreement and Notes..................  45
           (b)  Resolutions; Incumbency.....................  45
           (c)  Organization Documents; Good Standing.......  45
           (d)  Collateral Documents........................  45
           (e)  Legal Opinion...............................  46
           (f)  Payment of Fees.............................  46
           (g)  Certificate.................................  46
           (h)  Subordination Agreements....................  46
           (i)  Other Documents.............................  46
    5.02   Conditions to All Credit Extensions..............  46
           (a)  Notice, Application.........................  46
           (b)  Continuation of Representations and
                Warranties..................................  47
           (c)  No Existing Default.........................  47

SECTION 6
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES..............................  47
    6.01   Corporate Existence and Power....................  47
    6.02   Corporate Authorization; No Contravention........  47
    6.03   Governmental Authorization.......................  48
    6.04   Binding Effect...................................  48
    6.05   Litigation.......................................  48
    6.06   No Default.......................................  48
    6.07   ERISA Compliance.................................  48
</TABLE> 

                                      -ii-
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>

<S>                                                           <C>
    6.08   Use of Proceeds; Margin Regulations..............  49
    6.09   Title to Properties..............................  49
    6.10   Taxes............................................  49
    6.11   Financial Condition..............................  50
    6.12   Environmental Matters............................  50
    6.13   Regulated Entities...............................  50
    6.14   No Burdensome Restrictions.......................  50
    6.15   Copyrights, Patents, Trademarks and
           Licenses, etc....................................  50
    6.16   Subsidiaries.....................................  51
    6.17   Insurance........................................  51
    6.18   Collateral Documents.............................  51
    6.19   Full Disclosure..................................  51

SECTION 7
AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS.......................................  51
    7.01   Financial Statements.............................  52
    7.02   Certificates; Other Information..................  52
    7.03   Notices..........................................  52
    7.04   Preservation of Corporate Existence, Etc.........  53
    7.05   Maintenance of Property..........................  54
    7.06   Insurance........................................  54
    7.07   Payment of Obligations...........................  54
    7.08   Compliance with Laws.............................  54
    7.09   Compliance with ERISA............................  54
    7.10   Inspection of Property and Books and Records.....  54
    7.11   Environmental Laws...............................  55
    7.12   Use of Proceeds..................................  55
    7.13   Collateral.......................................  55

SECTION 8
NEGATIVE COVENANTS..........................................  55
    8.01   Limitation on Liens..............................  56
    8.02   Disposition of Assets............................  57
    8.03   Consolidations and Mergers.......................  57
    8.04   Loans and Investments............................  57
    8.05   Limitation on Indebtedness.......................  58
    8.06   Transactions with Affiliates.....................  59
    8.07   Use of Proceeds..................................  59
    8.08   Joint Ventures...................................  59
    8.09   Lease Obligations................................  59
    8.10   Restricted Payments..............................  59
</TABLE> 

                                     -iii-
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>

<S>                                                           <C>
    8.11   ERISA............................................  60
    8.12   Change in Business...............................  60
    8.13   Asset Coverage Ratio.............................  60
    8.14   Consolidated Tangible Net Worth..................  60
    8.15   Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio......................  60
    8.16   Leverage Ratio...................................  61
    8.17   Accounting Changes...............................  61

SECTION 9
EVENTS OF DEFAULT...........................................  61
    9.01   Event of Default.................................  61
           (a)  Non-Payment.................................  61
           (b)  Representation or Warranty..................  61
           (c)  Specific Defaults...........................  61
           (d)  Other Defaults..............................  61
           (e)  Cross-Default...............................  61
           (f)  Insolvency; Voluntary Proceedings...........  62
           (g)  Involuntary Proceedings.....................  62
           (h)  ERISA.......................................  62
           (i)  Monetary Judgments..........................  62
           (j)  Non-Monetary Judgments......................  63
           (k)  Collateral..................................  63
           (l)  Adverse Change..............................  63
           (m)  Ownership by R.D. Colburn...................  63
    9.02   Remedies.........................................  63
    9.03   Rights Not Exclusive.............................  64


SECTION 10
THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND
THE COLLATERAL AGENT........................................  64
    10.01   Appointment and Authorization...................  64
    10.02   Delegation of Duties............................  65
    10.03   Liability of Administrative Agent and the
            Collateral Agent................................  65
    10.04   Reliance by Administrative Agent and the
            Collateral Agent................................  65
    10.05   Notice of Default...............................  66
    10.06   Credit Decision.................................  66
    10.07   Indemnification of Administrative Agent and
            the Collateral Agent............................  67
</TABLE> 

                                      -iv-
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>

<S>                                                           <C>
    10.08   Administrative Agent and the Collateral
            Agent in Individual Capacity....................  68
    10.09   Successor Administrative Agent and the
            Collateral Agent................................  68
    10.10   Withholding Tax.................................  69
    10.11   Collateral Matters..............................  70

SECTION 11
MISCELLANEOUS...............................................  71
    11.01   Amendments and Waivers..........................  71
    11.02   Notices.........................................  72
    11.03   No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies..................  73
    11.04   Costs and Expenses..............................  73
    11.05   Borrower Indemnification........................  74
    11.06   Payments Set Aside..............................  74
    11.07   Successors and Assigns..........................  75
    11.08   Assignments, Participations, etc................  75
    11.09   Confidentiality.................................  77
    11.10   Set-off.........................................  77
    11.11   Automatic Debits of Fees........................  78
    11.12   Notification of Addresses, Lending Offices,
            Etc.............................................  78
    11.13   Counterparts....................................  78
    11.14   Severability....................................  78
    11.15   No Third Parties Benefited......................  78
    11.16   Governing Law and Jurisdiction..................  79
    11.17   Waiver of Jury Trial............................  79
    11.18   Entire Agreement................................  79
    11.19   Amendment and Restatement of Existing
            Agreement.......................................  80
</TABLE>

                                      -v-
<PAGE>

                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.6
 
                 SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
                 --------------------------------------------



     This SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT is entered into as of
August 21, 1996 among U.S. RENTALS, INC., a California corporation (the
"Borrower"), the several financial institutions from time to time party to this
- ---------                                                                      
Agreement (collectively, the "Banks"; individually, a "Bank"), Bank of America
                              -----                                           
National Trust and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent for the Banks
and Collateral Agent, and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association
as Issuing Bank, and amends and restates that certain First Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement dated as of August 11, 1995, as amended, between the Borrower
and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association ("BofA"), which
amended and restated the letter loan agreement dated February 18, 1992 between
the Borrower and BofA (the "Existing Agreement").
                            ------------------   


                                    RECITAL
                                    -------


     The parties hereto desire to amend and restate the Existing Agreement on
the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.  The Obligations under
this Agreement will be secured by the Collateral Documents.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and
covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:


                                   SECTION 1

                                  DEFINITIONS
                                  -----------

     1.01  Certain Defined Terms.  The following terms have the following
           ---------------------
meanings:

           "Acquisition" means any transaction or series of related transactions
            -----------                                                         
     for the purpose of or resulting, directly or indirectly, in (a) the
     acquisition of all or 

                                      -1-
<PAGE>
 
     substantially all of the assets of a Person, or of any business or division
     of a Person, (b) the acquisition of in excess of 50% of the capital stock,
     partnership interests, membership interests or equity of any Person, or
     otherwise causing any Person to become a Subsidiary, or (c) a merger or
     consolidation or any other combination with another Person (other than a
     Person that is a Subsidiary) provided that the Borrower or the Subsidiary
     is the surviving entity.

           "Administrative Agent" means BofA in its capacity as agent for the
            --------------------                                             
     Banks hereunder, and any successor agent arising under Section 10.09.

           "Administrative Agent's Payment Office" means the address for
            -------------------------------------                       
     payments set forth on Schedule 11.02 or such other address as the
                           --------------                             
     Administrative Agent may from time to time specify.

           "Affiliate" means, as to any Person, any other Person which, directly
            ---------                                                           
     or indirectly, is in control of, is controlled by, or is under common
     control with, such Person.  A Person shall be deemed to control another
     Person if the controlling Person possesses, directly or indirectly, the
     power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of
     the other Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities,
     membership interests, by contract, or otherwise.

           "Agent-Related Persons" means BofA and any successor administrative
            ---------------------                                             
     agent and collateral agent arising under Section 10.09, together with their
     respective Affiliates (including, in the case of BofA, the Arranger), and
     the officers, directors, employees, agents and attorneys-in-fact of such
     Persons and Affiliates.

           "Agreement" means this Credit Agreement.
            ---------                              

           "Applicable Amount" means, for any period, the per annum interest
            -----------------                                               
     rates, fees and commissions set forth below under Applicable Amount
     opposite the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, as set forth in the certificate
     delivered on the Closing Date pursuant to Section 5.01(g) and, thereafter,
     in the most recent Compliance Certificate received by the 

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
     Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 7.02(b); provided, however, that
                                                       --------  -------
     until the Administrative Agent's receipt of the Compliance Certificate for
     fiscal quarter ending March 31, 1997, such interest rates, fees and
     commissions shall not be less than those indicated for Level II under the
     Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio:

     provided that if the Administrative Agent does not receive a Compliance
     --------                                                               
     Certificate within the time allowed in Section 7.02(b), then, commencing on
     the date such Compliance Certificate was due until (but only until) such
     Compliance Certificate is received, the Applicable Amount shall be based on
     level IV under the heading "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio."  From and after
     the date such Compliance Certificate is thereafter received, the Applicable
     Amount shall, subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, be as
     determined from such Compliance Certificate.

           "Arranger" means BA Securities, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
            --------                                                    

           "Assignee" has the meaning specified in Section 11.08(a).
            --------                                                

           "Attorney Costs" means and includes all fees and disbursements of any
            --------------                                                      
     law firm or other external counsel, the allocated cost of internal legal
     services and all disbursements of internal counsel.

           "Banks" means the institutions specified in the introductory clause
            -----                                                             
     hereto.

           "Bankruptcy Code" means the Federal Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1978 (11
            ---------------                                                     
     U.S.C. (S)101, et seq.).
                    -------  

           "Base Rate" means, for any day, the higher of:
            ---------                                    
     (a) 0.50% per annum above the latest Federal Funds Rate; and (b) the rate
     of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time
     by BofA in San Francisco, California, as its "reference rate." (The
     "reference rate" is a rate set by BofA based upon various factors including
     BofA's costs and desired return, general economic conditions and other
     factors, and is used as a reference point for 

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
     pricing some loans, which may be priced at, above, or below such announced
     rate.) Any change in the reference rate announced by BofA shall take effect
     at the opening of business on the day specified in the public announcement
     of such change.

           "Base Rate Loan" means a Loan that bears interest based on the Base
            --------------                                                    
     Rate.

           "BofA" means Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association,
            ----                                                               
     a national banking association.

           "Book Value of Consolidated Total Assets" means Consolidated Total
            ---------------------------------------                          
     Assets less interest bearing and noninterest bearing notes receivable from
     Affiliates to the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

           "Borrowing" means a borrowing hereunder consisting of Loans of the
            ---------                                                        
     same Type made to the Borrower on the same day by the Banks under Section
     2, and, other than in the case of Base Rate Loans, having the same Interest
     Period.

           "Borrowing Date" means any date on which a Borrowing occurs under
            --------------                                                  
     Section 2.03.

           "Business Day" means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other
            ------------                                                      
     day on which commercial banks in New York City or San Francisco are
     authorized or required by law to close and, if the applicable Business Day
     relates to any Offshore Rate Loan, means such a day on which dealings are
     carried on in the applicable offshore dollar interbank market.

           "Capital Adequacy Regulation" means any guideline, request or
            ---------------------------                                 
     directive of any central bank or other Governmental Authority, or any other
     law, rule or regulation, whether or not having the force of law, in each
     case, regarding capital adequacy of any bank or of any corporation
     controlling a bank.

           "Capitalized Lease" means any lease where the obligation of the
            -----------------                                             
     Borrower is required to be capitalized on 

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
     a consolidated balance sheet of the lessee and its subsidiaries in
     accordance with GAAP.

           "Capitalized Rentals" of any Person means as of the date of any
            -------------------                                           
     determination thereof the amount at which the aggregate Rentals due and to
     become due under all Capitalized Leases under which such Person is a lessee
     would be reflected as a liability on a consolidated balance sheet of such
     Person.

           "Cash Collateralize" means to pledge and deposit with or deliver to
            ------------------                                                
     the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the
     Collateral Agent, the Issuing Bank and the Banks, as additional collateral
     for the L/C Obligations, cash or deposit account balances in an amount
     equal to the Effective Amount of the L/C Obligations pursuant to
     documentation in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative
     Agent and the Issuing Bank (which documents are hereby consented to by the
     Banks).

           Derivatives of such term shall have corresponding meaning. The
     Borrower hereby grants the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the
     Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank and the Banks, a security interest
     in all such cash and deposit account balances. Cash collateral shall be
     maintained in blocked, non-interest bearing deposit accounts at BofA.

           "CD Rate" means, for any Interest Period with respect to CD Rate
            -------                                                        
     Loans comprising part of the same Borrowing, the rate of interest (rounded
     upward to the next 1/100th of 1%) determined as follows:

           CD Rate = Certificate of Deposit Rate  +  Assessment
                     ---------------------------               
                     1.00 - Reserve Percentage         Rate

           Where:

                     "Assessment Rate" means, for any day of such Interest
                      ---------------                                     
           Period, the rate determined by the Administrative Agent as equal to
           the annual assessment rate in effect on such day payable to the FDIC
           by a member of the Bank Insurance Fund that is classified as
           adequately capitalized and within supervisory subgroup "All (or a
           comparable successor assessment 

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
           risk classification within the meaning of 12 C.F.R. (S)327.3) for
           insuring time deposits at offices of such member in the United
           States; or, in the event that the FDIC shall at any time hereafter
           cease to assess time deposits based upon such classifications or
           successor classifications, equal to the maximum annual assessment
           rate in effect on such day that is payable to the FDIC by commercial
           banks (whether or not applicable to any particular Bank) for insuring
           time deposits at offices of such banks in the United States.

                     "Certificate of Deposit Rate" means the rate of interest
                      ---------------------------                            
           per annum determined by the Administrative Agent to be the arithmetic
           mean (rounded upward to the next 1/100th of 1%) of the rates notified
           to the Administrative Agent as the rates of interest bid by two or
           more certificate of deposit dealers of recognized standing selected
           by the Administrative Agent for the purchase at face value of dollar
           certificates of deposit issued by major United States banks, for a
           maturity comparable to such Interest Period and in the approximate
           amount of the CD Rate Loans to be made, at the time selected by the
           Administrative Agent on the first day of such Interest Period.

                     "Reserve Percentage" means, for any day of such Interest
                      ------------------                                     
           Period, the maximum reserve percentage (expressed as a decimal,
           rounded upward to the next 1/100th of l%), as determined by the
           Administrative Agent, in effect on such day (including any ordinary,
           marginal, emergency, supplemental, special and other reserve
           percentages), prescribed by the FRB for determining the maximum
           reserves to be maintained by member banks of the Federal Reserve
           System with deposits exceeding $1,000,000,000 for new non-personal
           time deposits for a period comparable to such Interest Period and in
           an amount of $100,000 or more.

           The CD Rate shall be adjusted, as to all CD Rate Loans then
     outstanding, automatically as of the effective date of any change in the
     Assessment Rate or the Reserve Percentage.

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
           "CD Rate Loan" means a Loan that bears interest based on the CD Rate.
            ------------                                                        

           "CED Borrowings" means all extensions of credit made by the Borrower
            --------------                                                     
     or any of its Subsidiaries to Consolidated Electrical Distributors, Inc.

           "Closing Date" means the date on which all conditions precedent set
            ------------                                                      
     forth in Section 5.01 are satisfied or waived by all Banks (or, in the case
     of Section 5.01(f), waived by the Person entitled to receive such payment).

           "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and regulations
            ----                                                          
     promulgated thereunder.

           "Collateral" means all property and interests in property and
            ----------                                                  
     proceeds thereof now owned or hereafter acquired in or upon which a Lien
     now or hereafter exists in favor of the Collateral Agent on behalf of the
     Secured Parties, whether under any Collateral Document, this Agreement or
     under any other documents executed by any such Person and delivered to the
     Collateral Agent.

           "Collateral Agent" means BofA in its capacity as collateral agent for
            ----------------                                                    
     the Secured Parties, and any successor collateral agent arising under
     Section 10.09.

           "Collateral Documents" means the Intercreditor Agreement, the
            --------------------                                        
     Security Agreement, and all other security agreements, patent and trademark
     assignments, lease assignments, guarantees and other similar agreements
     between any Person and/or in favor of the Collateral Agent now or hereafter
     delivered to the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties
     pursuant to or in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby, and
     all financing statements (or comparable documents now or hereafter filed in
     accordance with the Uniform Commercial Code or comparable law) as debtor in
     favor of the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, all
     in form and substance satisfactory to the Collateral Agent, and (ii) any
     amendments, supplements, modifications, renewals, replacements,
     consolidations, substitutions and extensions of any of the foregoing.

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
           "Commitment", as to each Bank, has the meaning specified in Section
            ----------                                                        
     2.01.

           "Compliance Certificate" means a certificate substantially in the
            ----------------------                                          
     form of Exhibit C.
             --------- 

           "Consolidated Fixed Charges" for any period means on a consolidated
            --------------------------                                        
     basis the sum of (a) all Rentals (other than Rentals on Capitalized Leases)
     paid during such period by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries pursuant to
     Long-Term Leases, and (b) all Interest Expense on all Indebtedness
     (including the interest component of Rentals on Capitalized Leases) of the
     Borrower and its Subsidiaries paid during such period.

           "Consolidated Funded Debt" means, at any date, all indebtedness for
            ------------------------                                          
     borrowed money of Borrower and its Subsidiaries, drawn but unreimbursed
     drawings under all letters of credit and surety bonds and the current
     portion of mandatory redeemable preferred stock and Capitalized Leases.

           "Consolidated Net Income" for any period means the gross revenues of
            -----------------------                                            
     the Borrower and its Subsidiaries for such period less all expenses and
     other proper charges (including taxes on income), determined on a
     consolidated basis after eliminating earnings or losses attributable to
     outstanding Minority Interest, but excluding in any event:

                (a) any gains or losses on the sale or other disposition of
           Investments or fixed or capital assets, and any taxes on such
           excluded gains and any tax deductions or credits on account of any
           such excluded losses;

                (b) the proceeds of any life insurance policy;

                (c) net earnings and losses of any Subsidiary accrued prior to
           the date it became a Subsidiary;

                (d) net earnings and losses of any corporation, substantially
           all the assets of which have been acquired in any manner by the
           Borrower or any 

                                      -8-
<PAGE>
 
           Subsidiary, realized by such corporation prior to the date of such
           acquisition;

                (e) net earnings and losses of any corporation with which the
           Borrower or a Subsidiary shall have consolidated or which shall have
           merged into or with the Borrower or a Subsidiary prior to the date of
           such consolidation or merger;

                (f) net earnings of any business entity in which the Borrower or
           any Subsidiary has an ownership interest unless such net earnings
           shall have actually been received by the Borrower or such Subsidiary
           in the form of cash distributions;

                (g) any portion of the net earnings of any Subsidiary which for
           any reason is unavailable for payment of dividends to the Borrower or
           any other Subsidiary;

                (h) earnings resulting from any reappraisal, revaluation or
           write-up of assets;

                (i) any deferred or other credit representing any excess of the
           equity in any Subsidiary at the date of acquisition thereof over the
           amount invested in such Subsidiary;

                (j) any gain arising from the acquisition of any Securities of
           the Borrower or any Subsidiary;

                (k) any reversal of any contingency reserve, except to the
           extent that provision for such contingency reserve shall have been
           made from income arising during such period; and

                (l) any other extraordinary gain or loss.

           "Consolidated Net Income Available for Fixed Charges" for any period
            ---------------------------------------------------                
     means the sum of (a) Consolidated Net Income during such period plus (to
                                                                     ----    
     the extent deducted in determining Consolidated Net Income), (b) all
     provisions for any Federal, state or other income taxes made by the
     

                                      -9-
<PAGE>
 
     Borrower and its Subsidiaries during such period and (c) Consolidated Fixed
     Charges during such period.

           "Consolidated Secured Indebtedness" means all Indebtedness of the
            ---------------------------------                               
     Borrower and its Subsidiaries which is secured by a mortgage, trust deed,
     deed of trust, deed to secure debt, security agreement, pledge, conditional
     sale or other title retention agreement or other like agreement granting or
     conveying a Lien upon property, whether real, personal or mixed, of the
     Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

           "Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" means as of the date of any
            -------------------------------                             
     determination thereof, the arithmetic sum of:

                (a) the amount of the capital stock accounts (net of treasury
           stock, at cost) plus (or minus in the case of deficit) the surplus
                           ----     -----                                    
           and retained earnings of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries,

           MINUS

                (b) the net book value, after deducting any reserves applicable
           thereto, of all items of the following character which are included
           in the assets of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, to wit:

                     (i)  the incremental increase in an asset resulting from
                any reappraisal, revaluation or write-up of assets, provided
                                                                    --------
                that the incremental increase of any such reappraisal,
                revaluation or write-up of assets need not be deducted in any
                computation of "Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" if the
                Borrower's independent public accountants shall have concurred
                in such reappraisal, revaluation or write-up; and

                     (ii) goodwill, patents, patent applications, permits,
                trademarks, trade names, copyrights, licenses, franchises,
                experimental expense, organizational expense, unamortized debt
                discount and expense, the excess of costs of shares acquired
                over book value of related assets 

                                      -10-
<PAGE>
 
                and such other assets are properly classified as "intangible
                assets" in accordance with GAAP, in any such case acquired after
                December 31, 1995.

           all determined in accordance with GAAP.

           "Consolidated Total Assets" means as of the date of any determination
            -------------------------                                           
     thereof total assets of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries determined on a
     consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.

           "Contingent Obligation" means, as to any Person, any direct or
            ---------------------                                        
     indirect liability of that Person, whether or not contingent, with or
     without recourse, (a) with respect to any Indebtedness, lease, dividend,
     letter of credit or other obligation (the "primary obligations") of another
     Person (the "primary obligor"), including any obligation of that Person (i)
     to purchase, repurchase or otherwise acquire such primary obligations or
     any security therefor, (ii) to advance or provide funds for the payment or
     discharge of any such primary obligation, or to maintain working capital or
     equity capital of the primary obligor or otherwise to maintain the net
     worth or solvency or any balance sheet item, level of income or financial
     condition of the primary obligor, (iii) to purchase property, securities or
     services primarily for the purpose of assuring the owner of any such
     primary obligation of the ability of the primary obligor to make payment of
     such primary obligation, or (iv) otherwise to assure or hold harmless the
     holder of any such primary obligation against loss in respect thereof
     (each, a "Guaranty Obligation"); (b) with respect to any Surety Instrument
               -------------------                                             
     issued for the account of that Person or as to which that Person is
     otherwise liable for reimbursement of drawings or payments; (c) to purchase
     any materials, supplies or other property from, or to obtain the services
     of, another Person if the relevant contract or other related document or
     obligation requires that payment for such materials, supplies or other
     property, or for such services, shall be made regardless of whether
     delivery of such materials, supplies or other property is ever made or
     tendered, or such services are ever performed or tendered, or (d) in
     respect of any Swap Contract.

                                      -11-
<PAGE>
 
           "Contractual Obligation" means, as to any Person, any provision of
            ----------------------                                           
     any security issued by such Person or of any agreement, undertaking,
     contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust or other instrument, document
     or agreement to which such Person is a party or by which it or any of its
     property is bound.

           "Conversion/Continuation Date" means any date on which, under Section
            ----------------------------                                        
     2.04, the Borrower (a) converts Loans of one Type to another Type, or (b)
     continues as Loans of the same Type, but with a new Interest Period, Loans
     having Interest Periods expiring on such date.

           "Default" means any event or circumstance which, with the giving of
            -------                                                           
     notice, the lapse of time, or both, would (if not cured or otherwise
     remedied during such time) constitute an Event of Default.

           "Dollars", "dollars" and "$" each mean lawful money of the United
            -------    -------       -
     States.

           "EII Indebtedness" means all unsecured extensions of credit made by
            ----------------                                                  
     Edmondson International, Inc. to the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

           "Effective Amount" means (i) with respect to any Loans on any date,
            ----------------                                                  
     the aggregate outstanding principal amount thereof after giving effect to
     any Borrowings and prepayments or repayments of Loans occurring on such
     date; and (ii) with respect to any outstanding L/C Obligations on any date,
     the amount of such L/C Obligations on such date after giving effect to any
     Issuances of Letters of Credit occurring on such date and any other changes
     in the aggregate amount of the L/C Obligations as of such date, including
     as a result of any reimbursements of outstanding unpaid drawings under any
     Letters of Credit or any reductions in the maximum amount available for
     drawing under Letters of Credit taking effect on such date.

           "Eligible Assignee" means (a) a commercial bank organized under the
            -----------------                                                 
     laws of the United States, or any state thereof, and having a combined
     capital and surplus of at least $100,000,000; (b) a commercial bank
     organized under 

                                      -12-
<PAGE>
 
     the laws of any other country which is a member of the Organization for
     Economic Cooperation and Development (the "OECD"), or a political
     subdivision of any such country, and having a combined capital and surplus
     of at least $100,000,000, provided that such bank is acting through a
     branch or agency located in the United States; and (c) a Person that is
     primarily engaged in the business of commercial banking and that is (i) a
     Subsidiary of a Bank, (ii) a Subsidiary of a Person of which a Bank is a
     Subsidiary, or (iii) a Person of which a Bank is a Subsidiary.

           "Environmental Claims" means all claims, however asserted, by any
            --------------------                                            
     Governmental Authority or other Person alleging potential liability or
     responsibility for violation of any Environmental Law, or for release or
     injury to the environment.

           "Environmental Laws" means all federal, state or local laws,
            ------------------                                         
     statutes, common law duties, rules, regulations, ordinances and codes,
     together with all administrative orders, directed duties, requests,
     licenses, authorizations and permits of, and agreements with, any
     Governmental Authorities, in each case relating to environmental, health,
     safety and land use matters.

           "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974,
            -----                                                            
     and regulations promulgated thereunder.

           "ERISA Affiliate" means any trade or business (whether or not
            ---------------                                             
     incorporated) under common control with the Borrower within the meaning of
     Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code (and Sections 414(m) and (o) of the Code
     for purposes of provisions relating to Section 412 of the Code).

           "ERISA Event" means (a) a Reportable Event with respect to a Pension
            -----------                                                        
     Plan; (b) a withdrawal by the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate from a
     Pension Plan subject to Section 4063 of ERISA during a plan year in, which
     it was a substantial employer (as defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA)
     or a cessation of operations which is treated as such a withdrawal under
     Section 4062(e) of ERISA; (c) a complete or partial withdrawal by the
     Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate 

                                      -13-
<PAGE>
 
     from a Multiemployer Plan or notification that a Multiemployer Plan is in
     reorganization; (d) the filing of a notice of intent to terminate, the
     treatment of a Plan amendment as a termination under Section 4041 or 4041A
     of ERISA, or the commencement of proceedings by the PBGC to terminate a
     Pension Plan or Multiemployer Plan; (e) an event or condition which might
     reasonably be expected to constitute grounds under Section 4042 of ERISA
     for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any
     Pension Plan or Multiemployer Plan; or (f) the imposition of any liability
     under Title IV of ERISA, other than PBGC premiums due but not delinquent
     under Section 4007 of ERISA, upon the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate.

           "Event of Default" means any of the events or circumstances specified
            ----------------                                                    
     in Section 9.01.

           "Existing BofA Letters of Credit" means the letters of credit
            -------------------------------                             
     described in Schedule 3.03.
                  ------------- 

           "FDIC" means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and any
            ----                                                          
     Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions.

           "Federal Funds Rate" means, for any day, the rate set forth in the
            ------------------                                               
     weekly statistical release designated as H.15(519), or any successor
     publication, published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (including
     any such successor, "H.15(519)") on the preceding Business Day opposite the
     caption "Federal Funds (Effective)"; or, if for any relevant day such rate
     is not so published on any such preceding Business Day, the rate for such
     day will be the arithmetic mean as determined by the Administrative Agent
     of the rates for the last transaction in overnight Federal funds arranged
     prior to 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on that day by each of three
     leading brokers of Federal funds transactions in New York City selected by
     the Administrative Agent.

           "Fee Letters" has the meaning specified in Section 2.10(a).
            -----------                                               

                                      -14-
<PAGE>
 
           "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" means, as of the end of any fiscal
            ---------------------------                                    
     quarter, the ratio of Consolidated Net Income Available for Fixed Charges
     for the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on such date to
     Consolidated Fixed Charges for such four fiscal quarter period.

           "FRB" means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and
            ---                                                                 
     any Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions.

           "Further Taxes" means any and all present or future taxes, levies,
            -------------                                                    
     assessments, imposts, duties, deductions, fees, withholdings or similar
     charges (including, without limitation, net income taxes and franchise
     taxes), and all liabilities with respect thereto, imposed by any
     jurisdiction on account of amounts payable or paid pursuant to Section
     4.01.

           "GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles set forth from
            ----                                                               
     time to time in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting
     Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
     and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards
     Board (or agencies with similar functions of comparable stature and
     authority within the U.S. accounting profession), which are applicable to
     the circumstances as of the Closing Date.

           "Governmental Authority" means any nation or government, any state or
            ----------------------                                              
     other political subdivision thereof, any central bank (or similar monetary
     or regulatory authority) thereof, any entity exercising executive,
     legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or
     pertaining to government, and any corporation or other entity owned or
     controlled, through stock or capital ownership or otherwise, by any of the
     foregoing.

           "Guaranty Obligation" has the meaning specified in the definition of
            -------------------                                                
     "Contingent Obligation."

           "Indebtedness" of any Person means, without duplication, (a) all
            ------------                                                   
     indebtedness for borrowed money; (b) 

                                      -15-
<PAGE>
 
     all obligations issued, undertaken or assumed as the deferred purchase
     price of property or services (other than trade payables entered into in
     the ordinary course of business on ordinary terms); (c) all non-contingent
     reimbursement or payment obligations with respect to Surety Instruments;
     (d) all obligations evidenced by notes, bonds, debentures or similar
     instruments, including obligations so evidenced incurred in connection with
     the acquisition of property, assets or businesses; (e) all indebtedness
     created or arising under any conditional sale or other title retention
     agreement, or incurred as financing, in either case with respect to
     property acquired by the Person (even though the rights and remedies of the
     seller or bank under such agreement in the event of default are limited to
     repossession or sale of such property); (f) all obligations with respect to
     Capitalized Leases; (g) all net obligations with respect to Swap Contracts;
     (h) all indebtedness referred to in clauses (a) through (g) above secured
     by (or for which the holder of such Indebtedness has an existing right,
     contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any Lien upon or in property
     (including accounts and contracts rights) owned by such Person, even though
     such Person has not assumed or become liable for the payment of such
     Indebtedness; and (i) all Guaranty Obligations in respect of indebtedness
     or obligations of others of the kinds referred to in clauses (a) through
     (g) above.

           "Indemnified Liabilities" has the meaning specified in Section 11.05.
            -----------------------                                             

           "Indemnified Person" has the meaning specified in Section 11.05.
            ------------------                                             

           "Independent Auditor" has the meaning specified in Section 7.01(a).
            -------------------                                               

           "Insolvency Proceeding" means, with respect to any Person, (a) any
            ---------------------                                            
     case, action or proceeding with respect to such Person before any court or
     other Governmental Authority relating to bankruptcy, reorganization,
     insolvency, liquidation, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or relief of
     debtors, or (b) any general assignment for the benefit of creditors,
     composition, marshalling of assets for creditors, 

                                      -16-
<PAGE>
 
     or other, similar arrangement in respect of its creditors generally or any
     substantial portion of its creditors; undertaken under U.S. Federal, state
     or foreign law, including the Bankruptcy Code.

           "Intercreditor Agreement" means the Intercreditor Agreement dated as
            -----------------------                                            
     of August 15, 1995, as amended, among the Collateral Agent, BofA, the
     Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance
     Company, Principal Mutual Life Insurance Company, Phoenix Home Life Mutual
     Insurance Company, Phoenix American Life Insurance Company, and Alexander
     Hamilton Life Insurance Company of America, and other parties becoming a
     party thereto from time to time, substantially in the form of Exhibit E
                                                                   ---------
     hereto, either as originally executed or as the same may, from time to
     time, be supplemented, modified, amended, renewed, extended or supplanted.

           "Interest Expense" of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries for any
            ----------------                                              
     period means all interest and all amortization of debt discount and expense
     on any particular Indebtedness (including, without limitation, payment-in-
     kind, zero coupon and other like Securities) for which such calculations
     are being made.

           "Interest Payment Date" means, as to any Loan other than a Base Rate
            ---------------------                                              
     Loan, the last day of each Interest Period applicable to such Loan and, as
     to any Base Rate Loan, the last Business Day of each calendar quarter and
     each date such CD Rate Loan or Offshore Rate Loan is converted into another
     Type of Loan; provided, however, that if any Interest Period for a CD Rate
                   --------  -------                                           
     Loan or Offshore Rate Loan exceeds 90 days or three months, respectively,
     the date that falls 90 days or three months, respectively, after the
     beginning of such Interest Period and after each Interest Payment Date
     thereafter is also an Interest Payment Date.

           "Interest Period" means, (a) as to any Offshore Rate Loan, the period
            ---------------                                                     
     commencing on the Borrowing Date of such Loan or on the
     Conversion/Continuation Date on which the Loan is converted into or
     continued as an Offshore Rate Loan, and ending on the date one, two, three
     or six months thereafter as selected by the Borrower in its Notice of     

                                      -17-
<PAGE>
 
     Borrowing or Notice of Conversion/Continuation; and (b) as to any CD Rate
     Loan, the period commencing on the Borrowing Date of such Loan or on the
     Conversion/Continuation Date on which the Loan is converted into or
     continued as a CD Rate Loan, and ending 30, 60, 90 or 180 days thereafter,
     as selected by the Borrower in its Notice of Borrowing or Notice of
     Conversion/Continuation;

     provided that:
     --------      

                (i) if any Interest Period would otherwise end on a day that is
           not a Business Day, that Interest Period shall be extended to the
           following Business Day unless, in the case of an Offshore Rate Loan,
           the result of such extension would be to carry such Interest Period
           into another calendar month, in which event such Interest Period
           shall end on the preceding Business Day;

                (ii) any Interest Period pertaining to an Offshore Rate Loan
           that begins on the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day
           for which there is no numerically corresponding day in the calendar
           month at the end of such Interest Period) shall end on the last
           Business Day of the calendar month at the end of such Interest
           Period; and

                (iii)  no Interest Period for any Loan shall extend beyond the
           Maturity Date.

           "Investments" means all investments, in cash or by delivery of
            -----------                                                  
     property, made directly or indirectly in any property or assets or in any
     Person, whether by acquisition of shares of capital stock, Indebtedness or
     other obligations or Securities or by loan, advance, capital contribution
     or otherwise.

           "IRS" means the Internal Revenue Service, and any Governmental
            ---                                                          
     Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions under the Code.

           Issue" means to (a) incorporate the Existing BofA Letters of Credit
           -----                                                              
     into this Agreement, and (b) with respect 

                                      -18-
<PAGE>
 
     to any Letter of Credit (including the Existing BofA Letters of Credit), to
     issue or to extend the expiry of, or to renew or increase the amount of,
     such Letter of Credit; and the terms "Issued, "Issuing" and "Issuance" have
     corresponding meanings.

           "Issuing Bank" means BofA in its capacity as issuer of one or more
            ------------                                                     
     Letters of Credit hereunder, together with any replacement letter of credit
     issuer arising under Section 10.01(b) or Section 10.09.

           "Joint Venture" means a single-purpose corporation, partnership,
            -------------                                                  
     limited liability company, joint venture or other legal arrangement
     (whether created by contract or conducted through a separate legal entity)
     now or hereafter formed by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries with
     another Person in order to conduct a common venture or enterprise with such
     Person.

           "L/C Advance" means each Bank's participation in any L/C Borrowing in
            -----------                                                         
     accordance with its Pro Rata Share.

           "L/C Amendment Application" means an application form for amendment
            -------------------------                                         
     of outstanding standby or commercial documentary letters of credit as shall
     at any time be in use at the Issuing Bank, as the Issuing Bank shall
     request.

           "L/C Application" means an application form for issuances of standby
            ---------------                                                    
     or commercial documentary letters of credit as shall at any time be in use
     at the Issuing Bank, as the Issuing Bank shall request.

           "L/C Borrowing" means an extension of credit resulting from a drawing
            -------------                                                       
     under any Letter of Credit which shall not have been reimbursed on the date
     when made nor converted into a Borrowing of Loans under Section 3.03(c).

           "L/C Commitment" means the commitment of the Issuing Bank to Issue,
            --------------                                                    
     and the commitment of the Banks severally to participate in, Letters of
     Credit (including the Existing BofA Letters of Credit) from time to time
     Issued or outstanding under Section 3, in an Effective Amount not to exceed
     on any date the amount of $40,000,000, as the same 

                                      -19-
<PAGE>
 
     shall be reduced as a result of a reduction in the L/C Commitment pursuant
     to Section 2.05; provided that the Effective Amount of evergreen Letters of
                      --------
     Credit shall not exceed $10,000,000 at any time; provided, further, that
                                                      --------  -------
     the L/C Commitment is a part of the combined Commitments, rather than a
     separate, independent commitment.

           "L/C Obligations" means at any time the sum of (a) the aggregate
            ---------------                                                
     undrawn amount of all Letters of Credit then outstanding, plus (b) the
     amount of all unreimbursed drawings under all Letters of Credit, including
     all outstanding L/C Borrowings.

           "L/C-Related Documents" means the Letters of Credit, the L/C
            ---------------------                                      
     Applications, the L/C Amendment Applications and any other document
     relating to any Letter of Credit, including any of the Issuing Bank's
     standard form documents for letter of credit issuances.

           "Lending Office" means, as to any Bank, the office or offices of such
            --------------                                                      
     Bank specified as its "Lending Office" or "Domestic Lending Office" or
     "Offshore Lending Office", as the case may be, on Schedule 11.02, or such
                                                       --------------         
     other office or offices as the Bank may from time to time notify the
     Borrower and the Administrative Agent.

           "Letters of Credit" means the Existing BofA Letters of Credit and any
            -----------------                                                   
     letters of credit (whether standby letters of credit or commercial
     documentary letters of credit) Issued by the Issuing Bank pursuant to
     Section 3.

           "Lien" means any security interest, mortgage, deed of trust, pledge,
            ----                                                               
     hypothecation, assignment, charge or deposit arrangement, encumbrance, lien
     (statutory or other) or preferential arrangement of any kind or nature
     whatsoever in respect of any property (including those created by, arising
     under or evidenced by any conditional sale or other title retention
     agreement, the interest of a lessor under a Capitalized Lease, any
     financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the
     foregoing, or the filing of any financing statement naming the owner of the
     asset to which such lien relates as debtor, under the Uniform Commercial
     Code or any comparable law) and any 

                                      -20-
<PAGE>
 
     contingent or other agreement to provide any of the foregoing, but not
     including the interest of a lessor under an operating lease.

           "Loan" has the meaning specified in Section 2.01, and may be a Base
            ----                                                              
     Rate Loan, CD Rate Loan or an Offshore Rate Loan (each, a "Type" of Loan)
                                                                ----          
     or L/C Advance.

           "Loan Documents" means this Agreement, the Collateral Documents, the
            --------------                                                     
     Letters of Credit, the Subordination Agreements, any Compliance
     Certificate, any Notes, the Fee Letters, the L/C-Related Documents, and all
     other documents delivered to the Administrative Agent or any Bank in
     connection herewith.

           "Long-Term Lease" shall mean any lease of real or personal property
            ---------------                                                   
     (other than a Capitalized Lease) having an original term, including any
     period for which the lease may be renewed or extended at the option of the
     lessor, of more than one year.

           "Majority Banks" means at any time Banks then holding at least 66-
            --------------                                                  
     2/3% of the then aggregate unpaid principal amount of the Loans, or, if no
     such principal amount is then outstanding, Banks then having at least 66-
     2/3% of the Commitments.

           "Margin Stock" means "margin stock" as such term is defined in
            ------------                                                 
     Regulation G, T, U or X of the FRB.

           "Material Adverse Effect" means (a) a material adverse change in, or
            -----------------------                                            
     a material adverse effect upon, the operations, business, properties,
     condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Borrower or the
     Borrower and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole; (b) a material impairment
     of the ability of the Borrower to perform under any Loan Document and to
     avoid any Event of Default; (c) a material adverse effect upon the
     legality, validity, binding effect or enforceability against the Borrower
     of any Loan Document; or (d) the perfection or priority of any Lien granted
     under any of the Collateral Documents.

                                      -21-
<PAGE>
 
           "Maturity Date" means the earliest to occur of (a) July 31, 1999 and
            -------------                                                      
     (b) the date on which the Commitments terminate in accordance with the
     provisions of this Agreement.

           "Maximum Available Amount" means, as of any date of determination,
            ------------------------                                         
     the amount which may at any time be drawn under the Letters of Credit
     (whether or not any beneficiary thereof shall have presented, or shall be
     entitled at such time to present, the drafts or other documents required to
     draw under the Letters of Credit).

           "Minority Interest" means any shares of stock of any class of a
            -----------------                                             
     Subsidiary (other than directors, qualifying shares as required by law)
     that are not owned by the Borrower and/or one or more of its Wholly-owned
     Subsidiaries.  Minority Interests shall be valued by valuing Minority
     Interest constituting preferred stock at the voluntary or involuntary
     liquidating value of such preferred stock, whichever is greater, and by
     valuing Minority Interests constituting common stock at the book value of
     capital and surplus applicable thereto adjusted, if necessary, to reflect
     any changes from the book value of such common stock required by the
     foregoing method of valuing Minority Interest in preferred stock.

           "Multiemployer Plan" means a "multiemployer plan", within the meaning
            ------------------                                                  
     of Section 4001(a)(3) of ERISA, to which the Borrower or any ERISA
     Affiliate makes, is making, or is obligated to make contributions or,
     during the preceding three calendar years, has made, or been obligated to
     make, contributions.

           "Note" means a promissory note executed by the Borrower in favor of a
            ----                                                                
     Bank pursuant to Section 2.02(b), in substantially the form of Exhibit D.
                                                                    --------- 

           "Notice of Borrowing" means a notice in substantially the form of
            -------------------                                             
     Exhibit A.
     --------- 

           "Notice of Conversion/Continuation" means a notice in substantially
            ---------------------------------                                 
     the form of Exhibit B.
                 ---------   

                                      -22-
<PAGE>
 
           "Obligations" means all advances, debts, liabilities, obligations,
            -----------                                                      
     covenants and duties arising under any Loan Document owing by the Borrower
     to any Bank, the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any
     Indemnified Person, whether direct or indirect (including those acquired by
     assignment), absolute or contingent, due or to become due, now existing or
     hereafter arising.

           "Offshore Rate" means, for any Interest Period, with respect to
            -------------                                                 
     Offshore Rate Loans comprising part of the same Borrowing, the rate of
     interest per annum (rounded upward to the next 1/16th of 1%) determined by
     the Administrative Agent as follows:

     Offshore Rate                 IBOR
                     ------------------------------------
                     1.00 - Eurodollar Reserve Percentage

     Where,

           "Eurodollar Reserve Percentage" means for any day for any Interest
            -----------------------------                                    
           Period the maximum reserve percentage (expressed as a decimal,
           rounded upward to the next 1/100th of 1%) in effect on such day
           (whether or not applicable to any Bank) under regulations issued from
           time to time by the FRB for determining the maximum reserve
           requirement (including any emergency, supplemental or other marginal
           reserve requirement) with respect to Eurocurrency funding (currently
           referred to as "Eurocurrency liabilities"); and

                "IBOR" means the rate of interest per annum determined by the
                 ----                                                        
           Administrative Agent as the rate at which dollar deposits in the
           approximate amount of BofA's Offshore Rate Loan for such Interest
           Period would be offered by BofA's Grand Cayman Branch, Grand Cayman
           B.W.I. (or such other office as may be designated for such purpose by
           BofA), to major banks in the offshore dollar interbank market at
           their request at approximately 11:00 a.m. (New York City time) two
           Business Days prior to the commencement of such Interest Period.

                                      -23-
<PAGE>
 
                The Offshore Rate shall be adjusted automatically as to all
           Offshore Rate Loans then outstanding as of the effective date of any
           change in the Eurodollar Reserve Percentage.

           "Offshore Rate Loan" means a Loan that bears interest based on the
            ------------------                                               
     Offshore Rate.

           "Organization Documents" means, for any corporation, the certificate
            ----------------------                                             
     or articles of incorporation, the bylaws, any certificate of determination
     or instrument relating to the rights of preferred shareholders of such
     corporation, any shareholder rights agreement, and all applicable
     resolutions of the board of directors (or any committee thereof) of such
     corporation.

           "Other Taxes" means any present or future stamp, court or documentary
            -----------                                                         
     taxes or any other excise or property taxes, charges or similar levies
     which arise from any payment made hereunder or from the execution,
     delivery, performance, enforcement or registration of, or otherwise with
     respect to, this Agreement or any other Loan Documents.

           "Participant" has the meaning specified in Section 11.08(d).
            -----------                                                

           "PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, or any
            ----                                                        
     Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions under
     ERISA.

           "Pension Plan" means a pension plan (as defined in Section 3(2) of
            ------------                                                     
     ERISA) subject to Title IV of ERISA which the Borrower sponsors, maintains,
     or to which it makes, is making, or is obligated to make contributions, or
     in the case of a multiple employer plan (as described in Section 4064(a) of
     ERISA) has made contributions at any time during the immediately preceding
     five (5) plan years.

           "Permitted Liens" has the meaning specified in Section 8.01.
            ---------------                                            

           "Permitted Senior Indebtedness" means senior secured Indebtedness
            -----------------------------                                   
     which is pari passu with the Obligations 

                                      -24-
<PAGE>
 
     hereunder and is secured ratably with the Obligations by the Collateral
     pursuant to the Collateral Documents in form and substance satisfactory to
     the Collateral Agent and the Banks.

           "Permitted Senior Indebtedness Closing Date" means the date on which
            ------------------------------------------                         
     any Permitted Senior Indebtedness becomes effective.

           "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited
            ------                                                        
     liability company, business trust, joint stock company, trust,
     unincorporated association, joint venture or Governmental Authority.

           "Plan" means an employee benefit plan (as defined in Section 3(3) of
            ----                                                               
     ERISA) which the Borrower sponsors or maintains or to which the Borrower
     makes, is making, or is obligated to make contributions and includes any
     Pension Plan.

           "Pro Rata Share" means, as to any Bank at any time, the percentage
            --------------                                                   
     equivalent (expressed as a decimal, rounded to the ninth decimal place) at
     such time of such Bank's Commitment divided by the combined Commitments of
     all Banks.

           "Reportable Event" means, any of the events set forth in Section
            ----------------                                               
     4043(c) of ERISA or the regulations thereunder, other than any such event
     for which the 30-day notice requirement under ERISA has been waived in
     regulations issued by the PBGC.

           "Receivables" means and includes all rights to payment for goods sold
            -----------                                                         
     or services rendered which have been earned by performance under valid,
     enforceable contracts, whether or not they have been billed to the
     respective customers.

           "Rentals" means and include as of the date of any determination
            -------                                                       
     thereof all fixed payments (including as such all payments which the lessee
     is obligated to make to the lessor on termination of the lease or surrender
     of the property) paid by the Borrower or a Subsidiary, as lessee or
     sublessee under a lease of real or personal property, but shall be
     exclusive of any amounts required to be paid by the 

                                      -25-
<PAGE>
 
     Borrower or a Subsidiary (whether or not designated as rents or additional
     rents) on account of maintenance, repairs, insurance, taxes and similar
     charges. Fixed rents under any so-called "percentage leases" shall be
     computed solely on the basis of the minimum rents, if any, required to be
     paid by the lessee regardless of sales volume or gross revenues.

           "Requirement of Law" means, as to any Person, any law (statutory or
            ------------------                                                
     common), treaty, rule or regulation or determination of an arbitrator or of
     a Governmental Authority, in each case applicable to or binding upon the
     Person or any of its property or to which the Person or any of its property
     is subject.

           "Responsible Officer" means the chief executive officer or the
            -------------------                                          
     president of the Borrower, or any other officer having substantially the
     same authority and responsibility; or, with respect to compliance with
     financial covenants, the chief financial officer or the treasurer of the
     Borrower, or any other officer having substantially the same authority and
     responsibility.

           "SEC" means the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any
            ---                                                      
     Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal functions.

           "Secured Parties" means the Collateral Agent, the Administrative
            ---------------                                                
     Agent, the Agent-Related Persons, the Issuing Bank, any Indemnified Person,
     the Banks, and each of them (individually, a "Secured Party").

           "Security Agreement" means the Third Amended and Restated Security
            ------------------                                               
     Agreement Re: Receivables, Inventory, Equipment and Documents dated as of
     July 1, 1996 between the Borrower and the Collateral Agent, substantially
     in the form of Exhibit F hereto, either as originally executed or as the
                    ---------                                                
     same may, from time to time, be supplemented, modified, amended, renewed,
     extended or supplanted.

           "Subordination Agreements" means (i) the Subordination Agreement made
            ------------------------                                            
     by the R.D. Colburn School of Performing Arts substantially in the form of
     Exhibit H-1 hereto and (ii) the Subordination Agreement made by R.D.
     -----------                                                         
     Colburn substantially 

                                      -26-
<PAGE>
 
     in the form of Exhibit H-2 hereto, in each case either as originally
                    -----------
     executed or as the same may, from time to time, be supplemented, modified,
     amended, renewed, extended or supplanted.

           "Subsidiary" of a Person means any corporation, association,
            ----------                                                 
     partnership, limited liability company, joint venture or other business
     entity of which more than 50% of the voting stock, membership interests or
     other equity interests (in the case of Persons other than corporations), is
     owned or controlled directly or indirectly by the Person, or one or more of
     the Subsidiaries of the Person, or a combination thereof.  Unless the
     context otherwise clearly requires, references herein to a "Subsidiary"
     refer to a Subsidiary of the Borrower.

           "Surety Instruments" means all letters of credit (including standby
            ------------------                                                
     and commercial), banker's acceptances, bank guaranties, shipside bonds,
     surety bonds and similar instruments.

           "Swap Contract" means any agreement (including any master agreement
            -------------                                                     
     and any agreement, whether or not in writing, relating to any single
     transaction) that is an interest rate swap agreement, basis swap, forward
     rate agreement, commodity swap, commodity option, equity or equity index
     swap or option, bond option, interest rate option, forward foreign exchange
     agreement, rate cap, collar or floor agreement, currency swap agreement,
     cross-currency rate swap agreement, swaption, currency option or any other,
     similar agreement (including any option to enter into any of the
     foregoing).

           "Taxes" means any and all present or future taxes, levies,
            -----                                                    
     assessments, imposts, duties, deductions, fees, withholdings or similar
     charges, and all liabilities with respect thereto, excluding, in the case
     of each Bank and the Administrative Agent, respectively, taxes imposed on
     or measured by its net income by the jurisdiction (or any political
     subdivision thereof) under the laws of which such Bank or the
     Administrative Agent, as the case may be, is organized or maintains a
     lending office.

                                      -27-
<PAGE>
 
           "Type" has the meaning specified in the definition of "Loan."
            ----                                                        

           "Unfunded Pension Liability" means the excess of a Plan's benefit
            --------------------------                                      
     liabilities under Section 4001(a)(16) of ERISA, over the current value of
     that Plan's assets, determined in accordance with the assumptions used for
     funding the Pension Plan pursuant to Section 412 of the Code for the
     applicable plan year.

           "United States" and "U.S." each means the United States of America.
            -------------       ----                                          

           "Voting Stock" means Securities of any class or classes, the holders
            ------------                                                       
     of which are ordinarily, in the absence of contingencies, entitled to elect
     a majority of the corporate directors (or Persons performing similar
     functions).

           "Wholly-Owned Subsidiary" means any corporation in which (other than
            -----------------------                                            
     directors) qualifying shares required by law) 100% of the capital stock of
     each class having ordinary voting power, and 100% of the capital stock of
     every other class, in each case, at the time as of which any determination
     is being made, is owned, beneficially and of record, by the Borrower, or by
     one or more of the other Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries at the Borrower, or
     both.

     1.02  Other Interpretive Provisions.  (a) The meanings of defined terms
           -----------------------------                                     
are equally applicable to the singular and plural forms of the defined terms.

           (b) The words "hereof," "herein," "hereunder" and similar words refer
to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this
Agreement; and Section, Schedule and Exhibit references are to this Agreement
unless otherwise specified.  The term "documents" includes any and all
instruments, documents, agreements, certificates, indentures, notices and other
writings, however evidenced.  The term "including" is not limiting and means
"including without limitation."  In the computation of periods of time from a
specified date to a later specified date, the word "from" means 

                                      -28-
<PAGE>
 
"from and including"; the words "toll" and "until" each mean "to but excluding",
and the word "through" means "to and including."

          (c) Unless otherwise expressly provided herein, (i) references to
agreements (including this Agreement) and other contractual instruments shall be
deemed to include all subsequent amendments and other modifications thereto, but
only to the extent such amendments and other modifications are not prohibited by
the terms of any Loan Document, and (ii) references to any statute or regulation
are to be construed as including all statutory and regulatory provisions
consolidating, amending, replacing, supplementing or interpreting the statute or
regulation.

          (d) The captions and headings of this Agreement are for convenience of
reference only and shall not affect the interpretation of this Agreement.

          (e) This Agreement and other Loan Documents may use several different
limitations, tests or measurements to regulate the same or similar matters.  All
such limitations, tests and measurements are cumulative and shall each be
performed in accordance with their terms.  Unless otherwise expressly provided,
any reference to any action of the Administrative Agent or the Banks by way of
consent, approval or waiver shall be deemed modified by the phrase "in its/their
sole discretion."

     1.03  Accounting Principles.  (a) Unless the context otherwise clearly
           --------------------- 
requires, all accounting terms not expressly defined herein shall be construed,
and all financial computations required under this Agreement shall be made, in
accordance with GAAP, consistently applied.

          (b) References herein to "fiscal year" and "fiscal quarter" refer to
such fiscal periods of the Borrower.


                                   SECTION 2

                                  THE CREDITS
                                  -----------

     2.01  Amounts and Terms of Commitments.  Each Bank severally agrees, on
           --------------------------------                                  
the terms and conditions set forth herein, to make 

                                      -29-
<PAGE>
 
loans to the Borrower (each such loan, a "Loan") from time to time on any
Business Day during the period from the Closing Date to the Maturity Date, in an
aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount set forth on
Schedule 2.01 (such amount, as the same may be reduced under Section 2.05 or as
- -------------                 
a result of one or more assignments under Section 11.08, the Bank's
"Commitment"); provided, however, that, after giving effect to any Borrowing of
 ----------    --------  ------- 
Loans, the Effective Amount of all outstanding Loans and the Effective Amount of
all L/C Obligations, shall not at any time exceed the combined Commitments, and
the Effective Amount of all L/C Obligations shall not exceed the Letter of
Credit Commitment; provided, further, that the Effective Amount of the Loans of
                   --------  ------- 
any Bank plus the participation of such Bank in the Effective Amount of all L/C
Obligations shall not at any time exceed such Bank's Commitment and each Bank's
participation in the Effective Amount of all L/C Obligations shall not exceed
such Bank's Pro Rata Share of the Letter of Credit Commitment. Within the limits
of each Bank's Commitment, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof,
the Borrower may borrow under this Section 2.01, prepay under Section 2.06 and
reborrow under this Section 2.01.

     2.02  Loan Accounts.  (a) The Loans made by each Bank and the Letters of
           -------------                                                      
Credit Issued by the Issuing Bank shall be evidenced by one or more accounts or
records maintained by such Bank or Issuing Bank, as the case may be, in the
ordinary course of business.  The accounts or records maintained by the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank and each Bank shall be conclusive absent
manifest error of the amount of the Loans made by the Banks to the Borrower and
the Letters of Credit Issued for the account of the Borrower, and the interest
and payments thereon.  Any failure so to record or any error in doing so shall
not, however, limit or otherwise affect the obligation of the Borrower hereunder
to pay any amount owing with respect to the Loans or any Letter of Credit.

           (b) Upon the request of any Bank made through the Administrative
Agent, the Loans made by such Bank may be evidenced by one or more Notes,
instead of or in addition to loan accounts.  Each such Bank shall endorse on the
schedules annexed to its Note(s) the date, amount and maturity of each Loan made
by it and the amount of each payment of principal made by the Borrower with
respect thereto.  Each such Bank is irrevocably 

                                      -30-
<PAGE>
 
authorized by the Borrower to endorse its Note(s) and each Bank's record shall
be conclusive absent manifest error; provided, however, that the failure of a
                                     --------  -------  
Bank to make, or an error in making, a notation thereon with respect to any Loan
shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligations of the Borrower hereunder or
under any such Note to such Bank.

     2.03  Procedure for Borrowing.  (a) Each Borrowing of Loans shall be made
           -----------------------                                             
upon the Borrower's irrevocable telephonic notice (immediately confirmed in
writing) delivered to the Administrative Agent in the form of a Notice of
Borrowing, which notice must be received by the Administrative Agent prior to
9:00 a.m. (San Francisco time) (i) three Business Days prior to the requested
Borrowing Date, in the case of Offshore Rate Loans and CD Rate Loans, and (ii)
on the requested Borrowing Date, in the case of Base Rate Loans, specifying: (A)
the amount of the Borrowing, which shall be in an aggregate minimum amount of
$1,000,000 or any multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof; (B) the requested
Borrowing Date, which shall be a Business Day; (C) the Type of Loans comprising
the Borrowing; and (D) the duration of the Interest Period applicable to such
Loans included in such notice.  If the Notice of Borrowing fails to specify the
duration of the Interest Period for any Borrowing comprised of CD Rate Loans or
Offshore Rate Loans, such Interest Period shall be 90 days or three months,
respectively.

           (b) The Administrative Agent will promptly notify each Bank of its
receipt of any Notice of Borrowing and of the amount of such Bank's Pro Rata
Share of that Borrowing.

           (c) Each Bank will make the amount of its Pro Rata Share of each
Borrowing available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Borrower
at the Administrative Agent's Payment Office by 12:00 Noon (San Francisco time)
on the Borrowing Date requested by the Borrower in funds immediately available
to the Administrative Agent.  The proceeds of all such Loans will then be made
available to the Borrower by the Administrative Agent at such office by either
crediting the account of the Borrower on the books of BofA with the aggregate of
the amounts made available to the Administrative Agent by the Banks or by wire
transfer in accordance with written instructions provided to the Administrative
Agent by the Borrower of like funds as received by the Administrative Agent.

                                      -31-
<PAGE>
 
           (d) After giving effect to any Borrowing, unless the Administrative
Agent shall otherwise consent, there may not be more than 10 different Interest
Periods in effect.

     2.04  Conversion and Continuation Elections.  (a) The Borrower may, upon
           -------------------------------------                             
irrevocable telephonic notice (immediately confirmed in writing) to the
Administrative Agent in accordance with Section 2.04(b): (i) elect, as of any
Business Day, in the case of Base Rate Loans, or as of the last day of the
applicable Interest Period, in the case of any other Type of Loans, to convert
any such Loans (or any part thereof in an amount not less than $1,000,000, or
that is in an integral multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof) into Loans of
any other Type; or (ii) elect as of the last day of the applicable Interest
Period, to continue any Loans having Interest Periods expiring on such day (or
any part thereof in an amount not less than $1,000,000, or that is in an
integral multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof); provided, that if at any
                                                    --------                
time the aggregate amount of CD Rate Loans or Offshore Rate Loans in respect of
any Borrowing is reduced, by payment, prepayment, or conversion of part thereof
to be less than $1,000,000, such CD Rate Loans or Offshore Rate Loans shall
automatically convert into Base Rate Loans, and on and after such date the right
of the Borrower to continue such Loans as, and convert such Loans into, Offshore
Rate Loans or CD Rate Loans, as the case may be, shall terminate.

           (b) The Borrower shall deliver a Notice of Conversion/Continuation to
be received by the Administrative Agent not later than 9:00 a.m. (San Francisco
time) (i) at least three Business Days in advance of the Conversion/Continuation
Date, if the Loans are to be converted into or continued as Offshore Rate Loans
or CD Rate Loans; and (ii) on the Conversion/Continuation Date, if the Loans are
to be converted into Base Rate Loans, specifying: (A) the proposed
Conversion/Continuation Date; (B) the aggregate amount of Loans to be converted
or continued; (C) the Type of Loans resulting from the proposed conversion or
continuation; and (D) other than in the case of conversions into Base Rate
Loans, the duration of the requested Interest Period.

           (c) If upon the expiration of any Interest Period applicable to CD
Rate Loans or Offshore Rate Loans, the Borrower has failed to select timely a
new Interest Period to be 

                                      -32-
<PAGE>
 
applicable to such CD Rate Loans or Offshore Rate Loans, as the case may be, or
if any Default or Event of Default then exists, the Borrower shall be deemed to
have elected to convert such CD Rate Loans or Offshore Rate Loans into Base Rate
Loans effective as of the expiration date of such Interest Period.

           (d) The Administrative Agent will promptly notify each Bank of its
receipt of a Notice of Conversion/Continuation, or, if no timely notice is
provided by the Borrower, the Administrative Agent will promptly notify each
Bank of the details of any automatic conversion.  All conversions and
continuations shall be made ratably according to the respective outstanding
principal amounts of the Loans with respect to which the notice was given held
by each Bank.

           (e) Unless the Majority Banks otherwise consent, during the existence
of a Default or Event of Default, the Borrower may not elect to have a Loan be
made or converted into or continued as an Offshore Rate Loan or a CD Rate Loan.

           (f) After giving effect to any conversion or continuation of Loans,
unless the Administrative Agent and the Majority Banks shall otherwise consent,
there may not be more than 10 different Interest Periods in effect.

     2.05  Voluntary Termination or Reduction of Commitments.  The Borrower
           -------------------------------------------------               
may, upon not less than five Business Days' prior notice to the Administrative
Agent, terminate the Commitments, or permanently reduce the Commitments by an
aggregate minimum amount of $5,000,000 or any multiple of $1,000,000 in excess
thereof, unless, after giving effect thereto and to any prepayments of Loans
made on the effective date thereof, (a) the Effective Amount of all Loans and
L/C Obligations together would exceed the amount of the combined Commitments
then in effect, or (b) the Effective Amount of all L/C Obligations then
outstanding would exceed the L/C Commitment.  Once reduced in accordance with
this Section, the Commitments may not be increased.  Any reduction of the
Commitments shall be applied to each Bank according to its Pro Rata Share.  If
and to the extent specified by the Borrower in the notice to the Administrative
Agent, some or all of the reduction in the combined Commitments shall be applied
to reduce the L/C Commitment.  All accrued commitment and letter of credit fees
to, but not including, the effective date of any reduction 

                                      -33-
<PAGE>
 
or termination of Commitments, shall be paid on the effective date of such
reduction or termination.

     2.06  Optional Prepayments.  Subject to Section 4.04, the Borrower may, at
           --------------------                                                
any time or from time to time, upon not less than, in the case of Base Rate
Loans on the date of prepayment and irrevocable notice, and in the case of
Offshore Rate Loans and CD Rate Loans three Business Days' irrevocable notice to
the Administrative Agent, ratably prepay Loans in whole or in part, in minimum
amounts of $1,000,000 or any multiple of $1,000,000 in excess thereof. Such
notice of prepayment shall specify the date and amount of such prepayment and
the Type(s) of Loans to be prepaid. The Administrative Agent will promptly
notify each Bank of its receipt of any such notice, and of such Bank's Pro Rata
Share of such prepayment. If such notice is given by the Borrower, the Borrower
shall make such prepayment and the payment amount specified in such notice shall
be due and payable on the date specified therein, together with, in the case of
Offshore Rate Loans and CD Rate Loans, accrued interest to each such date on the
amount prepaid and any amounts required pursuant to Section 4.04.

     2.07  Mandatory Prepayments of Loans; Cash Collateralization of L/C
           -------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations.  If on any date the Effective Amount of L/C Obligations exceeds
- -----------                                                                 
the L/C Commitment, the Borrower shall Cash Collateralize on such date the
outstanding Letters of Credit in an amount equal to the excess of the maximum
amount then available to be drawn under the Letters of Credit over the Aggregate
L/C Commitment.  Subject to Section 4.04, if on any date after giving effect to
any Cash Collateralization made on such date pursuant to the preceding sentence,
the Effective Amount of all Loans then outstanding plus the Effective Amount of
all L/C Obligations exceeds the combined Commitments, the Borrower shall
immediately, and without notice or demand, prepay the outstanding principal
amount of the Loans and L/C Advances by an amount equal to the applicable
excess.

     2.08  Repayment.  The Borrower shall repay on the Maturity Date the
           ---------                                                    
aggregate principal amount of all Loans outstanding on such date.

     2.09  Interest.  (a)  Each Loan shall bear interest on the outstanding
           --------                                                        
principal amount thereof from the applicable 

                                      -34-
<PAGE>
 
Borrowing Date or Conversion/Continuation Date at a rate per annum equal to the
Offshore Rate, the CD Rate or the Base Rate, as the case may be (and subject to
the Borrower's right to convert to other Types of Loans under Section 2.04),
plus the Applicable Amount.
- ----    


           (b) Interest on each Loan shall be paid in arrears on each Interest
Payment Date.  Interest shall also be paid on the date of any prepayment of any
Offshore Rate or CD Rate Loans under Section 2.06 or 2.07 for the portion of the
Loans so prepaid and upon payment (including prepayment) in full thereof and,
during the existence of any Event of Default, interest shall be paid on demand
of the Administrative Agent at the request of the Majority Banks.

           (c) Notwithstanding Section (a) of this Section, while any Event of
Default exists or after acceleration, the Borrower shall pay interest on all
outstanding Loans (after as well as before entry of judgment thereon to the
extent permitted by law) on the principal amount of all outstanding Loans, at a
rate per annum which is determined by adding 2% per annum to the Applicable
Amount then in effect for such Loans; provided, however, that, on and after the
                                      --------  -------                        
expiration of any Interest Period applicable to any Offshore Rate Loan or CD
Rate Loan outstanding on the date of occurrence of such Event of Default or
acceleration, the principal amount of such Loan shall, during the continuation
of such Event of Default or after acceleration, bear interest at a rate per
annum equal to the Base Rate plus 3%.

     2.10  Fees.  In addition to certain fees described in Section 3.08:
           ----                                                         

           (a) Arrangement, Agency Fees.  The Borrower shall pay an arrangement
               ------------------------                                        
fee to the Arranger for the Arranger's own account, and the Borrower shall pay
an agency fee to the Administrative Agent for the Administrative Agent's own
account, as required by the letter agreement between the Borrower, the Agent and
the Arranger dated July 5, 1996 and the Borrower shall pay a collateral agency
fee to the Collateral Agent for the Collateral Agent's own account, as required
by the letter agreement between the Borrower and the Collateral Agent dated
August 18, 1995 (such letters, collectively referred to as the "Fee Letters").
                                                                -----------   

                                      -35-
<PAGE>
 
           (b) Commitment Fees.  The Borrower shall pay to the Administrative
               ---------------                                               
Agent for the account of each Bank a commitment fee on the average daily unused
portion of such Bank's Commitment, computed on a quarterly basis in arrears on
the last Business Day of each calendar quarter based upon the daily utilization
for that quarter as calculated by the Administrative Agent, at a rate per annum
equal to the Applicable Amount for the commitment fee.  For purposes of
calculating utilization under this Section, the Commitments shall be deemed used
to the extent of the Effective Amount of Loans then outstanding, plus the
Effective Amount of L/C Obligations (excluding L/C Obligations relating to
commercial Letters of Credit) then outstanding.  Such commitment fee shall
accrue from the Closing Date to the Maturity Date and shall be due and payable
quarterly in arrears on the last Business Day of each calendar quarter
commencing on the first such date after the Closing Date through the Maturity
Date, with the final payment to be made on the Maturity Date; provided that, in
                                                              --------         
connection with any reduction or termination of Commitments under Section 2.05,
the accrued commitment fee calculated for the period ending on such date shall
also be paid on the date of such reduction or termination, with the following
quarterly payment being calculated on the basis of the period from such
reduction or termination date to such quarterly payment date.  The commitment
fees provided in this Section shall accrue at all times after the above-
mentioned commencement date, including at any time during which one or more
conditions in Section 5 are not met.

     2.11  Computation of Fees and Interest.  (a) All computations of interest
           --------------------------------                                   
for Base Rate Loans when the Base Rate is determined by BofA's "reference rate"
shall be made on the basis of a year of 365 or 366 days, as the case may be, and
actual days elapsed.  All other computations of fees and interest shall be made
on the basis of a 360-day year and actual days elapsed (which results in more
interest being paid than if computed on the basis of a 365-day year).  Interest
and fees shall accrue during each period during which interest or such fees are
computed from the first day thereof to the last day thereof.

           (b) Each determination of an interest rate by the Administrative
Agent shall be conclusive and binding on the Borrower and the Banks in the
absence of manifest error.

                                      -36-
<PAGE>
 
     2.12  Payments by the Borrower.  (a)  All payments to be made by the
           ------------------------                                      
Borrower shall be made without set-off, recoupment or counterclaim.  Except as
otherwise expressly provided herein, all payments by the Borrower shall be made
to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Banks at the Administrative
Agent's Payment Office, and shall be made in dollars and in immediately
available funds, no later than 11:00 a.m. (San Francisco time) on the date
specified herein.  The Administrative Agent will promptly distribute to each
Bank its Pro Rata Share (or other applicable share as expressly provided herein)
of such payment in like funds as received.  Any payment received by the
Administrative Agent later than 11:00 a.m. (San Francisco time) shall be deemed
to have been received on the following Business Day and any applicable interest
or fee shall continue to accrue.

           (b) Subject to the provisions set forth in the definition of
"Interest Period" herein, whenever any payment is due on a day other than a
Business Day, such payment shall be made on the following Business Day, and such
extension of time shall in such case be included in the computation of interest
or fees, as the case may be.

           (c) Unless the Administrative Agent receives notice from the Borrower
prior to the date on which any payment is due to the Banks that the Borrower
will not make such payment in full as and when required, the Administrative
Agent may assume that the Borrower has made such payment in full to the
Administrative Agent on such date in immediately available funds and the
Administrative Agent may (but shall not be so required), in reliance upon such
assumption, distribute to each Bank on such due date an amount equal to the
amount then due such Bank.  If and to the extent the Borrower has not made such
payment in full to the Administrative Agent, each Bank shall repay to the
Administrative Agent on demand such amount distributed to such Bank, together
with interest thereon at the Federal Funds Rate for each day from the date such
amount is distributed to such Bank until the date repaid.

     2.13  Payments by the Banks to the Administrative Agent.  (a)  Unless the
           -------------------------------------------------                  
Administrative Agent receives notice from a Bank on or prior to the Closing Date
or, with respect to any Borrowing after the Closing Date, at least one Business
Day prior to the date of such Borrowing, that such Bank will not make available
as 

                                      -37-
<PAGE>
 
and when required hereunder to the Administrative Agent for the account of the
Borrower the amount of that Bank's Pro Rata Share of the Borrowing, the
Administrative Agent may assume that each Bank has made such amount available to
the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds on the Borrowing Date
and the Administrative Agent may (but shall not be so required), in reliance
upon such assumption, make available to the Borrower on such date a
corresponding amount. If and to the extent any Bank shall not have made its full
amount available to the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds and
the Administrative Agent in such circumstances has made available to the
Borrower such amount, that Bank shall on the Business Day following such
Borrowing Date make such amount available to the Administrative Agent, together
with interest at the Federal Funds Rate for each day during such period. A
notice of the Administrative Agent submitted to any Bank with respect to amounts
owing under this Section (a) shall be conclusive, absent manifest error. If such
amount is so made available, such payment to the Administrative Agent shall
constitute such Bank's Loan on the date of Borrowing for all purposes of this
Agreement. If such amount is not made available to the Administrative Agent on
the Business Day following the Borrowing Date, the Administrative Agent will
notify the Borrower of such failure to fund and, upon demand by the
Administrative Agent, the Borrower shall pay such amount to the Administrative
Agent for the Administrative Agent's account, together with interest thereon for
each day elapsed since the date of such Borrowing, at a rate per annum equal to
the interest rate applicable at the time to the Loans comprising such Borrowing.

           (b) The failure of any Bank to make any Loan on any Borrowing Date
shall not relieve any other Bank of any obligation hereunder to make a Loan on
such Borrowing Date, but no Bank shall be responsible for the failure of any
other Bank to make the Loan to be made by such other Bank on any Borrowing Date.

     2.14  Sharing of Payments, Etc.   If, other than as expressly provided
           -------------------------                                      
elsewhere herein, any Bank shall obtain on account of the Loans made by it any
payment (whether voluntary, involuntary, through the exercise of any right of
set-off, or otherwise) in excess of its ratable share (or other share
contemplated hereunder), such Bank shall immediately (a) notify the
Administrative Agent of such fact, and (b) purchase from the 

                                      -38-
<PAGE>
 
other Banks such participations in the Loans made by them as shall be necessary
to cause such purchasing Bank to share the excess payment pro rata with each of
them; provided, however, that if all or any portion of such excess payment is
      --------  ------- 
thereafter recovered from the purchasing Bank, such purchase shall to that
extent be rescinded and each other Bank shall repay to the purchasing Bank the
purchase price paid therefor, together with an amount equal to such paying
Bank's ratable share (according to the proportion of (i) the amount of such
paying Bank's required repayment to (ii) the total amount so recovered from the
purchasing Bank) of any interest or other amount paid or payable by the
purchasing Bank in respect of the total amount so recovered.  The Borrower
agrees that any Bank so purchasing a participation from another Bank may, to the
fullest extent permitted by law, exercise all its rights of payment (including
the right of set-off, but subject to Section 11.10) with respect to such
participation as fully as if such Bank were the direct creditor of the Borrower
in the amount of such participation.  The Administrative Agent will keep records
(which shall be conclusive and binding in the absence of manifest error) of
participations purchased under this Section and will in each case notify the
Banks following any such purchases or repayments.

     2.15  Security.  All obligations of the Borrower under the Loan Documents
           --------                                                           
shall be secured in accordance with the Collateral Documents.

                                   SECTION 3

                             THE LETTERS OF CREDIT
                             ---------------------

     3.01  The Letter of - Credit Subfacility.  (a)  On the terms and
           ----------------------------------                        
conditions set forth herein (i) the Issuing Bank agrees, (A) from time to time
on any Business Day during the period from the Closing Date to the Maturity Date
to issue Letters of Credit for the account of the Borrower, and to amend or
renew Letters of Credit previously issued by it, in accordance with Sections
3.02(c) and 3.02(d), and (B) to honor drafts under the Letters of Credit; and
(ii) the Banks severally agree to participate in Letters of Credit Issued for
the account of the Borrower; provided, that the Issuing Bank shall not be
                             --------                                    
obligated to Issue, and no Bank shall be obligated to participate in, any Letter
of Credit if as of the date of Issuance of such Letter of Credit 

                                      -39-
<PAGE>
 
(the "Issuance Date") (1) the Effective Amount of all L/C Obligations plus the
      -------- ---- 
Effective Amount of all Loans exceeds the combined Commitments, (2) the
participation of any Bank in the Effective Amount of all L/C Obligations plus
the Effective Amount of the Loans of such Bank exceeds such Bank's Commitment,
or (3) the Effective Amount of L/C Obligations exceeds the L/C Commitment;
provided, further, that the Issuing Bank shall not be obligated to Issue, and no
- --------  -------          
Bank shall be obligated to participate in, any evergreen Letter of Credit if as
of the Issuance Date thereof the Effective Amount of L/C Obligations relating to
evergreen Letters of Credit exceeds $10,000,000 in the aggregate. Within the
foregoing limits, and subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, the
Borrower's ability to obtain Letters of Credit shall be fully revolving, and,
accordingly, the Borrower may, during the foregoing period, obtain Letters of
Credit to replace Letters of Credit which have expired or which have been drawn
upon and reimbursed.

           (b) The Issuing Bank is under no obligation to Issue any Letter of
Credit if:

               (i) any order, judgment or decree of any Governmental Authority
     or arbitrator shall by its terms purport to enjoin or restrain the Issuing
     Bank from Issuing such Letter of Credit, or any Requirement of Law
     applicable to the Issuing Bank or any request or directive (whether or not
     having the force of law) from any Governmental Authority with jurisdiction
     over the Issuing Bank shall prohibit, or request that the Issuing Bank
     refrain from, the Issuance of letters of credit generally or such Letter of
     Credit in particular or shall impose upon the Issuing Bank with respect to
     such Letter of Credit any restriction, reserve or capital requirement (for
     which the Issuing Bank is not otherwise compensated hereunder) not in
     effect on the Closing Date, or shall impose upon the Issuing Bank any
     unreimbursed loss, cost or expense which was not applicable on the Closing
     Date and which the Issuing Bank in good faith deems material to it;

               (ii) the Issuing Bank has received written notice from any Bank,
     the Administrative Agent or the Borrower, on or prior to the Business Day
     prior to the requested date of Issuance of such Letter of Credit, that 

                                      -40-
<PAGE>
 
     one or more of the applicable conditions contained in Section 5 is not then
     satisfied;

               (iii) the expiry date of any requested Letter of Credit is (A)
     more than 720 days after the date of Issuance, unless the Majority Banks
     have approved such expiry date in writing, or (B) after the Maturity Date;

               (iv)  the expiry date of any requested Letter of Credit is prior
     to the maturity date of any financial obligation to be supported by the
     requested Letter of Credit;

               (v)   any requested Letter of Credit does not provide for drafts,
     or is not otherwise in form and substance acceptable to the Issuing Bank,
     or the Issuance of a Letter of Credit shall violate any applicable policies
     of the Issuing Bank;

               (vi)  any standby Letter of Credit is for the purpose of
     supporting the issuance of any letter of credit by any other Person; or

               (vi)  except for Existing BofA Letters of Credit, such Letter of
     Credit is in a face amount less than $1,000,000 or to be denominated in a
     currency other than Dollars.

     3.02  Issuance, Amendment and Renewal of Letters of Credit.  (a) Each
           ----------------------------------------------------           
Letter of Credit shall be issued upon the irrevocable written request of the
Borrower received by the Issuing Bank (with a copy sent by the Borrower to the
Administrative Agent) at least four days (or such shorter time as the Issuing
Bank may agree in a particular instance in its sole discretion) prior to the
proposed date of issuance.  Each such request for issuance of a Letter of Credit
shall be by facsimile, confirmed immediately in an original writing, in the form
of an L/C Application, and shall specify in form and detail satisfactory to the
Issuing Bank: (i) the proposed date of issuance of the Letter of Credit (which
shall be a Business Day); (ii) the face amount of the Letter of Credit; (iii)
the expiry date of the Letter of Credit; (iv) the name and address of the
beneficiary thereof; (v) the documents to be presented by the beneficiary of the
Letter of 

                                      -41-
<PAGE>
 
     Credit in case of any drawing thereunder; (vi) the full text of any
     certificate to be presented by the beneficiary in case of any drawing
     thereunder; and (vii) such other matters as the Issuing Bank may require.

               (b) At least two Business Days prior to the Issuance of any
     Letter of Credit, the Issuing Bank will confirm with the Administrative
     Agent (by telephone or in writing) that the Administrative Agent has
     received a copy of the L/C Application or L/C Amendment Application from
     the Borrower and, if not, the Issuing Bank will provide the Administrative
     Agent with a copy thereof.  Unless the Issuing Bank has received notice on
     or before the Business Day immediately preceding the date the Issuing Bank
     is to issue a requested Letter of Credit from the Administrative Agent (A)
     directing the Issuing Bank not to issue such Letter of Credit because such
     issuance is not then permitted under Section 3.01(a) as a result of the
     limitations set forth in clauses (1) through (3) thereof or Section
     3.01(b)(ii); or (B) that one or more conditions specified in Section 5 are
     not then satisfied; then, subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the
     Issuing Bank shall, on the requested date, issue a Letter of Credit for the
     account of the Borrower in accordance with the Issuing Bank's usual and
     customary business practices.

               (c) From time to time while a Letter of Credit is outstanding and
     prior to the Maturity Date, the Issuing Bank will, upon the written request
     of the Borrower received by the Issuing Bank (with a copy sent by the
     Borrower to the Administrative Agent) at least five days (or such shorter
     time as the Issuing Bank may agree in a particular instance in its sole
     discretion) prior to the proposed date of amendment, amend any Letter of
     Credit issued by it.  Each such request for amendment of a Letter of Credit
     shall be made by facsimile, confirmed immediately in an original writing,
     made in the form of an L/C Amendment Application and shall specify in form
     and detail satisfactory to the Issuing Bank: (i) the Letter of Credit to be
     amended; (ii) the proposed date of amendment of the Letter of Credit (which
     shall be a Business Day); (iii) the nature of the proposed amendment; and
     (iv) such other matters as the Issuing Bank may require.  The Issuing Bank
     shall be under no obligation to amend any Letter of Credit if: (A) the
     Issuing Bank would have no obligation at such time to issue such Letter of
     Credit in its amended form under the terms of this Agreement; or (B) the

                                      -42-
<PAGE>
 
     beneficiary of any such letter of Credit does not accept the proposed
     amendment to the Letter of Credit.

               (d) The Issuing Bank and the Banks agree that, while a Letter of
     Credit is outstanding and prior to the Maturity Date, at the option of the
     Borrower and upon the written request of the Borrower received by the
     Issuing Bank (with a copy sent by the Borrower to the Administrative Agent)
     at least five days (or such shorter time as the Issuing Bank may agree in a
     particular instance in its sole discretion) prior to the proposed date of
     notification of renewal, the Issuing Bank shall be entitled to authorize
     the automatic renewal of any Letter of Credit issued by it.  Each such
     request for renewal of a Letter of Credit shall be made by facsimile,
     confirmed immediately in an original writing, in the form of an L/C
     Amendment Application, and shall specify in form and detail satisfactory to
     the Issuing Bank: (i) the Letter of Credit to be renewed; (ii) the proposed
     date of notification of renewal of the Letter of Credit (which shall be a
     Business Day); (iii) the revised expiry date of the Letter of Credit (which
     shall not be later than the Maturity Date); and (iv) such other matters as
     the Issuing Bank may require.  The Issuing Bank shall be under no
     obligation so to renew any Letter of Credit if: (A) the Issuing Bank would
     have no obligation at such time to issue or amend such Letter of Credit in
     its renewed form under the terms of this Agreement; or (B) the beneficiary
     of any such Letter of Credit does not accept the proposed renewal of the
     Letter of Credit.  If any outstanding Letter of Credit shall provide that
     it shall be automatically renewed unless the beneficiary thereof receives
     notice from the Issuing Bank that such Letter of Credit shall not be
     renewed, and if at the time of renewal the Issuing Bank would be entitled
     to authorize the automatic renewal of such Letter of Credit in accordance
     with this Section 3.02(e) upon the request of the Borrower but the Issuing
     Bank shall not have received any L/C Amendment Application from the
     Borrower with respect to such renewal or other written direction by the
     Borrower with respect thereto, the Issuing Bank shall nonetheless be
     permitted to allow such Letter of Credit to renew, and the Borrower and the
     Banks hereby authorize such renewal, and, accordingly, the Issuing Bank
     shall be deemed to have received an L/C Amendment Application from the
     Borrower requesting such renewal.

                                      -43-
<PAGE>
 
               (e) The Issuing Bank may, at its election (or as required by the
     Administrative Agent at the direction of the Majority Banks), deliver any
     notices of termination or other communications to any Letter of Credit
     beneficiary or transferee, and take any other action as necessary or
     appropriate, at any time and from time to time, in order to cause the
     expiry date of such Letter of Credit to be a date not later than the
     Maturity Date.

               (f) This Agreement shall control in the event of any conflict
     with any L/C-Related Document (other than any Letter of Credit).

               (g) The Issuing Bank will also deliver to the Administrative
     Agent, concurrently or promptly following its delivery of a Letter of
     Credit, or amendment to or renewal of a Letter of Credit, to an advising
     bank or a beneficiary, a true and complete copy of each such Letter of
     Credit or amendment to or renewal of a Letter of Credit.  The
     Administrative Agent will promptly notify the Banks of its receipt of any
     such copy.

          3.03 Existing BofA Letters of Credit; Risk Participations, Drawings
               ----------------------------------------------------  --------
     and Reimbursements.  (a)  On and after the Closing Date, the Existing BofA
     ------------------                                                        
     Letters of Credit shall be deemed for all purposes, including for purposes
     of the fees to be collected pursuant to Sections 3.08(a) and 3.08(c), and
     reimbursement of costs and expenses to the extent provided herein, Letters
     of Credit outstanding under this Agreement and entitled to the benefits of
     this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, and shall be governed by the
     applications and agreements pertaining thereto and by this Agreement.  Each
     Bank shall be deemed to, and hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees
     to, purchase from the Issuing Bank on the Closing Date a participation in
     each such Letter of Credit and each drawing thereunder and a corresponding
     interest in all L/C Related Documents in an amount equal to the product of
     (i) such Bank's Pro Rata Share times (ii) the maximum amount available to
     be drawn under such Letter of Credit and the amount of such drawing,
     respectively.  For purposes of Section 2.01, the Existing BofA Letters of
     Credit shall be deemed to utilize pro rata the Commitment of each Bank.

               (b) Immediately upon the Issuance of each Letter of Credit in
     addition to those described in Section 3.03(a), each 

                                      -44-
<PAGE>
 
     Bank shall be deemed to, and hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees
     to, purchase from the Issuing Bank a participation in such Letter of Credit
     and each drawing thereunder and a corresponding interest in all L/C Related
     Documents in an amount equal to the product of (i) the Pro Rata Share of
     such Bank, times (ii) the maximum amount available to be drawn under such
     Letter of Credit and the amount of such drawing, respectively. For purposes
     of Section 2.01, each Issuance of a Letter of Credit shall be deemed to
     utilize the Commitment of each Bank by an amount equal to the amount of
     such participation.

               (c) In the event of any request for a drawing under a Letter of
     Credit by the beneficiary or transferee thereof, the Issuing Bank will
     promptly notify the Borrower.  The Borrower shall reimburse the Issuing
     Bank prior to 10:00 a.m. (San Francisco time), on each date that any amount
     is paid by the Issuing Bank under any Letter of Credit (each such date, an
     "Honor Date"), in an amount equal to the amount so paid by the Issuing
      ----------                                                           
     Bank.  In the event the Borrower fails to reimburse the Issuing Bank for
     the full amount of any drawing under any Letter of Credit by 10:00 a.m.
     (San Francisco time) on the Honor Date, the Issuing Bank will promptly
     notify the Administrative Agent on the Honor Date and the Administrative
     Agent will promptly notify each Bank on the Honor Date thereof, and the
     Borrower shall be deemed to have requested that Base Rate Loans be made by
     the Banks to be disbursed on the Honor Date under such Letter of Credit,
     subject to the amount of the unutilized portion of the Revolving Commitment
     and subject to the conditions set forth in Section 5.02. Any notice given
     by the Issuing Bank or the Administrative Agent pursuant to this Section
     3.03(c) may be oral if immediately confirmed in writing (including by
     facsimile); provided that the lack of such an immediate confirmation shall
     not affect the conclusiveness or binding effect of such notice.

               (d) Each Bank shall upon any notice pursuant to Section 3.03(c)
     make available to the Administrative Agent for the account of the relevant
     Issuing Bank an amount in Dollars and in immediately available funds equal
     to its Pro Rata Share of the amount of the drawing, whereupon the
     participating Banks shall (subject to Section 3.03(e)) each be deemed to
     have made a Loan consisting of a Base Rate Loan to the Borrower in that
     amount.  If any Bank so notified fails to make available to the
     Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Bank the 

                                      -45-
<PAGE>
 
     amount of such Bank's Pro Rata Share of the amount of the drawing by no
     later than 12:00 noon (San Francisco time) on the Honor Date, then interest
     shall accrue on such Bank's obligation to make such payment, from the Honor
     Date to the date such Bank makes such payment, at a rate per annum equal to
     the Federal Funds Rate in effect from time to time during such period. The
     Administrative Agent will promptly give notice of the occurrence of the
     Honor Date, but failure of the Administrative Agent to give any such notice
     on the Honor Date or in sufficient time to enable any Bank to effect such
     payment on such date shall not relieve such Bank from its obligations under
     this Section 3.03.

               (e) With respect to any unreimbursed drawing that is not
     converted into Loans consisting of Base Rate Loans to the Borrower in whole
     or in part, because of the Borrower's failure to satisfy the conditions set
     forth in Section 5.02 or for any other reason, the Borrower shall be deemed
     to have incurred from the Issuing Bank an L/C Borrowing in the amount of
     such drawing, which L/C Borrowing shall be due and payable on demand
     (together with interest) and shall bear interest at a rate per annum equal
     to the Base Rate plus 2% per annum, and each Bank's payment to the Issuing
     Bank pursuant to Section 3.03(d) shall be deemed payment in respect of its
     participation in such L/C Borrowing and shall constitute an L/C Advance
     from such Bank in satisfaction of its participation obligation under this
     Section 3.03.

               (f) Each Bank's obligation in accordance with this Agreement to
     make the Loans or L/C Advances, as contemplated by this Section 3.03, as a
     result of a drawing under a Letter of Credit, shall be absolute and
     unconditional and without recourse to the Issuing Bank and shall not be
     affected by any circumstance, including (i) any set-off, counterclaim,
     recoupment, defense or other right which such Bank may have against the
     Issuing Bank, the Borrower or any other Person for any reason whatsoever;
     (ii) the occurrence or continuance of a Default, an Event of Default or a
     Material Adverse Effect; or (iii) any other circumstance, happening or
     event whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing; provided,
                                                                       -------- 
     however, that each Bank's obligation to make Loans under this Section 3.03
     -------                                                                   
     is subject to the conditions set forth in Section 5.02.

                                      -46-
<PAGE>
 
          3.04 Repayment of Participations.  (a) Upon (and only upon) receipt
               ---------------------------                                   
     by the Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Bank of
     immediately available funds from the Borrower (i) in reimbursement of any
     payment made by the Issuing Bank under the Letter of Credit with respect to
     which any Bank has paid the Administrative Agent for the account of the
     Issuing Bank for such Bank's participation in the Letter of Credit pursuant
     to Section 3.03 or (ii) in payment of interest thereon, the Administrative
     Agent will pay to each Bank, in the same funds as those received by the
     Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Bank, the amount of
     such Bank's Pro Rata Share of such funds, and the Issuing Bank shall
     receive the amount of the Pro Rata Share of such funds of any Bank that did
     not so pay the Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Bank.

               (b) If the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Bank is required
     at any time to return to the Borrower, or to a trustee, receiver,
     liquidator, custodian, or any official in any Insolvency Proceeding, any
     portion of the payments made by the Borrower to the Administrative Agent
     for the account of the Issuing Bank pursuant to Section 3.04(a) in
     reimbursement of a payment made under the Letter of Credit or interest or
     fee thereon, each Bank shall, on demand of the Administrative Agent,
     forthwith return to the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Bank the amount
     of its Pro Rata Share of any amounts so returned by the Administrative
     Agent or the Issuing Bank plus interest thereon from the date such demand
     is made to the date such amounts are returned by such Bank to the
     Administrative Agent or the Issuing Bank, at a rate per annum equal to the
     Federal Funds Rate in effect from time to time.

          3.05 Role of the Issuing Bank.  (a) Each Bank and the Borrower
               ------------------------                                 
     agree that, in paying any drawing under a Letter of Credit, the Issuing
     Bank shall not have any responsibility to obtain any document (other than
     any sight draft and certificates expressly required by the Letter of
     Credit) or to ascertain or inquire as to the validity or accuracy of any
     such document or the authority of the Person executing or delivering any
     such document.

               (b) No Agent-Related Person nor any of the respective
     correspondents, participants or assignees of the Issuing Bank shall be
     liable to any Bank for: (i), any action taken or omitted 

                                      -47-
<PAGE>
 
     in connection herewith at the request or with the approval of the Banks
     (including the Majority Banks, as applicable); (ii) any action taken or
     omitted in the absence of gross negligence or willful misconduct; or (iii)
     the due execution, effectiveness, validity or enforceability of any L/C-
     Related Document.

               (c) The Borrower hereby assumes all risks of the acts or
     omissions of any beneficiary or transferee with respect to its use of any
     Letter of Credit; provided, however, that this assumption is not intended
                       --------  -------                                      
     to, and shall not, preclude the Borrower's pursuing such rights and
     remedies as it may have against the beneficiary or transferee at law or
     under any other agreement.  No Agent-Related Person, nor any of the
     respective correspondents, participants or assignees of the Issuing Bank,
     shall be liable or responsible for any of the matters described in clauses
     (i) through (vii) of Section 3.06; provided, however, anything in such
                                        --------  -------                  
     clauses to the contrary notwithstanding, that the Borrower may have a claim
     against the Issuing Bank, and the Issuing Bank may be liable to the
     Borrower, to the extent, but only to the extent, of any direct, as opposed
     to consequential or exemplary, damages suffered by the Borrower which the
     Borrower proves were caused by the Issuing Bank's willful misconduct or
     gross negligence or the Issuing Bank's willful failure to pay under any
     Letter of Credit after the presentation to it by the beneficiary of a sight
     draft and certificate(s) strictly complying with the terms and conditions
     of a Letter of Credit.  In furtherance and not in limitation of the
     foregoing: (i) the Issuing Bank may accept documents that appear on their
     face to be in order, without responsibility for further investigation,
     regardless of any notice or information to the contrary; and (ii) the
     Issuing Bank shall not be responsible for the validity or sufficiency of
     any instrument transferring or assigning or purporting to transfer or
     assign a Letter of Credit or the rights or benefits thereunder or proceeds
     thereof, in whole or in part, which may prove to be invalid or ineffective
     for any reason.

          3.06 Obligations Absolute.  The obligations of the Borrower under
               --------------------                                        
     this Agreement and any L/C-Related Document to reimburse the Issuing Bank
     for a drawing under a Letter of Credit, and to repay any L/C Borrowing and
     any drawing under a Letter of Credit converted into Loans, shall be
     unconditional and irrevocable, and shall be paid strictly in accordance
     with the terms of this 

                                      -48-
<PAGE>
 
     Agreement and each such other L/C-Related Document under all circumstances,
     including the following:

               (i)   any lack of validity or enforceability of this Agreement or
     any L/C-Related Document;

               (ii)  any change in the time, manner or place of payment of, or
     in any other term of, all or any of the obligations of the Borrower in
     respect of any Letter of Credit or any other amendment or waiver of or any
     consent to departure from all or any of the L/C-Related Documents;

               (iii) the existence of any claim, set-off, defense or other right
     that the Borrower may have at any time against any beneficiary or any
     transferee of any Letter of Credit (or any Person for whom any such
     beneficiary or any such transferee may be acting), the Issuing Bank or any
     other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement, the transactions
     contemplated hereby or by the L/C-Related Documents or any unrelated
     transaction;

               (iv)  any draft, demand, certificate or other document presented
     under any Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent, invalid or
     insufficient in any respect or any statement therein being untrue or
     inaccurate in any respect; or any loss or delay in the transmission or
     otherwise of any document required in order to make a drawing under any
     Letter of Credit;

               (v)   any payment by the Issuing Bank under any Letter of Credit
     against presentation of a draft or certificate that does not strictly
     comply with the terms of any Letter of Credit; or any payment made by the
     Issuing Bank under any Letter of Credit to any Person purporting to be a
     trustee in bankruptcy, debtor-in-possession, assignee for the benefit of
     creditors, liquidator, receiver or other representative of or successor to
     any beneficiary or any transferee of any Letter of Credit, including any
     arising in connection with any Insolvency Proceeding;

               (vi)  any exchange, release or non-perfection of any collateral,
     or any release or amendment or waiver of or consent to departure from any
     other guarantee, for all or 

                                      -49-
<PAGE>
 
     any of the obligations of the Borrower in respect of any Letter of Credit;
     or

               (vii) any other circumstance or happening whatsoever, whether or
     not similar to any of the foregoing, including any other circumstance that
     might otherwise constitute a defense available to, or a discharge of, the
     Borrower or a guarantor.

     3.07 Cash Collateral Pledge.  Upon (i) the request of the Administrative
          ----------------------                                             
Agent, (A) if the Issuing Bank has honored any full or partial drawing request
on any Letter of Credit and such drawing has resulted in an L/C Borrowing
hereunder, or (B) if, as of the Maturity Date, any Letters of Credit may for any
reason remain outstanding and partially or wholly undrawn, or

               (ii)  the occurrence of the circumstances described in Section
     2.07 requiring the Borrower to Cash Collateralize Letters of Credit, then,
     the Borrower shall immediately Cash Collateralize the L/C Obligations in an
     amount equal to the L/C Obligations.

     3.08 Letter of Credit Fees.  (a) The Borrower shall pay to the
          ---------------------                                    
Administrative Agent for the account of each of the Banks a letter of credit fee
with respect to the Letters of Credit equal to the Applicable Amount for Letters
of Credit on the average daily maximum amount available to be drawn of the
outstanding standby Letters of Credit, computed on a quarterly basis in arrears
on the last Business Day of each calendar quarter based upon Letters of Credit
outstanding for that quarter as calculated by the Administrative Agent.  Such
letter of credit fees shall be due and payable quarterly in arrears on the last
Business Day of each calendar quarter during which Letter's of Credit are
outstanding, commencing on the first such quarterly date to occur after the
Closing Date, through the Maturity Date (or such later date upon which the
outstanding Letters of Credit shall expire), with the final payment to be made
on the Maturity Date (or such later expiration date).

          (b) The Borrower shall pay to the Issuing Bank a letter of credit
fronting fee for each Letter of Credit Issued by the Issuing Bank equal to
0.125% of the face amount (or increased face amount, as the case may be) of such
Letter of Credit.  Such 

                                      -50-
<PAGE>
 
Letter of Credit fronting fee shall be due and payable on each date of Issuance
of a Letter of Credit.

          (c) The Borrower shall pay to the Issuing Bank from time to time on
demand the normal issuance, presentation, amendment and other processing fees,
and other standard costs and charges, of the Issuing Bank relating to letters of
credit as from time to time in effect.

          (d) Notwithstanding Section (a) of this Section, while any Event of
Default exists or after acceleration, the Borrower shall pay Letter of Credit
fees on the Effective Amount of all outstanding Letters of Credit (after as well
as before entry of judgment thereon to the extent permitted by law) at a rate
per annum which is determined by adding 2% per annum to the Applicable Amount
then in effect therefor.

     3.09  Uniform Customs and Practice.  The Uniform Customs and Practice for
           ----------------------------                                       
Documentary Credits as published by the International Chamber of Commerce most
recently at the time of issuance of any Letter of Credit shall (unless otherwise
expressly provided in the Letters of Credit) apply to the Letters of Credit.


                                   SECTION 4

                     TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY
                     --------------------------------------

     4.01  Taxes.  (a)  Any and all payments by the Borrower to each Bank or
           -----                                                            
the Administrative Agent under this Agreement and any other Loan Document shall
be made free and clear of, and without deduction or withholding for, any Taxes.
In addition, the Borrower shall pay all Other Taxes.

           (b) If the Borrower shall be required by law to deduct or withhold
any Taxes, Other Taxes or Further Taxes from or in respect of any sum payable
hereunder to any Bank or the Administrative Agent, then:

               (i) the sum payable shall be increased as necessary so that,
     after making all required deductions and withholdings (including deductions
     and withholdings 

                                      -51-
<PAGE>
 
     applicable to additional sums payable under this Section), such Bank or the
     Administrative Agent, as the case may be, receives and retains an amount
     equal to the sum it would have received and retained had no such deductions
     or withholdings been made;

               (ii)  the Borrower shall make such deductions and withholdings;

               (iii) the Borrower shall pay the full amount deducted or withheld
     to the relevant taxing authority or other authority in accordance with
     applicable law; and

               (iv)  the Borrower shall also pay to each Bank or the
     Administrative Agent for the account of such Bank, at the time interest is
     paid, Further Taxes in the amount that the respective Bank specifies as
     necessary to preserve the after-tax yield the Bank would have received if
     such Taxes, Other Taxes or Further Taxes had not been imposed.

           (c) The Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Bank and
the Administrative Agent for the full amount of i) Taxes, ii) Other Taxes, and
iii) Further Taxes in the amount that the respective Bank specifies as necessary
to preserve the after-tax yield the Bank would have received if such Taxes,
Other Taxes or Further Taxes had not been imposed, and any liability (including
penalties, interest, additions to tax and expenses) arising therefrom or with
respect thereto, whether or not such Taxes, Other Taxes or Further Taxes were
correctly or legally asserted.  Payment under this indemnification shall be made
within 30 days after the date the Bank or the Administrative Agent makes written
demand therefor.

           (d) Within 30 days after the date of any payment by the Borrower of
Taxes, Other Taxes or Further Taxes, the Borrower shall furnish to each Bank or
the Administrative Agent the original or a certified copy of a receipt
evidencing payment thereof, or other evidence of payment satisfactory to such
Bank or the Administrative Agent.

           (e) If the Borrower is required to pay any amount to any Bank or the
Administrative Agent pursuant to Section (b) or (c) of this Section, then such
Bank shall use reasonable efforts 

                                      -52-
<PAGE>
 
(consistent with legal and regulatory restrictions) to change the jurisdiction
of its Lending Office so as to eliminate any such additional payment by the
Borrower which may thereafter accrue, if such change in the sole judgment of
such Bank is not otherwise disadvantageous to such Bank.

     4.02  Illegality.  (a)  If any Bank determines that the introduction of
           ----------                                                       
any Requirement of Law, or any change in any Requirement of Law, or in the
interpretation or administration of any Requirement of Law, has made it
unlawful, or that any central bank or other Governmental Authority has asserted
that it is unlawful, for any Bank or its applicable Lending Office to make
Offshore Rate Loans, then, on notice thereof by the Bank to the Borrower through
the Administrative Agent, any obligation of that Bank to make Offshore Rate
Loans shall be suspended until the Bank notifies the Administrative Agent and
the Borrower that the circumstances giving rise to such determination no longer
exist.

           (b) If a Bank determines that it is unlawful to maintain any Offshore
Rate Loan, the Borrower shall, upon its receipt of notice of such fact and
demand from such Bank (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), prepay in full
such Offshore Rate Loans of that Bank then outstanding, together with interest
accrued thereon and amounts required under Section 4.04, either on the last day
of the Interest Period thereof, if the Bank may lawfully continue to maintain
such Offshore Rate Loans to such day, or immediately, if the Bank may not
lawfully continue to maintain such Offshore Rate Loan.  If the Borrower is
required to so prepay any Offshore Rate Loan, then concurrently with such
prepayment, the Borrower shall borrow from the affected Bank, in the amount of
such repayment, a Base Rate Loan.

     4.03  Increased Costs and Reduction of Return.  (a)  If any Bank
           ---------------------------------------                   
determines that, due to either (i) the introduction of or any change (other than
any change by way of imposition of or increase in reserve requirements included
in the calculation of the CD Rate or the Offshore Rate or in respect of the
assessment rate payable by any Bank to the FDIC for insuring U.S. deposits) in
or in the interpretation of any law or regulation or (ii) the compliance by that
Bank with any guideline or request from any central bank or other Governmental
Authority (whether or not having the force of law), there shall be any increase
in the cost to such Bank of agreeing to make or making, funding or 

                                      -53-
<PAGE>
 
maintaining any Offshore Rate Loans or CD Rate Loans or participating in Letters
of Credit, or, in the case of the Issuing Bank, any increase in the cost to the
Issuing Bank of agreeing to issue, issuing or maintaining any Letter of Credit
or of agreeing to make or making, funding or maintaining any unpaid drawing
under any Letter of Credit, then the Borrower shall be liable for, and shall
from time to time, upon demand (with a copy of such demand to be sent to the
Administrative Agent), pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of such
Bank, additional amounts as are sufficient to compensate such Bank for such
increased costs.

           (b) If any Bank shall have determined that (i) the introduction of
any Capital Adequacy Regulation, (ii) any change in any Capital Adequacy
Regulation, (iii) any change in the interpretation or administration of any
Capital Adequacy Regulation by any central bank or other Governmental Authority
charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or (iv) compliance by
the Bank (or its Lending Office) or any corporation controlling the Bank with
any Capital Adequacy Regulation, affects or would affect the amount of capital
required or expected to be maintained by the Bank or any corporation controlling
the Bank and (taking into consideration such Bank's or such corporation's
policies with respect to capital adequacy and such Bank's desired return on
capital) determines that the amount of such capital is increased as a
consequence of its Commitments, loans, credits or obligations under this
Agreement, then, upon demand of such Bank to the Borrower through the
Administrative Agent, the Borrower shall pay to the Bank, from time to time as
specified by the Bank, additional amounts sufficient to compensate the Bank for
such increase.

     4.04  Funding Losses.  The Borrower shall reimburse each Bank and hold
           --------------                                                  
each Bank harmless from any loss or expense which the Bank may sustain or incur
as a consequence of:  (a) the failure of the Borrower to make on a timely basis
any payment of principal of any Offshore Rate Loan or CD Rate Loan; (b) the
failure of the Borrower to borrow, continue or convert a Loan after the Borrower
has given (or is deemed to have given) a Notice of Borrowing or a Notice of
Conversion/Continuation; (c) the failure of the Borrower to make any prepayment
in accordance with any notice delivered under Section 2.06; (d) the 

                                      -54-
<PAGE>
 
prepayment (including pursuant to Section 2.07) or other payment (including
after acceleration thereof) of an Offshore Rate Loan or a CD Rate Loan on a day
that is not the last day of the relevant Interest Period; or (e) the automatic
conversion under Section 2.04 of any Offshore Rate Loan or CD Rate Loan to a
Base Rate Loan on a day that is not the last day of the relevant Interest
Period; including any such loss or expense arising from the liquidation or
reemployment of funds obtained by it to maintain its Offshore Rate Loans or CD
Rate Loans or from fees payable to terminate the deposits from which such funds
were obtained. For purposes of calculating amounts payable by the Borrower to
the Banks under this Section and under Section 4.03(a), (i) each Offshore Rate
Loan made by a Bank (and each related reserve, special deposit or similar
requirement) shall be conclusively deemed to have been funded at the IBOR used
in determining the Offshore Rate for such Offshore Rate Loan by a matching
deposit or other borrowing in the interbank eurodollar market for a comparable
amount and for a comparable period, whether or not such Offshore Rate Loan is in
fact so funded, and (ii) each CD Rate Loan made by a Bank (and each related
reserve, special deposit or similar requirement) shall be conclusively deemed to
have been funded at the Certificate of Deposit Rate used in determining the CD
Rate for such CD Rate Loan by the issuance of its certificate of deposit in a
comparable amount and for a comparable period, whether or not such CD Rate Loan
is in fact so funded.

     4.05  Inability to Determine Rates.  If the Majority Banks determine that
           ----------------------------                                       
for any reason adequate and reasonable means do not exist for determining the
Offshore Rate or the CD Rate for any requested Interest Period with respect to a
proposed Offshore Rate Loan or CD Rate Loan, or that the Offshore Rate or the CD
Rate applicable pursuant to Section 2.09(a) for any requested Interest Period
with respect to a proposed Offshore Rate Loan or CD Rate Loan does not
adequately and fairly reflect the cost to such Banks of funding such Loan, the
Administrative Agent will promptly so notify the Borrower and each Bank.
Thereafter, the obligation of the Banks to make or maintain CD Rate Loans or
Offshore Rate Loans, as the case may be, hereunder shall be suspended until the
Administrative Agent upon the instruction of the Majority Banks revokes such
notice in writing.  Upon receipt of such notice, the Borrower may revoke any
Notice of Borrowing or Notice of Conversion/Continuation then submitted by it.
If 

                                      -55-
<PAGE>
 
the Borrower does not revoke such Notice, the Banks shall make, convert or
continue the Loans, as proposed by the Borrower, in the amount specified in the
applicable notice submitted by the Borrower, but such Loans shall be made,
converted or continued as Base Rate Loans instead of CD Rate Loans or Offshore
Rate Loans, as the case may be.

     4.06  Survival.  The agreements and obligations of the Borrower in this
           --------                                                         
Section 4 shall survive the payment of all other Obligations.


                                   SECTION 5

                              CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
                              --------------------

     5.01  Conditions of Initial Credit Extension.  The obligation of each Bank
           --------------------------------------                              
to make its initial extension of credit hereunder is subject to the condition
that the Administrative Agent shall have received on or before the Closing Date
all of the following, in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent and each Bank, and in sufficient copies for the Administrative Agent and
each Bank:

           (a) Credit Agreement and Notes.  This Agreement and any Notes
               --------------------------                               
executed by each party thereto;

           (b) Resolutions; Incumbency.  (i)  Copies of the resolutions of the
               -----------------------                                        
board of directors of the Borrower authorizing the transactions contemplated
hereby, certified as of the Closing Date by the Secretary of the Borrower; and
(ii) a certificate of the Secretary of the Borrower certifying the names and
true signatures of the officers of the Borrower authorized to execute, deliver
and perform, as applicable, this Agreement, and all other Loan Documents to be
delivered by it hereunder;

           (c) Organization Documents; Good Standing.  Each of the following
               -------------------------------------                        
documents:  (i) the articles or certificate of incorporation and the bylaws of
the Borrower as in effect on the Closing Date, certified by the Secretary of the
Borrower as of the Closing Date; and (ii) a good standing and tax good standing
certificate for the Borrower from the Secretary of State (or similar, applicable
Governmental Authority) of its state of 

                                      -56-
<PAGE>
 
incorporation and each state where the Borrower is qualified to do business as a
foreign corporation as of a recent date, together with a bring-down certificate
by facsimile, dated the Closing Date;

           (d) Collateral Documents.  Amendments to the Collateral Documents,
               --------------------
duly executed, acknowledged, delivered, recorded, re-recorded, filed, re-filed,
registered and re-registered, and any and all such further acts, deeds,
conveyances, security agreements, financing statements and continuations
thereof, termination statements, notices of assignment, transfers, certificates,
assurances and other instruments as the Collateral Agent may reasonably require
in order to reflect this Agreement and, in connection therewith, to (i) perfect
and maintain the validity, effectiveness and priority of any of the Collateral
Documents and the Liens intended to be created thereby, and (ii) to better
assure, convey, grant, assign, transfer, preserve, protect and confirm to the
Collateral Agent the rights intended to be granted to the Collateral Agent for
the benefit of the Secured Parties under the Collateral Documents or under any
other document executed in connection therewith.

           (e) Legal Opinion.  A favorable opinion of counsel to the Borrower,
               -------------                                                  
addressed to the Administrative Agent and the Banks, with respect to such legal
matters relating hereto as any Bank may request;

           (f) Payment of Fees.  Evidence of payment by the Borrower of all
               ----------------                                             
accrued and unpaid fees, costs and expenses to the extent then due and payable
on the Closing Date, together with Attorney Costs of the Administrative Agent to
the extent invoiced prior to or on the Closing Date, plus such additional
amounts of Attorney Costs as shall constitute the Administrative Agent's
reasonable estimate of Attorney Costs incurred or to be incurred by it through
the closing proceedings (provided that such estimate shall not thereafter
preclude final settling of accounts between the Borrower and the Administrative
Agent); including any such costs, fees and expenses arising under or referenced
in Sections 2.10 and 11.04;

           (g) Certificate.  A certificate signed by a Responsible Officer,
               -----------                                                 
dated as of the Closing Date:  (i) stating 

                                      -57-
<PAGE>
 
that the representations and warranties contained in Section 6 are true and
correct on and as of such date, as though made on and as of such date; (ii)
stating that no Default or Event of Default exists or would result from the
execution and delivery of this Agreement; (iii) stating that there has occurred
since December 31, 1995, no event or circumstance that has resulted or could
reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, and (iv) setting
forth the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio as of the end of the most recent fiscal
quarter of the Borrower, and the calculations in connection therewith in the
form of Section III on Schedule 2 to the Compliance Certificate, for purposes of
determining the Applicable Amount; and

           (h) Subordination Agreements.  The Subordination Agreements duly
               ------------------------                                    
executed by R.D. Colburn and the R.D. Colburn School of Performing Arts.

           (i) Other Documents.  Such other approvals, opinions, documents or
               ---------------      
materials as the Administrative Agent or any Bank may request.

     5.02  Conditions to All Credit Extensions.  The obligation of each Bank to
           -----------------------------------                                 
make any Loan to be made by it (including its initial Loan) or to continue or
convert any Loan under Section 2.04 and the obligation of the Issuing Bank to
Issue any Letter of Credit (including the initial Letter of Credit) is subject
to the satisfaction of the following conditions precedent on the relevant
Borrowing Date, Conversion/Continuation Date or Issuance Date:

           (a) Notice, Application.  The Administrative Agent shall have
               -------------------                                      
received (with, in the case of the initial Loan only, a copy for each Bank) a
Notice of Borrowing or a Notice of Conversion/Continuation, as applicable or in
the case of any Issuance of any Letter of Credit, the Issuing Bank and the
Administrative Agent shall have received an L/C Application or L/C Amendment
Application, as required under Section 3.02;

           (b) Continuation of Representations and Warranties.  The
               ----------------------------------------------
representations and warranties in Section 6 shall be true and correct on and as
of such Borrowing Date or Conversion/ Continuation Date or Issuance Date with
the same effect as if made on and as of such Borrowing Date or
Conversion/Continuation 

                                      -58-
<PAGE>
 
Date or Issuance Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties
expressly refer to an earlier date, in which case they shall be true and correct
as of such earlier date); and

           (c) No Existing Default.  No Default or Event of Default shall exist
               -------------------
or shall result from such Borrowing or continuation or conversion or Issuance.

Each Notice of Borrowing, Notice of Conversion/Continuation and L/C Application
or L/C Amendment Application submitted by the Borrower hereunder shall
constitute a representation and warranty by the Borrower hereunder, as of the
date of each such notice and as of each Borrowing Date, Conversion/Continuation
Date, or Issuance Date, as applicable, that the conditions in this Section 5.02
are satisfied.


                                   SECTION 6

                         REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
                         ------------------------------

     The Borrower represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent, the
Collateral Agent and each Bank that:

     6.01  Corporate Existence and Power.  Each of the Borrower and its
           -----------------------------
Subsidiaries:  (a) is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation; (b) has the
power and authority and all governmental licenses, authorizations, consents and
approvals to own its assets, carry on its business and to execute, deliver, and
perform its obligations under the Loan Documents; (c) is duly qualified as a
foreign corporation and is licensed and in good standing under the laws of each
jurisdiction where its ownership, lease or operation of property or the conduct
of its business requires such qualification or license; and (d) is in compliance
with all Requirements of Law.

     6.02  Corporate Authorization; No Contravention.  The execution, delivery
           -----------------------------------------
and performance by the Borrower of this Agreement and each other Loan Document
to which the Borrower is party, have been duly authorized by all necessary
corporate action, and do not and will not:  (a) contravene the terms of any of
the Borrower's Organization Documents; (b) conflict with or 

                                      -59-
<PAGE>
 
result in any breach or contravention of, or the creation of any Lien under, any
document evidencing any Contractual Obligation to which the Borrower is a party
or any order, injunction, writ or decree of any Governmental Authority to which
the Borrower or its property is subject; or (c) violate any Requirement of Law.

     6.03  Governmental Authorization.  No approval, consent, exemption,
           --------------------------
authorization, or other action by, or notice to, or filing with, any
Governmental Authority is necessary or required in connection with the
execution, delivery or performance by, or enforcement against, the Borrower or
any of its Subsidiaries of the Agreement or any other Loan Document.

     6.04  Binding Effect.  This Agreement and each other Loan Document to
           --------------
which the Borrower is a party constitute the legal, valid and binding
obligations of the Borrower, enforceable against the Borrower in accordance with
their respective terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable
bankruptcy, insolvency, or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors'
rights generally or by equitable principles relating to enforceability.

     6.05  Litigation.  There are no actions, suits, proceedings, claims or
           ----------
disputes pending, or to the best knowledge of the Borrower, threatened or
contemplated, at law, in equity, in arbitration or before any Governmental
Authority, against the Borrower, or its Subsidiaries or any of their respective
properties which:  (a) purport to affect or pertain to this Agreement or any
other Loan Document, or any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby;
or (b) if determined adversely to the Borrower or its Subsidiaries, would
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  No injunction, writ,
temporary restraining order or any order of any nature has been issued by any
court or other Governmental Authority purporting to enjoin or restrain the
execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement or any other Loan Document,
or directing that the transactions provided for herein or therein not be
consummated as herein or therein provided.

     6.06  No Default.  No Default or Event of Default exists or would result
           ----------
from the incurring of any Obligations by the Borrower.  As of the Closing Date,
neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary is in default under or with respect to
any Contractual 

                                      -60-
<PAGE>
 
Obligation in any respect which, individually or together with all such
defaults, could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, or
that would, if such default had occurred after the Closing Date, create an Event
of Default under Section 9.01(e).

     6.07  ERISA Compliance .  (a)  Each Plan is in compliance in all material
           ----------------                                                   
respects with the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and other federal or
state law.  Each Plan which is intended to qualify under Section 401(a) of the
Code has received a favorable determination letter from the Internal Revenue
Service, and any Governmental Authority succeeding to any of its principal
functions under the Code, and to the best knowledge of the Borrower, nothing has
occurred which would cause the loss of such qualification.  The Borrower and
each ERISA Affiliate has made all required contributions to any Plan subject to
Section 412 of the Code, and no application for a funding waiver or an extension
of any amortization period pursuant to Section 412 of the Code has been made
with respect to any Plan.

          (b) There are no pending or, to the best knowledge of Borrower,
threatened claims, actions or lawsuits, or action by any Governmental Authority,
with respect to any Plan which has resulted or could reasonably be expected to
result in a Material Adverse Effect.  There has been no prohibited transaction
or violation of the fiduciary responsibility rules with respect to any Plan
which has resulted or could reasonably be expected to result in a Material
Adverse Effect.

          (c) (i) No ERISA Event has occurred or is reasonably expected to
occur; (ii) no Pension Plan has any Unfunded Pension Liability; (iii) neither
the Borrower nor any ERISA Affiliate has incurred, or reasonably expects to
incur, any liability under Title IV of ERISA with respect to any Pension Plan
(other than premiums due and not delinquent under Section 4007 of ERISA); (iv)
neither the Borrower nor any ERISA Affiliate has incurred, or reasonably expects
to incur, any liability (and no event has occurred which, with the giving of
notice under Section 4219 of ERISA, would result in such liability) under
Section 4201 or 4243 of ERISA with respect to a Multiemployer Plan; and (v)
neither the Borrower nor any ERISA Affiliate has engaged in a transaction that
could be subject to Section 4069 or 4212(c) of ERISA.

                                      -61-
<PAGE>
 
     6.08  Use of Proceeds; Margin Regulations.  The proceeds of the Loans are
           -----------------------------------                                 
to be used solely for the purposes set forth in and permitted by Section 7.12
and Section 8.07.  Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary is generally engaged
in the business of purchasing or selling Margin Stock or extending credit for
the purpose of purchasing or carrying Margin Stock.

     6.09  Title to Properties.  The Borrower and each Subsidiary have good
           -------------------                                              
record and marketable title in fee simple to, or valid leasehold interests in,
all real property necessary or used in the ordinary conduct of their respective
businesses, except for such defects in title as could not, individually or in
the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  As of the Closing Date, the
property of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries is subject to no Liens, other than
Permitted Liens.

     6.10  Taxes.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries have filed all Federal and
           -----                                                                
other material tax returns and reports required to be filed, and have paid all
Federal and other material taxes, assessments, fees and other governmental
charges levied or imposed upon them or their properties, income or assets
otherwise due and payable, except those which are being contested in good faith
by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been provided in
accordance with GAAP.  There is no proposed tax assessment against the Borrower
or any Subsidiary that would, if made, have a Material Adverse Effect.

     6.11  Financial Condition.  The audited consolidated financial statements
           -------------------                                                 
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries dated December 31, 1995, and the related
consolidated statements of income or operations, shareholders' equity and cash
flows for the fiscal year ended on that date: (i) were prepared in accordance
with GAAP consistently applied throughout the period covered thereby, except as
otherwise expressly noted therein; (ii) fairly present the financial condition
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as of the date thereof and results of
operations for the period covered thereby; and (iii) show all material
indebtedness and other liabilities, direct or contingent, of the Borrower and
its consolidated Subsidiaries as of the date thereof, including liabilities for
taxes, material commitments and Contingent Obligations.  Since December 31,
1995, there has been no Material Adverse Effect.

                                      -62-
<PAGE>
 
     6.12  Environmental Matters.  The Borrower conducts in the ordinary course
           ---------------------                                                
of business a review of the effect of existing Environmental Laws and existing
Environmental Claims on its business, operations and properties, and as a result
thereof the Borrower has reasonably concluded that, such Environmental Laws and
Environmental Claims could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

     6.13  Regulated Entities.  None of the Borrower, any Person controlling
           ------------------                                                
the Borrower, or any Subsidiary, is an "Investment Company" within the meaning
of the Investment Borrower Act of 1940.  The Borrower is not subject to
regulation under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, the Federal
Power Act, the Interstate Commerce Act, any state public utilities code, or any
other Federal or state statute or regulation limiting its ability to incur
Indebtedness.

     6.14  No Burdensome Restrictions.  Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary
           --------------------------                                           
is a party to or bound by any Contractual Obligation, or subject to any
restriction in any organization Document, or any Requirement of Law, which could
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

     6.15  Copyrights, Patents, Trademarks and Licenses, etc.   The Borrower or
           --------------------------------------------------                  
its Subsidiaries own or are licensed or otherwise have the right to use all of
the patents, trademarks, service marks, trade names, copyrights, contractual
franchises, authorizations and other rights that are reasonably necessary for
the operation of their respective businesses, without conflict with the rights
of any other Person.  To the best knowledge of the Borrower, no slogan or other
advertising device, product, process, method, substance, part or other material
now employed, or now contemplated to be employed, by the Borrower or any
Subsidiary infringes upon any rights held by any other Person.  No claim or
litigation regarding any of the foregoing is pending or threatened, and no
patent, invention, device, application, principle or any statute, law, rule,
regulation, standard or code is pending or, to the knowledge of the Borrower,
proposed, which, in either case, could reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect.

                                      -63-
<PAGE>
 
     6.16  Subsidiaries.  As of the Closing Date, the Borrower has no
           ------------                                               
Subsidiaries other than those specifically disclosed in part (a) of Schedule
                                                                    --------
6.16 hereto and has no equity investments in any other corporation or entity
- ----                                                                        
other than those specifically disclosed in part (b) of Schedule 6.16.
                                                       ------------- 

     6.17  Insurance.  The properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries are
           ---------                                                           
insured with financially sound and reputable insurance companies not Affiliates
of the Borrower, in such amounts, with such deductibles and covering such risks
as are customarily carried by companies engaged in similar businesses and owning
similar properties in localities where the Borrower or such Subsidiary operates.

     6.18  Collateral Documents.  The provisions of each of the Collateral
           --------------------                                            
Documents are effective to create in favor of the Collateral Agent a legal,
valid and enforceable first priority security interest in all right, title and
interest of the Borrower in the Collateral described therein.  All
representations and warranties of the Borrower contained in the Collateral
Documents are true and correct.

     6.19  Full Disclosure.  None of the representations or warranties made by
           ---------------                                                     
the Borrower or any Subsidiary in the Loan Documents as of the date such
representations and warranties are made or deemed made, and none of the
statements contained in any exhibit, report, statement or certificate furnished
by or on behalf of the Borrower or any Subsidiary in connection with the Loan
Documents (including the offering and disclosure materials delivered by or on
behalf of the Borrower to the Banks prior to the Closing Date), contains any
untrue statement of a material fact or omits any material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements made therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not misleading as of the time when made
or delivered.


                                   SECTION 7

                             AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS
                             ---------------------

     So long as any Bank shall have any Commitment hereunder, or any Loan or
other Obligation shall remain unpaid or unsatisfied,

                                      -64-
<PAGE>
 
or any Letter of Credit shall remain outstanding, unless the Majority Banks
waive compliance in writing:

     7.01  Financial Statements.  The Borrower shall deliver to the
           --------------------                                     
Administrative Agent, in form and detail satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent and the Majority Banks, with sufficient copies for each Bank:

          (a) as soon as available, but not later than 90 days after the end of
each fiscal year, a copy of the audited consolidated balance sheet of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries as at the end of such year and the related
consolidated statements of income or operations, shareholders, equity and cash
flows for such year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures
for the previous fiscal year, and accompanied by the opinion of Price Waterhouse
or another nationally-recognized independent public accounting firm
("Independent Auditor") which report shall state that such consolidated
  -------------------                                                  
financial statements present fairly the financial position for the periods
indicated in conformity with GAAP applied on a basis consistent with prior
years.  Such opinion shall not be qualified or limited because of a restricted
or limited examination by the Independent Auditor of any material portion of the
Borrower's or any Subsidiary's records;

          (b) as soon as available, but not later than 45 days after the end of
each of the first three fiscal quarters of each fiscal year, a copy of the
unaudited consolidated balance sheet of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as of
the end of such quarter and the related consolidated statements of income,
shareholders' equity and cash flows, for the period commencing on the first day
and ending on the last day of such quarter, and certified by a Responsible
Officer as fairly presenting, in accordance with GAAP (subject to ordinary, good
faith year-end audit adjustments), the financial position and the results of
operations of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries; and

     7.02  Certificates; Other Information.  The Borrower shall furnish to the
           -------------------------------                                     
Administrative Agent, with sufficient copies for each Bank:

          (a) concurrently with the delivery of the financial statements
referred to in Section 7.01(a), a certificate of the

                                      -65-
<PAGE>
 
Independent Auditor stating that in making the examination necessary therefor no
knowledge was obtained of any Default or Event of Default, except as specified
in such certificate;

          (b) concurrently with the delivery of the financial statements
referred to in Sections 7.01(a) and (b), a Compliance Certificate executed by a
Responsible Officer; and

          (c) promptly, such additional information regarding the business,
financial or corporate affairs of the Borrower or any Subsidiary as any Bank may
from time to time request.

     7.03  Notices.  The Borrower shall promptly notify the Administrative
           -------                                                         
Agent and each Bank:

          (a) of the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default, and of the
occurrence or existence of any event or circumstance that foreseeably will
become a Default or Event of Default;

          (b) of any matter that has resulted or may result in a Material
Adverse Effect, including (i) breach or non-performance of, or any default
under, a Contractual Obligation of the Borrower or any Subsidiary; (ii) any
dispute, litigation, investigation, proceeding or suspension between the
Borrower or any Subsidiary and any Governmental Authority; or (iii) the
commencement of, or any material development in, any litigation or proceeding
affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary; including pursuant to any applicable
Environmental Laws;

          (c) of the occurrence of any of the following events affecting the
Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate (but in no event more than 10 days after such
event), and deliver to the Administrative Agent a copy of any notice with
respect to such event that is filed with a Governmental Authority and any notice
delivered by a Governmental Authority to the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate
with respect to such event: (i) an ERISA Event; (ii) a material increase in the
Unfunded Pension Liability of any Pension Plan; (iii) the adoption, of, or the
commencement of contributions to, any Plan subject to Section 412 of the Code by
the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate; or (iv) the adoption of any amendment to a
Plan subject to Section 412 of the Code, if such

                                      -66-
<PAGE>
 
amendment results in a material increase in contributions or Unfunded Pension
Liability; and

          (d) of any material change in accounting policies or financial
reporting practices by the Borrower or any of its consolidated Subsidiaries.

          Each notice under this Section shall be accompanied by a written
statement by a Responsible Officer setting forth details of the occurrence
referred to therein, and stating what action the Borrower or any affected
Subsidiary proposes to take with respect thereto and at what time.  Each notice
under Section 7.03(a) shall describe with particularity any and all clauses or
provisions of this Agreement or other Loan Document that have been (or
foreseeably will be) breached or violated.

     7.04  Preservation of Corporate Existence, Etc.   The Borrower shall, and
           -----------------------------------------                          
shall cause each Subsidiary to:  (a) preserve and maintain in full force and
effect its corporate existence and good standing under the laws of its state or
jurisdiction of incorporation; (b) preserve and maintain in full force and
effect all governmental rights, privileges, qualifications, permits, licenses
and franchises necessary or desirable in the normal conduct of its business; (c)
use reasonable efforts, in the ordinary course of business, to preserve its
business organization and goodwill; and (d) preserve or renew all of its
registered patents, trademarks, trade names and service marks, the non-
preservation of which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect.

     7.05  Maintenance of Property.  The Borrower shall maintain, and shall
           -----------------------                                          
cause each Subsidiary to maintain, and preserve all its property which is used
or useful in its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and
tear excepted and make all necessary repairs thereto and renewals and
replacements thereof except where the failure to do so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  The Borrower and each Subsidiary
shall use the standard of care typical in the industry in the operation and
maintenance of its facilities.

     7.06  Insurance.  The Borrower shall maintain, and shall cause each
           ---------                                                     
Subsidiary to maintain, with financially sound and reputable independent
insurers, insurance with respect to its

                                      -67-
<PAGE>
 
properties and business against loss or damage of the kinds customarily insured
against by Persons engaged in the same or similar business, of such types and in
such amounts as are customarily carried under similar circumstances by such
other Persons.

     7.07  Payment of Obligations.  The Borrower shall, and shall cause each
           ----------------------                                            
Subsidiary to, pay and discharge as the same shall become due and payable, all
their respective obligations and liabilities, including: (a) all tax
liabilities, assessments and governmental charges or levies upon it or its
properties or assets, unless the same are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP are being
maintained by the Borrower or such Subsidiary; (b) all lawful claims which, if
unpaid, would by law become a Lien upon its property; and (c) all indebtedness,
as and when due and payable, but subject to any subordination provisions
contained in any instrument or agreement evidencing such Indebtedness.

     7.08  Compliance with Laws.  The Borrower shall comply, and shall cause
           --------------------                                              
each Subsidiary to comply, in all material respects with all Requirements of Law
of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over it or its business
(including the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act), except such as may be
contested in good faith or as to which a bona fide dispute may exist.

     7.09  Compliance with ERISA.  The Borrower shall, and shall cause each of
           ---------------------                                               
its ERISA Affiliates to:  (a) maintain each Plan in compliance in all material
respects with the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and other federal or
state law; (b) cause each Plan which is qualified under Section 401(a) of the
Code to maintain such qualification; and (c) make all required contributions to
any Plan subject to Section 412 of the Code.

     7.10  Inspection of Property and Books and Records.  The Borrower shall
           --------------------------------------------                      
maintain and shall cause each Subsidiary to maintain proper books of record and
account, in which full, true and correct entries in conformity with GAAP
consistently applied shall be made of all financial transactions and matters
involving the assets and business of the Borrower and such Subsidiary.  The
Borrower shall permit, and shall cause each Subsidiary to permit,
representatives and independent contractors of the Administrative

                                      -68-
<PAGE>
 
Agent to visit and inspect any of their respective properties, to examine their
respective corporate, financial and operating records, and make copies thereof
or abstracts therefrom, and to discuss their respective affairs, finances and
accounts with their respective directors, officers, and independent public
accountants, all at the expense of the Borrower and at such reasonable times
during normal business hours and as often as may be reasonably desired, upon
reasonable advance notice to the Borrower; provided, however, when an Event of
                                           --------  -------
Default exists the Administrative Agent may do any of the foregoing at the
expense of the Borrower at any time during normal business hours and without
advance notice.

     7.11  Environmental Laws.  The Borrower shall, and shall cause each
           ------------------                                            
Subsidiary to, conduct its operations and keep and maintain its property in
compliance with all Environmental Laws.

     7.12  Use of Proceeds.  The Borrower shall use the proceeds of the Loans
           ---------------                                                    
for working capital and other general corporate purposes, including acquisitions
permitted hereunder, not in contravention of any Requirement of Law or of any
Loan Document.

     7.13  Collateral.  Promptly upon request by the Collateral Agent, the
           ----------                                                      
Borrower shall do, execute, acknowledge, deliver, record, re-record, file, re-
file, register and re-register, any and all such further acts, deeds,
conveyances, security agreements, financing statements and continuations
thereof, termination statements, notices of assignment, transfers, certificates,
assurances and other instruments as the Collateral Agent may reasonably require
from time to time in order (i) to carry out more effectively the purposes of
this Agreement or any other Loan Document, (ii) to subject to the Liens created
by any of the Collateral Documents any of the properties, rights or interests
covered by any of the Collateral Documents, (iii) to perfect and maintain the
validity, effectiveness and priority of any of the Collateral Documents and the
Liens intended to be created thereby, and (iv) to better assure, convey, grant,
assign, transfer, preserve, protect and confirm to the Secured Parties the
rights granted or now or hereafter intended to be granted to the Secured Parties
under the Collateral Documents or under any other document executed in
connection therewith.

                                      -69-
<PAGE>
 
                                   SECTION 8

                               NEGATIVE COVENANTS
                               ------------------

     So long as any Bank shall have any Commitment hereunder, or any Loan or
other Obligation shall remain unpaid or unsatisfied, or any Letter of Credit
shall remain outstanding, unless the Majority Banks waive compliance in writing:

     8.01  Limitation on Liens.  The Borrower shall not directly or indirectly,
           -------------------                                                  
make, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien upon or with respect to
any part of its property, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than
the following on other than the Collateral ("Permitted Liens"):
                                             ---------------   

          (a) any Lien created under any Loan Document;

          (b) Liens for taxes, fees, assessments or other governmental charges
which are not delinquent or remain payable without penalty, or to the extent
that non-payment thereof is permitted by Section 7.07, provided that no notice
of lien has been filed or recorded under the Code;

          (c) carriers', warehousemen's, mechanics', landlords', materialmen's,
repairmen's or other similar Liens arising in the ordinary course of business
which are not delinquent or remain payable without penalty;

          (d) Liens (other than any Lien imposed by ERISA) consisting of pledges
or deposits required in the ordinary course of business in connection with
workers, compensation, unemployment insurance and other social security
legislation;

          (e) Liens on the property of the Borrower securing (i) the non-
delinquent performance of bids, trade contracts (other than for borrowed money),
leases, statutory obligations, (ii) contingent obligations on surety and appeal
bonds, and (iii) other, non-delinquent obligations of a like nature; in each
case, incurred in the ordinary course of business, provided all such Liens in
the aggregate would not (even if enforced) cause a Material Adverse Effect;

                                      -70-
<PAGE>
 
          (f) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions and other similar
encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business which, in the
aggregate, are not substantial in amount, and which do not in any case
materially detract from the value of the property subject thereto or interfere
with the ordinary conduct of the businesses of the Borrower;

          (g) Liens arising solely by virtue of any statutory or common law
provision relating to banker's liens, rights of setoff or similar rights and
remedies as to deposit accounts or other funds maintained with a creditor
depository institution; provided that (i) such deposit account is not a
                        --------                                       
dedicated cash collateral account and is not subject to restrictions against
access by the Borrower in excess of those set forth by regulations promulgated
by the FRB, and (ii) such deposit account is not intended by the Borrower to
provide collateral to the depository institution;

          (h) Liens to secure Indebtedness permitted by Section 8.05(g); and

          (i) Purchase money security interests hereafter acquired when the
security interest does not extend beyond the property purchased and the
aggregate amount of liabilities secured thereby do not exceed, at any time,
$20,000,000.

     8.02  Disposition of Assets.  The, Borrower shall not, and shall not
           ---------------------                                          
suffer or permit any Subsidiary to, directly or indirectly, sell, assign, lease,
convey, transfer or otherwise dispose of (whether in one or a series of
transactions) any property (including accounts and notes receivable, with or
without recourse) or enter into any agreement to do any of the foregoing,
except:

          (a) dispositions of inventory, or used, worn-out or surplus
equipment, all in the ordinary course of business;

          (b) the sale of equipment to the extent that such equipment is
exchanged for credit against the purchase price of similar replacement
equipment, or the proceeds of such sale are reasonably promptly applied to the
purchase price of such replacement equipment; and

                                      -71-
<PAGE>
 
          (c) dispositions not otherwise permitted hereunder which are made for
fair market value, provided such dispositions, taken as a whole, do not
                   --------                                            
represent a substantial amount of the Consolidated Total Assets.

     8.03  Consolidations and Mergers.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not
           --------------------------                                         
suffer or permit any Subsidiary to, merge, consolidate with or into, or convey,
transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (whether in one transaction or in a
series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (whether now
owned or hereafter acquired) to or in favor of any Person, except:

          (a) any Subsidiary may merge with the Borrower, provided that the
Borrower shall be the continuing or surviving corporation, or with any one or
more Subsidiaries, provided that if any transaction shall be between a
Subsidiary and a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary, the Wholly-Owned Subsidiary shall be
the continuing or surviving corporation; and

          (b) any Subsidiary may sell all or substantially all of its assets
(upon voluntary liquidation or otherwise), to the Borrower or another Wholly-
Owned Subsidiary.

     8.04  Loans and Investments.  The Borrower shall not purchase or acquire,
           ---------------------                                               
or suffer or permit any Subsidiary to purchase or acquire, or make any
commitment therefor, any capital stock, equity interest, or any obligations or
other securities of, or any interest in, any Person, or make or commit to make
any Acquisitions, or make or commit to make any advance, loan, extension of
credit or capital contribution to or any other investment in, any Person
including any Affiliate of the Borrower, except for:

          (a) investments in cash equivalents and short term marketable
securities;

          (b) extensions of credit in the nature of accounts receivable or notes
receivable arising from the sale or lease of goods or services in the ordinary
course of business;

          (d) CED Borrowings existing on the Closing Date;

                                      -72-
<PAGE>
 
           (e) Acquisitions having a book value (to the purchaser) not exceeding
in the aggregate in any fiscal year an amount equal to 35% of the sum of (i) the
Borrower's Consolidated Tangible Net Worth and (ii) Borrower's subordinated
Indebtedness, in each case as of the last day of prior fiscal year, provided no
                                                                    --------
Default or Event of Default exists before and after giving effect to such
acquisitions; and

           (f) other Loans and investments not exceeding $4,000,000 in the
aggregate at any time.

     8.05  Limitation on Indebtedness.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not
           --------------------------                                         
suffer or permit any Subsidiary to, create, incur, assume, suffer to exist, or
otherwise become or remain directly or indirectly liable with respect to, any
Indebtedness, except:

           (a) Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this Agreement;

           (b) Permitted Senior Indebtedness not exceeding $90,000,000 in
aggregate principal amount at any time provided the Borrower has complied with
                                       --------                               
Section 7.13;

           (c) the acquisition of goods, supplies or merchandise on normal trade
credit;

           (d) the execution of bonds or undertakings in the ordinary course of
its business as presently conducted;

           (e) the endorsement of negotiable instruments received in the
ordinary course of its business as presently conducted;

           (f) the financing of insurance premiums, in an aggregate amount not
to exceed $4,000,000 at any time, in the ordinary course of its business as
presently conducted;

           (g) other Indebtedness not exceeding $5,000,000 in the aggregate
outstanding at any one time;

           (h) Indebtedness owed to various Colburn family members and related
persons not to exceed $5,000,000;

                                      -73-
<PAGE>
 
           (i) subordinated Indebtedness not to exceed $20,000,000 at any time;

           (j) Indebtedness secured by Liens permitted by Section 8.01(i);

           (k) EII Indebtedness; and

           (l) Contingent Obligations and Indebtedness incurred in connection
with customer purchases of Borrower's equipment not exceeding $10,000,000 in the
aggregate at any time.

     8.06  Transactions with Affiliates.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not
           ----------------------------                                         
suffer or permit any Subsidiary to, enter into any transaction with any
Affiliate of the Borrower, except upon fair and reasonable terms no less
favorable to the Borrower or such Subsidiary than would obtain in a comparable
arm's-length transaction with a Person not an Affiliate of the Borrower or such
Subsidiary.

     8.07  Use of Proceeds.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or
           ---------------                                                   
permit any Subsidiary to, use any portion of the Loan proceeds, directly or
indirectly, (i) to purchase or carry Margin Stock, (ii) to repay or otherwise
refinance indebtedness of the Borrower or others incurred to purchase or carry
Margin Stock, (iii) to extend credit for the purpose of purchasing or carrying
any Margin Stock, or (iv) to acquire any security in any transaction that is
subject to Section 13 or 14 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, and
regulations promulgated thereunder.

     8.08  Joint Ventures.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or
           --------------                                                   
permit any Subsidiary to enter into any Joint Venture, other than in the
ordinary course of business.

     8.09  Lease Obligations.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or
           -----------------                                                   
permit any Subsidiary to, create or suffer to exist any obligations for the
payment of rent for any property under lease or agreement to lease, except for:

           (a) leases having an aggregate annual rental payments for all such
leases not exceeding in any fiscal year $5,000,000; and

                                      -74-
<PAGE>
 
           (b) Leases or agreements for personal property having a lease or
rental period of 31 days or less.

     8.10  Restricted Payments.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer
           -------------------                                                
or permit any Subsidiary to, declare or make any dividend payment or other
distribution of assets, properties, cash, rights, obligations or securities on
account of any shares of any class of its capital stock, or purchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire for value any shares of its capital stock or any warrants,
rights or options to acquire such shares, now or hereafter outstanding; except
that the Borrower may:

           (a) declare and make dividend payments or other distributions payable
solely in its common stock;

           (b) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire.shares of its common stock
or warrants or options to acquire any such shares with the proceeds received
from the substantially concurrent issue of new shares of its common stock; and

           (c) declare and make dividends not exceeding 100% of the Borrower's
pretax income.

     8.11  ERISA.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or permit any
           -----                                                              
of its ERISA Affiliates to:  (a) engage in a prohibited transaction or violation
of the fiduciary responsibility rules with respect to any Plan which has
resulted or could reasonably expected to result in liability of the Borrower in
an aggregate amount in excess of 10% of Consolidated Tangible Net Worth; or (b)
engage in a transaction that could be subject to Section 4069 or 4212(c) of
ERISA.

     8.12  Change in Business.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or
           ------------------                                                   
permit any Subsidiary to, engage in any material line of business substantially
different from those lines of business carried on by the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries on the date hereof.

     8.13  Asset Coverage Ratio.  The Borrower will at all times keep and
           --------------------                                           
maintain the ratio of Book Value of Consolidated Total Assets to Consolidated
Secured Indebtedness at not less than 1.25 to 1.00.

                                      -75-
<PAGE>
 
     8.14  Consolidated Tangible Net Worth.  The Borrower will at all times
           -------------------------------                                  
keep and maintain Consolidated Tangible Net Worth at an amount not less than the
sum of (a) $48,000,000 plus (b) 25% of Consolidated Net Income computed on a
                       ----                                                 
cumulative basis for each of the elapsed fiscal quarters ending after December
31, 1995, plus net equity contributions made after the Closing Date; provided
          ----                                                       --------
that notwithstanding that Consolidated Net Income for any such elapsed fiscal
quarter may be a deficit figure, no reduction as a result thereof shall be made
in the sum to be maintained pursuant hereto.

     8.15  Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio.  The Borrower will as at the end of
           ---------------------------                                      
each fiscal quarter keep and maintain the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio at not
less than 1.75 to 1.00.

     8.16  Leverage Ratio.  The Borrower will as at the end of each fiscal
           --------------                                                  
quarter keep and maintain the ratio of Consolidated Funded Debt to Consolidated
Tangible Net Worth at not greater than 3.25 to 1.00.

     8.17  Accounting Changes.  The Borrower shall not, and shall not suffer or
           ------------------                                                   
permit any Subsidiary to, make any significant change in accounting treatment or
reporting practices, except as required by GAAP, or change the fiscal year of
the Borrower or of any Subsidiary.


                                   SECTION 9

                               EVENTS OF DEFAULT
                               -----------------

     9.01  Event of Default.  Any of the following shall constitute an "Event
           ----------------                                             -----
of Default":
- ----------  

          (a) Non-Payment.  The Borrower fails to pay, (i) when and as required
              -----------                                                       
to be paid herein, any amount of principal of any Loan, or (ii) within 3 days
after the same becomes due, any interest, fee or any other amount payable
hereunder or under any other Loan Document; or

          (b) Representation or Warranty.  Any representation or warranty by
              --------------------------                                     
the Borrower made or deemed made herein, in any other Loan Document, or which is
contained in any certificate,

                                      -76-
<PAGE>
 
document or financial or other statement by the Borrower, or any Responsible
Officer, furnished at any time under this Agreement, or in or under any other
Loan Document, is incorrect in any material respect on or as of the date made or
deemed made; or

          (c) Specific Defaults.  The Borrower fails to perform or observe any
              -----------------                                                
term, covenant or agreement contained in any of Sections 7.01, 7.02, 7.03 or
7.09 or in Section 8; or

          (d) Other Defaults.  The Borrower fails to perform or observe any
              --------------                                                
other term or covenant contained in this Agreement, or any default shall occur
under any other Loan Document, and such default shall continue unremedied for a
period of 20 days after the earlier of (i) the date upon which a Responsible
Officer knew or reasonably should have known of such failure and (ii) the date
upon which written notice thereof is given to the Borrower by the Administrative
Agent; or

          (e) Cross-Default.  The Borrower or any Subsidiary (i) fails to make
              -------------                                                    
any payment in respect of any Indebtedness or Contingent Obligation when due
(whether by scheduled maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand, or
otherwise); or (ii) fails to perform or observe any other condition or covenant,
or any other event shall occur or condition exist, under any agreement or
instrument relating to any such Indebtedness or Contingent Obligation, if the
effect of such failure, event or condition is to cause, or to permit the holder
or holders of such Indebtedness or beneficiary or beneficiaries of such
Indebtedness (or a trustee or agent on behalf of such holder or holders or
beneficiary or beneficiaries) to cause such Indebtedness to be declared to be
due and payable prior to its stated maturity, or such Contingent Obligation to
become payable or cash collateral in respect thereof to be demanded; or

          (f) Insolvency; Voluntary Proceedings.  The Borrower or any
              ---------------------------------                       
Subsidiary (i) ceases or fails to be solvent, or generally fails to pay, or
admits in writing its inability to pay, its debts as they become due, subject to
applicable grace periods, if any, whether at stated maturity or otherwise; (ii)
voluntarily ceases to conduct its business in the ordinary course; (iii)
commences any Insolvency Proceeding with respect to itself; or (iv) takes any
action to effectuate or authorize any of the foregoing; or

                                      -77-
<PAGE>
 
           (g) Involuntary Proceedings.  (i) Any involuntary Insolvency
               -----------------------                                  
Proceeding is commenced or filed against the Borrower or any Subsidiary, or any
writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process, is issued
or levied against a substantial part of the Borrower's or any Subsidiary's
properties, and any such proceeding or petition shall not be dismissed, or such
writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process shall not be
released, vacated or fully bonded within 60 days after commencement, filing or
levy; (ii) the Borrower or any Subsidiary admits the material allegations of a
petition against it in any Insolvency Proceeding, or an order for relief (or
similar order under non-U.S. law) is ordered in any Insolvency Proceeding; or
(iii) the Borrower or any Subsidiary acquiesces in the appointment of a
receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, mortgagee in possession
(or agent therefor), or other similar Person for itself or a substantial portion
of its property or business; or

           (h) ERISA.  (i) An ERISA Event shall occur with respect to a Pension
               -----                                                            
Plan or Multiemployer Plan which has resulted or could reasonably be expected to
result in liability of the Borrower under Title IV of ERISA to the Pension Plan,
Multiemployer Plan or the PBGC in an aggregate amount in excess of $5,000,000;
(ii) the aggregate amount of Unfunded Pension Liability among all Pension Plans
at any time exceeds $5,000,000; or (iii) the Borrower or any ERISA Affiliate
shall fail to pay when due, after the expiration of any applicable grace period,
any installment payment with respect to its withdrawal liability under Section
4201 of ERISA under a Multiemployer Plan in an aggregate amount in excess of
$5,000,000; or

           (i) Monetary Judgments.  One or more non-interlocutory judgments,
               ------------------                                            
non-interlocutory orders, decrees or arbitration awards is entered against the
Borrower or any Subsidiary involving in the aggregate a liability (to the extent
not covered by independent third-party insurance as to which the insurer does
not dispute coverage) as to any single or related series of transactions,
incidents or conditions, of $5,000,000 or more, and the same shall remain
unvacated and unstayed pending appeal for a period of 10 days after the entry
thereof; or

           (j) Non-Monetary Judgments.  Any non-monetary judgment, order or
               ----------------------                                       
decree is entered against the Borrower or any

                                      -78-
<PAGE>
 
Subsidiary which does or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect, and there shall be any period of 10 consecutive days during which a stay
of enforcement of such judgment or order, by reason of a pending appeal or
otherwise, shall not be in effect; or

           (k) Collateral.
               ----------  

               (i)  any provision of any Collateral Document shall for any
     reason cease to be valid and binding on or enforceable against the Borrower
     or the Borrower shall so state in writing or bring an action to limit its
     obligations or liabilities thereunder; or

               (ii) any Collateral Document shall for any reason (other than
     pursuant to the terms thereof) cease to create a valid security interest in
     the Collateral purported to be covered thereby or such security interest
     shall for any reason cease to be a perfected and first priority security
     interest; or

           (l) Adverse Change.  There occurs a Material Adverse Effect; or
               --------------                                              

           (m) Ownership by R.D. Colburn.  Borrower is not beneficially owned
               -------------------------                                      
100% by Richard D. Colburn, his lineal descendants, or other Persons acceptable
to Majority Banks in its sole discretion.

     9.02  Remedies.  If any Event of Default occurs, the Administrative Agent
           --------                                                            
shall, at the request of, or may, with the consent of, the Majority Banks,

           (a) declare the commitment of each Bank to make Loans and any
obligation of the Issuing Bank to Issue Letters of Credit to be terminated,
whereupon such commitments and obligation shall be terminated;

           (b) declare an amount equal to the maximum aggregate amount that is
or at any time thereafter may become available for drawing under any outstanding
Letters of Credit (whether or not any beneficiary shall have presented, or shall
be entitled at such time to present, the drafts or other documents required to

                                      -79-
<PAGE>
 
draw under such Letters of Credit) to be immediately due and payable, and
declare the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Loans, all interest
accrued and unpaid thereon, and all other amounts owing or payable hereunder or
under any other Loan Document to be immediately due and payable, without
presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are
hereby expressly waived by the Borrower; and

           (c) exercise on behalf of itself and the Banks all rights and
remedies available to it and the Banks under the Loan Documents or applicable
law; provided, however, that upon the occurrence of any event specified in
     --------  -------
Section (f) or (g) of Section 9.01 (in the case of clause (i) of Section (g)
upon the expiration of the 60-day period mentioned therein), the obligation of
each Bank to make Loans and any obligation of the Issuing Bank to Issue Letters
of Credit shall automatically terminate and the unpaid principal amount of all
outstanding Loans and all interest and other amounts as aforesaid shall
automatically become due and payable without further act of the Administrative
Agent, the Issuing Bank or any Bank.

     9.03  Rights Not Exclusive.  The rights provided for in this Agreement and
           --------------------                                                 
the other Loan Documents are cumulative and are not exclusive of any other
rights, powers, privileges or remedies provided by law or in equity, or under
any other instrument, document or agreement now existing or hereafter arising.


                                   SECTION 10

                          THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND
                          ----------------------------
                              THE COLLATERAL AGENT
                              --------------------

    10.01  Appointment and Authorization.  (a) Each Bank hereby irrevocably
          -----------------------------                                    
(subject to Section 10.09) appoints, designates and authorizes the
Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent to take such action on its behalf
under the provisions of this Agreement and each other Loan Document and to
exercise such powers and perform such duties as are expressly delegated to them
by the terms of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, together with such
powers as are reasonably incidental thereto.

                                      -80-
<PAGE>
 
Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained elsewhere in this
Agreement or in any other Loan Document, neither the Administrative Agent nor
the Collateral Agent shall have any duties or responsibilities, except those
expressly set forth herein, nor shall the Administrative Agent or the Collateral
Agent have or be deemed to have any fiduciary relationship with any Bank, and no
implied covenants, functions, responsibilities, duties, obligations or
liabilities shall be read into this Agreement or any other Loan Document or
otherwise exist against the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent.

           (b) The Issuing Bank shall act on behalf of the Banks with respect to
any Letters of Credit Issued by it and the documents associated therewith until
such time and except for so long as the Administrative Agent may agree at the
request of the Majority Banks to act for such Issuing Bank with respect thereto;
provided, however, that the Issuing Bank shall have all of the benefits and
- --------  -------
immunities (i) provided to the Administrative Agent in this Section 10 with
respect to any acts taken or omissions suffered by the Issuing Bank in
connection with Letters of Credit Issued by it or proposed to be Issued by it
and the application and agreements for letters of credit pertaining to the
Letters of Credit as fully as if the term "Administrative Agent", as used in
this Section 10, included the Issuing Bank with respect to such acts or
omissions, and (ii) as additionally provided in this Agreement with respect to
the Issuing Bank.

  10.02   Delegation of Duties.  The Administrative Agent and the Collateral
          --------------------                                               
Agent may execute any of their respective duties under this Agreement or any
other Loan Document by or through agents, employees or attorneys-in-fact and
shall be entitled to advice of counsel concerning all matters pertaining to such
duties. Neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be
responsible for the negligence or misconduct of any agent or attorney-in-fact
that it selects with reasonable care.

   10.03  Liability of Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent.  None
          ----------------------------------------------------------        
of the Administrative Agent-Related Persons shall (i) be liable for any action
taken or omitted to be taken by any of them under or in connection with this
Agreement or any other Loan Document or the transactions contemplated hereby
(except for its own gross negligence or willful misconduct), or (ii) be

                                      -81-
<PAGE>
 
responsible in any manner to any of the Banks for any recital, statement,
representation or warranty made by the Borrower or any Subsidiary or Affiliate
of the Borrower, or any officer thereof, contained in this Agreement or in any
other Loan Document, or in any certificate, report, statement or other document
referred to or provided for in, or received by the Administrative Agent under or
in connection with, this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or for the value
of or title to any Collateral, or the validity, effectiveness, genuineness,
enforceability or sufficiency of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or
for any failure of the Borrower or any other party to any Loan Document to
perform its obligations hereunder or thereunder. No Administrative Agent-Related
Person shall be under any obligation to any Bank to ascertain or to inquire as
to the observance or performance of any of the agreements contained in, or
conditions of, this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or to inspect the
properties, books or records of the Borrower or any of the Borrower's
Subsidiaries or Affiliates.

   10.04   Reliance by Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent.  
           ---------------------------------------------------------        
        (a) The Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent shall be entitled
to rely, and shall be fully protected in relying, upon any writing, resolution,
notice, consent, certificate, affidavit, letter, telegram, facsimile, telex or
telephone message, statement or other document or conversation believed by them
to be genuine and correct and to have been signed, sent or made by the proper
Person or Persons, and upon advice and statements of legal counsel (including
counsel to the Borrower), independent accountants and other experts selected by
the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent. Each of the Administrative
Agent and the Collateral Agent shall be fully justified in failing or refusing
to take any action under this Agreement or any other Loan Document unless it
shall first receive such advice or concurrence of the Majority Banks as it deems
appropriate and, if either so requests, it shall first be indemnified to its
satisfaction by the Banks against any and all liability and expense which may be
incurred by it by reason of taking or continuing to take any such action. The
Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent shall in all cases be fully
protected in acting, or in refraining from acting, under this Agreement or any
other Loan Document in accordance with a request or consent of the Majority
Banks and such request and any action

                                      -82-
<PAGE>
 
taken or failure to act pursuant thereto shall be binding upon all of the Banks.

           (b) For purposes of determining compliance with the conditions
specified in Section 5.01, each Bank that has executed this Agreement shall be
deemed to have consented to, approved or accepted or to be satisfied with, each
document or other matter either sent by the Administrative Agent to such Bank
for consent, approval, acceptance or satisfaction, or required thereunder to be
consented to or approved by or acceptable or satisfactory to the Bank.

     10.05   Notice of Default.  Neither the Administrative Agent nor the
             -----------------                                            
Collateral Agent shall be deemed to have knowledge or notice of the occurrence
of any Default or Event of Default, except with respect to defaults in the
payment of principal, interest and fees required to be paid to the
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent for the account of the Banks,
unless the Administrative Agent and,the Collateral Agent shall have received
written notice from a Bank or the Borrower referring to this Agreement,
describing such Default or Event of Default and stating that such notice is a
"notice of default". The Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent will
notify the Banks of their receipt of any such notice. The Administrative Agent
and the Collateral Agent shall take such action with respect to such Default or
Event of Default as may be requested by the Majority Banks in accordance with
Section 9; provided, however, that unless and until the Administrative Agent and
           --------  -------                                                    
the Collateral Agent has received any such request, the Administrative Agent and
the Collateral Agent may (but shall not be obligated to) take such action, or
refrain from taking such action, with respect to such Default or Event of
Default as they shall deem advisable or in the best interest of the Banks.

     10.06   Credit Decision.  Each Bank acknowledges that none of the
             ---------------                                           
Administrative Agent-Related Persons has made any representation or warranty to
it, and that no act by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent
hereinafter taken, including any review of the affairs of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries shall be deemed to constitute any representation or warranty by any
Agent-Related Person to any Bank. Each Bank represents to the Administrative
Agent and the Collateral Agent that it has, independently and without reliance
upon any Agent-

                                      -83-
<PAGE>
 
Related Person and based on such documents and information as it has deemed
appropriate, made its own appraisal of and investigation into the business,
prospects, operations, property, financial and other condition and
creditworthiness of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, the value of and title to
any Collateral, and all applicable bank regulatory laws relating to the
transactions contemplated hereby, and made its own decision to enter into this
Agreement and to extend credit to the Borrower hereunder. Each Bank also
represents that it will, independently and without reliance upon any Agent-
Related Person and based on such documents and information as it shall deem
appropriate at the time, continue to make its own credit analysis, appraisals
and decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement and the other
Loan Documents, and to make such investigations as it deems necessary to inform
itself as to the business, prospects, operations, property, financial and other
condition and creditworthiness of the Borrower. Except for notices, reports and
other documents expressly herein required to be furnished to the Banks by the
Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, neither the Administrative Agent
nor the Collateral Agent shall have any duty or responsibility to provide any
Bank with any credit or other information concerning the business, prospects,
operations, property, financial and other condition or creditworthiness of the
Borrower which may come into the possession of any of the Administrative Agent-
Related Persons.

  10.07   Indemnification of Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent.
          ----------------------------------------------------------------   
Whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated, the Banks
shall indemnify upon demand the Administrative Agent-Related Persons (to the
extent not reimbursed by or on behalf of the Borrower and without limiting the
obligation of the Borrower to do so), pro rata, from and against any and all
Indemnified Liabilities; provided, however, that no Bank shall be liable for the
                         --------  -------
payment to the Administrative Agent-Related Persons of any portion of such
Indemnified Liabilities resulting solely from such Person's gross negligence or
willful misconduct. Without limitation of the foregoing, each Bank shall
reimburse the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent upon demand for
their ratable share of any costs or out-of-pocket expenses (including Attorney
Costs) incurred by either the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent in
connection with the preparation, execution, delivery,

                                      -84-
<PAGE>
 
administration, modification, amendment or enforcement (whether through
negotiations, legal proceedings or otherwise) of, or legal advice in respect of
rights or responsibilities under, this Agreement, any other Loan Document, or
any document contemplated by or referred to herein, to the extent that either
the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent is not reimbursed for such
expenses by or on behalf of the Borrower. The undertaking in this Section shall
survive the payment of all Obligations hereunder and the resignation or
replacement of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent.

  10.08  Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent in Individual Capacity.
         --------------------------------------------------------------------
BofA and its Affiliates may make loans to, issue letters of credit for the
account of, accept deposits from, acquire equity interests in and generally
engage in any kind of banking, trust, financial advisory, underwriting or other
business with the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Affiliates as though BofA
were not the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank or the Collateral Agent
hereunder and without notice to or consent of the Banks. The Banks acknowledge
that, pursuant to such activities, BofA or its Affiliates may receive
information regarding the Borrower or its Affiliates (including information that
may be subject to confidentiality obligations in favor of the Borrower or such
Subsidiary or such Affiliate) and acknowledge that neither the Administrative
Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be under any obligation to provide such
information to them. With respect to its Loans, BofA shall have the same rights
and powers under this Agreement as any other Bank and may exercise the same as
though it were not the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank or the Collateral
Agent, and the terms "Bank" and "Banks" include BofA in its individual capacity.

  10.09  Successor Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent.  The
         -------------------------------------------------------       
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent may, and at the request of the
Majority Banks shall, resign as Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent
upon 30 days' notice to the Banks. If the Administrative Agent or the Collateral
Agent resigns under this Agreement, the Majority Banks shall appoint from among
the Banks a successor agent or collateral agent for the Banks which successor
agent or collateral agent shall be approved by the Borrower. If no successor
agent or collateral agent is appointed prior to the effective date of the

                                      -85-
<PAGE>
 
resignation of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, the
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, as the case may be, may appoint,
after consulting with the Banks and the Borrower, a successor agent or
collateral agent from among the Banks. Upon the acceptance of its appointment as
successor agent or collateral agent hereunder, such successor agent or
collateral agent shall succeed to all the rights, powers and duties of the
retiring Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent and the term
"Administrative Agent" or "Collateral Agent" shall mean such successor agent or
collateral agent, respectively, the retiring Administrative Agent's or the
Collateral Agent's appointment, powers and duties as Administrative Agent or the
Collateral Agent shall be terminated. After any retiring Administrative Agent's
or Collateral Agent's resignation hereunder as Administrative Agent or the
Collateral Agent, the provisions of this Section 10 and Sections 11.04 and 11.05
shall inure to its benefit as to any actions taken or omitted to be taken by it
while it was Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent under this Agreement.
If no successor agent or collateral agent has accepted appointment as
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent by the date which is 30 days
following a retiring Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent's notice of
resignation, the retiring Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent's
resignation shall nevertheless thereupon become effective and the Banks shall
perform all of the duties of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent,
as the case may be, hereunder until such time, if any, as the Majority Banks
appoint a successor agent or collateral agent as provided for above.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, BofA may not be removed as the
Administrative Agent at the request of the Majority Banks unless BofA shall also
simultaneously be replaced as "Issuing Bank" hereunder pursuant to documentation
in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to BofA. Any appointment of a
successor collateral agent shall be subject to Section 8(h) of the Intercreditor
Agreement.

     10.10   Withholding Tax.  (a)  If any Bank is a "foreign corporation,
             ---------------                                               
partnership or trust" within the meaning of the Code and such Bank claims
exemption from, or a reduction of, U.S. withholding tax under Sections 1441 or
1442 of the Code, such Bank agrees with and in favor of the Administrative
Agent, to deliver to the Administrative Agent:

                                      -86-
<PAGE>
 
                   (i) if such Bank claims an exemption from, or a reduction of,
     withholding tax under a United States tax treaty, two properly completed
     and executed copies of IRS Form 1001 before the payment of any interest in
     the first calendar year and before the payment of any interest in each
     third succeeding calendar year during which interest may be paid under this
     Agreement;

                   (ii) if such Bank claims that interest paid under this
     Agreement is exempt from United States withholding tax because it is
     effectively connected with a United States trade or business of such Bank,
     two properly completed and executed copies of IRS Form 4224 before the
     payment of any interest is due in the first taxable year of such Bank and
     in each succeeding taxable year of such Bank during which interest may be
     paid under this Agreement; and

                   (iii) such other form or forms as may be required under the
     Code or other laws of the United States as a condition to exemption from,
     or reduction of, United States withholding tax.

Such Bank agrees to promptly notify the Administrative Agent of any change in
circumstances which would modify or render invalid any claimed exemption or
reduction.

           (b) If any Bank claims exemption from, or reduction of, withholding
tax under a United States tax treaty by providing IRS Form 1001 and such Bank
sells, assigns, grants a participation in, or otherwise transfers all or part of
the Obligations of the Borrower to such Bank, such Bank agrees to notify the
Administrative Agent of the percentage amount in which it is no longer the
beneficial owner of Obligations of the Borrower to such Bank. To the extent of
such percentage amount, the Administrative Agent will treat such Bank's IRS Form
1001 as no longer valid.

           (c) If any Bank claiming exemption from United States withholding tax
by filing IRS Form 4224 with the Administrative Agent sells, assigns, grants a
participation in, or otherwise transfers all or part of the Obligations of the
Borrower to such Bank, such Bank agrees to undertake sole responsibility for

                                      -87-
<PAGE>
 
complying with the withholding tax requirements imposed by Sections 1441 and
1442 of the Code.

           (d) If any Bank is entitled to a reduction in the applicable
withholding tax, the Administrative Agent may withhold from any interest payment
to such Bank an amount equivalent to the applicable withholding tax after taking
into account such reduction. However, if,the forms or other documentation
required by Section (a) of this Section are not delivered to the Administrative
Agent, then the Administrative Agent may withhold from any interest payment to
such Bank not providing such forms or other documentation an amount equivalent
to the applicable withholding tax imposed by Sections 1441 and 1442 of the Code,
without reduction.

           (e) If the IRS or any other Governmental Authority of the United
States or other jurisdiction asserts a claim that the Administrative Agent did
not properly withhold tax from amounts paid to or for the account of any Bank
(because the appropriate form was not delivered or was not properly executed, or
because such Bank failed to notify the Administrative Agent of a change in
circumstances which rendered the exemption from, or reduction of, withholding
tax ineffective, or for any other reason) such Bank shall indemnify the
Administrative Agent fully for all amounts paid, directly or indirectly, by the
Administrative Agent as tax or otherwise, including penalties and interest, and
including any taxes imposed by any jurisdiction on the amounts payable to the
Administrative Agent under this Section, together with all costs and expenses
(including Attorney Costs). The obligation of the Banks under this Section shall
survive the payment of all Obligations and the resignation or replacement of the
Administrative Agent.

     10.11  Collateral Matters.
            ------------------  

           (a) The Collateral Agent is authorized on behalf of all Secured
Parties, without the necessity of any notice to or further consent from the
Secured Parties, from time to time to take any action with respect to any
Collateral or the Collateral Documents which may be necessary to perfect and
maintain perfected the security interest in and Liens upon the Collateral
granted pursuant to the Collateral Documents.

                                      -88-
<PAGE>
 
           (b) The Secured Parties irrevocably authorize the Collateral Agent,
at its option and in its discretion, to release any Lien granted to or held by
the Collateral Agent upon any Collateral (i) upon termination of the Commitments
and payment in full of all Loans and all other Obligations known to the
Collateral Agent and payable under this Agreement or any other Loan Document;
(ii) constituting property sold or to be sold or disposed of as part of or in
connection with any disposition permitted hereunder; (iii) constituting property
in which the Borrower or any Subsidiary owned no interest at the time the Lien
was granted or at any time thereafter; (iv) constituting property leased to the
Borrower or any Subsidiary under a lease which has expired or been terminated in
a transaction permitted under this Agreement or is about to expire and which has
not been, and is not intended by the Borrower or such Subsidiary to be, renewed
or extended; (v) consisting of an instrument evidencing Indebtedness or other
debt instrument, if the indebtedness evidenced thereby has been paid in full; or
(vi) if approved, authorized or ratified in writing by the Majority Banks or all
the Banks, as the case may be, as provided in Section 11.01. Upon request by the
Collateral Agent at any time, the Banks will confirm in writing the Collateral
Agent's authority to release particular types or items of Collateral pursuant to
this Section 10.11(b).

           (c) Each Bank agrees with and in favor of each other (which agreement
shall not be for the benefit of the Borrower or any Subsidiary) that the
Borrower's Obligations to such Bank under this Agreement and the other Loan
Documents is not and shall not be secured by any real property collateral now or
hereafter acquired by such Bank.


                                  SECTION 11

                                 MISCELLANEOUS
                                 -------------

     11.01  Amendments and Waivers.  No amendment or waiver of any provision of
            ----------------------                                              
this Agreement or any other Loan Document, and no consent with respect to any
departure by the Borrower therefrom, shall be effective unless the same shall be
in writing and signed by the Majority Banks (or by the Administrative Agent at
the written request of the Majority Banks) and the Borrower and acknowledged by
the Administrative Agent, and then any such

                                      -89-
<PAGE>
 
waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the
specific purpose for which given; provided, however, that no such waiver,
                                  --------  -------
amendment, or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by all the Banks and
the Borrower and acknowledged by the Administrative Agent, do any of the
following:

           (a) increase or extend the Commitment of any Bank (or reinstate any
Commitment terminated pursuant to Section 9.02);

           (b) postpone or delay any date fixed by this Agreement or any other
Loan Document for any payment of principal, interest, fees or other amounts due
to the Banks (or any of them) hereunder or under any other Loan Document,
including mandatory prepayments;

           (c) reduce the principal of, or the rate of interest specified herein
on any Loan, or (subject to clause (iii) below) any fees or other amounts
payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document;

           (d) change the percentage of the Commitments or of the aggregate
unpaid principal amount of the Loans which is required for the Banks or any of
them to take any action hereunder;

           (e) amend this Section, or Section 2.14, or any provision herein
providing for consent or other action by all Banks; or

           (f) release any material portion of the Collateral except as
otherwise may be provided in the Collateral Documents or except where the
consent of the Majority Banks only is specifically provided for;

and, provided further, that (i) no amendment, waiver or consent shall, unless in
     -------- -------
writing and signed by the Issuing Bank in addition to the Majority Banks or all
the Banks, as the case may be, affect the rights or duties of the Issuing Bank
under this Agreement or any L/C-Related Document relating to any Letter of
Credit Issued or to be Issued by it, (ii) no amendment, waiver or consent shall,
unless in writing and signed by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral
Agent, as applicable, in addition to the

                                      -90-
<PAGE>
 
Majority Banks or all the Banks, as the case may be, affect the rights or duties
of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent under this Agreement or any
other Loan Document, and (iii) the Fee Letters may be amended, or rights or
privileges thereunder waived, in a writing executed by the parties thereto.

     11.02  Notices.  (a)  All notices, requests, consents, approvals, waivers
            -------                                                            
and other communications shall be in writing (including, unless the context
expressly otherwise provides, by facsimile transmission, provided that any
matter transmitted by the Borrower by facsimile (i) shall be immediately
confirmed by a telephone call to the recipient at the number specified on
Schedule 11.02, and (ii) shall be followed promptly by delivery of a hard copy
- --------------                                                                
original thereof) and mailed, faxed or delivered, to the address or facsimile
number specified for notices on Schedule 11.02; or, as directed to the Borrower
                                --------------                                 
or the Administrative Agent, to such other address as shall be designated by
such party in a written notice to the other parties, and as directed to any
other party, at such other address as shall be designated by such party in a
written notice to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent.

           (b) All such notices, requests and communications shall, when
transmitted by overnight delivery, or faxed, be effective when delivered for
overnight (next-day) delivery, or transmitted in legible form by facsimile
machine, respectively, or if mailed, upon the third Business Day after the date
deposited into the U.S. mail, or if, delivered, upon delivery; except that
notices pursuant to Section 2, 3, or 10 to the Administrative Agent shall not be
effective until actually received by the Administrative Agent, and notices
pursuant to Section 3 to the Issuing Bank shall not be effective until actually
received by the Issuing Bank at the address specified for the "Issuing Bank" on
the applicable signature page hereof.

           (c) Any agreement of the Administrative Agent and the Banks herein to
receive certain notices by telephone or facsimile is solely for the convenience
and at the request of the Borrower. The Administrative Agent and the Banks shall
be entitled to rely on the authority of any Person purporting to be a Person
authorized by the Borrower to give such notice and the Administrative Agent and
the Banks shall not have any liability to the Borrower or other Person on
account of any action taken or

                                      -91-
<PAGE>
 
not taken by the Administrative Agent or the Banks in reliance upon such
telephonic or facsimile notice. The obligation of the Borrower to repay the
Loans and L/C Obligations shall not be affected in any way or to any extent by
any failure by the Administrative Agent and the Banks to receive written
confirmation of any telephonic or facsimile notice or the receipt by the
Administrative Agent and the Banks of a confirmation which is at variance with
the terms understood by the Administrative Agent and the Banks to be contained
in the telephonic or facsimile notice.

     11.03   No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies.  No failure to exercise and no
             ------------------------------                                 
delay in exercising, on the part of the Administrative Agent or any Bank, any
right, remedy, power or privilege hereunder, shall operate as a waiver thereof;
nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, remedy, power or
privilege hereunder preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the
exercise of any other right, remedy, power or privilege.

     11.04   Costs and Expenses.  The Borrower shall:
             ------------------                       
            (a) whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are
consummated, pay or reimburse BofA (including in its capacity as Administrative
Agent and Issuing Bank) within five Business Days after demand (subject to
Section 5.01(f)) for all costs and expenses incurred by BofA (including in its
capacity as Administrative Agent and Issuing Bank) in connection with the
development, preparation, delivery, administration and execution of, and any
amendment, supplement, waiver or modification to (in each case, whether or not
consummated), this Agreement, any Loan Document and any other documents prepared
in connection herewith or therewith, and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby and thereby, including reasonable Attorney Costs incurred by
BofA (including in its capacity as Administrative Agent and Issuing Bank) with
respect thereto; and

            (b) pay or reimburse the Administrative Agent, the Arranger and each
Bank within five Business Days after demand (subject to Section 5.01(f)) for all
costs and expenses (including Attorney Costs) incurred by them in connection
with the enforcement, attempted enforcement, or preservation of any rights or
remedies under this Agreement or any other Loan 

                                      -92-
<PAGE>
 
Document during the existence of an Event of Default or after acceleration of
the Loans (including in connection with any "workout" or restructuring regarding
the Loans, and including in any Insolvency Proceeding or appellate proceeding).

     11.05   Borrower Indemnification.  Whether or not the transactions
             ------------------------                                   
contemplated hereby are consummated, the Borrower shall indemnify, defend and
hold the Agent-Related Persons, and each Bank and each of its respective
officers, directors, employees, counsel, agents and attorneys-in-fact (each, an
"Indemnified Person") harmless from and against any and all liabilities,
 ------------------                                                     
obligations, losses, damages, penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs,
charges, expenses and disbursements (including Attorney Costs) of any kind or
nature whatsoever which may at any time (including at any time following
repayment of the Loans, the termination of the Letters of Credit and the
termination, resignation or replacement of the Administrative Agent or
replacement of any Bank) be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against any such
Person in any way relating to or arising out of this Agreement or any document
contemplated by or referred to herein, or the transactions contemplated hereby,
or any action taken or omitted by any such Person under or in connection with
any of the foregoing, including with respect to any investigation, litigation or
proceeding (including any Insolvency Proceeding or appellate proceeding) related
to or arising out of this Agreement or the Loans or Letters of Credit or the use
of the proceeds thereof, whether or not any Indemnified Person is a party
thereto (all the foregoing, collectively, the "Indemnified Liabilities");
                                               -----------------------   
provided, that the Borrower shall have no obligation hereunder to any
- --------                                                             
Indemnified Person with respect to Indemnified Liabilities resulting solely from
the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnified Person. The
agreements in this Section shall survive payment of all other Obligations.

     11.06   Payments Set Aside.  To the extent that the Borrower makes a
             ------------------                                           
payment to the Administrative Agent or the Banks, or the Administrative Agent or
the Banks exercise their right of setoff, and such payment or the proceeds of
such set-off or any part thereof are subsequently invalidated, declared to be
fraudulent or preferential, set aside or required (including pursuant to any
settlement entered into by the Administrative Agent or such Bank in its
discretion) to be repaid to a trustee, receiver or any 

                                      -93-
<PAGE>
 
other party, in connection with any Insolvency Proceeding or otherwise, then (a)
to the extent of such recovery the obligation or part thereof originally
intended to be satisfied shall be revived and continued in full force and effect
as if such payment had not been made or such set-off had not occurred, and (b)
each Bank severally agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent upon demand its
pro rata share of any amount so recovered from or repaid by the Administrative
Agent.

     11.07   Successors and Assigns.  The provisions of this Agreement shall be
             ----------------------                                             
binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors and assigns, except that the Borrower may not assign or transfer any
of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written
consent of the Administrative Agent and each Bank.

     11.08   Assignments, Participations, etc.   (a) Any Bank may, with the
             ---------------------------------                             
written consent of the Borrower at all times other than during the existence of
an Event of Default and the Administrative Agent and the Issuing Bank, which
consent of the Borrower, the Administrative Agent and the Issuing Bank shall not
be unreasonably withheld, at any time assign and delegate to one or more
Eligible Assignees (provided that no written consent of the Borrower, the
Administrative Agent or the Issuing Bank shall be required in connection with
any assignment and delegation by a Bank to an Eligible Assignee that is an
Affiliate of such Bank) (each an "Assignee") all, or any ratable part of all, of
                                  --------                                      
the Loans, the Commitments, the L/C Obligations and the other rights and
obligations of such Bank hereunder, in a minimum amount of $10,000,000 or, if
less, the entirety of such Bank's Loans, the Commitments, the L/C Obligations;
provided, however, that the Borrower and the Administrative Agent may continue
- --------  -------                                                             
to deal solely and directly with such Bank in connection with the interest so
assigned to an Assignee until (i) written notice of such assignment, together
with payment instructions, addresses and related information with respect to the
Assignee, shall have been given to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent by
such Bank and the Assignee; (ii) such Bank and its Assignee shall have delivered
to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent a Notice of Assignment and
Acceptance in the form of Exhibit G ("Assignment and Acceptance") together with
                          ---------   -------------------------                
any Note or Notes subject to such assignment and (iii) the assignor Bank or

                                      -94-
<PAGE>
 
Assignee has paid to the Administrative Agent a processing fee in the amount of
$3,000.

           (b) From and after the date that the Administrative Agent notifies
the assignor Bank that it has received (and provided its consent with respect
to) an executed Assignment and Acceptance and payment of the above-referenced
processing fee, (i) the Assignee thereunder shall be a party hereto and, to the
extent that rights and obligations hereunder have been assigned to it pursuant
to such Assignment and Acceptance, shall have the rights and obligations of a
Bank under the Loan Documents, and (ii) the assignor Bank shall, to the extent
that rights and obligations hereunder and under the other Loan Documents have
been assigned by it pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, relinquish its
rights and be released from its obligations under the Loan Documents.

           (c) Within five Business Days after its receipt of notice by the
Administrative Agent that it has received an executed Assignment and Acceptance
and payment of the processing fee, (and provided that it consents to such
assignment in accordance with Section 11.08(a)), the Borrower shall execute and
deliver to the Administrative Agent, any new Note evidencing such Assignee's
assigned Loans and Commitment and, if the assignor Bank has retained a portion
of its Loans and its Commitment, a replacement Note in the principal amount of
the Loans retained by the assignor Bank (such Notes to be in exchange for, but
not in payment of, the Note held by such Bank). Immediately upon each Assignee's
making its processing fee payment under the Assignment and Acceptance, this
Agreement shall be deemed to be amended to the extent, but only to the extent,
necessary to reflect the addition of the Assignee and the resulting adjustment
of the Commitments arising therefrom. The Commitment allocated to each Assignee
shall reduce such Commitments of the assigning Bank pro tanto.
                                                    --- ----- 

           (d) Any Bank may at any time sell to one or more commercial banks or
other Persons not Affiliates of the Borrower (a "Participant") participating
                                                 -----------
interests in any Loans, the Commitment of that Bank and the other interests of
that Bank (the "originating Bank") hereunder and under the other Loan Documents;
provided, however, that (i) the originating Bank's obligations under this
- --------  -------
Agreement shall remain unchanged, (ii) the originating 

                                      -95-
<PAGE>
 
Bank shall remain solely responsible for the performance of such obligations,
(iii) the Borrower, the Issuing Bank and the Administrative Agent shall continue
to deal solely and directly with the originating Bank in connection with the
originating Bank's rights and obligations under this Agreement and the other
Loan Documents, and (iv) no Bank shall transfer or grant any participating
interest under which the Participant has rights to approve any amendment to, or
any consent or waiver with respect to, this Agreement or any other Loan
Document, except to the extent such amendment, consent or waiver would require
unanimous consent of the Banks as described in the first proviso to Section
                                                   ----- -------
11.01. In the case of any such participation, the Participant shall be entitled
to the benefit of Sections 4.01, 4.03 and 11.05 as though it were also a Bank
hereunder, and if amounts outstanding under this Agreement are due and unpaid,
or shall have been declared or shall have become due and payable upon the
occurrence of an Event of Default, each Participant shall be deemed to have, the
right of set-off in respect of its participating interest in amounts owing under
this Agreement to the same extent as if the amount of its participating interest
were owing directly to it as a Bank under this Agreement.

            (e) Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, any Bank
may at any time create a security interest in, or pledge, all or any portion of
its rights under and interest in this Agreement and the Note held by it in favor
of any Federal Reserve Bank in accordance with Regulation A of the FRB or U.S.
Treasury Regulation 31 CFR (S)203.14, and such Federal Reserve Bank may enforce
such pledge or security interest in any manner permitted under applicable law.

     11.09   Confidentiality.  Each Bank agrees to take and to cause its
             ---------------                                             
Affiliates to take normal and reasonable precautions and exercise due care to
maintain the confidentiality of all information identified as "confidential" or
"secret" by the Borrower and provided to it by the Borrower or any Subsidiary,
or by the Administrative Agent on the Borrower's or such Subsidiary's behalf,
under this Agreement or any other Loan Document, and neither it nor any of its
Affiliates shall use any such information other than in connection with or in
enforcement of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents or in connection with
other business now or hereafter existing or contemplated with the Borrower or
any Subsidiary; except to the extent such 

                                      -96-
<PAGE>
 
information (i) was or becomes generally available to the public other than as a
result of disclosure by the Bank, or (ii) was or becomes available on a non-
confidential basis from a source other than the Borrower, provided that such
source is not bound by a confidentiality agreement with the Borrower known to
the Bank; provided, however, that any Bank may disclose such information (A) at
          --------  -------
the request or pursuant to any requirement of any Governmental Authority to
which the Bank is subject or in connection with an examination of such Bank by
any such authority; (B) pursuant to subpoena or other court process; (C) when
required to do so in accordance with the provisions of any applicable
Requirement of Law; (D) to the extent reasonably required in connection with any
litigation or proceeding to which the Administrative Agent, any Bank or their
respective Affiliates may be party; (E) to the extent reasonably required in
connection with the exercise of any remedy hereunder or under any other Loan
Document; (F) to such Bank's independent auditors and other professional
advisors; (G) to any Participant or Assignee, actual or potential, provided that
such Person agrees in writing to keep such information confidential to the same
extent required of the Banks hereunder; (H) as to any Bank or its Affiliate, as
expressly permitted under the terms of any other document or agreement regarding
confidentiality to which the Borrower or any Subsidiary is party or is deemed
party with such Bank or such Affiliate; and (I), to its Affiliates.

     11.10   Set-off.  In addition to any rights and remedies of the Banks
             -------                                                       
provided by law, if an Event of Default exists or the Loans have been
accelerated, each Bank is authorized at any time and from time to time, without
prior notice to the Borrower, any such notice being waived by the Borrower to
the fullest extent permitted by law, to set off and apply any and all deposits
(general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held by,
and other indebtedness at any time owing by, such Bank to or for the credit or
the account of the Borrower against any and all Obligations owing to such Bank,
now or hereafter existing, irrespective of whether or not the Administrative
Agent or such Bank shall have made demand under this Agreement or any Loan
Document and although such Obligations may be contingent or unmatured. Each Bank
agrees promptly to notify the Borrower and the Administrative Agent after any
such set-off and application made by such Bank; provided, however, that the
                                                --------  -------          
failure to give 

                                      -97-
<PAGE>
 
such notice shall not affect the validity of such set-off and application.

     11.11   Automatic Debits of Fees.  With respect to any commitment fee,
             ------------------------                                       
arrangement fee, letter of credit fee or other fee, or any other cost or expense
(including Attorney Costs) due and payable to the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Bank, BofA or the Arranger under the Loan Documents, the Borrower hereby
irrevocably authorizes BofA to debit any deposit account of the Borrower with
BofA in an amount such that the aggregate amount debited from all such deposit
accounts does not exceed such fee or other cost or expense. If there are
insufficient funds in such deposit accounts to cover the amount of the fee or
other cost or expense then due, such debits will be reversed (in whole or in
part, in BofA,s sole discretion) and such amount not debited shall be deemed to
be unpaid. No such debit under this Section shall be deemed a set-off.

     11.12   Notification of Addresses, Lending Offices, Etc.   Each Bank shall
             ------------------------------------------------                  
notify the Administrative Agent in writing of any changes in the address to
which notices to the Bank should be directed, of addresses of any Lending
Office, of payment instructions in respect of all payments to be made to it
hereunder and of such other administrative information as the Administrative
Agent shall reasonably request.

     11.13   Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in any number of
             ------------                                                   
separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed, shall be deemed an
original, and all of said counterparts taken together shall be deemed to
constitute but one and the same instrument.

     11.14   Severability.  The illegality or unenforceability of any provision
             ------------                                                       
of this Agreement or any instrument or agreement required hereunder shall not in
any way affect or impair the legality or enforceability of the remaining
provisions of this Agreement or any instrument or agreement required hereunder.

     11.15   No Third Parties Benefited.  This Agreement is made and entered
             --------------------------                                      
into for the sole protection and legal benefit of the Borrower, the Banks, the
Administrative Agent and the Agent-Related Persons, and their permitted
successors and assigns, and no other Person shall be a direct or indirect legal
beneficiary 

                                      -98-
<PAGE>
 
of, or have any direct or indirect cause of action or claim in connection with,
this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents.

     11.16   Governing Law and Jurisdiction.  (a)  THIS AGREEMENT AND THE NOTES
             ------------------------------                                     
SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAW OF THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA; PROVIDED THAT THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND THE BANKS SHALL RETAIN
ALL RIGHTS ARISING UNDER FEDERAL LAW.

           (b) ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT OR
ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT MAY BE BROUGHT IN THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
OR OF THE UNITED STATES FOR THE CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA, AND BY EXECUTION
AND DELIVERY OF THIS AGREEMENT, EACH OF THE BORROWER, THE Administrative Agent
AND THE BANKS CONSENTS, FOR ITSELF AND IN RESPECT OF ITS PROPERTY, TO THE NON-
EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF THOSE COURTS. EACH OF THE BORROWER, THE ADMINISTRATIVE
AGENT AND THE BANKS IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY OBJECTION, INCLUDING ANY OBJECTION TO
THE LAYING OF VENUE OR BASED ON THE GROUNDS OF FORUM NON CONVENIENS, WHICH IT
                                               --------------------
MAY NOW OR HEREAFTER HAVE TO THE BRINGING OF ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING IN SUCH
JURISDICTION IN RESPECT OF THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY DOCUMENT RELATED HERETO. THE
BORROWER, THE Administrative Agent AND THE BANKS EACH WAIVE PERSONAL SERVICE OF
ANY SUMMONS, COMPLAINT OR OTHER PROCESS, WHICH MAY BE MADE BY ANY OTHER MEANS
PERMITTED BY CALIFORNIA LAW.

     11.17   Waiver of Jury Trial.  THE BORROWER, THE BANKS AND THE
             --------------------                                   
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT EACH WAIVE THEIR RESPECTIVE RIGHTS TO A TRIAL BY JURY OF
ANY CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION BASED UPON OR ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS
AGREEMENT, THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS, OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY OR
THEREBY, IN ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING OR OTHER LITIGATION OF ANY TYPE BROUGHT BY
ANY OF THE PARTIES AGAINST ANY OTHER PARTY OR ANY AGENT-RELATED PERSON,
PARTICIPANT OR ASSIGNEE, WHETHER WITH RESPECT TO CONTRACT CLAIMS, TORT CLAIMS,
OR OTHERWISE. THE BORROWER, THE BANKS AND THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT EACH AGREE
THAT ANY SUCH CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION SHALL BE TRIED BY A COURT TRIAL WITHOUT A
JURY. WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, THE PARTIES FURTHER AGREE THAT THEIR
RESPECTIVE RIGHT TO A TRIAL BY JURY IS WAIVED BY OPERATION OF THIS SECTION AS TO
ANY ACTION, COUNTERCLAIM OR OTHER PROCEEDING WHICH SEEKS, IN WHOLE OR IN PART,
TO CHALLENGE THE VALIDITY OR ENFORCEABILITY OF THIS AGREEMENT OR THE OTHER LOAN

                                      -99-
<PAGE>

DOCUMENTS OR ANY PROVISION HEREOF OR THEREOF.  THIS WAIVER SHALL APPLY TO ANY
SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS, RENEWALS, SUPPLEMENTS OR MODIFICATIONS TO THIS AGREEMENT
AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS.

     11.18   Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, together with the other Loan
             ----------------
Documents, embodies the entire agreement and understanding among the Borrower,
the Banks and the Administrative Agent, and supersedes all prior or
contemporaneous agreements and understandings of such Persons, verbal or
written, relating to the subject matter hereof and thereof.

     11.19   Amendment and Restatement of Existing Agreement.  This Agreement
             -----------------------------------------------
amends and restates the Existing Agreement, and advances and letters of credit
outstanding under the Existing Agreement shall be deemed Loans and Letters of
Credit continuing and outstanding hereunder.  In order to permit all advances
outstanding under the Existing Agreement (the "Continuing Loans") to be
continued ratably by all Banks in accordance with their respective Pro Rata
Share under this Agreement, the Borrower shall be deemed to have requested,
pursuant to Section 2.04, that all loans outstanding under the Existing
Agreement be converted into Base Rate Loans hereunder made by all Banks in
accordance with their respective Pro Rata Share on the Closing Date, and any
portion of any such loans previously solely funded by Bank of America National
Trust and Savings Association not remaining outstanding hereunder after such
conversion (by reason of the change in the pro rata shares of such Banks) shall
be refunded to Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association.  The
Borrower shall pay accrued interest on the portion of each Continuing Loan so
converted, together with amounts required to be paid under Section 4.04.  Letter
of Credit fees previously paid by the Borrower for Existing BofA Letters of
Credit shall be adjusted to reflect the new Commitment allocations.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
duly executed and delivered by their proper and duly authorized officers as of
the day and year first above written.

                                     -100-
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -101-
<PAGE>
 
                              BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST AND SAVINGS
                              ASSOCIATION, as Administrative Agent and
                              Collateral Agent


                              By:____________________________
                                     Charles Graber
                                     Vice President

                                     -102-
<PAGE>
 
                              BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST AND SAVINGS
                              ASSOCIATION, as Issuing Bank and a Bank


                              By:____________________________
                                      George Hausler
                                      Vice President

                                     -103-
<PAGE>
 
                              COMERICA BANK - CALIFORNIA


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -104-
<PAGE>
 
                              THE SUMITOMO BANK OF CALIFORNIA


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -105-
<PAGE>
 
                              THE SUMITOMO BANK LIMITED


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -106-
<PAGE>
 
                              UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA, N.A.


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -107-
<PAGE>
 
                              WELLS FARGO BANK


                              By:____________________________

                              Title:_________________________

                                     -108-
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT A
                                                                       ---------

                              NOTICE OF BORROWING
                              -------------------



                                                Date: ____________________, 199_


To:  Bank of America National Trust
     and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     The undersigned Borrower refers to that certain Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a
California corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party
                             --------                                     
thereto, and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as
Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed,
amended or restated from time to time, the "Agreement;" the terms defined
                                            ---------                    
therein being used herein as therein defined), and hereby gives you notice
irrevocably, pursuant to Section 2.03 of the Agreement, of the Borrowing
specified below:

          1.  The Business Day of the proposed Borrowing is
     ____________________, 19__.

          2.  The aggregate amount,of the proposed Borrowing is
     $________________________.

          3.  The Borrowing is to be comprised of $______________ of [Base Rate]
     [CD Rate] (Offshore Rate] Loans.

          4.  The duration of the Interest Period for the
     Offshore Rate Loans or CD Rate Loans included in the
     Borrowing shall be ____________ months/days.

     The undersigned hereby certifies that the following statements are true on
the date hereof, and will be true on the


                                     A - 1
                              NOTICE OF BORROWING
<PAGE>
 
date of the proposed Borrowing, before and after giving effect and to the
application of the proceeds therefrom:

          (a) the representations and warranties of the Borrower contained in
     Section 6 of the Agreement are true and correct as though made on and as of
     such date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate
     to an earlier date, in which case they are true and correct as of such
     date); and

          (b) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, or
     would result from such proposed Borrowing.


                                    U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                    By:__________________________

                                    Title:_______________________


                                     A - 2
                              NOTICE OF BORROWING
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT B
                                                                       ---------

                       NOTICE OF CONVERSION/CONTINUATION
                       ---------------------------------



                                                Date:_____________________, 199_


To:  Bank of America National Trust
     and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     The undersigned Borrower refers to that certain Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a
California corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party
                             --------                                     
thereto, and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as
Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed,
amended or restated from time to time, the "Agreement;" the terms defined
                                            ---------                    
therein being used herein as therein defined), and hereby gives you notice
irrevocably, pursuant to Section 2.04 of the Agreement, of the [conversion]
[continuation] of the Loans specified herein, that:

        1.  The Conversion/Continuation Date is _____________, 19__.

        2.  The aggregate amount of the Loans to be [converted] [continued] is
     $___________________.

        3.  The Loans are to be [converted into] [continued as] [Offshore Rate]
     [CD Rate] [Base Rate] Loans.

        4.  [If applicable:] The duration of the Interest Period for the Loans
     included in the [conversion]
     (continuation] shall be ___________ months/days.

     The undersigned hereby certifies that the following statements are true on
the date hereof, and will be true on the proposed Conversion/Continuation Date
Credit, before and after

                                     B - 1
                       NOTICE OF CONVERSION/CONTINUATION
<PAGE>
 
giving effect thereto and to the application of the proceeds therefrom:

          (a) the representations and warranties of the Borrower contained in
     Section 6 of the Agreement are true and correct as though made on and as of
     such date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate
     to an earlier date, in which case they are true and correct as of such
     date); and

          (b) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, or
     would result from such proposed [conversion] [continuation].


                                    U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                    By:__________________________

                                    Title:_______________________


                                     B - 2
                       NOTICE OF CONVERSION/CONTINUATION
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT C
                                                                       ---------


                             COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
                             ----------------------



                                       Financial
                                       Statement Date: _________________, 199_


     Reference is made to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California
corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party thereto, and
                  --------
Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent,
Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed, amended or restated
from time to time, the "Agreement;" the terms defined therein being used herein
                        ---------
as therein defined).

     The undersigned Responsible Officer of Borrower hereby certifies as of the
date hereof that he/she is the _____________ of the Borrower, and that, as such,
he/she is authorized to execute and deliver this Certificate to the Agent on the
behalf of the Borrower, and that:

[Use the following paragraph if this Certificate is delivered in connection with
the financial statements required by Section 7.01(a) of the Agreement].

     1.   Attached as Schedule 1 hereto are (a) a true and correct copy of the
                      ----------                                              
audited balance sheet of the Borrower as at the end of the fiscal year ended
__________________, 199__ and (b) the related statement of income or operations,
shareholders' equity and cash flows for such fiscal year, setting forth in each
case in comparative form the figures for the previous fiscal year, reported on
without a "going concern" or like qualification or exception, or qualification
arising out of the scope of the audit and accompanied by the opinion of
_____________________________________ or another nationally-recognized certified
independent public accounting firm (the "Independent Auditor") which report
                                         -------------------               

                                     C - 1
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
shall state that such consolidated financial statements are complete and correct
and have been prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a basis consistent
with prior years, and fairly present, in all material respects, the financial
position of the Borrower for the periods indicated and on a basis consistent
with prior periods.

                                       OR

[Use the following paragraph if this Certificate is delivered in connection with
the financial statements required by Section 7.01(b) of the Agreement].

     1.   Attached as Schedule 1 hereto are (a) a true and correct copy of the
                      ----------                                              
unaudited balance sheet of the Borrower as of the end of the fiscal quarter
ended ___________________, 199__and (b) the related unaudited statement of
income, shareholders, equity, and cash flows for the period commencing on the
first day and ending on the last day of such quarter, setting forth in each case
in comparative form the figures for the previous year, and certified by a
Responsible Officer that such financial statements were prepared in accordance
with GAAP applied on a basis consistent with prior years (subject only to
ordinary, good faith year-end audit adjustments and the absence of footnotes)
and fairly present, in all material respects, the financial position and the
results of operations of the Borrower.

     2.   The undersigned has reviewed and is familiar with the terms of the
Agreement and has made, or has caused to be made under his/her supervision, a
detailed review of the transactions and conditions (financial or otherwise) of
the Borrower during the accounting period covered by the attached financial
statements.

     3.   To the best of the undersigned's knowledge, the Borrower, during such
period, has observed, performed or satisfied all of its covenants and other
agreements, and satisfied every condition in the Credit Agreement to be
observed,performed or satisfied by the Borrower, and the undersigned has no
knowledge of any Default or  Event  of  Default.


                                     C - 2
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
     4.   The following financial covenant analyses and information set forth on
Schedule 2 attached hereto are true and accurate on and as of the date of this
Certificate.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Certificate as of
______________________, 199__.


                                    U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                    By:__________________________

                                    Title:_______________________


                                     C - 3
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
                                                  Date: ___________________,199_
                                                     For the fiscal quarter/year
                                                  ended __________________, 199_


                                   SCHEDULE 2
                         to the Compliance Certificate
                                  ($ in 000's)


I.    Section 8.13 - Asset Coverage Ratio.

      A.    Book Value of Consolidated Total Assets:    $___________

            1.   Consolidated Total Assets:             $___________

            2.   Interest bearing and non-interest
                 bearing notes receivable from
                 Affiliates:                            $___________
 
            3.   Line Al less Line A2:                  $___________
 
      B.    Consolidated Secured Indebtedness:          $___________
 
      C.    Collateral Ratio (Line A3 divided by
                                      ----------       
            Line IB):                                   ________ to 1
 
            Minimum required ratio:                     1.25 to 1

II.   Section 8.14 - Consolidated Tangible Net Worth.
      ---------------------------------------------- 

      A.   Consolidated Tangible Net Worth:

           1.   Capital stock accounts (net of
                treasury stock, at cost) plus
                                         ----
                (or minus in the case of deficit)
                the surplus and retained earnings       $___________

           2.   Net book value of the following (less
                reserves applicable thereto):


                                     C - 4
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
                a.   Incremental increase in an asset
                     resulting from any reappraisal,
                     revaluation or write-up of assets
                     in which independent public
                     accountants shall have not
                     concurred:                         $___________

                b.   Intangible assets acquired
                     after December 31, 1995:           $___________
                
                c.   Total (Lines 2a+2b):               $___________

      B.   Consolidated Tangible Net Worth
           (Line IIA1 - Line IIA2c):                    $___________

      C.   250% of Consolidated Net Income computed on a
           cumulative basis for each of the elapsed fiscal
           quarters ending after December 31, 1995
           (no deduction for quarterly losses):         $___________

      D.   Net equity contributions made after
           the Closing Date:                            $___________

      E.   Total (Lines IIC+IID+$48,000,000):           $___________

      F.   minimum requirement: Line IIB to be greater than
           Line IIE

III.  Section 8.15 - Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio.
      ------------------------------------------ 

      A.   Consolidated Net Income Available for Fixed Charges
           for four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on above
           date ("Subject Period"):

           1.   Consolidated Net Income determined in
                accordance with definition thereof
                for Subject Period:                     $___________

           2.   Provisions for taxes for Subject
                Period                                  $___________

           3.   Consolidated Fixed Charges for Subject Period:


                                     C - 5
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
               a.   Rentals (other than Rentals on Capitalized
                    Leases) paid pursuant
                    to Long-Term Leases:                $____________

               b.   Interest Expense on all
                    Indebtedness (including
                    the interest component
                    of Rentals on
                    Capitalized Leases):                $____________
 
               c.   Consolidated Fixed
                    Charges for
                    Subject Period:                     $____________
 
          4.   Consolidated Net Income Available
               for Fixed Charges (Line
               IIIA1+IIIA2+IIIA3c):                     $____________
 
     C.   Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (Line IIIA4
          divided by Line IIIA3c):                      ____ to 1
          ----------
 
          Minimum required ratio:                       1.75 to 1
 
IV.  Section 8.16 - Leverage Ratio.
     ----------------------------- 

     A.   Consolidated Funded Debt:

          1.   Indebtedness for borrowed money:         $___________

          2.   Drawn but unreimbursed drawings
               under letters of credit and surety
               bonds:                                   $___________
 
          3.   Current portion of mandatory
               redeemable preferred stock and
               Capitalized Leases:                      $___________

          4.   Consolidated Funded Debt (Lines
               1+2+3):                                  $___________

     B.   Leverage Ratio (Line IVA4 divided by Line
                                    ----------     


                                     C - 6
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
          IIB):                                         ____ to 1

          Maximum required ratio:                       3.25 to 1


                                     C - 7
                            COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT D
                                                                       ---------

                                  FORM OF NOTE
                                  ------------


$___________________                                             August 21, 1996


     FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned, U.S RENTALS, INC. (the "Borrower"),
hereby promises to pay to the order of _________________________________ (the
"Bank"), on the Maturity Date (as defined in the Credit Agreement referred to
below) the principal amount of $________________, or such lesser principal
amount of Loans (as defined in the Credit Agreement referred to below) payable
by the Borrower to the Bank on such Maturity Date under that certain Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S.
Rentals, Inc., a California corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to
                                              --------                          
time party thereto, and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association,
as Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended,
renewed, amended or restated from time to time, the "Agreement;" the terms
                                                     ---------            
defined therein being used herein as therein defined)

     The Borrower promises to pay interest on the unpaid principal amount of
each Loan from the date of such Loan until such principal amount is paid in
full, at such interest rates, and payable at such times as are specified in the
Credit Agreement.

     All payments of principal and interest shall be made to the Administrative
Agent for the account of the Bank in United States dollars in immediately
available funds at Administrative Agent's Payment office.

     If any amount is not paid in full when due hereunder, such unpaid amount
shall bear interest, to be paid upon demand, from the due date thereof until the
date of actual payment (and before as well as after judgment) computed at the
per annum rate set forth in the Credit Agreement.


                                     D - 1
                                 FORM OF NOTE
<PAGE>
 
     This Note is one of the "Notes" referred to in the Credit Agreement.
Reference is hereby made to the Credit Agreement for rights and obligations of
payment and prepayment, events of default and the right of the Bank to
accelerate the maturity hereof upon the occurrence of such events.

     The Borrower, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby waives
diligence, presentment, protest and demand and notice of protest, demand,
dishonor and non-payment of this Note.

     The Borrower agrees to pay all collection expenses, court costs and
reasonable attorneys' fees (including the allocated cost of inhouse counsel) and
disbursements (whether or not litigation is commenced) which may be incurred in
connection with the collection or enforcement of this Note.

     THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF
THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.


                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                              By:__________________________
                              Title:_______________________


                                     D - 2
                                 FORM OF NOTE
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT E
                                                                       ---------

                            INTERCREDITOR AGREEMENT
                            -----------------------


                                     E - 1
                            INTERCREDITOR AGREEMENT
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT F
                                                                       ---------



                 THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED SECURITY AGREEMENT
                 ---------------------------------------------
              RE: RECEIVABLES, INVENTORY, EQUIPMENT AND DOCUMENTS
              ---------------------------------------------------
                            Dated as of July 1, 1996


                                     F - 1
                              SECURITY AGREEMENT
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT G
                                                                       ---------



                           ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
                           -------------------------

                  FORM OF NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
                  -------------------------------------------


                                                          ________________, 19__


TO:  Bank of America National Trust
     and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent


     Reference is made to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California
corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party thereto, and
                  --------                                                  
Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as Administrative Agent,
Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed, amended or restated
from time to time, the "Agreement;" the terms defined therein being used herein
                        ---------                                              
as therein defined).

          1.   We hereby give you notice of, and request your consent to, the
assignment by (the "Assignor") to (the "Assignee") of ______% of the right,
title and interest of the Assignor in and to the Loan Documents, including
without limitation the right, title and interest of the Assignor in and to the
Commitment of the Assignor, and all outstanding Loans and Letter of Credit
Obligations made by the Assignor.  Before giving effect to such assignment:

               (a) the aggregate amount of the Assignor's Commitment is
     $_________________;

               (b) the aggregate principal amount of its outstanding Loans is
     $________________;

               (c) the aggregate face amount of its participation in Letters of
     Credit is $______________; and


                                     G - 1
                           ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
<PAGE>
 
               (d) the aggregate principal amount of its Letter
     of Credit Advances is $_________________;

          2.   The Assignee hereby represents and warrants that it has complied
with the requirements of Section 11.08 of the Credit Agreement in connection
with this assignment.

          3.   The Assignee agrees that, upon receiving your consent to such
assignment and from and after _________________, the Assignee will be bound by
the terms of the Loan Documents, with respect to the interest in the Loan
Documents assigned to it as specified above, as fully and to the same extent as
if the Assignee were the Bank originally holding such interest in the Loan
Documents.

          4.   The following administrative details apply to the Assignee:

               (a) Designated Offshore Market Office:

                    Assignee name:  ___________________________
                    Address:  _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                    Attention: ________________________________
                    Telephone:  (___) _________________________
                    Telecopier: (___) _________________________
                    Telex (Answerback):  ______________________

               (b)  Domestic Lending Office:

                    Assignee name:  ___________________________
                    Address:  _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                    Attention: ________________________________
                    Telephone:  (___) _________________________
                    Telecopier: (___) _________________________
                    Telex (Answerback):  ______________________

               (c)  Notice Address:


                                     G - 2
                           ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
<PAGE>

                    Assignee name:  ___________________________
                    Address:  _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                              _________________________________
                    Attention: ________________________________
                    Telephone:  (___) _________________________
                    Telecopier: (___) _________________________
                    Telex (Answerback):  ______________________

               (d)  Payment Instructions:

                    Account No.:  _____________________________
                             At:  _____________________________
                                  _____________________________
                                  _____________________________
                           Ref.:  _____________________________
                      Attention:  _____________________________

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Assignor and the Assignee have caused this Notice
of Assignment and Acceptance to be executed by their respective duly authorized
officials, officers or agents as of the date first above mentioned.

                         Very truly yours,

                         [Name of Assignor]

                         By:___________________________
                         Title:

                         [Name of Assignee]

                         By:___________________________
                         Title:


We hereby consent to the
foregoing assignment.

U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                     G - 3
                           ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
<PAGE>
 


By: ___________________________
Name: _________________________
Title: ________________________


BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST
 AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION,
 as Administrative Agent


By: ___________________________
Name: _________________________
Title: ________________________


                                     G - 4
                           ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT H-1
                                                                     -----------


                            SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
                            -----------------------
                    (R.D. Colburn School of Performing Arts)



To:  Bank of America National
     Trust and Savings Association
     (hereinafter called "Administrative Agent")

                                                                 August 21, 1996


Gentlemen:

     Reference is made to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California
corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party thereto (the
                  --------                                                  
"Banks"), and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as
 -----                                                                  
Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed,
amended or restated from time to time, the "Credit Agreement;" the terms defined
                                            ----------------                    
therein being used herein as therein defined).

     The undersigned, the R.D. Colburn School of Performing Arts (hereinafter
referred to as "Creditor") may from time to time receive assignments of
                --------                                               
promissory notes ("Notes") executed by Borrower in favor of Creditor, and,
                   -----                                                  
therefore, is and may be a creditor of Borrower.  The Issuing Bank and the Banks
are extending financial accommodations to Borrower as Borrower may request and
as the Issuing Bank and,the Banks may deem proper.  For the purpose of inducing
the Issuing Bank and the Banks to grant, continue or renew such financial
accommodations, and in consideration thereof, Creditor agrees as follows:

     1.   Any and all claims of Creditor against Borrower, now or hereafter
existing, are, and shall be at all times, subject and subordinate to any and all
claims, now or hereafter existing which the Administrative Agent, the Issuing
Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks may have against Borrower (including
any 


                                    H-1 - 1
                    COLBURN SCHOOL SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
<PAGE>
 
claim by the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and
the Banks for interest accruing after any assignment for the benefit of
creditors by Borrower or the institution by or against Borrower of any
proceedings under the Administrative Agent and the Bankruptcy Code, or any claim
by the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and Banks
for any such interest which would have accrued in the absence of such assignment
or the institution of such proceedings).

     2.   Creditor agrees not to sue upon, or to collect, or to receive payment
of the principal or interest of any claim or claims now or hereafter existing
which Creditor may hold against Borrower, and not to sell, assign, transfer,
pledge, hypothecate, or encumber such claim or claims except subject expressly
to this Agreement, and not to enforce or apply any security now or hereafter
existing therefor, nor to file or join in any petition to commence any
proceeding under the Bankruptcy Code, nor to take any lien or security on any of
Borrower's property, real or personal, so long as any claim of the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks
against Borrower shall exist.

     3.   In case of any assignment for the benefit of creditors by Borrower or
in case any proceedings under the Bankruptcy Code are instituted by or against
Borrower, or in case of the appointment of any receiver for Borrower's business
or assets, or in case of any dissolution or winding up of the affairs of
Borrower: (a) Borrower and any assignee, trustee in bankruptcy, receiver, debtor
in possession or other person or persons in charge are hereby directed to pay to
the Administrative Agent the full amount of the Administrative Agent's, the
Issuing Bank's, the Collateral Agent's and the Banks' claims against Borrower
(including interest to the date of payment) before making any payment of
principal or interest to Creditor, and insofar as may be necessary for that
purpose, Creditor hereby assigns and transfers to the Administrative Agent for
the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent
and the Banks all security or the proceeds thereof, and all rights to any
payments, dividends or other distributions, and (b) Creditor hereby irrevocably
constitutes and appoints the Administrative Agent its true and lawful attorney
to act in its name and stead: 


                                    H-1 - 2
                    COLBURN SCHOOL SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
(i) to file the appropriate claim or claims on behalf of Creditor if Creditor
does not do so prior to 30 days before the expiration of the time to file claims
in such proceeding and if the Administrative Agent elects at its sole discretion
to file such claim or claims and (ii) to accept or reject any plan of
reorganization or arrangement on behalf of Creditor, and to otherwise vote
Creditor's claim in respect of any indebtedness now or hereafter owing from
Borrower to Creditor in any manner the Administrative Agent deems appropriate
for its own benefit and protection.

     4.   The Administrative Agent is hereby authorized by Creditor to: (a)
renew, compromise, extend, accelerate or otherwise change the time of payment,
or any other terms, of any existing or future claim of the Administrative Agent,
the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower, (b)
increase or decrease the rate of interest payable thereon or any part thereof,
(c) exchange, enforce, waive or release any security therefor, (d) apply such
security and direct the order or manner of sale thereof in such manner as the
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent may at its discretion determine,
(e) release Borrower or any guarantor of any indebtedness of Borrower from
liability, and (f) make optional future advances to Borrower, all without notice
to Creditor and without affecting the subordination provided by this Agreement.

     5.   On request of the Administrative Agent, Creditor shall deliver to the
Administrative Agent the original of any promissory note or other evidence of
any existing or future indebtedness of Borrower to Creditor, and mark same with
a conspicuous legend which reads substantially as follows:

          "THIS PROMISSORY NOTE IS SUBORDINATED TO ANY PRESENT OR FUTURE
     INDEBTEDNESS OWING FROM THE MAKER TO CERTAIN BANKS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE
     ASSIGNS, AND MAY BE ENFORCED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THAT CERTAIN
     SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 21, 1996 BETWEEN RICHARD D. COLBURN
     SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS AND BANK OF AMERICA NT&SA, AS ADMINISTRATIVE
     AGENT."

     6.   In the event that any payment or any cash or noncash distribution is
made to Creditor in violation of the terms of 


                                    H-1 - 3
                    COLBURN SCHOOL SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
this Agreement, Creditor shall receive same in trust for the benefit of the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks, and
shall forthwith remit it to the Administrative Agent in the form in which it was
received, together with such endorsements or documents as may be necessary to
effectively negotiate or transfer same to the Administrative Agent.

     7.   Until all such claims of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank,
the Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower, now or hereafter existing,
shall be paid in full, no gift or loan shall be made by Borrower to Creditor;
provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to prohibit
- --------  -------                                                            
Borrower from declaring and making dividends or distributions to Creditor, in
his capacity as a stockholder of Borrower, in respect of the capital stock of
Borrower to the extent not prohibited in the Credit Agreement.

     8.   For violation of this Agreement, Creditor shall be liable for all loss
and damage sustained by reason of such breach, and upon any such violation the
Administrative Agent may, at its option, accelerate the maturity of any of the
existing or future claims of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the
Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower.

     9.   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2, so long as no Default or
Event of Default has occurred and is continuing under the Credit Agreement, the
Borrower may pay, and the Creditor may receive, interest payments on the Notes;
provided, however, that such payment does not cause a Default or Event of
- --------  -------                                                        
Default under the Credit Agreement.

     10.  This Agreement shall be binding upon the successors and assigns of
Creditor and the Borrower and shall inure to the benefit of the Administrative
Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Issuing Bank and the Banks, and their
respective successors and assigns.  This Agreement and any existing or future
claim of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and
the Banks against Borrower may be assigned by the Administrative Agent, the
Collateral Agent and the Banks, in whole or in part, without notice to Creditor
or Borrower.


                                    H-1 - 4
                    COLBURN SCHOOL SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
                              R. D. COLBURN SCHOOL OF
                              PERFORMING ARTS


                              By:___________________________
                              Name:_________________________
                              Title:________________________


               Acceptance of Subordination Agreement by Borrower


     The undersigned being the Borrower named in the foregoing Subordination
Agreement, hereby accepts and consents thereto and agrees to be bound by all the
provisions thereof and to recognize all priorities and other rights granted
thereby to the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and
the Banks, their respective successors and assigns, and to perform in accordance
therewith.


Dated:_____________________    U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                               By:___________________________
                               Name:_________________________
                               Title:________________________


                                    H-1 - 5
                    COLBURN SCHOOL SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT H-2
                                                                     -----------


                            SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
                            -----------------------
                              (Richard D. Colburn)



To:  Bank of America National
     Trust and Savings Association
     (hereinafter called "Administrative Agent")

                                                                 August 21, 1996


Gentlemen:

     Reference is made to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of August 21, 1996 among U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California
corporation (the "Borrower"), the banks from time to time party thereto (the
                  --------                                                  
"Banks"), and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, as
- ------                                                                  
Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and Issuing Bank (as extended, renewed,
amended or restated from time to time, the "Credit Agreement;" the terms defined
                                            ----------------                    
therein being used herein as therein defined).

     The undersigned, Richard D. Colburn, an individual, (hereinafter referred
to as "Creditor") may from time to time receive assignments of promissory notes
("Notes") executed by U.S. Rentals, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as "Borrower")
in favor of Creditor, and, therefore, is and may be a creditor of Borrower.  The
Issuing Bank and the Banks are extending financial accommodations to Borrower as
Borrower may request and as the Issuing Bank and the Banks may deem proper.  For
the purpose of inducing the Issuing Bank and the Banks to grant, continue or
renew such financial accommodations, and in consideration thereof, Creditor
agrees as follows:

     1.   Any and all claims of Creditor against Borrower, now or hereafter
existing, are, and shall be at all times, subject and subordinate to any and all
claims, now or hereafter existing which the Administrative Agent, the Issuing
Bank, the Collateral 


                                    H-2 - 1
                        COLBURN SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
Agent and the Banks may have against Borrower (including any claim by the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks for
interest accruing after any assignment for the benefit of creditors by Borrower
or the institution by or against Borrower of any proceedings under the
Administrative Agent and the Bankruptcy Code, or any claim by the Administrative
Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and Banks for any such interest
which would have accrued in the absence of such assignment or the institution of
such proceedings).

     2.   Creditor agrees not to sue upon, or to collect, or to receive payment
of the principal or interest of any claim or claims now or hereafter existing
which Creditor may hold against Borrower, and not to sell, assign, transfer,
pledge, hypothecate, or encumber such claim or claims except subject expressly
to this Agreement, and not to enforce or apply any security now or hereafter
existing therefor, nor to file or join in any petition to commence any
proceeding under the Bankruptcy Code, nor to take any lien or security on any of
Borrower's property, real or personal, so long as any claim of the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks
against Borrower shall exist.

     3.   In case of any assignment for the benefit of creditors by Borrower or
in case any proceedings under the Bankruptcy Code are instituted by or against
Borrower, or in case of the appointment of any receiver for Borrower's business
or assets, or in case of any dissolution or winding up of the affairs of
Borrower: (a) Borrower and any assignee, trustee in bankruptcy, receiver, debtor
in possession or other person or persons in charge are hereby directed to pay to
the Administrative Agent the full amount of the Administrative Agent's, the
Issuing Bank's, the Collateral Agent's and the Banks, claims against Borrower
(including interest to the date of payment) before making any payment of
principal or interest to Creditor, and insofar as may be necessary for that
purpose, Creditor hereby assigns and transfers to the Administrative Agent for
the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent
and the Banks all security or the proceeds thereof, and all rights to any
payments, dividends or other distributions, and (b) Creditor hereby irrevocably
constitutes and appoints the Administrative 


                                    H-2 - 2
                        COLBURN SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
Agent its true and lawful attorney to act in its name and stead: (i) to file the
appropriate claim or claims on behalf of Creditor if Creditor does not do so
prior to 30 days before the expiration of the time to file claims in such
proceeding and if the Administrative Agent elects at its sole discretion to file
such claim or claims and (ii) to accept or reject any plan of reorganization or
arrangement on behalf of Creditor, and to otherwise vote Creditor's claim in
respect of any indebtedness now or hereafter owing from Borrower to Creditor in
any manner the Administrative Agent deems appropriate for its own benefit and
protection.

     4.   The Administrative Agent is hereby authorized by Creditor to: (a)
renew, compromise, extend, accelerate or otherwise change the time of payment,
or any other terms, of any existing or future claim of the Administrative Agent,
the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower, (b)
increase or decrease the rate of interest payable thereon or any part thereof,
(c) exchange, enforce, waive or release any security therefor, (d) apply such
security and direct the order or manner of sale thereof in such manner as the
Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent may at its discretion determine,
(e) release Borrower or any guarantor of any indebtedness of Borrower from
liability, and (f) make optional future advances to Borrower, all without notice
to Creditor and without affecting the subordination provided by this Agreement.

     5.   On request of the Administrative Agent, Creditor shall deliver to the
Administrative Agent the original of any promissory note or other evidence of
any existing or future indebtedness of Borrower to Creditor, and mark same with
a conspicuous legend which reads substantially as follows:

          "THIS PROMISSORY NOTE IS SUBORDINATED TO ANY PRESENT OR FUTURE
     INDEBTEDNESS OWING FROM THE MAKER TO CERTAIN BANKS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE
     ASSIGNS, AND MAY BE ENFORCED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THAT CERTAIN
     SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 21, 1996 BETWEEN R.D. COLBURN AND BANK
     OF AMERICA NT&SA, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT."


                                    H-2 - 3
                        COLBURN SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT

<PAGE>
 
     6.  In the event that any payment or any cash or noncash distribution is
made to Creditor in violation of the terms of this Agreement, Creditor shall
receive same in trust for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing
Bank, the Collateral Agent and the Banks, and shall forthwith remit it to the
Administrative Agent in the form in which it was received, together with such
endorsements or documents as may be necessary to effectively negotiate or
transfer same to the Administrative Agent.

     7.  Until all such claims of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank,
the Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower, now or hereafter existing,
shall be paid in full, no gift or loan shall be made by Borrower to Creditor;
provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to prohibit
- --------  -------                                                            
Borrower from declaring and making dividends or distributions to Creditor, in
his capacity as a stockholder of Borrower, in respect of the capital stock of
Borrower to the extent not prohibited in the Credit Agreement.

     8.  For violation of this Agreement, Creditor shall be liable for all loss
and damage sustained by reason of such breach, and upon any such violation the
Administrative Agent may, at its option, accelerate the maturity of any of the
existing or future claims of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the
Collateral Agent and the Banks against Borrower.

     9.  Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2, so long as no Default or
Event of Default has occurred and is continuing under the Credit Agreement, the
Borrower may pay, and the Creditor may receive, interest payments on the Notes;
provided, however, that such payment does not cause a Default or Event of
- --------  -------                                                        
Default under the Credit Agreement.

     10.  This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, successors and assigns
of Creditor and the Borrower and shall inure to the benefit of the
Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Issuing Bank and the Banks, and
their respective successors and assigns.  This Agreement and any existing or
future claim of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent
and the Banks against Borrower may be assigned 

                                    H-2 - 4
                        COLBURN SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
<PAGE>
 
by the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the Banks, in whole or in
part, without notice to Creditor or Borrower.



                        _______________________________
                               Richard D. Colburn
                                    Creditor


               Acceptance of Subordination Agreement by Borrower

     The undersigned being the Borrower named in the foregoing Subordination
Agreement, hereby accepts and consents thereto and agrees to be bound by all the
provisions thereof and to recognize all priorities and other rights granted
thereby to the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Bank, the Collateral Agent and
the Banks, their respective successors and assigns, and to perform in accordance
therewith.


Dated:_____________________      U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                                 By:___________________________
                                 Name:_________________________
                                 Title:________________________

                                    H-2 - 5
                        COLBURN SUBORDINATION AGREEMENT
<PAGE>
 
                                                                   SCHEDULE 2.01
                                                                   -------------



                                  COMMITMENTS
                                  -----------
                              AND PRO RATA SHARES
                              -------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                                      Pro Rata
            Bank                     Commitment        Share
            ----                    ------------   --------------
<S>                                  <C>            <C>
 
Bank of America National
Trust and Savings
Association                         $ 50,000,000    45.454545456%
 
Comerica Bank - California            15,000,000    13.636363636%
 
The Sumitomo Bank of California        7,500,000     6.818181818%
 
The Sumitomo Bank Ltd.                 7,500,000     6.818181818%
 
Union Bank of California, N.A.        15,000,000    13.636363636%
 
Wells Fargo Bank                      15,000,000    13.636363636%
                                    ------------   --------------
 
     TOTAL                          $110,000,000   100.000000000%
                                    ============   ==============
</TABLE>

                                      -1-

<PAGE>
 
                                                                   SCHEDULE 3.03
                                                                   -------------



                        EXISTING BOFA LETTERS OF CREDIT
                        -------------------------------


L/C Number               Beneficiary     Amount      Expiration
- ----------               -----------     ------      ----------

                                      -1-
<PAGE>
 
                                                                   SCHEDULE 6.16
                                                                   -------------


                      SUBSIDIARIES AND MINORITY INTERESTS
                      -----------------------------------


                                 SUBSIDIARIES
                                 ------------



                               MINORITY INTERESTS
                               ------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
<S>                                                        <C>
Yorkshire Enterprises L.P.                                 $   41,251.21
Kwickform America                                             992,459.15
Kippington Road                                               306,000.00
UKP                                                                31.48
Claessen                                                        3,267.25
Tolyco BY                                                     351,905.63
Consortium 2000 Inc.                                          150,000.00
                                                           -------------
 
Total                                                      $1,844,914.72
                                                           =============
 
</TABLE>

                                      -1-
<PAGE>
 
                                                                  SCHEDULE 11.02
                                                                  --------------


                     OFFSHORE AND DOMESTIC LENDING OFFICES,
                     --------------------------------------
                             ADDRESSES FOR NOTICES
                             ---------------------



BORROWER
- --------

U.S. RENTALS, INC.
1581 Cummins Drive, Suite 155
Modesto, California 95351
Attention:  John S. McKinney
Telephone:  (209) 544-9000
Facsimile:  (209) 544-6756

BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST
- ------------------------------
AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION,
- ----------------------- 
as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent

Bank of America National Trust
and Savings Association
Agency Management Services #10831
1455 Market Street, 12th Floor
San Francisco, California 94103
Attention:  Charles Graber
            Vice President
Telephone:  (415) 436-3495
Facsimile:  (415) 436-2700


ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT'S PAYMENT OFFICE:
- ------------------------------------- 

1850 Gateway Boulevard, Fifth Floor Concord, California 94520

BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST
- ------------------------------
AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, as a Bank
- -----------------------           

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:
1850 Gateway Boulevard, Fourth Floor
Concord, California 94520
Attention:  Barbara Garibaldi

                                      -1-
<PAGE>
 
Telephone:  (510) 675-7729
Facsimile:  (510) 675-7531

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of Conversion/Continuation) :

Bank of America National Trust and
Savings Association
555 South Flower Street, 11th Floor
Los Angeles, California 90071
Attention:  Chas McDonell
            Vice President
            Credit Products #3283
Telephone:  (213) 228-2027
Facsimile:  (213) 228-2756


BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST
- ------------------------------
AND SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, as Issuing Bank
- -----------------------                 

Address for Notices:

International Trade
Banking Division #5655
333 S. Beaudry Ave., 19th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90017


WELLS FARGO BANK
- ----------------

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:

Wells Fargo Bank
201 Third Street, 8th Floor
Commercial Banking Service Center
San Francisco, CA 94103
Attention:  Virginia DeCicco
            Disbursement Administration
Telephone:  (415) 477-5424
Facsimile:  (415) 512-9068

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of Conversion/Continuation):

Wells Fargo Bank
P.O.  Box  949
Modesto, CA 95353
Attention:  Larry Scheidt
            Vice President
Telephone:  (209)  578-6826
Facsimile:  (209)  523-3686


UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA, N.A.
- ----------------------------- 

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:

Union Bank of California, N.A.
550 S. Hope Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Attention:  Hisako Sakamoto
            Assistant Vice President
Telephone:  (213) 243-3522
Facsimile:  (213) 243-3521


Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of Conversion/Continuation):

Union Bank of California, N.A.
445 S. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Attention:  Pasha Moghaddam
            Vice President
Telephone:  (213) 236-6564
Facsimile:  (213) 236-7814


THE SUMITOMO BANK OF CALIFORNIA
- -------------------------------

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:

The Sumitomo Bank of California
Commercial Banking Division

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
320 California Street, #600
San Francisco, CA 94104
Attention:  Andrew Hudson
            Vice President
Telephone:  (415) 445-8724
Facsimile:  (415) 296-9617


Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of Conversion/Continuation):

The Sumitomo Bank of California
Commercial Banking Division
320 California Street, #600
San Francisco, CA 94104
Attention:  Thomas C. Paton, Jr.
            Vice President
Telephone:  (415) 445-8750
Facsimile:  (415) 296-9617


THE SUMITOMO BANK,  LIMITED
- ---------------------------

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:

The Sumitomo Bank, Limited
U.S. Commercial Banking Department
233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 400
Chicago, IL 60606

Notices for Borrowing and Notices for
Conversion/Continuation):

The Sumitomo Bank,  Limited
U.S. Commercial Banking Department
100 Pine Street, Suite 3300
San Francisco, CA 94111-5219
Attention:  Wendy L. Goman
            Banking Officer
Telephone:  (415) 394-0869
Facsimile:  (415) 304-9797

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of
Conversion/Continuation):

The Sumitomo Bank,  Limited
U.S. Commercial Banking Department
100 Pine Street, Suite 3300
San Francisco, CA 94111-5219
Attention:  Carole A. Daley
            Vice President
Telephone:  (415) 394-0868
Facsimile:  (415) 394-9797


COMERICA BANK  -  CALIFORNIA
- ----------------------------

Domestic and Offshore Lending Office:

Comerica Bank - California
333 W. Santa Clara Street
San Jose, CA 95113
Attention:  Jan Green
            Administrative Assistant
Telephone:  (408) 556-5237
Facsimile:  (408) 556-5292

with a copy to:

Comerica Bank - California
333 W. Santa Clara Street
San Jose, CA 95113
Attention:  Scott  T.  Smith
            Assistant Vice President
Telephone:  (408) 556-5236
Facsimile:  (408) 556-5292

Notices (other than Borrowing notices and Notices of
Conversion/Continuation):

Comerica Bank - California
333 W. Santa Clara Street
San Jose, CA 95113
Attention:  Scott T. Smith
            Assistant Vice President

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
Telephone:  (408) 556-5236
Facsimile:  (408) 556-5292

                                      -7-

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.7

                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.
                         1581 Cummins Drive, Suite 155
                          Modesto, California  95358

                                NOTE AGREEMENT

Re:            $10,000,000 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A,
                             Due August 21, 1999,
               10,000,000 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B,
                             Due August 21, 2000,
               $10,000,000 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C,
                             Due August 21, 2001,
                                      and
               $20,000,000 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D,
                              Due August 21, 2002

                                                                     Dated as of
                                                                 August 15, 1995

To the Purchaser named in Schedule I
  hereto which is a signatory of this
  Agreement

Ladies and Gentlemen:

        The undersigned, U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California corporation (the
"Company"), agrees with you as follows:
 -------

SECTION 1.      DESCRIPTION OF NOTES AND COMMITMENT.

        Section 1.1.   Description of Notes.  (a) The Company will authorize the
        -----------------------------------
issue and sale of its 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999
(the "Series A Notes") in an aggregate principal amount of $10,000,000, its
      --------------
6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 

<PAGE>
 
2000 (the "Series B Notes") in an aggregate principal amount of $10,000,000, its
           --------------
7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001 (the "Series C Notes")
                                                                --------------
in an aggregate principal amount of $10,000,000, and its 7.13% Senior Secured
Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002 (the "Series D Notes") in an aggregate
                                           --------------
principal amount of $20,000,000. The Series A Notes, the Series B Notes, the
Series C Notes and the Series D Notes issued pursuant to this Agreement and the
other separate agreements referred to in (S)1.3 are hereinafter collectively
referred to as the "Notes".
                    -----

        (b) The Series A Notes will be dated the date of issue, will bear
interest from such date at the rate of 6.82% per annum, payable semiannually on
the twenty-first day of February and August in each year (commencing February
21, 1996) and at maturity and will bear interest on overdue principal (including
any overdue required or optional prepayment of principal) and premium, if any,
and (to the extent legally enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest
at the Overdue Rate after the date due, whether by acceleration or otherwise,
until paid, will be expressed to mature on August 21, 1999, and will be
substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-1.

        The Series B Notes will be dated the date of issue, will bear interest
from such date at the rate of 6.89% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears
on the twenty-first day of February and August in each year (commencing February
21, 1996) and at maturity and will bear interest on overdue principal (including
any overdue optional prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the
extent legally enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest at the
Overdue Rate after the date due, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until
paid, will be expressed to mature on August 21, 2000 and will be substantially
in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-2.

        The Series C Notes will be dated the date of issue, will bear interest
from such date at the rate of 7.04% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears
on the twenty-first day of February and August in each year (commencing February
21, 1996) and at maturity and will bear interest on overdue principal (including
any overdue optional prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the
extent legally enforceable) on any overdue 

- -2-
<PAGE>
 
installment of interest at the Overdue Rate after the date due, whether by
acceleration or otherwise, until paid, will be expressed to mature on August 21,
2001 and will be substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-3.

        The Series D Notes will be dated the date of issue, will bear interest
from such date at the rate of 7.13% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears
on the twenty-first day of February and August in each year (commencing February
21, 1996) and at maturity and will bear interest on overdue principal (including
any overdue optional prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the
extent legally enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest at the
Overdue Rate after the date due, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until
paid, will be expressed to mature on August 21, 2002 and will be substantially
in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A-4.

        Interest on the Notes shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year
of twelve 30-day months. The Notes are not subject to prepayment or redemption
at the option of the Company prior to their expressed maturity dates except on
the terms and conditions and in the amounts and with the premium, if any, set
forth in (S)2 of this Agreement. The term "Notes" as used herein shall include
                                           -----
each Note delivered pursuant to this Agreement and the separate agreements with
the other purchasers named in Schedule I. You and the other purchasers named in
Schedule I are hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "Purchasers". The terms
                                                         ----------
which are capitalized herein shall have the meanings set forth in (S)8.1 unless
the context shall otherwise require.

        Section 1.2. Commitment, Closing Date. Subject to the terms and
        -------------------------------------
conditions hereof and on the basis of the representations and warranties
hereinafter set forth, the Company agrees to issue and sell to you, and you
agree to purchase from the Company, Notes in the principal amount set forth
opposite your name on Schedule I hereto at a price of 100% of the principal
amount thereof on the Closing Date hereafter mentioned.

        Delivery of the Notes will be made at the offices of Chapman and Cutler,
111 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603, against payment therefor in
Federal Reserve or other funds current and immediately available at the
principal office of Bank of America, Department 5693, 1850 Gateway 

- -3-
<PAGE>
 
Boulevard, Concord, California 94520, ABA #121000358 for credit to the Company's
Account Number 12331-13468 in the amount of the purchase price at 12:00 Noon,
San Francisco, California time, on August 21, 1995 or such later date (not later
than August 31, 1995) as shall mutually be agreed upon by the Company and the
Purchasers (the "Closing Date"). The Notes delivered to you on the Closing Date
                 ------------
will be delivered to you in the form of a single registered Note in the form
attached hereto as Exhibit A for the full amount of your purchase (unless
different denominations are specified by you), registered in your name or in the
name of such nominee, as may be specified in Schedule I attached hereto.

        Section 1.3. Other Agreements. Simultaneously with the execution and
        -----------------------------
delivery of this Agreement, the Company is entering into similar agreements with
the other Purchasers under which such other Purchasers agree to purchase from
the Company the principal amount of Notes set opposite such Purchasers' names in
Schedule I, and your obligation is subject to the execution and delivery of the
similar agreements by the other Purchasers. This Agreement and said similar
agreements with the other Purchasers are herein collectively referred to as the
"Agreements". The obligations of each Purchaser shall be several and not joint
 ----------
and no Purchaser shall be liable or responsible for the acts of any other
Purchaser.

        Section 1.4. Security for the Notes. The Notes will be entitled to the
        -----------------------------------
benefit of the Second Amended and Restated Security Agreement Re: Receivables,
Inventory, Equipment and Documents dated as of the date of this Agreement which
will be in form and substance satisfactory to you and your special counsel,
together with any amendments, replacements or restatements of the foregoing (the
"Security Document") and enforcement of the rights and benefits in respect of
 -----------------
the Security Document will be subject to an Intercreditor Agreement dated as of
the date of this Agreement in form and substance satisfactory to you and your
special counsel (the "Intercreditor Agreement") to be entered into by the
                      -----------------------
Collateral Agent, Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association and the
Company with each of you.

SECTION 2.      PREPAYMENT OF NOTES.

        Section 2.1. Optional Prepayment with Premium. Upon compliance with 
        ---------------------------------------------
(S)2.3, the Company shall have the privilege, on any interest payment date 

- -4-
<PAGE>
 
of prepaying the outstanding Notes, either in whole or in part (but if in part
then in a minimum principal amount of $2,000,000), by payment of the principal
amount of the Notes, or portion thereof to be prepaid, and accrued interest
thereon to the date of such prepayment, together with a premium equal to the
Make-Whole Amount, determined as of three Business Days prior to the date of
such prepayment pursuant to this (S)2.1.

        Section 2.2. Prepayment of Notes upon Change of Control. (a) In the 
        -------------------------------------------------------
event that the Company has knowledge of a Change of Control (as hereinafter
defined) or an impending Change of Control, the Company will give written notice
(the "Company Notice") of such fact in the manner provided in (S)9.6 hereof to
      --------------
the holders of the Notes at least 60 days prior to the occurrence of such Change
of Control, provided that if the Company does not have knowledge of a Change of
            --------
Control sufficient to provide 60 days prior notice to the holders of the Notes,
then the Company Notice shall be delivered promptly upon receipt of such
knowledge by the Company and in any event no later than three Business Days
following the occurrence of any Change of Control. The Company Notice shall (1)
describe the facts and circumstances of such Change of Control in reasonable
detail, (2) make reference to this (S)2.2 and the right of the holders of the
Notes to require prepayment of the Notes on the terms and conditions provided
for in this (S)2.2, (3) offer in writing to prepay the outstanding Notes, 
together with accrued interest to the date of prepayment, and a premium equal to
the then applicable Make-Whole Amount, and (4) specify a date for such
prepayment (the "Change of Control Prepayment Date"), which Change of Control
                 ---------------------------------
Prepayment Date shall be (A) in the event the Company has knowledge of such
Change of Control at least 60 days prior to the occurrence thereof, the date
such Change of Control actually occurs, or (B) in all other events, not more
than 90 days nor less than 30 days following the date of such Company Notice.
Each holder of the then outstanding Notes shall have the right to accept such
offer and require prepayment of the Notes held by such holder in full by written
notice to the Company (a "Noteholder Notice") given not later than 20 days after
                          -----------------
receipt of the Company Notice. The Company shall on the Change of Control
Prepayment Date prepay in full all of the Notes held by holders which have so
accepted such offer of prepayment. The prepayment price of the Notes payable
upon the occurrence of any Change of Control shall be an amount equal to 100% of
the outstanding principal amount of the Notes so to be prepaid and accrued
interest thereon to the date of such prepayment, together

- -5-
<PAGE>
 
with a premium equal to the then applicable Make-Whole Amount, determined as of
three Business Days prior to the date of such prepayment pursuant to this
(S)2.2(a).

        (b)(1) Without limiting the foregoing, notwithstanding any failure on
the part of the Company to give the Company Notice herein required as a result
of the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder of the Notes shall have
the right by delivery of written notice to the Company to require the Company to
prepay, and the Company will prepay, such holder's Notes in full, together with
accrued interest thereon to the date of prepayment, and a premium equal to the
then applicable Make-Whole Amount. Notice of any required prepayment pursuant to
this (S)2.2(b)(1) shall be delivered by any holder of the Notes which was
entitled to, but did not receive, such Company Notice to the Company after such
holder has actual knowledge of such Change of Control. On the date (the "Change
                                                                         ------
of Control Delayed Prepayment Date") designated in such holder's notice (which
- ----------------------------------
shall be not more than 90 days nor less than 30 days following the date of such
holder's notice), the Company shall prepay in full all of the Notes held by such
holder, together with accrued interest thereon to the date of prepayment, and a
premium equal to the then applicable Make-Whole Amount. If the holder of any
Note gives any notice pursuant to this (S)2.2(b)(1), the Company shall give a
Company Notice within three Business Days of receipt of such notice and identify
the Change of Control Delayed Prepayment Date to all other holders of the Notes
and each of such other holders shall then and thereupon have the right to accept
the Company's offer to prepay the Notes held by such holder in full and require
prepayment of such Notes by delivery of a Noteholder Notice within 20 days
following receipt of such Company Notice; provided only that any date for
                                          --------
prepayment of such holder's Notes shall be the Change of Control Delayed
Prepayment Date. On the Change of Control Delayed Prepayment Date, the Company
shall prepay in full the Notes of each holder thereof which has accepted such
offer of prepayment at a prepayment price equal to 100% of the outstanding
principal amount of the Notes so to be prepaid and accrued interest thereon to
the date of such prepayment, together with a premium equal to the then
applicable Make-Whole Amount, determined as of three Business Days prior to the
date of such prepayment pursuant to this (S)2.2(b)(1).

- -6-
<PAGE>
 
        (2) Compliance with the provisions of this (S)2.2(b) shall not be deemed
to constitute a waiver of, or consent to, any Default or Event of Default caused
by any violation of the provisions of (S)2.2(a).

        Section 2.3. Notice of Optional Prepayments. The Company will give 
        -------------------------------------------
notice of any prepayment of the Notes pursuant to (S)2.1 to each holder 
thereof not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days before the date fixed for
such optional prepayment specifying (a) such date, (b) the principal amount of
the holder's Notes to be prepaid on such date, (c) that a premium may be
payable, (d) the date when such premium will be calculated, (e) the estimated
premium, together with a reasonably detailed computation of such estimated
premium, and (f) the accrued interest applicable to the prepayment. Such notice
of prepayment shall also certify all facts, if any, which are conditions
precedent to any such prepayment. Notice of prepayment having been so given, the
aggregate principal amount of the Notes specified in such notice, together with
accrued interest thereon and the premium, if any, payable with respect thereto
shall become due and payable on the prepayment date specified in said notice.
Two Business Days prior to the prepayment date specified in such notice, the
Company shall provide each holder of a Note written notice of the premium, if
any, payable in connection with such prepayment and, whether or not any premium
is payable, a reasonably detailed computation of the Make-Whole Amount.

        Section 2.4. Application of Prepayments. All partial prepayments made
        ---------------------------------------
pursuant to (S)2.1 shall be applied on all outstanding Notes ratably in
accordance with the unpaid principal amounts thereof. All partial prepayments
made pursuant to (S)2.2 shall be applied only to the Notes of the holders who
have elected to participate in such prepayment.

        Section 2.5. Direct Payment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
        ---------------------------
contained in this Agreement or the Notes, in the case of any Note owned by you
or your nominee or owned by any subsequent Institutional Holder which has given
written notice to the Company requesting that the provisions of this (S)2.5
shall apply, the Company will punctually pay when due the principal thereof,
interest thereon and premium, if any, due with respect to said principal,
without any presentment thereof, directly to you, to your nominee or to such
subsequent Institutional Holder at your address or your nominee's address set
forth in Schedule I hereto or such other address

- -7-
<PAGE>
 
as you, your nominee or such subsequent Institutional Holder may from time to
time designate in writing to the Company or, if a bank account with a United
States bank is designated for you or your nominee on Schedule I hereto or in any
written notice to the Company from you, from your nominee or from any such
subsequent Institutional Holder, the Company will make such payments in
immediately available funds to such bank account, no later than 12:00 Noon
Chicago, Illinois time on the date due, marked for attention as indicated, or in
such other manner or to such other account in any United States bank as you,
your nominee or any such subsequent Institutional Holder may from time to time
direct in writing. If for any reason whatsoever the Company does not make any
such payment by such 12:00 Noon Chicago, Illinois time, such payment shall be
deemed to have been made on the next following Business Day and such payment
shall bear interest at the Overdue Rate.

SECTION 3.      REPRESENTATIONS AND AGREEMENT.

        Section 3.1. Representations of the Company. The Company represents
        -------------------------------------------
and warrants that all representations and warranties set forth in Exhibit B are
true and correct as of the date hereof and are incorporated herein by reference
with the same force and effect as though herein set forth in full.

        Section 3.2. Representations and Agreement of the Purchaser. (a) You
        -----------------------------------------------------------
represent, and in entering into this Agreement the Company understands, that
you are acquiring the Notes for the purpose of investment and not with a view
to the distribution thereof, and that you have no present intention of selling,
negotiating or otherwise disposing of the Notes; it being understood, however,
that the disposition of your property shall at all times be and remain within
your control.

        (b) You further represent that either:  (1) you are acquiring the Notes
with assets from your general account and not with the assets of any separate
account in which any employee benefit plan has any interest; (2) no part of the
funds to be used by you to purchase the Notes constitutes assets allocated to
any separate account maintained by you such that the application of such funds
constitutes a prohibited transaction under Section 406 of ERISA; or (3) all or
a part of such funds constitute assets of one or more separate accounts, trusts
or a commingled pension trust maintained by you, and you 

- -8-
<PAGE>
 
have disclosed to the Company the names of such employee benefit plans whose
assets in such separate account or accounts or pension trusts exceed 10% of the
total assets or are expected to exceed 10% of the total assets of such account
or accounts or trusts as of the date of such purchase and the Company has
advised you in writing (and in making the representations set forth in this
clause (3) you are relying on such advice) that the Company is not a party-in-
interest nor are the Notes employer securities with respect to the particular
employee benefit plan disclosed to the Company by you as aforesaid (for the
purpose of this clause (3), all employee benefit plans maintained by the same
employer or employee organization are deemed to be a single plan). As used in
this (S)3.2(b), the terms "separate account", "party-in-interest", "employer
                           ----------------    -----------------    --------
securities" and "employee benefit plan" shall have the respective meanings
- ----------       ---------------------
assigned to them in ERISA.

        (c) You agree that you will not resell the Notes purchased by you under
this Agreement to a Person which, to the best of your knowledge, is a Competitor
or Competitor Affiliate. It is understood and agreed that in establishing
compliance by you with the foregoing, you may rely upon the written
representation of the transferee of a Note to the effect that such transferee is
not a Competitor or Competitor Affiliate.

SECTION 4.      CLOSING CONDITIONS.

        Section 4.1. Conditions. Your obligation to purchase the Notes on the
        -----------------------
Closing Date shall be subject to the performance by the Company of its
agreements hereunder which by the terms hereof are to be performed at or prior
to the time of delivery of the Notes and to the following further conditions
precedent:

             (a) Closing Certificate. You shall have received a certificate
                 -------------------
        dated the Closing Date, signed by a Responsible Officer of the Company,
        the truth and accuracy of which shall be a condition to your obligation
        to purchase the Notes proposed to be sold to you and to the effect that
        (1) the representations and warranties of the Company set forth in
        Exhibit B hereto are true and correct on and with respect to the Closing
        Date, (2) the Company has performed all of its obligations hereunder
        which are to be performed on or prior to the Closing Date, and (3) no
        Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.

- -9-
<PAGE>
 
        (b) Legal Opinions. You shall have received from Chapman and Cutler, who
            --------------
are acting as your special counsel in this transaction, and from Bernard E.
Lyons, Esq., counsel for the Company, their respective opinions dated the
Closing Date, in form and substance satisfactory to you, and covering the
matters set forth in Exhibits C and D, respectively, hereto.

        (c) Company's Existence and Authority. On or prior to the Closing Date,
            ---------------------------------
you shall have received, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to you
and your special counsel, such documents and evidence with respect to the
Company as you may reasonably request in order to establish the existence and
good standing of the Company and the authorization of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.

        (d) Security Document, Etc. The Security Document and the Intercreditor
            ----------------------
Agreement shall be in form and substance satisfactory to you and your special
counsel, shall have been duly executed and delivered by the parties thereto and
shall be in full force and effect and you shall have received true, correct and
complete copies of each thereof. You shall also have received a true, correct
and complete copy of the Bank Agreement.

        (e) Filing and Recording. The Security Document (and/or financing
            --------------------
statements or similar notices thereof if and to the extent permitted or
required by applicable law) shall have been recorded or filed for record in
such public offices as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by you or your
special counsel in order to perfect the Liens and security interests granted or
conveyed thereby.

        (f) Related Transactions. The Company shall have consummated the sale of
            --------------------
the entire principal amount of the Notes scheduled to be sold on the Closing
Date pursuant to this Agreement and the other agreements referred to in (S)1.3.

        (g) Private Placement Numbers.  On or prior to the Closing Date, special
            -------------------------
counsel to the Purchasers shall have duly made the appropriate filings with
Standard & Poor's CUSIP Service Bureau, as 

- -10-
<PAGE>
 
agent for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, in order to
obtain a private placement number for each Series of the Notes.

        (h) Funding Instructions.  At least three Business Days prior to the
            --------------------
Closing Date, you shall have received written instructions executed by a
Responsible Officer of the Company directing the manner of the payment of funds
and setting forth (1) the name and address of the transferee bank, (2) such
transferee bank's ABA number, (3) the account name and number into which the
purchase price for the Notes is to be deposited, and (4) the name and telephone
number of the account representative responsible for verifying receipt of such
funds.

        (i) Special Counsel Fees. Concurrently with the delivery of the Notes to
            --------------------
you on the Closing Date, the charges and disbursements of Chapman and Cutler,
your special counsel, shall have been paid by the Company.

        (j) Legality of Investment. The Notes to be purchased by you shall be a
            ----------------------
legal investment for you under the laws of each jurisdiction to which you may be
subject (without resort to any so-called "basket provisions" to such laws).
                                          -----------------

        (k) Satisfactory Proceedings. All proceedings taken in connection with
            ------------------------
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and all documents necessary to
the consummation thereof, shall be satisfactory in form and substance to you and
your special counsel, and you shall have received a copy (executed or certified
as may be appropriate) of all legal documents or proceedings taken in connection
with the consummation of said transactions.

        Section 4.2. Waiver of Conditions.  If on the Closing Date the Company
        ---------------------------------
fails to tender to you the Notes to be issued to you on such date or if the
conditions specified in (S)4.1 have not been fulfilled, you may thereupon elect
to be relieved of all further obligations under this Agreement.  Without
limiting the foregoing, if the conditions specified in (S)4.1 have not been
fulfilled, you may waive compliance by the Company with any such

- -11-
<PAGE>
 
condition to such extent as you may in your sole discretion determine. Nothing
in this (S)4.2 shall operate to relieve the Company of any of its obligations
hereunder or to waive any of your rights against the Company.

SECTION 5.      COMPANY COVENANTS.

        From and after the Closing Date and continuing so long as any amount
remains unpaid on any Note:

        Section 5.1. Corporate Existence, Etc. The Company will preserve and
        -------------------------------------
keep in full force and effect, and will cause each Subsidiary to preserve and
keep in full force and effect, its corporate existence and all Material licenses
and permits relating to the proper conduct of its business, provided that the
                                                            --------
foregoing shall not prevent any transaction permitted by (S)5.12.

        Section 5.2. Insurance. The Company will maintain, and will cause each
        ----------------------
Subsidiary to maintain, insurance coverage by financially sound and reputable
insurers and in such forms and amounts (including deductibles, co-insurance and
self-insurance, if adequate reserves are maintained with respect thereto) and
against such risks as are customary for corporations of established reputation
engaged in the same or a similar business and owning and operating similar
properties.

        Section 5.3. Taxes, Claims for Labor and Materials; Compliance with
        -------------------------------------------------------------------
Laws. (a) The Company will promptly pay and discharge, and will cause each
- ----
Subsidiary promptly to pay and discharge, prior to becoming delinquent, all
taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies imposed upon the Company
or such Subsidiary, respectively, or upon or in respect of all or any part of
the property or business of the Company or such Subsidiary, all trade accounts
payable in accordance with usual and customary business terms, and all claims
for work, labor or materials, which if unpaid might become a Lien upon any
property of the Company or such Subsidiary; provided the Company or such
                                            --------
Subsidiary shall not be required to pay any such tax, assessment, charge, levy,
account payable or claim if (1) the validity, applicability or amount thereof is
being contested in good faith by appropriate actions or proceedings which will
prevent the forfeiture or sale of any property of the Company or such Subsidiary
or any material interference with the use thereof by the Company or such
Subsidiary, and (2) the 

- -12-
<PAGE>
 
Company or such Subsidiary shall set aside on its books, reserves deemed by it
to be adequate with respect thereto.

        (b) The Company will promptly comply and will cause each Subsidiary to
promptly comply with all laws, ordinances or governmental rules and regulations
to which it is subject, including, without limitation, the Occupational Safety
and Health Act of 1970, as amended, ERISA and all Environmental Laws, the
violation of which could materially and adversely affect the business,
operations, affairs, financial condition, assets, properties or prospects of the
Company and its Subsidiaries or would result in any Lien not permitted under
(S)5.10.

        Section 5.4. Maintenance, Etc. The Company will in all Material respects
        -----------------------------
maintain, preserve and keep, and will cause each Subsidiary to in all Material
respects maintain, preserve and keep, its properties which are used or useful in
the conduct of its business (whether owned in fee or a leasehold interest) in
good repair and working order and from time to time will in all Material
respects make all necessary repairs, replacements, renewals and additions so
that at all times the efficiency thereof shall be maintained.

        Section 5.5. Nature of Business. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary
        -------------------------------
will engage in any business if, as a result, the general nature of the business,
taken on a consolidated basis, which would then be engaged in by the Company and
its Subsidiaries would be substantially changed from the general nature of the
business engaged in by the Company and its Subsidiaries on the date of this
Agreement.

        Section 5.6. Collateral Ratio. The Company will at all times keep and
        -----------------------------
maintain the ratio of Book Value of Consolidated Total Assets to Consolidated
Secured Indebtedness at not less than 1.25 to 1.00.

        Section 5.7. Consolidated Tangible Net Worth. The Company will at all
        --------------------------------------------
times keep and maintain Consolidated Tangible Net Worth at an amount not less
than the sum of (a) $35,000,000 plus (b) 25% of Consolidated Net Income computed
                                ----
on a cumulative basis for each of the elapsed fiscal quarters ending after June
30, 1995, provided that notwithstanding that Consolidated Net Income for any
          --------
such elapsed fiscal quarter may be a deficit figure, no 

- -13-
<PAGE>
 
reduction as a result thereof shall be made in the sum to be maintained pursuant
hereto.

        Section 5.8. Fixed Charges Coverage Ratio. The Company will as at the
        -----------------------------------------
end of each fiscal quarter keep and maintain the ratio of Consolidated Net
Income Available for Fixed Charges for any four of the immediately preceding
five fiscal quarters to Consolidated Fixed Charges for such four fiscal quarter
period at not less than 1.50 to 1.00.

        Section 5.9. Limitations on Indebtedness. (a) The Company will not, and
        ----------------------------------------
will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, create, assume, guarantee or
otherwise incur or in any manner be or become liable in respect of any
Indebtedness, except:

             (1) Indebtedness evidenced by the Notes;

             (2) Indebtedness of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
        outstanding as of the date of this Agreement and described on Schedule
        II hereto;

             (3) Senior Indebtedness of the Company and Indebtedness of any of 
        the Company's Restricted Subsidiaries, provided that at the time of
                                               --------
        creation, issuance, assumption, guarantee or incurrence thereof and
        after giving effect thereto and to the application of the proceeds
        thereof:

                 (i) the sum of (A) Senior Indebtedness of the Company
             (including, without limitation, all Senior Indebtedness of the
             Company secured by Liens permitted to be incurred within the
             limitations of subclause (iii) below) plus (B) Indebtedness of
                                                   ----
             Restricted Subsidiaries permitted to be incurred within the
             limitations of subclause (iii) below shall not exceed 300% of
             Adjusted Consolidated Tangible Net Worth,

                 (ii) Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company shall not exceed
             100% of the Consolidated Tangible Net Worth, and

                 (iii) the sum of (A) the aggregate amount of all Indebtedness
             of the Company secured by Liens permitted by (S)5.10(h) plus (B)
                                                                     ----
             the aggregate amount of all Indebtedness of 

- -14-
<PAGE>
 
            Restricted Subsidiaries shall not exceed 10% of Adjusted
            Consolidated Tangible Net Worth;

            (4) Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company, provided that at the
                                                          --------
        time of issuance thereof and after giving effect thereto and to the
        application of the proceeds thereof, the aggregate amount of all
        Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company shall not exceed 100% of
        Consolidated Tangible Net Worth; and

            (5) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary to the Company or to a
        Wholly-owned Restricted Subsidiary.

        (b) Indebtedness issued or incurred in accordance with the limitations
of (S)5.9(a) may be renewed, extended or refunded (without increase in the
original principal amount, which shall be deemed to be $50,000,000 in the case
of the Indebtedness issued pursuant to the Bank Agreement and without increase
in principal amount remaining unpaid at the time of such renewal, extension or
refunding in the case of any other Indebtedness), provided that at the time of
                                                  --------
such renewal, extension or refunding and after giving effect thereto, no Default
or Event of Default would exist.

        (c) Any Person which becomes a Restricted Subsidiary after the date
hereof shall for all purposes of this (S)5.9 be deemed to have created, assumed
or incurred at the time it becomes a Restricted Subsidiary all Indebtedness of
such Person existing immediately after it becomes a Restricted Subsidiary.

        Section 5.10. Limitation on Liens. The Company will not, and will not
        ---------------------------------
permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, create or incur, or suffer to be incurred
or to exist, any Lien on its or their property or assets, whether now owned or
hereafter acquired, or upon any income or profits therefrom, or transfer any
property for the purpose of subjecting the same to the payment of obligations in
priority to the payment of its or their general creditors, or acquire or agree
to acquire, or permit any Restricted Subsidiary to acquire, any property or
assets upon conditional sales agreements or other title retention devices,
except:

- -15-
<PAGE>
 
        (a) Liens for property taxes and assessments or governmental charges or
levies and Liens securing claims or demands of mechanics and materialmen,
provided that payment thereof is not at the time required by (S)5.3;
- --------

        (b) Liens of or resulting from any judgment or award, the time for the
appeal or petition for rehearing of which shall not have expired, or in respect
of which the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary shall at any time in good faith
be prosecuting an appeal or proceeding for a review and in respect of which a
stay of execution pending such appeal or proceeding for review shall have been
secured and reserves reasonably deemed by the Company to be adequate shall have
been established;

        (c) Liens incidental to the conduct of business or the ownership of
properties and assets (including Liens in connection with worker's compensation,
unemployment insurance and other like laws, warehousemen's and attorneys' liens
and statutory landlords' liens) and Liens to secure the performance of bids,
tenders or trade contracts, or to secure statutory obligations, surety or appeal
bonds or other Liens of like general nature, in any such case incurred in the
ordinary course of business and not in connection with the borrowing of money,
provided in each case, the obligation secured is not overdue or, if overdue, is
- --------
being contested in good faith by appropriate actions or proceedings and in
respect of which reserves reasonably deemed by the Company to be adequate shall
have been established;

        (d) minor survey exceptions or minor encumbrances, easements or
reservations, or rights of others for rights-of-way, utilities and other similar
purposes, or zoning or other restrictions as to the use of real properties,
which are necessary for the conduct of the activities of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries or which customarily exist on properties of corporations
engaged in similar activities and similarly situated and which do not in any
event materially impair their use in the operation of the business of the
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries;

- -16-
<PAGE>
 
        (e) Liens securing Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary to the
Company or to another Wholly-owned Restricted Subsidiary;

        (f) Liens existing as of the Closing Date and described on Schedule II
hereto;

        (g) Liens created or incurred after the Closing Date given to secure the
payment of the purchase price incurred in connection with the acquisition or
purchase of fixed assets useful and intended to be used in carrying on the
business of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, including Liens existing on
such fixed assets at the time of acquisition thereof or at the time of
acquisition or purchase by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of any
business entity then owning such fixed assets, whether or not such existing
Liens were given to secure the payment of the purchase price of the fixed assets
to which they attach so long as they were not incurred, extended or renewed in
contemplation of such acquisition or purchase, provided that (1) the Lien shall
attach solely to the fixed assets acquired or purchased, (2) such Lien shall
have been created or incurred within ninety days of the date of acquisition or
purchase, (3) at the time of acquisition or purchase of such fixed assets, the
aggregate amount remaining unpaid on all Indebtedness secured by Liens on such
fixed assets, whether or not assumed by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary,
shall not exceed an amount equal to 100% of the total purchase price of such
fixed assets, (4) in the case of the creation or incurrence of any Capitalized
Lease, the fixed asset which is the subject thereof if previously owned by the
Company shall have been sold or otherwise disposed of within the limitations
provided in (S)5.12(b)(2), and (5) all such Indebtedness shall have been
incurred within the applicable limitations provided in (S)5.9(a);

        (h) Liens created or incurred after the Closing Date given to secure
Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, in addition to the
Liens permitted by the preceding clauses (a) through (g) hereof, provided that
                                                                 --------
all Indebtedness secured by such Liens shall have been incurred within the
limitations provided in (S)5.9(a)(3); and

        (i) the Lien of the Security Document.

- -17-
<PAGE>
 
        Section 5.11. Restricted Payments. (a) The Company will not except as
        ---------------------------------
otherwise provided in clause (b) of this (S)5.11:

             (1) Declare or pay any dividends, either in cash or property, on
        any shares of its capital stock of any class (except dividends or other
        distributions payable solely in shares of common stock of the Company);

             (2) Directly or indirectly, or through any Subsidiary or through
        any Affiliate of the Company, purchase, redeem or retire any shares of
        its capital stock of any class or any warrants, rights or options to
        purchase or acquire any shares of its capital stock;

             (3) Make any other payment or distribution, either directly or
        indirectly or through any Subsidiary, in respect of its capital stock;
        or

             (4) Make any payment of or on account of any Subordinated
        Indebtedness or any payment on account of the purchase, redemption or
        other retirement thereof, except (i) a payment of interest on such
        Subordinated Indebtedness, (ii) payment at final maturity or (iii) a
        payment in compliance with the applicable provisions of such
        Subordinated Indebtedness thereof or of any indenture, agreement or
        similar instrument under or pursuant to which such Subordinated
        Indebtedness has been issued unconditionally requiring at such time and
        in the amounts being made, payments of a sinking fund, periodic
        prepayments or other analogous payments for the amortization of such
        Subordinated Indebtedness, all as established by the original terms
        thereof;

(such declarations or payments of dividends, purchases, redemptions or
retirements of capital stock and warrants, rights or options and all such other
payments, prepayments, redemptions, purchases or distributions being herein
collectively called "Restricted Payments"), if after giving effect thereto the
                     -------------------
aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made during the period from and after
the Closing Date to and including the date of the making of the Restricted
Payment in question, would exceed the sum of (A) $7,500,000 plus (B) 50% of
                                                            ----
Consolidated Net Income for such period, computed on a cumulative basis for
said entire period (or if such Consolidated Net Income is

- -18-
<PAGE>
 
a deficit figure, then minus 100% of such deficit) plus (C) the aggregate net
                       -----                       ----
cash proceeds received by the Company from the issuance and sale of common stock
during such period plus (D) the aggregate net cash proceeds received by the
                   ----
Company from the sale or other disposition of any Restricted Investment during
such period.

        (b) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of clause (a) of this
(S)5.11, the Company may pay, for any fiscal year or portion thereof (a "Tax
                                                                         ---
Year") in which the Company shall have been an "S corporation" under Section
- ----                                            -------------
1361 of the Code, dividends to the holders of common stock of the Company to
enable such holders to make payments of Federal and state income taxes
(including estimates therefor) which may become due and payable with respect to
any Tax Year ("Tax Dividends"); provided, however, that the Tax Dividends for
               -------------    -----------------
such Tax Year shall not exceed the product of (1) the excess of (A) the sum of
(i) the maximum Federal income tax rate applicable to individuals (determined
without regard to phaseouts of rate brackets, personal exemptions or other
items) plus (ii) the Adjusted State Income Tax Rate from time to time applicable
to any holder of common stock of the Company with respect to its share of the
Taxable Income (as defined below) of the Company over (B) the product of such
Federal income tax rate and the Adjusted State Income Tax Rate and (2) the
Company's Taxable Income for such Tax Year, provided, further, that Tax
                                            -----------------
Dividends shall be increased by an amount equal to the alternative minimum tax
that would be imposed under Section 55 of the Code on shareholders of the
Company with respect to those items of Taxable Income included in calculating
and adjusting their alternative minimum taxable incomes, as defined and adjusted
in Sections 55 and 56 of the Code. Tax Dividends for any succeeding Tax Year
shall be reduced by the amount by which prior Tax Dividends made by the Company
during any preceding Tax Year exceeded the amounts which would have been
distributed based on the actual Taxable Income of the Company for such Tax Year
or Years. Tax Dividends also shall be reduced by credits allowed or allowable to
shareholders of the Company under Section 53 of the Code with respect to their
shares of income of the Company. Further, Tax Dividends made to enable holders
to pay estimated income taxes shall not exceed those amounts which the Company
reasonably determines in good faith to be necessary to enable the holders to
avoid the imposition of penalties in interest for the underpayment of estimated
income taxes with respect to Taxable Income of the Company.

- -19-
<PAGE>
 
        As used herein, the term "Adjusted State Income Tax Rate" which shall be
                                  ------------------------------
applicable to the Tax Dividends of all holders of common stock, shall mean the
highest effective rate of state income tax imposed on any holder of common
stock of the Company with respect to its share of Taxable Income of the Company
adjusted for state modifications to Taxable Income and for credits allowed
against such taxes.  For purposes of determining the Adjusted State Income Tax
Rate, each holder of common stock of the Company shall be deemed to have no
items of income, gain, loss, deduction or credit other than those taken into
account in determining Taxable Income.

        As used herein, the term "Taxable Income" (or "Taxable Loss" if Taxable
                                  --------------       ------------
Income is a negative amount) shall mean the sum of all items of taxable income,
gain, loss and deduction taken into account under Section 1366(a) of the Code,
or any successor provision thereto, in determining Federal income tax liability
of the holders of common stock of the Company, appropriately adjusted to take
into account items taxed at rates lower than the maximum rate (e.g., capital
                                                               ----
gains and losses) and tax credits permitted thereunder.  Taxable Income shall
also be reduced to the extent the Company has realized any Taxable Losses in
Tax Years governed by this provision which have not previously been used to
reduce Taxable Income.

        (c) The Company will not declare any dividend which constitutes a
Restricted Payment payable more than 60 days after the date of declaration
thereof.

        (d) For the purposes of this (S)5.11, the amount of any Restricted
Payment declared, paid or distributed in property shall be deemed to be the
greater of the book value or fair market value (as determined in good faith by
the Board of Directors of the Company) of such property at the time of the
making of the Restricted Payment in question.

        (e) The Company will not authorize or make a Restricted Payment
permitted within the terms of (S)5.11(a) if after giving effect to the proposed
Restricted Payment: (1) a Default or Event of Default would exist or (2) the
Company could not incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to
(S)(S)5.9(a)(3) and (4).

- -20-
<PAGE>
 
        Section 5.12. Mergers, Consolidations and Sales of Assets. (a) The
        ---------------------------------------------------------
Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, consolidate
with or be a party to a merger with any other Person, or sell, lease or
otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; provided that:
                                                             --------

             (1) any Restricted Subsidiary may merge or consolidate with or into
        the Company or any Wholly-owned Restricted Subsidiary so long as in any
        merger or consolidation involving the Company, the Company shall be the
        surviving or continuing corporation; and

             (2) the Company may consolidate or merge with or into any other
        corporation if (i) the corporation which results from such consolidation
        or merger (the "surviving corporation") is organized under the laws of
        any state of the United States or the District of Columbia, (ii) the due
        and punctual payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and
        interest on all of the Notes, according to their tenor, and the due and
        punctual performance and observation of all of the covenants in the
        Notes and this Agreement to be performed or observed by the Company are
        expressly assumed in writing by the surviving corporation and the
        surviving corporation shall furnish to the holders of the Notes an
        opinion of counsel satisfactory to such holders to the effect that the
        instrument of assumption has been duly authorized, executed and
        delivered and constitutes the legal, valid and binding contract and
        agreement of the surviving corporation enforceable in accordance with
        its terms, except as enforcement of such terms may be limited by
        bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws
        affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights generally and by general
        equitable principles, and (iii) at the time of such consolidation or
        merger and immediately after giving effect thereto, (A) no Default or
        Event of Default would exist and (B) the surviving corporation would be
        permitted by the provisions of (S)(S)5.9(a)(3) and (4) to incur at least
        $1.00 of additional Indebtedness.

        (b) The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary
to, sell, lease, transfer, abandon or otherwise dispose of assets (except assets
sold in the ordinary course of business for fair market value) to any Person; 
provided that the foregoing restrictions do not apply to:
- --------

- -21-
<PAGE>
 
        (1) the sale, lease, transfer or other disposition of assets of a
Restricted Subsidiary to the Company or a Wholly-owned Restricted Subsidiary; or

        (2) the sale of assets by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary if all
of the following conditions are met:

            (i) the sale of such property is for cash consideration which
        equals or exceeds the fair market value of the property so sold (as
        determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company);

            (ii) such property is leased by the Company or Restricted 
        Subsidiary, as lessee, within 180 days of the sale of such property; 

            (iii) immediately after the consummation of the sale of such
        property and immediately after the consummation of the leaseback thereof
        by the Company or Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, and after
        giving effect thereto, (A) no Default or Event of Default would exist,
        and (B) the Company would be permitted by the provisions of
        (S)(S)5.9(a)(3) and (4) to incur at least $1.00 of additional
        Indebtedness; and

            (iv) the sale of such property and the leaseback thereof by the
        Company or a Restricted Subsidiary is otherwise consummated within the
        limitations of this Agreement;

        (3) the sale of assets for cash or other property to a Person or Persons
(other than an Affiliate) if all of the following conditions are met:

            (i) such assets (valued at net book value) do not, together with all
        other assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries previously
        disposed of during the immediately preceding 12 calendar month period
        (other than in the ordinary course of business), exceed 10% of
        Consolidated Total Assets, 

- -22-
<PAGE>
 
        determined as of the end of the immediately preceding fiscal year;

            (ii) in the opinion of a Responsible Officer of the Company, the
        sale is for fair value and is in the best interests of the Company; and

            (iii) immediately after the consummation of the transaction and
        after giving effect thereto, (A) no Default or Event of Default would
        exist, and (B) the Company would be permitted by the provisions of
        (S)(S)5.9(a)(3) and (4) to incur at least $1.00 of additional
        Indebtedness;

provided, however, that for purposes of the foregoing calculation, there
- -----------------
shall not be included any assets the proceeds of which were or are (y)
immediately after the consummation of such sale invested in Investments of the
character described in clauses (d), (e) and (f) of the definition of
"Restricted Investments" contained in (S)8.1, and (z) applied within 180 days of
the date of sale of such assets to either (A) the acquisition of fixed assets
useful and intended to be used in the operation of the business of the Company
and its Restricted Subsidiaries as described in (S)5.5 and having a fair market
value (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company) at
least equal to that of the assets so disposed of or (B) the prepayment at any
applicable prepayment premium, on a pro rata basis, of Senior Indebtedness of
                                    --------
the Company.  It is understood and agreed by the Company that:  (A) any holder
of the Notes may decline any such offer of prepayment, (B) the failure of any
such holder to accept or decline any such offer of prepayment shall be deemed
to be an election by such holder to accept such prepayment, and (C) if such
offer is so accepted, the proceeds so offered towards the prepayment of the
Notes and accepted shall be prepaid as and to the extent provided in (S)2.1.  In
the event any holder of Senior Indebtedness of the Company declines any such
offer of prepayment, the Company shall offer, on a pro rata basis, the proceeds
                                                   --------
so declined to the holders of Senior Indebtedness of the Company accepting the
offer of prepayment.

- -23-
<PAGE>
 
         Computations pursuant to this (S)5.12(b) shall include dispositions
made pursuant to (S)5.12(c) and computations pursuant to (S)5.12(c) shall
include dispositions made pursuant to this (S)5.12(b).

        (c) The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary
to, sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of any shares of the stock (including as
"stock" for the purposes of this (S)5.12(c) any options or warrants to purchase
stock or other Securities exchangeable for or convertible into stock) of a
Restricted Subsidiary (said stock, options, warrants and other Securities herein
called "Subsidiary Stock") or any Indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary, nor
        ----------------
will any Restricted Subsidiary issue, sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of any
shares of its own Subsidiary Stock to any Person, provided that the foregoing
                                                  --------
restrictions do not apply to:

            (1) the issue of directors' qualifying shares; or

            (2) the issue of Subsidiary Stock to the Company; or

            (3) the sale or other disposition at any one time to a Person (other
        than directly or indirectly to an Affiliate) of the entire Investment of
        the Company and its other Restricted Subsidiaries in any Restricted
        Subsidiary if all of the following conditions are met:

                (i) the assets (valued at net book value) of such Restricted
            Subsidiary do not, together with all other assets of the Company and
            its Restricted Subsidiaries previously disposed of during the
            immediately preceding 12 calendar month period (other than in the
            ordinary course of business), exceed 10% of Consolidated Total
            Assets, determined as of the end of the immediately preceding fiscal
            year;

                (ii) in the opinion of a Responsible Officer of the Company, the
            sale is for fair value and is in the best interests of the Company;

                (iii) immediately after the consummation of the transaction and
            after giving effect thereto, such Restricted Subsidiary shall have
            no Indebtedness of or continuing 

- -24-
<PAGE>
 
            Investment in the capital stock of the Company or of any Restricted
            Subsidiary and any such Indebtedness or Investment shall have been
            discharged or acquired, as the case may be, by the Company or a
            Restricted Subsidiary; and

                (iv) immediately after the consummation of the transaction and
            after giving effect thereto, (A) no Default or Event of Default
            would exist, and (B) the Company would be permitted by the
            provisions of (S)(S)5.9(a)(3) and (4) to incur at least $1.00 of
            additional Indebtedness;

        provided, however, that for purposes of the foregoing calculation, there
        -----------------
        shall not be included any assets the proceeds of which were or are (y)
        immediately after the consummation of such sale invested in Investments
        of the character described in clauses (d), (e) and (f) of the definition
        of "Restricted Investments" contained in (S)8.1, and (z) applied within
        180 days of the date of sale of such assets to either (A) the
        acquisition of fixed assets useful and intended to be used in the
        operation of the business of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
        as described in (S)5.5 and having a fair market value (as determined in
        good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company) at least equal to
        that of the assets so disposed of or (B) the prepayment at any
        applicable prepayment premium, on a pro rata basis, of Senior
                                            --------
        Indebtedness of the Company. It is understood and agreed by the Company
        that: (A) any holder of the Notes may decline any such offer of
        prepayment, (B) the failure of any such holder to accept or decline any
        such offer of prepayment shall be deemed to be an election by such
        holder to accept such prepayment, and (C) if such offer is so accepted,
        the proceeds so offered towards the prepayment of the Notes and accepted
        shall be prepaid as and to the extent provided in (S)2.1. In the event
        any holder of Senior Indebtedness of the Company declines any such offer
        of prepayment, the Company shall offer, on a pro rata basis, the
                                                     --------
        proceeds so declined to the holders of Senior Indebtedness of the
        Company accepting the offer of prepayment.

        Computations pursuant to this (S)5.12(c) shall include dispositions
made pursuant to (S)5.12(b) and computations pursuant to (S)5.12(b) shall
include dispositions made pursuant to this (S)5.12(c).

- -25-
<PAGE>
 
        Section 5.13. Guaranties. The Company will not, and will not permit any
        ------------------------
Restricted Subsidiary to, become or be liable in respect of any Guaranty except
Guaranties by the Company which are limited in amount to a stated maximum dollar
exposure or which constitute Guaranties of obligations incurred by any
Restricted Subsidiary in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement.

        Section 5.14. Repurchase of Notes. Except as provided in (S)2.1 and
        ---------------------------------
(S)2.2, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary or Affiliate, directly or
indirectly, may repurchase or make any offer to repurchase any Notes.

        Section 5.15. Transactions with Affiliates. The Company will not, and
        ------------------------------------------
will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, enter into or be a party to any
transaction or arrangement with any Affiliate (including, without limitation,
the purchase from, sale to or exchange of property with, or the rendering of any
service by or for, any Affiliate), except in the ordinary course of and pursuant
to the reasonable requirements of the Company's or such Restricted Subsidiary's
business and upon fair and reasonable terms no less favorable to the Company or
such Restricted Subsidiary than would obtain in a comparable arm's-length
transaction with a Person other than an Affiliate.

        Section 5.16. Termination of Pension Plans. The Company will not and
        ------------------------------------------
will not permit any Subsidiary to withdraw from any Multiemployer Plan or permit
any employee benefit plan maintained by it to be terminated if such withdrawal
or termination could result in withdrawal liability (as described in Part 1 of
Subtitle E of Title IV of ERISA) or the imposition of a Lien on any property of
the Company or any Subsidiary pursuant to Section 4068 of ERISA.

        Section 5.17. Reports and Rights of Inspection. The Company will keep,
        ----------------------------------------------
and will cause each Restricted Subsidiary to keep, proper books of record and
account in which full and correct entries will be made of all dealings or
transactions of, or in relation to, the business and affairs of the Company or
such Restricted Subsidiary, in accordance with GAAP consistently applied (except
for changes disclosed in the financial statements furnished to you pursuant to
this (S)5.17 and concurred in by the independent public accountants referred to
in (S)5.17(b)), and will furnish to you so long as you are the holder of any
Note and to each other Institutional Holder of the

- -26-
<PAGE>
 
then outstanding Notes (in duplicate if so specified below or otherwise
requested):

            (a) Quarterly Statements. As soon as available and in any event
                --------------------
        within 45 days after the end of each quarterly fiscal period (including
        the last) of each fiscal year, copies of:

                (1) a consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its
            Restricted Subsidiaries as of the close of such quarterly fiscal
            period, setting forth in comparative form the consolidated figures
            for the fiscal year then most recently ended,

                (2) consolidated statements of income of the Company and its
            Restricted Subsidiaries for such quarterly fiscal period and for the
            portion of the fiscal year ending with such quarterly fiscal period,
            in each case setting forth in comparative form the consolidated
            figures for the corresponding periods of the preceding fiscal year,
            and

                (3) consolidated statements of income, shareholder's equity and
            cash flows of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for the
            portion of the fiscal year ending with such quarterly fiscal period,
            setting forth in comparative form the consolidated figures for the
            corresponding period of the preceding fiscal year,

        all in reasonable detail and certified as complete and correct by an
        authorized financial officer of the Company;

            (b) Annual Statements. As soon as available and in any event within
                -----------------
        150 days after the close of each fiscal year of the Company, copies of:

                (1) a consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its
            Restricted Subsidiaries as of the close of such fiscal year, and

- -27-
<PAGE>
 
                (2) consolidated statements of income, shareholder's equity and
            cash flows of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such
            fiscal year,

in each case setting forth in comparative form the consolidated figures for
the preceding fiscal year, all in reasonable detail and accompanied by a report
thereon of a firm of independent public accountants of recognized national
standing selected by the Company to the effect that the consolidated financial
statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial
position of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of the end of the
fiscal year being reported on and the consolidated results of the operations
and cash flows for said year in conformity with GAAP and that the examination
of such accountants in connection with such financial statements has been
conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and included
such tests of the accounting records and such other auditing procedures as said
accountants deemed necessary in the circumstances;

        (c) Auditor's Reports. Promptly upon receipt thereof, one copy of each
            -----------------
interim or special audit made by independent accountants of the books of the
Company or any Restricted Subsidiary and any management letter received from
such accountants;

        (d) SEC and Other Reports. Promptly upon their becoming available and in
            ---------------------
any event within 15 days following the date of filing thereof, one copy of each
financial statement, report, notice or proxy statement sent by the Company to
its creditors and stockholders generally and of each regular or periodic report,
and any registration statement or prospectus filed by the Company or any
Subsidiary with any securities exchange or the Securities and Exchange
Commission or any successor agency, and copies of any orders in any proceedings
to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a party, issued by any
governmental agency, Federal or state, having jurisdiction over the Company or
any of its Subsidiaries;

        (e) ERISA Reports. Promptly upon the occurrence thereof, written notice
            -------------
of (1) a Reportable Event with respect to any Plan; (2) the institution of any
steps by the Company, any ERISA Affiliate,

- -28-
<PAGE>
 
the PBGC or any other Person to terminate any Plan; (3) the institution of any
steps by the Company or any ERISA Affiliate to withdraw from any Plan; (4) a 
non-exempt "prohibited transaction" within the meaning of Section 406 of ERISA
in connection with any Plan; (5) any material increase in the contingent
liability of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary with respect to any post-
retirement welfare liability; or (6) the taking of any action by, or the
threatening of the taking of any action by, the Internal Revenue Service, the
Department of Labor or the PBGC with respect to any of the foregoing;

        (f) Officer's Certificates. Within the periods provided in paragraphs
            ----------------------
(a) and (b) above, a certificate of the chief financial officer of the Company
stating that such officer has reviewed the provisions of this Agreement and
setting forth: (1) the information and computations (in sufficient detail)
required in order to establish whether the Company was in compliance with the
requirements of (S)(S)5.6 through 5.12 at the end of the period covered by the
financial statements then being furnished, and (2) whether there existed as of
the date of such financial statements and whether, to the best of such officer's
knowledge, there exists on the date of the certificate or existed at any time
during the period covered by such financial statements any Default or Event of
Default and, if any such condition or event exists on the date of the
certificate, specifying the nature and period of existence thereof and the
action the Company is taking and proposes to take with respect thereto;

        (g) Accountant's Certificates. Within the period provided in paragraph
            -------------------------
(b) above, a certificate of the accountants who render an opinion with respect
to such financial statements, stating that they have reviewed this Agreement and
stating further whether, in making their audit, such accountants have become
aware of any Default or Event of Default under any of the terms or provisions of
this Agreement insofar as any such terms or provisions pertain to or involve
accounting matters or determinations, and if any such condition or event then
exists, specifying the nature and period of existence thereof; and

        (h) Requested Information. With reasonable promptness, such other data
            ---------------------
and information (other than information on a "by-
                                              ---

- -29-
<PAGE>
 
         store" basis) as you or any such Institutional Holder may reasonably 
         -----
         request.

Without limiting the foregoing, the Company will permit you, so long as you
are the holder of any Note, and each Institutional Holder of the then
outstanding Notes (or such Persons as either you or such Institutional Holder
may designate), to visit and inspect, under the Company's guidance, any of the
properties of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, to examine all of their
books of account, records, reports and other papers, to make copies and
extracts therefrom and to discuss their respective affairs, finances and
accounts with their respective officers, employees, and independent public
accountants (and by this provision the Company authorizes said accountants to
discuss with you the finances and affairs of the Company and its Restricted
Subsidiaries), all at such reasonable times and as often as may be reasonably
requested. Any visitation shall be at the sole expense of you or such
Institutional Holder, unless a Default or Event of Default shall have occurred
and be continuing or the holder of any Note or of any other evidence of
Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary gives any written
notice or takes any other action with respect to a claimed default, in which
case, any such visitation or inspection shall be at the sole expense of the
Company.

        Section 5.18. Notes to Rank Pari Passu. The Company will keep and
        --------------------------------------
maintain the obligation of the Company with respect to the Notes and all other
monetary obligations outstanding at any one time owing to the holders of the
Notes under this Agreement as direct obligations of the Company ranking pari
passu as against assets of the Company with all of the present and future
secured Senior Indebtedness of the Company.

        Section 5.19. Completion of Lien Perfection. Not later than August 31,
        -------------------------------------------
1995, the Company shall have caused to be completed and recorded or filed for
record in such public office as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by the
holders of the Notes or their special counsel the Security Document and/or
financing statements or similar notices thereof if and to the extent permitted
or required by applicable law in order to complete perfection of the Lien and
security interests granted or conveyed by the Security Document. Without
limiting the foregoing, the Company shall also, not later than October 15, 1995,
have caused to be delivered to the holders of the Notes

- -30-
<PAGE>
 
and their special counsel an opinion of counsel to the Company to the effect
that the Security Document (or financing statements or similar notices thereof
to the extent permitted or required by applicable law) has been filed for record
or recorded in all public offices wherein such filing or recordation is
necessary to perfect the security interest granted by the Security Document in
the collateral therein described as against creditors of and purchasers from the
Company and its Subsidiaries and the Security Document creates a valid and
perfected security interest in such collateral effective as against creditors of
and purchasers from the Company and its Subsidiaries, subject only to
encumbrances expressly permitted by the terms of the Security Document.

SECTION 6.      EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES THEREFOR.

        Section 6.1. Events of Default. Any one or more of the following shall
        ------------------------------
constitute an "Event of Default" as such term is used herein:
               ----------------

            (a) Default shall occur in the payment of interest on any Note when
        the same shall have become due and such default shall continue for more
        than five Business Days; or

            (b) Default shall occur in the making of any other payment of the
        principal of any Note or premium, if any, thereon at the expressed or
        any accelerated maturity date or at any date fixed for prepayment; or

            (c) Default shall occur in the observance or performance of any
        covenant or agreement contained in (S)5.5 through (S)5.12 or (S)5.15; or

            (d) Default shall occur in the observance or performance of any
        other provision of this Agreement which is not remedied within 30 days
        after the earlier of (1) the day on which a Responsible Officer of the
        Company first obtains knowledge of such default, or (2) the day on which
        written notice thereof is given to the Company by the holder of any
        Note; or

            (e) Default shall be made in the payment when due (whether by lapse
        of time, by declaration, by call for redemption or otherwise) of the
        principal of or interest on any Indebtedness for borrowed money 

- -31-
<PAGE>
 
        (other than the Notes) of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary
        aggregating in excess of $5,000,000 and such default shall continue
        beyond the period of grace, if any, allowed with respect thereto; or

            (f) Default or the happening of any event shall occur under any
        indenture, agreement or other instrument under which any Indebtedness
        for borrowed money (other than the Notes) of the Company or any
        Restricted Subsidiary aggregating in excess of $5,000,000 may be issued
        and such default or event shall continue for a period of time sufficient
        to permit the acceleration of the maturity of any Indebtedness for
        borrowed money of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary outstanding
        thereunder; or

            (g) Any representation or warranty made by the Company herein, or
        made by the Company in any statement or certificate furnished by the
        Company in connection with the consummation of the issuance and delivery
        of the Notes or furnished by the Company pursuant hereto, is untrue in
        any material respect as of the date of the issuance or making thereof;
        or

            (h) Final judgment or judgments for the payment of money aggregating
        in excess of $1,000,000 is or are outstanding against the Company or any
        Restricted Subsidiary or against any property or assets of either and
        any one of such judgments has remained unpaid, unvacated, unbonded or
        unstayed by appeal or otherwise for a period of 45 days from the date of
        its entry; or

            (i) An event of default (as such term is defined in the Security
        Document) or event which with the lapse of time or the giving of notice,
        or both, would constitute an event of default (as such term is defined
        in the Security Document) under the Security Document; or

            (j) The Security Document shall cease to be in full force and effect
        for any reason whatsoever, including, without limitation, a
        determination of any governmental body or court that the Security
        Document is invalid, void or unenforceable or the first and prior
        perfected security interests created pursuant thereto is not legal,
        valid and binding or the Company shall contest or deny in writing the

- -32-
<PAGE>
 
        validity or enforceability of any of its obligations under the Security
        Document; or

            (k) A custodian, liquidator, trustee or receiver is appointed for
        the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary or for the major part of the
        property of either and is not discharged within 60 days after such
        appointment; or

            (l) The Company or any Restricted Subsidiary becomes insolvent or
        bankrupt, is generally not paying its debts as they become due or makes
        an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or the Company or any
        Restricted Subsidiary applies for or consents to the appointment of a
        custodian, liquidator, trustee or receiver for the Company or such
        Restricted Subsidiary or for the major part of the property of either;
        or

            (m) Bankruptcy, reorganization, arrangement or insolvency
        proceedings, or other proceedings for relief under any bankruptcy or
        similar law or laws for the relief of debtors, are instituted by or
        against the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary and, if instituted
        against the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, are consented to or
        are not dismissed within 60 days after such institution.

        Section 6.2. Notice to Holders and Collateral Agent. When any Event of
        ---------------------------------------------------
Default described in the foregoing (S)6.1 has occurred, or if the holder of any
Note or of any other evidence of Indebtedness for borrowed money of the Company
gives any notice or a Responsible Officer of the Company becomes aware that any
such holder has taken any other action with respect to a claimed default, the
Company agrees to give notice within three Business Days of such event to all
holders of the Notes then outstanding and to the Collateral Agent.

        Section 6.3. Acceleration of Maturities. When any Event of Default
        ---------------------------------------
described in paragraph (a) or (b) of (S)6.1 has happened and is continuing, any
holder of any Note may, by notice in writing sent to the Company in the manner
provided in (S)9.6, declare the entire principal and all interest accrued on
such Note to be, and such Note shall thereupon become forthwith due and payable,
without any presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any 

- -33-
<PAGE>
 
kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived. When any Event of Default
described in paragraphs (a) through (j), inclusive, of said (S)6.1 has happened
and is continuing, the holder or holders of 25% or more of the principal amount
of the Notes at the time outstanding may, by notice in writing to the Company in
the manner provided in (S)9.6, declare the entire principal and all interest
accrued on all Notes to be, and all Notes shall thereupon become, forthwith due
and payable, without any presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any
kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived. When any Event of Default
described in paragraph (k), (l) or (m) of (S)6.1 has occurred, then all
outstanding Notes shall immediately become due and payable without presentment,
demand or notice of any kind. Upon the Notes becoming due and payable as a
result of any Event of Default as aforesaid, the Company will forthwith pay to
the holders of the Notes the entire principal and interest accrued on the Notes
and, to the extent not prohibited by applicable law, an amount as liquidated
damages for the loss of the bargain evidenced hereby (and not as a penalty)
equal to the Make-Whole Amount, determined as of the date on which the Notes
shall so become due and payable. No course of dealing on the part of the holder
or holders of any Notes nor any delay or failure on the part of any holder of
Notes to exercise any right shall operate as a waiver of such right or otherwise
prejudice such holder's rights, powers and remedies. The Company further agrees,
to the extent permitted by law, to pay to the holder or holders of the Notes all
costs and expenses incurred by them in the collection of any Notes upon any
default hereunder or thereon, including reasonable compensation to such holder's
or holders' attorneys for all services rendered in connection therewith.

        Section 6.4. Rescission of Acceleration. The provisions of (S)6.3 are
        ---------------------------------------
subject to the condition that if the principal of and accrued interest on all or
any outstanding Notes have been declared immediately due and payable by reason
of the occurrence of any Event of Default described in paragraphs (a) through
(j), inclusive, of (S)6.1, the holders of 76% in aggregate principal amount of
the Notes then outstanding may, by written instrument filed with the Company,
rescind and annul such declaration and the consequences thereof, provided that
                                                                 --------
at the time such declaration is annulled and rescinded:

            (a) no judgment or decree has been entered for the payment of any
        monies due pursuant to the Notes or this Agreement;

- -34-
<PAGE>
 
            (b) all arrears of interest upon all the Notes and all other sums
        payable under the Notes and under this Agreement (except any principal,
        interest or premium on the Notes which has become due and payable solely
        by reason of such declaration under (S)6.3) shall have been duly paid;
        and

            (c) each and every other Default and Event of Default shall have
        been made good, cured or waived pursuant to (S)7.1;

and provided further, that no such rescission and annulment shall extend to
    ----------------
or affect any subsequent Default or Event of Default or impair any right
consequent thereto.

SECTION 7.      AMENDMENTS, WAIVERS AND CONSENTS.

        Section 7.1. Consent Required. Any term, covenant, agreement or
        -----------------------------
condition of this Agreement may, with the consent of the Company, be amended or
compliance therewith may be waived (either generally or in a particular instance
and either retroactively or prospectively), if the Company shall have obtained
the consent in writing of the holders of at least 51% in aggregate principal
amount of outstanding Notes; provided that without the written consent of the
                             --------
holders of all of the Notes then outstanding, no such amendment or waiver shall
be effective (a) which will change the time of payment of the principal of or
the interest on any Note or change the principal amount thereof or change the
rate of interest thereon, or (b) which will change any of the provisions with
respect to optional prepayments, or (c) which will change the percentage of
holders of the Notes required to consent to any such amendment or waiver of any
of the provisions of this (S)7 or (S)6.

        Section 7.2. Solicitation of Holders. So long as there are any Notes
        ------------------------------------
outstanding, the Company will not solicit, request or negotiate for or with
respect to any proposed waiver or amendment of any of the provisions of this
Agreement or the Notes unless each holder of Notes (irrespective of the amount
of Notes then owned by it) shall be informed thereof by the Company and shall be
afforded the opportunity of considering the same and shall be supplied by the
Company with sufficient information to enable it to make an informed decision
with respect thereto. The Company will not, directly or indirectly, pay or cause
to be paid any remuneration, whether by 

- -35-
<PAGE>
 
way of supplemental or additional interest, fee or otherwise, to any holder of
Notes as consideration for or as an inducement to entering into by any holder of
Notes of any proposed or actual waiver or amendment of any of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement or the Notes or as compensation for internal fees
charged, incurred or allocated by such holder, or otherwise, unless such
remuneration is concurrently offered, on the same terms, ratably to the holders
of all Notes then outstanding. Promptly and in any event within 30 days of the
date of execution and delivery of any such waiver or amendment, the Company
shall provide a true, correct and complete copy thereof to each of the holders
of the Notes.

        Section 7.3. Effect of Amendment or Waiver. Any such amendment or waiver
        ------------------------------------------
shall apply equally to all of the holders of the Notes and shall be binding upon
them, upon each future holder of any Note and upon the Company, whether or not
such Note shall have been marked to indicate such amendment or waiver. No such
amendment or waiver shall extend to or affect any obligation not expressly
amended or waived or impair any right consequent thereon.

SECTION 8.      INTERPRETATION OF AGREEMENT; DEFINITIONS.

        Section 8.1. Definitions. Unless the context otherwise requires, the
        ------------------------
terms hereinafter set forth when used herein shall have the following meanings
and the following definitions shall be equally applicable to both the singular
and plural forms of any of the terms herein defined:

         "Acquiring Person" shall mean a "person" or "group of persons" within
          ----------------                ------      ----------------
the meaning of Section 13(d) and 14(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of
1934, as amended; provided that notwithstanding the foregoing, "Acquiring
                  --------                                      ---------
Person" shall not be deemed to include any member of the Colburn Control Group,
- ------
unless such member has, directly or indirectly, disposed of, sold or otherwise
transferred to, or encumbered or restricted (whether by means of voting trust
agreement or otherwise) for the benefit of, an Acquiring Person, all or any
portion of the voting power of the Voting Stock of the Company directly or
indirectly owned or controlled by such member or such member directly or
indirectly acquiesces in, consents to or votes all or any portion of the voting
power of the Voting Stock of the Company directly or indirectly owned or
controlled by such member for the 

- -36-
<PAGE>
 
taking of any action which, directly or indirectly, constitutes or would result
in a Change of Control, in which event such member of the Colburn Control Group
shall be deemed to constitute an Acquiring Person to the extent of the voting
power of the Voting Stock of the Company owned or controlled by such member.

        "Adjusted Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" shall mean the sum of (a)
         ----------------------------------------
Consolidated Tangible Net Worth plus (b) Subordinated Indebtedness of the
                                ----
Company.

        "Adjusted State Income Tax Rate" shall have the meaning set forth in
         ------------------------------
(S)5.11(b).

        "Affiliate" shall mean any Person (other than a Restricted Subsidiary),
         ---------
(a) which directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, or
is controlled by, or is under common control with, the Company, (b) which
beneficially owns or holds 5% or more of any class of the Voting Stock of the
Company or (c) 5% or more of the Voting Stock (or in the case of a Person which
is not a corporation, 5% or more of the equity interest) of which is
beneficially owned or held by the Company or a Subsidiary. The term "control"
means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause
the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the
ownership of Voting Stock, by contract or otherwise.

        "Agreements" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.3.
         ----------

        "Bank Agreement" shall mean that certain First Amended and Restated 
         --------------
Credit Agreement between the Company and Bank of America National Trust and
Savings Bank dated as of August 11, 1995.

        "Base Year" shall mean 1995.
         ---------

        "Book Value of Consolidated Total Assets" shall mean Consolidated Total
         ---------------------------------------
Assets less interest bearing notes receivable from Affiliates to the Company or
any of its Restricted Subsidiaries.

- -37-
<PAGE>
 
        "Business Day" shall mean any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other
         ------------
day on which banks in Los Angeles, California or New York City, New York are
required by law to close or are customarily closed.

        "Capitalized Lease" shall mean any lease the obligation for Rentals with
         -----------------
respect to which is required to be capitalized on a consolidated balance sheet
of the lessee and its subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP.

        "Capitalized Rentals" of any Person shall mean as of the date of any
         -------------------
determination thereof the amount at which the aggregate Rentals due and to
become due under all Capitalized Leases under which such Person is a lessee
would be reflected as a liability on a consolidated balance sheet of such
Person.

        "Change of Control" shall mean the earliest to occur of (a) the date of
         -----------------
a merger between the Company and an Acquiring Person, or the date of a
consolidation of the Company with an Acquiring Person or the date of an
acquisition of an Acquiring Person by the Company or the acquisition of the
Company by an Acquiring Person (whether such acquisition is pursuant to the
purchase of all or substantially all of the assets of such Acquiring Person or
the purchase of stock of such Acquiring Person or any other transaction
involving the sale or other disposition of assets or stock), if immediately
after any such event, the Colburn Control Group would own or control less than
51% of the voting power of the outstanding Voting Stock of the Company or of the
surviving, resulting or continuing corporation if the Company shall not be the
surviving entity; (b) the date of execution of a binding agreement by an
Acquiring Person for the purchase, directly or indirectly, in one or more
related transactions, of voting power of the outstanding Voting Stock of the
Company, such that after giving effect thereto, the Colburn Control Group would
legally or beneficially own or control less than 51% of the voting power of the
outstanding Voting Stock of the Company, (c) the date of commencement of a
tender offer or exchange offer that would result in an Acquiring Person legally
or beneficially owning or controlling the voting power of the outstanding Voting
Stock of the Company, such that after giving effect thereto, the Colburn Control
Group would legally or beneficially own or control less than 51% of the voting
power of the outstanding Voting Stock of the Company, (d) the date of a public
announcement that an Acquiring Person has acquired or has obtained the right to
acquire legal or beneficial

- -38-
<PAGE>
 
ownership of more than 50% of the voting power of the outstanding Voting Stock
of the Company, and (e) the date the Voting Stock of the Company is the subject
of a Public Offering and immediately after such event, the Colburn Control Group
legally or beneficially owns or controls less than 51% of the voting power of
the outstanding Voting Stock of the Company.

        "Change of Control Delayed Prepayment Date" shall have the meaning set
         -----------------------------------------
forth in (S)2.2(b).

        "Change of Control Prepayment Date" shall have the meaning set forth in
         ---------------------------------
(S)2.2(a).

        "Closing Date" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.2.
         ------------
 
        "Code" shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the
         ----
regulations from time to time promulgated thereunder.

        "Colburn Control Group" shall mean, collectively: (a) Richard D.
         ---------------------
Colburn, (b) the lineal descendants of Richard D. Colburn, (c) the estate of one
or more of the Persons named in clause (a) or (b) above, and (d) each trust in
respect of which one or more of the Persons described in clauses (a), (b) or (c)
above (1) are the principal beneficiaries and (2) constitute majority of the
trustees with voting power over such trust.

        "Colburn School of Performing Arts Notes" shall mean, collectively (a)
         ---------------------------------------
that certain Subordinated Promissory Note of the Company dated December 28,
1993, due December 31, 2013, payable to Richard D. Colburn, in the principal
amount of $10,000,000 with respect to which all right, title and interest has
been assigned by Richard D. Colburn to The Colburn School of Performing Arts and
(b) that certain Subordinated Promissory Note of the Company dated December 30,
1993, due December 31, 2014, payable to Richard D. Colburn, in the principal
amount of $10,000,000 with respect to which all right, title and interest has
been assigned by Richard D. Colburn to The Colburn School of Performing Arts, in
each case, as in effect on the Closing Date, together with those certain
Subordination Provisions Applicable to Subordinated Indebtedness executed by The
Colburn School on August 17, 1995 pursuant to which the obligations of the
Company under 

- -39-
<PAGE>
 
such Subordinated Promissory Notes have been subordinated to the Company's
obligations under the Notes.

        "Collateral" shall mean all collateral under the Security Document.
         ----------

        "Collateral Agent" shall mean Bank of America National Trust and Savings
         ----------------
Association.

        "Company" shall mean U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California corporation, and
         -------
any Person who succeeds to all, or substantially all, of the assets and business
of U.S. Rentals, Inc.

        "Company Notice" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)2.2.
         --------------

        "Competitor" shall mean any Person which is primarily engaged in the
         ----------
manufacture, distribution, rental or leasing of construction equipment and
"Competitor Affiliate" shall mean with respect to any Competitor (a) any other
 --------------------
Person at the time directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under
direct or indirect common control with such Competitor, (b) any other Person of
which such Competitor at the time owns 25% or more on a consolidated basis of
the equity interest of such Person, and (c) any other Person which at the time
owns 25% or more of any class of the capital stock of such Competitor, provided
                                                                       --------
that:

            (a) the provision of investment advisory services by a Person to a
        Plan which is owned or controlled by a Person which would otherwise be a
        Competitor or Competitor Affiliate shall not of itself cause the Person
        providing such services to be deemed to be a Competitor or Competitor
        Affiliate;

            (b) in no event shall an Institutional Holder be deemed a Competitor
        or Competitor Affiliate unless such Institutional Holder controls, or is
        controlled by, or is under common control with, a Person which is
        primarily engaged in the manufacture, distribution, rental or leasing of
        construction equipment; and

            (c) an Institutional Holder which would otherwise be deemed a 
        Competitor or Competitor Affiliate pursuant to the foregoing 

- -40-
<PAGE>
 
        provisions of this definition by virtue of its ownership or control as a
        portfolio investment of the equity Securities of any Person primarily
        engaged in the manufacture, distribution, rental or leasing of
        construction equipment shall not be deemed a Competitor or Competitor
        Affiliate if such Institutional Holder has established "firewall" like-
                                                                --------
        procedures which will prevent confidential information supplied to such
        Institutional Holder by the Company from being transmitted or otherwise
        made available to such Person.

        "Consolidated Fixed Charges" for any period shall mean on a consolidated
         --------------------------
basis the sum of (a) all Rentals (other than Rentals on Capitalized Leases)
payable during such period by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
pursuant to Long-Term Leases, and (b) all Interest Expense on all Indebtedness
(including the interest component of Rentals on Capitalized Leases) of the
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries payable during such period.

        "Consolidated Net Income" for any period shall mean the gross revenues
         -----------------------
of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period less all expenses
                                                               ----
and other proper charges (including taxes on income, whether payable by the
Company or its shareholders), determined on a consolidated basis after
eliminating earnings or losses attributable to outstanding Minority Interests,
but excluding in any event:

            (a) any gains or losses on the sale or other disposition of
        Investments or fixed or capital assets, and any taxes on such excluded
        gains and any tax deductions or credits on account of any such excluded
        losses;

            (b) the proceeds of any life insurance policy;

            (c) net earnings and losses of any Restricted Subsidiary accrued
        prior to the date it became a Restricted Subsidiary;

           (d) net earnings and losses of any corporation (other than a
       Restricted Subsidiary), substantially all the assets of which have been
       acquired in any manner by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary,
       realized by such corporation prior to the date of such acquisition;

- -41-
<PAGE>
 
            (e) net earnings and losses of any corporation (other than a
        Restricted Subsidiary) with which the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary
        shall have consolidated or which shall have merged into or with the
        Company or a Restricted Subsidiary prior to the date of such
        consolidation or merger;

            (f) net earnings of any business entity (other than a Restricted
        Subsidiary) in which the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary has an
        ownership interest unless such net earnings shall have actually been
        received by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary in the form of
        cash distributions;

            (g) any portion of the net earnings of any Restricted Subsidiary
        which for any reason is unavailable for payment of dividends to the
        Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary;

            (h) earnings resulting from any reappraisal, revaluation or write-up
        of assets;

            (i) any deferred or other credit representing any excess of the
        equity in any Subsidiary at the date of acquisition thereof over the
        amount invested in such Subsidiary;

            (j) any gain arising from the acquisition of any Securities of the
        Company or any Restricted Subsidiary;

            (k) any reversal of any contingency reserve, except to the extent
        that provision for such contingency reserve shall have been made from
        income arising during such period; and

            (l) any other extraordinary gain or loss.

        "Consolidated Net Income Available for Fixed Charges" for any period
         ---------------------------------------------------
shall mean the sum of (a) Consolidated Net Income during such period plus (to
                                                                     ----
the extent deducted in determining Consolidated Net Income), (b) all provisions
for any Federal, state or other income taxes made by the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries during such period and (c) Consolidated Fixed Charges
during such period.

- -42-
<PAGE>
 
        "Consolidated Secured Indebtedness" shall mean all Indebtedness of the
         ---------------------------------
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries which is secured by a mortgage, trust
deed, deed of trust, deed to secure debt, security agreement, pledge,
conditional sale or other title retention agreement or other like agreement
granting or conveying a Lien upon property, whether real, personal or mixed, of
the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries.

        "Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" shall mean as of the date of any
         -------------------------------
determination thereof, the arithmetic sum of:

            (a) the amount of the capital stock accounts (net of treasury stock,
        at cost) plus (or minus in the case of deficit) the surplus and retained
                 ----     -----
        earnings of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries,

        MINUS
        -----
       
            (b) the net book value, after deducting any reserves applicable
        thereto, of all items of the following character which are included in
        the assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, to wit:

                (1) the incremental increase in an asset resulting from any
            reappraisal, revaluation or write-up of assets, provided that the
                                                            --------
            incremental increase of any such reappraisal, revaluation or write-
            up of assets need not be deducted in any computation of
            "Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" if the Company's independent
             -------------------------------
            public accountants shall have concurred in such reappraisal,
            revaluation or write-up;

                (2) goodwill, patents, patent applications, permits, trademarks,
            trade names, copyrights, licenses, franchises, experimental expense,
            organizational expense, unamortized debt discount and expense, the
            excess of cost of shares acquired over book value of related assets
            and such other assets as are properly classified as "intangible
                                                                 ----------
            assets" in accordance with GAAP, in any such case acquired after the
            ------
            Closing Date; and

                (3) Restricted Investments made following the Closing Date; 

- -43-
<PAGE>
 
        all determined in accordance with GAAP.

        "Consolidated Total Assets" shall mean as of the date of any
         -------------------------
determination thereof total assets of the Company and its Restricted
Subsidiaries determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.

        "CPI" shall mean the Consumer Price Index--U.S. City Average (1982-84 =
         ---
100) for All Items for All Urban Consumers as published by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, provided that in the event the CPI shall hereafter be converted to a
            --------
different standard reference base or otherwise revised, the determination of the
CPI Percentage Increase shall be made with the use of such conversion factor,
formula or table for converting the CPI as may be published by the Bureau of
Labor Statistics or, if said Bureau shall not publish the same, then with the
use of such conversion factor, formula or table as may be published by Prentiss
Hall, Inc. or failing such publication by any other nationally recognized
publisher of similar statistical information.

        "CPI Percentage Increase" shall mean the amount obtained by multiplying
         -----------------------
the percentage equal to the sum of the increases in the CPI from and including
the Base Year times the aggregate net book value of Investments within the
limitations of clause (c) of the definition of "Restricted Investments"
contained in this (S)8.1.

        "Default" shall mean any event or condition the occurrence of which
         -------
would, with the lapse of time or the giving of notice, or both, constitute an
Event of Default.

        "Designated Member of the European Community" shall mean any one of the
         -------------------------------------------
following jurisdictions:  Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg, The
Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

        "Environmental Law" shall mean any international, federal, state or
         -----------------
local statute, law, regulation, order, consent decree, judgment, permit,
license, code, covenant, deed restriction, common law, treaty, convention,
ordinance or other requirement relating to public health, safety or the
environment, including, without limitation, those relating to releases,
discharges or emissions to air, water, land or groundwater, to the withdrawal or
use of groundwater, to the use and handling of polychlorinated biphenyls or

- -44-
<PAGE>
 
asbestos, to the disposal, treatment, storage or management of hazardous or
solid waste, or Hazardous Substances or crude oil, or any fraction thereof, or
to exposure to toxic or hazardous materials, to the handling, transportation,
discharge or release of gaseous or liquid Hazardous Substances and any
regulation, order, notice or demand issued pursuant to such law, statute or
ordinance, in each case applicable to the property of the Company and its
Subsidiaries or the operation, construction or modification of any thereof,
including without limitation, the following: the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended by the Superfund
Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, the Solid Waste Disposal as amended
by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 and the Hazardous and
Solid Waste Amendments of 1984, the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, as
amended, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended by the Clean Water
Act of 1976, the Safe Drinking Water Control Act, the Clean Air Act of 1966, as
amended, the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, the Emergency Planning and
Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, the National Environmental Policy Act of
1975, the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 and any similar or implementing state law,
and any state statute and any further amendments to these laws providing for
financial responsibility for cleanup or other actions with respect to the
release or threatened release of Hazardous Substances or crude oil, or any
fraction thereof, and all rules, regulations, guidance documents and
publications promulgated thereunder.

        "ERISA" shall mean the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974,
         -----
as amended, and any successor statute of similar import, together with the
regulations thereunder, in each case as in effect from time to time. References
to sections of ERISA shall be construed to also refer to any successor sections.

        "ERISA Affiliate" shall mean any corporation, trade or business that is,
         ---------------
along with the Company, a member of a controlled group of corporations or a
controlled group of trades or businesses, as described in section 414(b) and
414(c), respectively, of the Code or Section 4001 of ERISA.

        "Event of Default" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)6.1.
         ----------------

- -45-
<PAGE>
 
        "GAAP" shall mean generally accepted accounting principles at the time.
         ----

        "Guaranties" by any Person shall mean all obligations (other than
         ----------
endorsements in the ordinary course of business of negotiable instruments for
deposit or collection) of such Person guaranteeing, or in effect guaranteeing,
any Indebtedness, dividend or other obligation of any other Person (the
"primary obligor") in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, including,
 ---------------
without limitation, all obligations incurred through an agreement, contingent
or otherwise, by such Person:  (a) to purchase such Indebtedness or obligation
or any property or assets constituting security therefor, (b) to advance or
supply funds (1) for the purchase or payment of such Indebtedness or
obligation, or (2) to maintain working capital or any balance sheet or income
statement condition or otherwise to advance or make available funds for the
purchase or payment of such Indebtedness or obligation, (c) to lease property
or to purchase Securities or other property or services primarily for the
purpose of assuring the owner of such Indebtedness or obligation of the ability
of the primary obligor to make payment of the Indebtedness or obligation, or
(d) otherwise to assure the owner of the Indebtedness or obligation of the
primary obligor against loss in respect thereof.  For the purposes of all
computations made under this Agreement, a Guaranty in respect of any
Indebtedness for borrowed money shall be deemed to be Indebtedness equal to the
principal amount of such Indebtedness for borrowed money which has been
guaranteed, and a Guaranty in respect of any other obligation or liability or
any dividend shall be deemed to be Indebtedness equal to the maximum aggregate
amount of such obligation, liability or dividend.

        "Hazardous Substance" shall mean any hazardous or toxic material,
         -------------------
substance or waste, pollutant or contaminant which is regulated under any
statute, law, ordinance, rule or regulation of any local, state, regional or
federal authority having jurisdiction over the property of the Company and its
Subsidiaries or its use, including but not limited to any material, substance or
waste which is: (a) defined as a hazardous substance under Section 311 of the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. (S)1317), as amended; (b)
regulated as a hazardous waste under Section 1004 or Section 3001 of the Federal
Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (42 U.S.C. (S)6901 et seq.), as amended; (c) defined as a 
                       ------

- -46-
<PAGE>
 
hazardous substance under Section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation and Liability Act (42 U.S.C. (S)9601 et seq.), as
                                                            ------
amended; or (d) defined or regulated as a hazardous substance or hazardous waste
under any rules or regulations promulgated under any of the foregoing statutes.

        "Indebtedness" of any Person shall mean and include all obligations of
         ------------
such Person which in accordance with GAAP shall be classified upon a balance
sheet of such Person as liabilities of such Person, and in any event shall
include all (a) obligations of such Person for borrowed money or which have been
incurred in connection with the acquisition of property or assets, (b)
obligations secured by any Lien upon property or assets owned by such Person,
even though such Person has not assumed or become liable for the payment of such
obligations, (c) obligations created or arising under any conditional sale or
other title retention agreement with respect to property acquired by such
Person, notwithstanding the fact that the rights and remedies of the seller,
lender or lessor under such agreement in the event of default are limited to
repossession or sale of property, (d) Capitalized Rentals (e) Guaranties of
obligations of others of the character referred to in this definition, and (f)
obligations of such Person in respect of mandatorily redeemable Preferred Stock.

        "Institutional Holder" shall mean any of the following Persons:  (a) any
         --------------------
bank, savings and loan association, savings institution, trust company or
national banking association, acting for its own account or in a fiduciary
capacity, (b) any charitable foundation, (c) any insurance company, (d) any
fraternal benefit society, (e) any pension, retirement or profit-sharing trust
or fund within the meaning of Title I of ERISA or for which any bank, trust
company, national banking association or investment adviser registered under
the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, is acting as trustee or agent,
(f) any investment company or business development company, as defined in the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (g) any small business investment
company licensed under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, as amended,
(h) any broker or dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended, or any investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended, (i) any government, any public employees' pension or
retirement system, or any other government agency supervising the investment of
public funds, (j) any 

- -47-
<PAGE>
 
other entity all of the equity owners of which are Institutional Holders or (k)
any other Person which may be within the definition of "qualified institutional
buyer" as such term is used in Rule 144A, as from time to time in effect,
promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

        "Intercreditor Agreement" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.4.
         -----------------------

        "Interest Expense" of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for
         ----------------
any period shall mean all interest and all amortization of debt discount and
expense on any particular Indebtedness (including, without limitation, payment-
in-kind, zero coupon and other like Securities) for which such calculations are
being made.

        "Investments" shall mean all investments, in cash or by delivery of
         -----------
property, made directly or indirectly in any property or assets or in any
Person, whether by acquisition of shares of capital stock, Indebtedness or
other obligations or Securities or by loan, advance, capital contribution or
otherwise.

        "Lien" shall mean any interest in property securing an obligation owed
         ----
to, or a claim by, a Person other than the owner of the property, whether such
interest is based on the common law, statute or contract, and including but not
limited to the security interest lien arising from a mortgage, encumbrance,
pledge, conditional sale or trust receipt or a lease, consignment or bailment
for security purposes. The term "Lien" shall include reservations, exceptions,
                                 ----
encroachments, easements, rights-of-way, covenants, conditions, restrictions,
leases and other title exceptions and encumbrances (including, with respect to
stock, stockholder agreements, voting trust agreements, buy-back agreements and
all similar arrangements) affecting property. For the purposes of this
Agreement, the Company or a Subsidiary shall be deemed to be the owner of any
property which it has acquired or holds subject to a conditional sale agreement,
Capitalized Lease or other arrangement pursuant to which title to the property
has been retained by or vested in some other Person for security purposes and
such retention or vesting shall constitute a Lien. 

        "Long-Term Lease" shall mean any lease of real or personal property
         ---------------
(other than a Capitalized Lease) having an original term, including any period

- -48-
<PAGE>
 
for which the lease may be renewed or extended at the option of the lessor, of
more than one year.

        "Make-Whole Amount" shall mean in connection with any prepayment or
         -----------------
acceleration of the Notes the excess, if any, of (a) the aggregate present
value as of the date of such prepayment or payment of each dollar of principal
being prepaid or paid and the amount of interest (exclusive of interest accrued
to the date of prepayment or payment) that would have been payable in respect
of such dollar if such prepayment or payment had not been made, determined by
discounting such amounts at the Reinvestment Rate from the respective dates on
which they would have been payable, over (b) 100% of the principal amount of
the outstanding Notes being prepaid or paid.  If the Reinvestment Rate (i) in
the case of the Series A Notes is equal to or higher than 6.82% per annum, (ii)
in the case of the Series B Notes is equal to or higher than 6.89% per annum,
(iii) in the case of the Series C Notes is equal to or higher than 7.04% per
annum or (iv) in the case of the Series D Notes is equal to or higher than
7.13% per annum, then the Make-Whole Amount shall be zero.  For purposes of any
determination of the Make-Whole Amount:

            "Reinvestment Rate" shall mean (1) the sum of 0.50%, plus the yield
             -----------------                                   ----
        reported on page "USD" of the Bloomberg Financial Markets Services
        Screen (or, if not available, any other nationally recognized trading
        screen reporting on-line intraday trading in the United States
        government Securities) at 11:00 A.M. (New York City, New York time) for
        the United States government Securities having a maturity (rounded to
        the nearest month) corresponding with the maturity date of the principal
        of the Notes of the series being prepaid or paid or (2) in the event
        that no nationally recognized trading screen reporting on-line intraday
        trading in the United States government Securities is available,
        Reinvestment Rate shall mean the sum of 0.50%, plus the arithmetic mean
                                                       ----
        of the yields for the two columns under the heading "Week Ending"
                                                             -----------
        published in the Statistical Release under the caption "Treasury
                                                                --------
        Constant Maturities" for the maturity (rounded to the nearest month)
        -------------------
        corresponding to the maturity date of the principal of the Notes of the
        series being prepaid or paid. If no published maturity exactly
        corresponds to the maturity date of the principal of the Notes of the
        series being prepaid or paid, yields for the two published maturities

- -49-
<PAGE>
 
        most closely corresponding to such Weighted Average Life to Maturity
        shall be calculated pursuant to the immediately preceding sentence and
        the Reinvestment Rate shall be interpolated or extrapolated from such
        yields on a straight-line basis, rounding in each of such relevant
        periods to the nearest month. For the purposes of calculating the
        "Reinvestment Rate", the most recent Statistical Release published prior
         -----------------
        to the date of determination of the Make-Whole Amount shall be used.

            "Statistical Release" shall mean the then most recently published
             -------------------
        statistical release designated "H.15(519)" or any successor publication
                                        ---------
        which is published weekly by the Federal Reserve System and which
        establishes yields on actively traded U.S. Government Securities
        adjusted to constant maturities or, if such statistical release is not
        published at the time of any determination hereunder, then such other
        reasonably comparable index which shall be designated by the holders of
        66-2/3% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes.

        "Material" shall mean in relation to the business, operations, affairs,
         --------
financial condition, assets, properties or prospects of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole.

        "Material Adverse Effect" shall mean a material adverse effect on (a)
         -----------------------
the business, operations, affairs, financial condition, assets or properties of
the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole, or (b) the ability
of the Company to perform its obligations under this Agreement, the Notes and
the Security Document, or (c) the validity or enforceability of this Agreement,
the Notes or the Security Document.

        "Minority Interests" shall mean any shares of stock of any class of a
         ------------------
Restricted Subsidiary (other than directors' qualifying shares as required by
law) that are not owned by the Company and/or one or more of its Wholly-owned
Restricted Subsidiaries. Minority Interests shall be valued by valuing Minority
Interests constituting preferred stock at the voluntary or involuntary
liquidating value of such preferred stock, whichever is greater, and by valuing
Minority Interests constituting common stock at the book value of capital and
surplus applicable thereto adjusted, if necessary, to reflect any changes from

- -50-
<PAGE>
 
the book value of such common stock required by the foregoing method of valuing
Minority Interests in preferred stock.

        "Multiemployer Plan" shall have the same meaning as in ERISA.
         ------------------

        "Noteholder Notice" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)2.2(a).
         -----------------

        "Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         -----

        "Overdue Rate" shall mean the lesser of (a) the maximum interest rate
         ------------
permitted by law and (b) 8.82% per annum in the case of the Series A Notes,
8.89% per annum in the case of the Series B Notes, 9.04% per annum in the case
of the Series C Notes and 9.13% per annum in the case of the Series D Notes.

        "PBGC" shall mean the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation and any
         ----
entity succeeding to any or all of its functions under ERISA.

        "Person" shall mean an individual, partnership, limited liability
         ------
company, corporation, trust or unincorporated organization, and a government or
agency or political subdivision thereof.

        "Plan" shall mean a "pension plan," as such term is defined in ERISA,
         ----
established or maintained by the Company or any ERISA Affiliate or as to which
the Company or any ERISA Affiliate contributed or is a member or otherwise may
have any liability.

        "Preferred Stock" shall mean in respect of any corporation, shares of
         ---------------
the capital stock of such corporation which are entitled to (a) preference or
priority over any other shares of the capital stock of such corporation in
respect of payment of dividends or (b) distribution of assets upon liquidation,
or both.

        "Public Offering" shall mean any offer or sale of any of the Voting
         ---------------
Stock of the Company for which registration is required pursuant to Section 5 of
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any successor provision thereto.

        "Purchasers" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         ----------

- -51-
<PAGE>
 
        "Rentals" shall mean and include as of the date of any determination
         -------
thereof all fixed payments (including as such all payments which the lessee is
obligated to make to the lessor on termination of the lease or surrender of the
property) payable by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, as lessee or
sublessee under a lease of real or personal property, but shall be exclusive of
any amounts required to be paid by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary
(whether or not designated as rents or additional rents) on account of
maintenance, repairs, insurance, taxes and similar charges. Fixed rents under
any so-called "percentage leases" shall be computed solely on the basis of the
               -----------------
minimum rents, if any, required to be paid by the lessee regardless of sales
volume or gross revenues.

        "Reportable Event" shall have the same meaning as defined in ERISA.
         ----------------

        "Responsible Officer" shall mean the Chairman of the Board, the Chief
         -------------------
Executive Officer or the Chief Financial Officer of the Company.

        "Restricted Investments" shall mean all Investments, other than:
         ----------------------

            (a) Investments by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries in
        and to Restricted Subsidiaries, including any Investment in a
        corporation which, after giving effect to such Investment, will become a
        Restricted Subsidiary;

            (b) Investments in property or assets to be used in the ordinary
        course of the business of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries as
        described in (S)5.5 of this Agreement;

            (c) Investments of the Company existing as of the Closing Date and
        described on Schedule II hereto, including, without limitation, notes
        receivable from Affiliates existing on the Closing Date, plus, with
                                                                 ---- 
        respect to notes receivable from Affiliates only, the CPI Percentage
        Increase;

            (d) Investments in commercial paper of corporations organized under
        the laws of the United States or any state thereof maturing in 270 days
        or less from the date of issuance which, at the 

- -52-
<PAGE>
 
        time of acquisition by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, is
        accorded a rating of "A-2" or better by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group
                              ---
        or "P-2" by Moody's Investors Service, Inc.;
            ---

            (e) Investments in direct obligations of the United States of
        America or any agency or instrumentality of the United States of
        America, the payment or guarantee in full of which constitutes a full
        faith and credit obligation of the United States of America, in either
        case, maturing within three years from the date of acquisition thereof;

            (f) Investments in certificates of deposit and banker's acceptances
        maturing within one year from the date of issuance thereof, either (1)
        issued by a bank or trust company organized under the laws of the United
        States or any State thereof, having capital, surplus and undivided
        profits aggregating at least $100,000,000, provided that at the time of
                                                   --------
        acquisition thereof by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, the
        senior unsecured long-term debt of such bank or trust company or of the
        holding company of such bank or trust company is rated "AA" or better by
        Standard & Poor's Ratings Group or "Aa" or better by Moody's Investors
        Service, Inc. or (2) issued by any bank or trust company organized under
        the laws of the United States or any state thereof to the extent that
        such Investments are fully insured by the Federal Depository Insurance
        Corporation;

            (g) Investments in repurchase agreements maturing in 90 days or less
        from the date of issuance with respect to any Security described in
        clause (e) of this definition entered into with a depository institution
        or trust company acting as principal described in clause (f)(1) of this
        definition if such repurchase agreements are by their terms to be
        performed by the repurchase obligor and such repurchase agreements are
        deposited with a bank or trust company of the type described in clause
        (f)(1) of this definition;

            (h) Investments in any money market fund which is classified as a
        current asset in accordance with GAAP, the aggregate asset value of
        which "marked to market" is at least $500,000,000 and which is managed
               ----------------
        by a fund manager of recognized national standing, and 

- -53-
<PAGE>
 
        which invests substantially all of its assets in obligations described
        in clauses (d) through (f) above; and

            (i) Investments in readily-marketable obligations of indebtedness of
        any State of the United States or any municipality organized under the
        laws of any State of the United States or any political subdivision
        thereof which, at the time of acquisition by the Company or any
        Subsidiary, are accorded either of the two highest ratings by Standard &
        Poor's Ratings Group or Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or another
        nationally recognized credit rating agency of similar standard, which in
        any such case mature no later than three years after the date of
        acquisition thereof;

        In valuing any Investments for the purpose of applying the applicable
limitations contained in this Agreement, such Investments shall be taken at the
original cost thereof, without allowance for any subsequent write-offs or
appreciation or depreciation therein, but less any amount repaid or recovered
in cash on account of capital or principal.

        "Restricted Subsidiary" shall mean any Subsidiary (a) which is organized
         ---------------------
under the laws of the United States or any State thereof, Canada or any
Province thereof, any Designated Member of the European Community or Mexico;
(b) which conducts substantially all of its business and has substantially all
of its assets within the United States, Canada, any Member of the European
Community or Mexico; (c) of which more than 80% (by number of votes) of the
Voting Stock is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by the Company; and
(d) is designated as a Restricted Subsidiary on Schedule II attached hereto or
is designated as such in writing by the Company to each of the holders of the
Notes, provided, however, that no Unrestricted Subsidiary may be designated as
       -----------------
a Restricted Subsidiary and no Restricted Subsidiary may be designated as an
Unrestricted Subsidiary if, at the time of such action and after giving effect
thereto: (i) the Company would not be permitted by the provisions of
(S)5.9(a)(3) or (4) to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness, or (ii)
a Default or Event of Default would exist, and provided, further, that no
                                               -----------------
Unrestricted Subsidiary shall at any time after the Closing Date be designated a
Restricted Subsidiary if such Unrestricted Subsidiary shall have twice been
previously designated a Restricted Subsidiary, and no Restricted Subsidiary
shall at any time after the Closing 

- -54-
<PAGE>
 
Date be designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary if such Restricted Subsidiary
shall have twice been previously designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

        "Security" shall have the same meaning as in Section 2(1) of the
         --------
Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

        "Security Document" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.4.
         -----------------

        "Senior Indebtedness" shall mean all Indebtedness of the Company, other
         -------------------
than Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company.

        "Series A Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         --------------

        "Series B Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         --------------

        "Series C Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         --------------

        "Series D Notes" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)1.1.
         --------------

        "Subordinated Indebtedness" shall mean (a) the Colburn School of
         -------------------------
Performing Arts Notes and (b) all other Indebtedness of the Company which (i)
has, when issued, a weighted average life to maturity greater than the remaining
weighted average life to maturity of the Notes, (ii) provides by its terms that
payments or repayments may only be made pursuant to and within the limitations
of the terms of (S)5.11 of this Agreement, and (iii) is at all times evidenced
by a written instrument or instruments containing subordination provisions
substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit E attached hereto providing for
the subordination thereof to other Indebtedness of the Company, including,
without limitation, the Notes, or such other provisions as may be approved in
writing by the holders of at least 66-2/3% of the outstanding principal amount
of the Notes.

        The term "subsidiary" shall mean as to any particular parent corporation
                  ----------
any corporation of which more than 50% (by number of votes) of the Voting Stock
shall be beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by such parent corporation.
The term "Subsidiary" shall mean a subsidiary of the Company.
          ----------

- -55-
<PAGE>
 
        "Tax Dividend" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)5.11(b).
         ------------

        "Tax Year" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)5.11(b).
         --------

        "Taxable Income" shall have the meaning set forth in (S)5.11(b).
         --------------

        "Unrestricted Subsidiary" shall mean any Subsidiary which is not
         -----------------------
designated as a Restricted Subsidiary in Schedule II attached hereto or in
accordance with the definition of "Restricted Subsidiary".
                                   ---------------------

        "Voting Stock" shall mean Securities of any class or classes, the
         ------------
holders of which are ordinarily, in the absence of contingencies, entitled to
elect a majority of the corporate directors (or Persons performing similar
functions).

        "Wholly-owned" when used in connection with any Subsidiary shall mean a
         ------------
Subsidiary of which all of the issued and outstanding shares of stock (except
shares required as directors' qualifying shares) and all Indebtedness for
borrowed money shall be owned by the Company and/or one or more of its
Wholly-owned Subsidiaries.

        Section 8.2. Accounting Principles. Where the character or amount of any
        ----------------------------------
asset or liability or item of income or expense is required to be determined or
any consolidation or other accounting computation is required to be made for the
purposes of this Agreement, the same shall be done in accordance with GAAP, to
the extent applicable, except where such principles are inconsistent with the
requirements of this Agreement.

        Section 8.3. Directly or Indirectly. Where any provision in this
        -----------------------------------
Agreement refers to action to be taken by any Person, or which such Person is
prohibited from taking, such provision shall be applicable whether the action in
question is taken directly or indirectly by such Person.

SECTION 9.      MISCELLANEOUS.

        Section 9.1. Registered Notes. The Company shall cause to be kept at its
        -----------------------------
principal office a register for the registration and transfer of the Notes, and
the Company will register or transfer or cause to be registered or 

- -56-
<PAGE>
 
transferred, as hereinafter provided, any Note issued pursuant to this
Agreement.

        At any time and from time to time the holder of any Note which has been
duly registered as hereinabove provided may transfer such Note upon surrender
thereof at the principal office of the Company duly endorsed or accompanied by a
written instrument of transfer duly executed by the holder of such Note or its
attorney duly authorized in writing.

        The Person in whose name any Note shall be registered shall be deemed
and treated as the owner and holder thereof for all purposes of this Agreement.
Payment of or on account of the principal, premium, if any, and interest on any
Note shall be made to or upon the written order of such holder.

        Section 9.2. Exchange of Notes. At any time and from time to time, upon
        ------------------------------
surrender of such Note at its office, the Company will deliver in exchange
therefor, without expense to such holder, except as set forth below, a Note for
the same aggregate principal amount as the then unpaid principal amount of the
Note so surrendered, or Notes in the denomination of $1,000,000 (or such lesser
amount as shall constitute 100% of the Notes of such holder) or any amount in
excess thereof as such holder shall specify, dated as of the date to which
interest has been paid on the Note so surrendered or, if such surrender is prior
to the payment of any interest thereon, then dated as of the date of issue,
registered in the name of such Person or Persons as may be designated by such
holder, and otherwise of the same form and tenor as the Notes so surrendered for
exchange. The Company may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any
stamp tax or governmental charge imposed upon such exchange or transfer.

        Section 9.3. Loss, Theft, Etc. of Notes. Upon receipt of evidence
        ---------------------------------------
satisfactory to the Company of the loss, theft, mutilation or destruction of any
Note, and in the case of any such loss, theft or destruction upon delivery of a
bond of indemnity in such form and amount as shall be reasonably satisfactory to
the Company, or in the event of such mutilation upon surrender and cancellation
of the Note, the Company will make and deliver without expense to the holder
thereof, a new Note, of like tenor, in lieu of such lost, stolen, destroyed or
mutilated Note. If the Purchaser or any 

- -57-
<PAGE>
 
subsequent Institutional Holder is the owner of any such lost, stolen or
destroyed Note, then the affidavit of an authorized officer of such owner,
setting forth the fact of loss, theft or destruction and of its ownership of
such Note at the time of such loss, theft or destruction shall be accepted as
satisfactory evidence thereof and no further indemnity shall be required as a
condition to the execution and delivery of a new Note other than the written
agreement of such owner to indemnify the Company.

        Section 9.4. Expenses, Stamp Tax Indemnity. Whether or not the
        ------------------------------------------
transactions herein contemplated shall be consummated, the Company agrees to pay
directly all of your out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the preparation,
execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Security Document and the
Intercreditor Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, including but
not limited to the charges and disbursements of Chapman and Cutler, your special
counsel, duplicating and printing costs and charges for shipping the Notes,
adequately insured to you at your home office or at such other place as you may
designate, and all such expenses relating to any amendments, waivers or consents
pursuant to the provisions hereof (whether or not the same are actually executed
and delivered), including, without limitation, any such amendments, waivers, or
consents resulting from any work-out, renegotiation or restructuring relating to
the performance by the Company of its obligations under this Agreement, the
Security Document, the Intercreditor Agreement and the Notes. The Company also
agrees to pay, within five Business Days of receipt thereof, supplemental
statements of Chapman and Cutler for disbursements unposted or not incurred as
of the Closing Date. The Company further agrees that it will pay and save you
harmless against any and all liability with respect to stamp and other taxes, if
any, which may be payable or which may be determined to be payable in connection
with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Security Document, the
Intercreditor Agreement or the Notes, whether or not any Notes are then
outstanding. The Company agrees to protect and indemnify you against any
liability for any and all brokerage fees and commissions payable or claimed to
be payable to any Person in connection with the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, the Security Document or the Intercreditor Agreement. Without
limiting the foregoing, the Company agrees to pay the cost of obtaining the
private placement number for the Notes and authorizes the submission of such
information as may be required by 

- -58-
<PAGE>
 
Standard & Poor's CUSIP Service Bureau for the purpose of obtaining such number.

        Section 9.5. Powers and Rights Not Waived; Remedies Cumulative. No delay
        --------------------------------------------------------------
or failure on the part of the holder of any Note in the exercise of any power or
right shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial
exercise of the same preclude any other or further exercise thereof, or the
exercise of any other power or right, and the rights and remedies of the holder
of any Note are cumulative to, and are not exclusive of, any rights or remedies
any such holder would otherwise have.

        Section 9.6. Notices. All communications provided for hereunder shall be
        --------------------
in writing and, if to you, delivered or mailed prepaid by registered or
certified mail or overnight air courier, or by facsimile communication, in each
case addressed to you at your address appearing on Schedule I to this Agreement
or such other address as you or the subsequent holder of any Note initially
issued to you may designate to the Company in writing, and if to the Company,
delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail or overnight air courier, or
by facsimile communication, to the Company at 1581 Cummins Drive, Suite 155,
Modesto, California 95358, Attention: Chief Financial Officer, or to such other
address as the Company may in writing designate to you or to a subsequent holder
of the Note initially issued to you; provided, however, that a notice to you by
                                     --------  -------
overnight air courier shall only be effective if delivered to you at a street
address designated for such purpose in Schedule I, and a notice to you by
facsimile communication shall only be effective if confirmed by transmission of
a copy thereof by prepaid overnight air courier, or, in either case, as you or a
subsequent holder of any Note initially issued to you may designate to the
Company in writing.

        Section 9.7. Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding
        -----------------------------------
upon the Company and its successors and assigns and shall inure to your benefit
and to the benefit of your successors and assigns, including each successive
holder or holders of any Notes.

        Section 9.8. Survival of Covenants and Representations. All covenants,
        ------------------------------------------------------
representations and warranties made by the Company herein and in any
certificates delivered pursuant hereto, whether or not in connection with 

- -59-
<PAGE>
 
the Closing Date, shall survive the closing and the delivery of this Agreement 
and the Notes.

        Section 9.9. Severability. Should any part of this Agreement for any
        -------------------------
reason be declared invalid or unenforceable, such decision shall not affect the
validity or enforceability of any remaining portion, which remaining portion
shall remain in force and effect as if this Agreement had been executed with the
invalid or unenforceable portion thereof eliminated and it is hereby declared
the intention of the parties hereto that they would have executed the remaining
portion of this Agreement without including therein any such part, parts or
portion which may, for any reason, be hereafter declared invalid or
unenforceable.

        Section 9.10. Governing Law. This Agreement and the Notes issued and
        ---------------------------
sold hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Illinois
law, including all matters of construction, validity and performance.

        Section 9.11. Captions. The descriptive headings of the various Sections
        ----------------------
or parts of this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not affect the
meaning or construction of any of the provisions hereof.

- -60-
<PAGE>
 
        The execution hereof by you shall constitute a contract between us for
the uses and purposes hereinabove set forth, and this Agreement may be executed
in any number of counterparts, each executed counterpart constituting an
original but all together only one agreement.

                                            U.S. RENTALS, INC.



                                            By      
                                               Its

Accepted as of August 21, 1995.

                                            [VARIATION]



                                            By
                                               --------------------------------
                                               Its

- -61-
<PAGE>
 
ATTACHMENTS TO NOTE AGREEMENT:

Schedule I  -- Names and Addresses of Purchasers and Amounts of Commitments

Schedule II -- Indebtedness; Liens Securing Indebtedness (including
               Capitalized Leases); Subsidiaries; Restricted Subsidiaries as of
               the Closing Date; Etc.

Exhibit A-1 -- Form of 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999

Exhibit A-2 -- Form of 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000

Exhibit A-3 -- Form of 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001

Exhibit A-4 -- Form of 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002

Exhibit B   -- Representations and Warranties of the Company

Exhibit C   -- Description of Special Counsel's Closing Opinion

Exhibit D   -- Description of Closing Opinion of Counsel to the Company

Exhibit E   -- Subordination Provisions Applicable to Subordinated Indebtedness

- -62-

<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
MASSACHUSETTS MUTUAL LIFE                          $2,300,000          Series C
 INSURANCE COMPANY                                 $2,000,000          Series D
1295 State Street
Springfield, Massachusetts  01111
Attention:  Mr. John B. Joyce
            Mr. John B. Wheeler
            Securities Investment Division
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, due August 21, 2001, PPN
90341*AC 3, principal, premium or interest" or "U.S. Rentals, Inc. 7.13% Senior
Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN 90341*AD 1, principal,
premium or interest") to:

                                  SCHEDULE I
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
   Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.
   4 Chase MetroTech Center
   New York, NY  10081
   ABA No. 021000021
   For MassMutual IFM Traditional
   Account No. 910-1388131
   Re:  Description of security, principal and interest split

   With telephone advice of payment to the Securities Custody and Collection
   Department of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company at (413) 744-3878

Notices

All notices and communications to be addressed as first provided above,
except notices with respect to payments and corporate actions, to be addressed
Attention:  Securities Custody and Collection Department, F381.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  04-1590850


I-2
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
MASSACHUSETTS MUTUAL LIFE                           $2,300,000         Series C
 INSURANCE COMPANY                                  $2,000,000         Series D
1295 State Street
Springfield, Massachusetts  01111
Attention:  Mr. John B. Joyce
            Mr. John B. Wheeler
            Securities Investment Division
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, due August 21, 2001, PPN
90341*AC 3, principal, premium or interest" or "U.S. Rentals, Inc. 7.13% Senior
Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN 90341*AD 1, principal,
premium or interest") to:


I-3
<PAGE>
 
   Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.
   4 Chase MetroTech Center
   New York, NY  10081
   ABA No. 021000021
   For MassMutual IFM Non-Traditional
   Account No. 910-2509073
   Re:  Description of security, principal and interest split

   With telephone advice of payment to the Securities Custody and Collection
   Department of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company at (413) 744-3878

Notices

All notices and communications to be addressed as first provided above,
except notices with respect to payments and corporate actions, to be addressed
Attention:  Securities Custody and Collection Department, F381.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  04-1590850


I-4
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
MASSACHUSETTS MUTUAL LIFE                          $2,400,000          Series C
 INSURANCE COMPANY                                 $2,000,000          Series D
1295 State Street
Springfield, Massachusetts  01111
Attention:  Mr. John B. Joyce
            Mr. John B. Wheeler
            Securities Investment Division
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, due August 21, 2001, PPN
90341*AC 3, principal, premium or interest" or "U.S. Rentals, Inc. 7.13% Senior
Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN 90341*AD 1, principal,
premium or interest") to:


I-5
<PAGE>
 
   Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.
   4 Chase MetroTech Center
   New York, NY  10081
   ABA No. 021000021
   For MassMutual Pension Management
   Account No. 910-2594018
   Re:  Description of security, principal and interest split

   With telephone advice of payment to the Securities Custody and Collection
   Department of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company at (413) 744-3878

Notices

All notices and communications to be addressed as first provided above,
except notices with respect to payments and corporate actions, to be addressed
Attention:  Securities Custody and Collection Department, F381.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  04-1590850


I-6
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
JEFFERSON-PILOT LIFE INSURANCE                      $5,000,000         Series B
 COMPANY                                            $3,000,000         Series C
100 North Greene                                    $4,000,000         Series D
Greensboro, North Carolina  27401
Attention:  Securities Administration 3630
Telefacsimile:  (910) 691-3025
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000, PPN
90341*AB 5, principal, premium or interest" or "U.S. Rentals, Inc., 7.04%
Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001, PPN 90341*AC 3, principal,
premium or interest" or "U.S. Rentals, Inc., 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series
D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN 90341*AD 1, principal, premium or interest", as the
case may be), to:

   NationsBank of North Carolina (ABA #053 000 196)
   Charlotte, North Carolina
   (Greensboro office)

   for credit to:  Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company
   Account Number 020-000-014
   Attention:  Cathy Crisson (910) 691-3133

Notices

All notices and communications, including notices with respect to payments
and written confirmation of each such payment (including name and address of
bank transmitting payment), to be addressed as first provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None


I-7
<PAGE>
 
Taxpayer I.D. Number:  56-0359860




I-8
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
PRINCIPAL MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE                    $10,000,000         Series A
 COMPANY        
711 High Street
Des Moines, Iowa  50392-0800
Attention:  Investment Department--
            Securities Division
Regarding Bond Number 1-B-60511
Telefacsimile:  (515) 248-2490
Confirmation:   (515) 248-3495
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999, PPN
90341*AA 7, Bond Number 1-B-60511, principal, premium or interest") to:

   Norwest Bank Iowa, N.A. (ABA #0730 0022 8)
   7th and Walnut Streets
   Des Moines, Iowa  50309

   for credit to:  Principal Mutual Life Insurance Company 
   General Account Number 014752

Notices

All notices concerning payment on or in respect of the Notes, to:

   Principal Mutual Life Insurance Company
   711 High Street
   Des Moines, Iowa  50392-0960
   Attention:  Investment--
               Accounting & Treasury--
               Securities
   Telefacsimile:  (515) 247-5930


I-9
<PAGE>
 
All notices and communications other than those in respect to payments to be
addressed as first provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  42-012-7290


I-10
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
PHOENIX HOME LIFE MUTUAL                            $5,000,000         Series D
 INSURANCE COMPANY      
One American Row
Hartford, Connecticut  06115
Attention:  Private Placements Division
Telecopier Number:  (203) 275-5451
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN
90341*AD 1, principal, premium or interest") to:

   Chase Manhattan Bank (ABA #021 0000 21)
   BNF-SSG Private Income Processing/AC-9009000200

   for credit to:  Phoenix Home Life Mutual Insurance Company
   Account Number G-05143

Notices

All notices and communications, including notices with respect to payments
and written confirmation of each such payment, to be addressed as first
provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  06-0493340


I-11
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
PHOENIX HOME LIFE MUTUAL                            $3,000,000        Series D
 INSURANCE COMPANY      
One American Row
Hartford, Connecticut  06115
Attention:  Private Placements Division
Telecopier Number:  (203) 275-5451
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN
90341*AD 1, principal, premium or interest") to:

   Chase Manhattan Bank (ABA #021 0000 21)
   BNF-SSG Private Income Processing/AC-9009000200

   for credit to:  Phoenix Home Life Mutual Insurance Company
   Account Number G-05515

Notices

All notices and communications, including notices with respect to payments
and written confirmation of each such payment, to be addressed as first
provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  06-0493340


I-12
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
PHOENIX AMERICAN LIFE                              $2,000,000          Series D
 INSURANCE COMPANY      
c/o Phoenix Home Life Mutual 
   Insurance Company
One American Row
Hartford, Connecticut  06115
Attention:  Private Placements Division
Telecopier Number:  (203) 275-5451
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002, PPN
90341*AD1, principal, premium or interest") to:

   Chase Manhattan Bank (ABA #021 0000 21)
   BNF-SSG Private Income Processing/AC-9009000200

   for credit to:  Phoenix American Life Insurance Company
   Account Number G-05464

Notices

All notices and communications, including notices with respect to payments
and written confirmation of each such payment, to be addressed as first
provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  None

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  06-0493340


I-13
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
        NAMES AND ADDRESSES                      OF NOTES TO BE       SERIES OF
           OF PURCHASERS                           PURCHASED            NOTES
<S>                                             <C>                   <C> 
ALEXANDER HAMILTON LIFE INSURANCE                   $5,000,000         Series B
 COMPANY OF AMERICA     
33045 Hamilton Court
Farmington Hills, Michigan  48334
Attention:  Jean Elizabeth Benefiel, Department R-12A
Phone:  (810) 489-4728
Fax:    (810) 489-4792
</TABLE> 

Payments

All payments on or in respect of the Notes to be by bank wire transfer of
Federal or other immediately available funds (identifying each payment as "U.S.
Rentals, Inc., 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000, PPN
90341*AB 5, principal, premium or interest") to:

   Comerica Bank, Det / 03
   ABA Number 0720-0009-6
   Account Number:  82043
   Bnfac:  21585-98539, Master Trust

Notices

All notices and communications, including notices with respect to payments
and written confirmation of each such payment (including name and address of
bank transmitting payment), to:

   Comerica Bank
   Institutional Trust
   411 West Lafayette
   Detroit, Michigan  48226
   Attn:  Janis Dudek


I-14
<PAGE>
 
   Phone:  (313) 222-4085
   Fax:    (313) 963-8524

Duplicate copies and all notices and communications to be addressed as first
provided above.

Name of Nominee in which Notes are to be issued:  Calhoun & Co.

Taxpayer I.D. Number:  38-2190143


I-15
<PAGE>
 
                  DESCRIPTION OF DEBT, LEASES AND INVESTMENTS


1.   Indebtedness (other than Capitalized Rentals) of the Company and its
     Restricted Subsidiaries outstanding on the Closing Date is as follows:
 
                               ($s in thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                          NOTES PAYABLE                           As of 8/15/95
<S>                                                               <C> 
Revolving notes to Bank under Credit and Security Agreement, 
  interest payable monthly at varying rates tied to the 
  bank's money market rate and reference rate.                      $ 58,000

Demand note payable to CED, interest payable monthly at 
  prime less .75%.                                                    20,000

Notes payable to Shareholder, assigned to The R.D. Colburn 
  School of Performing Arts, subordinated notes due 
  December 31, 2013 and 2014, interest payable quarterly at 
  a rate of prime plus 5%.                                            20,000

Demand notes payable to related parties.                               3,885

Other notes payable.                                                   1,060
                                                                    --------
  Total Indebtedness                                                $102,945
                                                                    ========
</TABLE> 

2.   Long-Term Leases of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries outstanding
     on the Closing Date are as follows:

                         [See Attached Schedule II-B]

     Capitalized Leases of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
     outstanding on the Closing Date are as follows:

                                     None


                                  SCHEDULE II
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
4.   Investments of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than
     Subsidiaries) outstanding on the Closing Date, including without
     limitation, notes receivable from Affiliates are as follows:

<TABLE> 
     <S>                                 <C>                     <C> 
     Yorkshire Enterprises L.P.          $   41,251.21
     Kwickform America                      992,459.15
     Kippington Road                        306,000.00
     UKP                                         31.48
     Claessen                                 3,267.25
     Tolyco BV                              351,905.63
     Consortium 2000 Inc.                   150,000.00
     Subordinated Promissory
       Notes of Consolidated
       Electrical Distributors, Inc.
       in face principal amounts of                              (current adjusted principal 
       $5,336,050 and $12,844.00            25,056,336           value plus accrued interest) 
                                        --------------
          Total                         $26,901,250.72
</TABLE> 



II-2
<PAGE>
 
                          SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY

1.  RESTRICTED SUBSIDIARIES:

                                                      PERCENTAGE OF VOTING STOCK
          NAME OF          JURISDICTION OF                OWNED BY COMPANY AND
        SUBSIDIARY          INCORPORATION                 EACH OTHER SUBSIDIARY


                                     None




2.   SUBSIDIARIES (OTHER THAN RESTRICTED SUBSIDIARIES):

                                                      PERCENTAGE OF VOTING STOCK
          NAME OF          JURISDICTION OF                OWNED BY COMPANY AND
        SUBSIDIARY          INCORPORATION                 EACH OTHER SUBSIDIARY


                                     None




                                  Schedule II
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                     6.82% Senior Secured Note, Series A,
                              Due August 21, 1999



No. 
                                                              ____________, ____
$
                                                                  PPN 90341*AA 7



     U.S. RENTALS, INC., a California corporation (the "Company"), for value
received, hereby promises to pay to

                             or registered assigns
                    on the twenty-first day of August, 1999
                            the principal amount of

                                                               DOLLARS ($______)

and to pay interest (computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve
30-day months) on the principal amount from time to time remaining unpaid
hereon at the rate of 6.82% per annum from the date hereof until maturity,
payable semiannually on the twenty-first of February and August in each year
(commencing on February 21, 1996) and at maturity.  The Company agrees to pay
interest on overdue principal (including any overdue required or optional
prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the extent legally
enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest, at the Overdue Rate after
the due date, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until paid.  "Overdue Rate"
shall mean the lesser of (a) the maximum interest rate permitted by law and (b)
8.82% per annum.

     Both the principal hereof and interest hereon are payable at the principal
office of the Company in Modesto, California in coin or currency of the United
States of America which at the time of payment shall be legal tender for the
payment of public and private debts.  If any amount of principal, 


                                  EXHIBIT A-1
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
premium, if any, or interest on or in respect of this Note becomes due and
payable on any date which is not a Business Day, such amount shall be payable on
the immediately preceding Business Day. "Business Day" means any day other than
a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banks in Los Angeles, California or New
York City, New York are required by law to close or are customarily closed.

     This Note is one of the 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, due August
21, 1999 (the "Series A Notes") of the Company in the aggregate principal amount
of $10,000,000 which, together with the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate
principal amount 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000 (the
"Series B Notes"), the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.04%
Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001 (the "Series C Notes") and
the Company's $20,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.13% Senior Secured Notes,
Series D, Due August 21, 2002 (the "Series D Notes", said Series D Notes
together with the Series A Notes, the Series B Notes and the Series C Notes are
hereinafter referred to collectively as the "Notes"), are issued or to be issued
under and pursuant to the terms and provisions of the separate Note Agreements,
each dated as of August 15, 1995 (the "Note Agreements"), entered into by the
Company with the original Purchasers therein referred to and this Note and the
holder hereof are entitled equally and ratably with the holders of all other
Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements to all the benefits provided for
thereby or referred to therein. Reference is hereby made to the Note Agreements
for a statement of such rights and benefits.

     This Note and the holder hereof are also entitled equally and ratably with
the holders of all other Notes to the rights and benefits provided pursuant to
the terms and provisions of the Security Document and the Intercreditor
Agreement (as each such term is defined in the Note Agreements).  Reference is
hereby made to each of the foregoing for a statement of the nature and extent
of the benefits and security for the Notes afforded thereby and the rights of
the holders of the Notes on the Company in respect thereof.

     This Note and the other Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements may be
declared due prior to their expressed maturity dates and certain prepayments
are required to be made thereon, all in the events, on the terms and in the
manner and amounts as provided in the Note Agreements.


A-1-2
<PAGE>
 
     The Notes are not subject to prepayment or redemption at the option of the
Company prior to their expressed maturity dates except on the terms and
conditions and in the amounts and with the premium, if any, set forth in the
Note Agreements.

     This Note is registered on the books of the Company and is transferable
only by surrender thereof at the principal office of the Company duly endorsed
or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer duly executed by the
registered holder of this Note or its attorney duly authorized in writing.
Payment of or on account of principal, premium, if any, and interest on this
Note shall be made only to or upon the order in writing of the registered
holder. 

     This Note and said Note Agreements are governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of Illinois, including all matters of construction,
validity and performance.

                                            U.S. RENTALS, INC.



                                            By      
                                               Its



A-1-3
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                     6.89% Senior Secured Note, Series B,
                              Due August 21, 2000
No. 
                                                              ____________, ____
$
                                                                  PPN 90341*AB 5


     U.S. RENTALS, INC., a California corporation (the "Company"), for value
received, hereby promises to pay to


                             or registered assigns
                    on the twenty-first day of August, 2000
                            the principal amount of

                                                               DOLLARS ($______)

and to pay interest (computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve
30-day months) on the principal amount from time to time remaining unpaid
hereon at the rate of 6.89% per annum from the date hereof until maturity,
payable semiannually on the twenty-first of February and August in each year
(commencing on February 21, 1996) and at maturity.  The Company agrees to pay
interest on overdue principal (including any overdue required or optional
prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the extent legally
enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest, at the Overdue Rate after
the due date, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until paid.  "Overdue Rate"
shall mean the lesser of (a) the maximum interest rate permitted by law and (b)
8.89% per annum.

     Both the principal hereof and interest hereon are payable at the principal
office of the Company in Modesto, California in coin or currency of the United
States of America which at the time of payment shall be legal tender for the
payment of public and private debts.  If any amount of principal, 

                                  EXHIBIT A-2
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
premium, if any, or interest on or in respect of this Note becomes due and
payable on any date which is not a Business Day, such amount shall be payable on
the immediately preceding Business Day. "Business Day" means any day other than
a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banks in Los Angeles, California or New
York City, New York are required by law to close or are customarily closed.

     This Note is one of the 6.89% Senior Secured Notes, Series B, due August
21, 2000 (the "Series B Notes") of the Company in the aggregate principal amount
of $10,000,000 which, together with the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate
principal amount 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999 (the
"Series A Notes"), the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.04%
Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001 (the "Series C Notes") and
the Company's $20,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.13% Senior Secured Notes,
Series D, Due August 21, 2002 (the "Series D Notes", said Series D Notes
together with the Series A Notes, the Series B Notes and the Series C Notes are
hereinafter referred to collectively as the "Notes"), are issued or to be issued
under and pursuant to the terms and provisions of the separate Note Agreements,
each dated as of August 15, 1995 (the "Note Agreements"), entered into by the
Company with the original Purchasers therein referred to and this Note and the
holder hereof are entitled equally and ratably with the holders of all other
Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements to all the benefits provided for
thereby or referred to therein. Reference is hereby made to the Note Agreements
for a statement of such rights and benefits.

     This Note and the holder hereof are also entitled equally and ratably with
the holders of all other Notes to the rights and benefits provided pursuant to
the terms and provisions of the Security Document and the Intercreditor
Agreement (as each such term is defined in the Note Agreements).  Reference is
hereby made to each of the foregoing for a statement of the nature and extent
of the benefits and security for the Notes afforded thereby and the rights of
the holders of the Notes on the Company in respect thereof.

     This Note and the other Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements may be
declared due prior to their expressed maturity dates and certain prepayments
are required to be made thereon, all in the events, on the terms and in the
manner and amounts as provided in the Note Agreements.


A-2-2
<PAGE>
 
     The Notes are not subject to prepayment or redemption at the option of the
Company prior to their expressed maturity dates except on the terms and
conditions and in the amounts and with the premium, if any, set forth in the
Note Agreements.

     This Note is registered on the books of the Company and is transferable
only by surrender thereof at the principal office of the Company duly endorsed
or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer duly executed by the
registered holder of this Note or its attorney duly authorized in writing.
Payment of or on account of principal, premium, if any, and interest on this
Note shall be made only to or upon the order in writing of the registered
holder.

     This Note and said Note Agreements are governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of Illinois, including all matters of construction,
validity and performance.

                                            U.S. RENTALS, INC.



                                            By      
                                               Its



A-2-3
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                     7.04% Senior Secured Note, Series C,
                              Due August 21, 2001

No. 
                                                              ____________, ____
$
                                                                  PPN 90341*AC 3


     U.S. RENTALS, INC., a California corporation (the "Company"), for value
received, hereby promises to pay to


                             or registered assigns
                    on the twenty-first day of August, 2001
                            the principal amount of

                                                               DOLLARS ($______)

and to pay interest (computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve
30-day months) on the principal amount from time to time remaining unpaid
hereon at the rate of 7.04% per annum from the date hereof until maturity,
payable semiannually on the twenty-first of February and August in each year
(commencing on February 21, 1996) and at maturity.  The Company agrees to pay
interest on overdue principal (including any overdue required or optional
prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the extent legally
enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest, at the Overdue Rate after
the due date, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until paid.  "Overdue Rate"
shall mean the lesser of (a) the maximum interest rate permitted by law and (b)
8.04% per annum.

     Both the principal hereof and interest hereon are payable at the principal
office of the Company in Modesto, California in coin or currency of the United
States of America which at the time of payment shall be legal tender for the
payment of public and private debts.  If any amount of principal, 


                                  EXHIBIT A-3
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
premium, if any, or interest on or in respect of this Note becomes due and
payable on any date which is not a Business Day, such amount shall be payable on
the immediately preceding Business Day. "Business Day" means any day other than
a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banks in Los Angeles, California or New
York City, New York are required by law to close or are customarily closed.

     This Note is one of the 7.04% Senior Secured Notes, Series C, Due August
21, 2001 (the "Notes") of the Company in the aggregate principal amount of
$10,000,000 which, together with the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal
amount 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999 (the "Series A
Notes"), the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 6.89% Senior
Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000 (the "Series B Notes") and the
Company's $20,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.13% Senior Secured Notes,
Series D, Due August 21, 2002 (the "Series D Notes", said Series D Notes
together with the Series A Notes, the Series B Notes and the Series C Notes are
hereinafter referred to collectively as the "Notes"), are issued or to be issued
under and pursuant to the terms and provisions of the separate Note Agreements,
each dated as of August 15, 1995 (the "Note Agreements"), entered into by the
Company with the original Purchasers therein referred to and this Note and the
holder hereof are entitled equally and ratably with the holders of all other
Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements to all the benefits provided for
thereby or referred to therein. Reference is hereby made to the Note Agreements
for a statement of such rights and benefits.

     This Note and the holder hereof are also entitled equally and ratably with
the holders of all other Notes to the rights and benefits provided pursuant to
the terms and provisions of the Security Document and the Intercreditor
Agreement (as each such term is defined in the Note Agreements).  Reference is
hereby made to each of the foregoing for a statement of the nature and extent
of the benefits and security for the Notes afforded thereby and the rights of
the holders of the Notes on the Company in respect thereof.

     This Note and the other Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements may be
declared due prior to their expressed maturity dates and certain prepayments
are required to be made thereon, all in the events, on the terms and in the
manner and amounts as provided in the Note Agreements.


A-3-2
<PAGE>
 
     The Notes are not subject to prepayment or redemption at the option of the
Company prior to their expressed maturity dates except on the terms and
conditions and in the amounts and with the premium, if any, set forth in the
Note Agreements.

     This Note is registered on the books of the Company and is transferable
only by surrender thereof at the principal office of the Company duly endorsed
or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer duly executed by the
registered holder of this Note or its attorney duly authorized in writing.
Payment of or on account of principal, premium, if any, and interest on this
Note shall be made only to or upon the order in writing of the registered
holder.

     This Note and said Note Agreements are governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of Illinois, including all matters of construction,
validity and performance.

                                            U.S. RENTALS, INC.



                                            By      
                                               Its


A-3-3
<PAGE>
 
                              U.S. RENTALS, INC.


                     7.13% Senior Secured Note, Series D,
                              Due August 21, 2002
No. 
                                                              ____________, ____
$
                                                                  PPN 90341*AD 1


     U.S. RENTALS, INC., a California corporation (the "Company"), for value
received, hereby promises to pay to



                             or registered assigns
                    on the twenty-first day of August, 2002
                            the principal amount of

                                                               DOLLARS ($______)

and to pay interest (computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve
30-day months) on the principal amount from time to time remaining unpaid
hereon at the rate of 7.13% per annum from the date hereof until maturity,
payable semiannually on the twenty-first of February and August in each year
(commencing on February 21, 2002) and at maturity.  The Company agrees to pay
interest on overdue principal (including any overdue required or optional
prepayment of principal) and premium, if any, and (to the extent legally
enforceable) on any overdue installment of interest, at the Overdue Rate after
the due date, whether by acceleration or otherwise, until paid.  "Overdue Rate"
shall mean the lesser of (a) the maximum interest rate permitted by law and (b)
8.13% per annum.

     Both the principal hereof and interest hereon are payable at the principal
office of the Company in Modesto, California in coin or currency of the United
States of America which at the time of payment shall be legal tender for the
payment of public and private debts.  If any amount of principal, 

                                  EXHIBIT A-4
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
premium, if any, or interest on or in respect of this Note becomes due and
payable on any date which is not a Business Day, such amount shall be payable on
the immediately preceding Business Day. "Business Day" means any day other than
a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banks in Los Angeles, California or New
York City, New York are required by law to close or are customarily closed.

     This Note is one of the 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, due August
21, 2002 (the "Notes") of the Company in the aggregate principal amount of
$20,000,000 which, together with the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal
amount 6.82% Senior Secured Notes, Series A, Due August 21, 1999 (the "Series A
Notes"), the Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 6.89% Senior
Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000 (the "Series B Notes") and the
Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 7.04% Senior Secured Notes,
Series C, Due August 21, 2001 (the "Series C Notes", said Series C Notes
together with the Series A Notes, the Series B Notes and the Series D Notes are
hereinafter referred to collectively as the "Notes"), are issued or to be issued
under and pursuant to the terms and provisions of the separate Note Agreements,
each dated as of August 15, 1995 (the "Note Agreements"), entered into by the
Company with the original Purchasers therein referred to and this Note and the
holder hereof are entitled equally and ratably with the holders of all other
Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements to all the benefits provided for
thereby or referred to therein. Reference is hereby made to the Note Agreements
for a statement of such rights and benefits.

     This Note and the holder hereof are also entitled equally and ratably with
the holders of all other Notes to the rights and benefits provided pursuant to
the terms and provisions of the Security Document and the Intercreditor
Agreement (as each such term is defined in the Note Agreements). Reference is
hereby made to each of the foregoing for a statement of the nature and extent of
the benefits and security for the Notes afforded thereby and the rights of the
holders of the Notes on the Company in respect thereof.

     This Note and the other Notes outstanding under the Note Agreements may be
declared due prior to their expressed maturity dates and certain prepayments
are required to be made thereon, all in the events, on the terms and in the
manner and amounts as provided in the Note Agreements.


A-4-2
<PAGE>
 
     The Notes are not subject to prepayment or redemption at the option of the
Company prior to their expressed maturity dates except on the terms and
conditions and in the amounts and with the premium, if any, set forth in the
Note Agreements.

     This Note is registered on the books of the Company and is transferable
only by surrender thereof at the principal office of the Company duly endorsed
or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer duly executed by the
registered holder of this Note or its attorney duly authorized in writing.
Payment of or on account of principal, premium, if any, and interest on this
Note shall be made only to or upon the order in writing of the registered
holder.

     This Note and said Note Agreements are governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of Illinois, including all matters of construction,
validity and performance.

                                            U.S. RENTALS, INC.



                                            By      
                                               Its


A-4-3
<PAGE>
 
                        REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     The Company represents and warrants to you as follows:

     1.  Subsidiaries. Schedule II attached to the Agreements states the name of
each of the Company's Subsidiaries, its jurisdiction of incorporation and the
percentage of its Voting Stock owned by the Company and/or its Subsidiaries.
Those Subsidiaries listed in Section 1 of said Schedule II constitute Restricted
Subsidiaries. The Company and each Subsidiary has good and marketable title to
all of the shares it purports to own of the stock of each Subsidiary, free and
clear in each case of any Lien. All such shares have been duly issued and are
fully paid and non-assessable.

     2.  Corporate Organization and Authority.  The Company, and each Restricted
Subsidiary,

         (a) is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
     standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation;

         (b) has all requisite power and authority and all Material licenses and
     permits to own and operate its properties and to carry on its business as
     now conducted and as presently proposed to be conducted; and

         (c) is duly licensed or qualified and is in good standing as a foreign
     corporation in each jurisdiction wherein the nature of the business
     transacted by it or the nature of the property owned or leased by it makes
     such licensing or qualification necessary.

     3. Business and Property. The Private Placement Memorandum dated June 1995
(the "Memorandum") prepared by BA Securities, Inc. which in all Material
respects sets forth the business conducted and proposed to be conducted by the
Company and its Subsidiaries and the principal properties of the Company and its
Subsidiaries.

     4.  Financial Statements.  (a) The consolidated balance sheets of the
Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of December 31 in each of the


                                   EXHIBIT B
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
years 1990 to 1994, both inclusive, and the statements of income and retained
earnings and changes in financial position or cash flows for the fiscal years
ended on said dates, each accompanied by a report thereon containing an opinion
unqualified as to scope limitations imposed by the Company and otherwise
without qualification except as therein noted, by Price Waterhouse L.L.P., have
been prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently applied except as therein
noted, are correct and complete and present fairly the financial position of
the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of such dates and the results
of their operations and changes in their cash flows for such periods.  The
unaudited consolidated balance sheets of the Company and its consolidated
Subsidiaries as of June 30, 1995, and the unaudited statements of income and
retained earnings and cash flows for the six-month period ended on said date
prepared by the Company have been prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently
applied, are correct and complete and present fairly the financial position of
the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of said date and the results
of their operations and changes in their cash flows for such period.

     (b) Since December 31, 1994, there has been no change in the condition,
financial or otherwise, of the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries as
shown on the consolidated balance sheet as of such date except changes in the
ordinary course of business, none of which individually or in the aggregate
would have a Material Adverse Effect.

     5.  Indebtedness; Insurance.  Schedule II attached to the Agreements
correctly describes all Indebtedness, Long-Term Leases, Capitalized Leases and
Investments of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries outstanding on the
Closing Date.  Said Schedule II also correctly describes the levels of
insurance and self-insurance of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
existing on the Closing Date.

     6.  Full Disclosure.  Neither the financial statements referred to in
paragraph 4 hereof nor the Agreements, the Memorandum or any other written
statement furnished by the Company to you in connection with the negotiation of
the sale of the Notes, contains any untrue statement of a Material fact or
omits a Material fact necessary to make the statements contained therein or
herein not Materially misleading.  There is no fact 


B-2
<PAGE>
 
peculiar to the Company or its Subsidiaries which the Company has not disclosed
to you in writing which would have a Material Adverse Effect.

     7.  Pending Litigation.  There are no proceedings pending or, to the
knowledge of the Company, threatened against or affecting the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary in any court or before any governmental authority or
arbitration board or tribunal which would have a Material Adverse Effect.

     8.  Title to Properties.  The Company and each Restricted Subsidiary has
good and marketable title in fee simple (or its equivalent under applicable
law) to all Material parcels of real property and has good title to all the
other Material items of property it purports to own, including that reflected
in the most recent balance sheet referred to in paragraph 4 hereof, except as
sold or otherwise disposed of in the ordinary course of business and except for
Liens permitted by the Agreements.

     9. Patents and Trademarks. The Company and each Restricted Subsidiary owns
or possesses all Material patents, trademarks, trade names, service marks,
copyrights, licenses and rights with respect to the foregoing necessary for the
present conduct of its business, without any known conflict with the rights of
others.

     10. Sale Is Legal and Authorized.  The sale of the Notes and compliance by
the Company with all of the provisions of the Agreements, the Security
Document, the Intercreditor Agreement and the Notes --

         (a)  are within the corporate powers of the Company;

         (b)  will not violate any Material provisions of any law or any 
     Material order of any court or governmental authority or agency and will
     not conflict with or result in any breach of any of the terms, conditions
     or provisions of, or constitute a default under, the Articles of
     Incorporation or By-laws of the Company or any indenture or other agreement
     or instrument to which the Company is a party or by which it may be bound
     or result in the imposition of any Liens or encumbrances on any Material
     property of the Company; and


B-3
<PAGE>
 
         (c) have been duly authorized by proper corporate action on the part of
     the Company (no action by the stockholders of the Company being required by
     law, by the Articles of Incorporation or By-laws of the Company or
     otherwise), executed and delivered by the Company and the Agreements, the
     Security Document, the Intercreditor Agreement and the Notes constitute the
     legal, valid and binding obligations, contracts and agreements of the
     Company enforceable in accordance with their respective terms.

     11. No Defaults.  No Default or Event of Default has occurred and is
continuing.  The Company is not in default in the payment of principal or
interest on any Indebtedness for borrowed money and is not in Material default
under any instrument or instruments or agreements under and subject to which
any Indebtedness for borrowed money has been issued and no Material event has
occurred and is continuing under the provisions of any such instrument or
agreement which with the lapse of time or the giving of notice, or both, would
constitute an event of default thereunder.

     12. Governmental Consent.  No approval, consent or withholding of objection
on the part of any regulatory body, state, Federal or local, is necessary in
connection with the execution and delivery by the Company of the Agreements,
the Security Document or the Intercreditor Agreement or the issuance, sale or
delivery of the Notes or compliance by the Company with any of the provisions
of the Agreements, the Security Document, the Intercreditor Agreement or the
Notes.

     13. Taxes.  All tax returns required to be filed by the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary in any jurisdiction have, in fact, been filed, and all
taxes, assessments, fees and other governmental charges upon the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary or upon any of their respective properties, income or
franchises, which are shown to be due and payable in such returns have been
paid.  For all taxable years ending on or before December 31, 1990, the Federal
income tax liability of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries has been
satisfied and either the period of limitations on assessment of additional
Federal income tax has expired or the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
have entered into an agreement with the Internal Revenue Service closing
conclusively the total tax liability for the taxable year.  The Company does
not know of any proposed additional tax assessment 


B-4
<PAGE>
 
against it for which adequate provision has not been made on its accounts, and
no material controversy in respect of additional Federal or state income taxes
due since said date is pending or to the knowledge of the Company threatened.
The provisions for taxes on the books of the Company and each Restricted
Subsidiary are adequate for all open years, and for its current fiscal period.

     14. Use of Proceeds. The net proceeds from the sale of the Notes will be
used to refinance existing Indebtedness, to purchase new rental equipment and
for other corporate purposes. None of the transactions contemplated in the
Agreements (including, without limitation thereof, the use of proceeds from the
issuance of the Notes) will violate or result in a violation of Section 7 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any regulation issued pursuant
thereto, including, without limitation, Regulations G, T and X of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 12 C.F.R., Chapter II. Neither the
Company nor any Subsidiary owns or intends to carry or purchase any "margin
stock" within the meaning of said Regulation G. None of the proceeds from the
sale of the Notes will be used to purchase, or refinance any borrowing the
proceeds of which were used to purchase, any "security" within the meaning of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

     15. Private Offering.  Neither the Company, directly or indirectly, nor any
agent on its behalf has offered or will offer the Notes or any similar Security
to or has solicited or will solicit an offer to acquire the Notes or any similar
Security from or has otherwise approached or negotiated or will approach or
negotiate in respect of the Notes or any similar Security with any Person other
than the Purchasers and not more than sixteen other institutional investors,
each of whom was offered a portion of the Notes at private sale for investment.
Neither the Company, directly or indirectly, nor any agent on its behalf has
offered or will offer the Notes or any similar Security to or has solicited or
will solicit an offer to acquire the Notes or any similar Security from any
Person so as to bring the issuance and sale of the Notes within the provisions
of Section 5 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

     16. ERISA.  The consummation of the transactions provided for in the
Agreements and compliance by the Company with the provisions thereof and the
Notes issued thereunder will not involve any prohibited transaction 


B-5
<PAGE>
 
within the meaning of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code. Each Plan complies in
all material respects with all applicable statutes and governmental rules and
regulations, and (a) no Reportable Event has occurred and is continuing with
respect to any Plan, (b) neither the Company nor any ERISA Affiliate has
withdrawn from any Plan or Multiemployer Plan or instituted steps to do so, and
(c) no steps have been instituted to terminate any Plan. No condition exists or
event or transaction has occurred in connection with any Plan which could result
in the incurrence by the Company or any ERISA Affiliate of any material
liability, fine or penalty. No Plan maintained by the Company or any ERISA
Affiliate, nor any trust created thereunder, has incurred any "accumulated
funding deficiency" as defined in Section 302 of ERISA. The present value of all
benefits vested under all Plans equals, as of the last annual valuation date,
the value of the assets of the Plans allocable to such vested benefits. Neither
the Company nor any ERISA Affiliate has any contingent liability with respect to
any post-retirement "welfare benefit plan" (as such term is defined in ERISA)
except as has been disclosed to the Purchasers.

     17. Compliance with Law.  (a)  Neither the Company nor any Restricted
Subsidiary (1) is in violation of any law, ordinance, franchise, governmental
rule or regulation to which it is subject; or (2) has failed to obtain any
license, permit, franchise or other governmental authorization necessary to the
ownership of its property or to the conduct of its business, which violation or
failure to obtain would have a Material Adverse Effect.  Neither the Company
nor any Restricted Subsidiary is in default with respect to any order of any
court or governmental authority or arbitration board or tribunal which default
would have a Material Adverse Effect.
        
     (b) Without limiting the provisions of clause (a) of this paragraph 17, the
Company is in compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws, the failure to
comply with which would have a Material Adverse Effect.

     18. Investment Company Act.  The Company is not, and is not directly or
indirectly controlled by or acting on behalf of any Person which is, required
to register as an "investment company" under the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended.


B-6
<PAGE>
 
     19. Foreign Assets Control Regulations, etc.  Neither the Company nor any
Affiliate of the Company is, by reason of being a "national" of "designated
foreign country" or a "specially designated national" within the meaning of the
Regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control, United States Treasury
Department (31 C.F.R., Subtitle B, Chapter V), or for any other reason, subject
to any restriction or prohibition under, or is in violation of, any Federal
statute or Presidential Executive Order, or any rules or regulations of any
department, agency or administrative body promulgated under any such statute or
order, concerning trade or other relations with any foreign country or any
citizen or national thereof or the ownership or operation of any property.

     20. Lien Recordation.  The Security Document (or financing statements or
similar notices thereof to the extent permitted or required by applicable law)
have been filed for record or recorded in all public offices wherein such
filing or recordation is necessary to perfect the security interest granted by
such Security Document in the collateral therein described as against creditors
of and purchasers from the Company and its Subsidiaries and the Security
Document create a valid and perfected first security interest in such
collateral effective as against creditors of and purchasers from the Company
and its Subsidiaries subject only to encumbrances expressly permitted by the
terms of the Agreement and such Security Document.


B-7
<PAGE>
 
               DESCRIPTION OF SPECIAL COUNSEL'S CLOSING OPINION

     The closing opinion of Chapman and Cutler, special counsel to the
Purchasers, called for by (S)4.1 of the Note Agreements, shall be dated the
Closing Date and addressed to the Purchasers, shall be satisfactory in form and
substance to the Purchasers and shall be to the effect that:

         1. The Company is a corporation, validly existing and in good standing
     under the laws of the State of California and has the corporate power and
     the corporate authority to execute and deliver the Note Agreements and to
     issue the Notes.

         2. The Note Agreements have been duly authorized by all necessary
     corporate action on the part of the Company, have been duly executed and
     delivered by the Company and constitute the legal, valid and binding
     contracts of the Company enforceable in accordance with their terms,
     subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance or similar laws
     affecting creditors' rights generally, and general principles of equity
     (regardless of whether the application of such principles is considered in
     a proceeding in equity or at law).

         3. The Notes have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate
     action on the part of the Company, have been duly executed and delivered by
     the Company and constitute the legal, valid and binding obligations of the
     Company enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
     insolvency, fraudulent conveyance or similar laws affecting creditors'
     rights generally, and general principles of equity (regardless of whether
     the application of such principles is considered in a proceeding in equity
     or at law).

         4. The issuance, sale and delivery of the Notes under the circumstances
     contemplated by the Note Agreements does not, under existing law, require
     the registration of the Notes under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
     or the qualification of an indenture under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939,
     as amended. 

                                   EXHIBIT C
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
     The opinion of Chapman and Cutler shall also state that the opinion of
Bernard E. Lyons, Esq. is satisfactory in scope and form to Chapman and Cutler
and that, in their opinion, the Purchasers are justified in relying thereon.

     In rendering the opinion set forth in paragraph 1 above, Chapman and Cutler
may rely solely upon an examination of the Articles of Incorporation certified
by, and a certificate of good standing of the Company from, the Secretary of
State of the State of California, the By-laws of the Company and the general
business corporation law of the State of California. The opinion of Chapman and
Cutler is limited to the laws of the State of Illinois, the general business
corporation law of the State of California and the Federal laws of the United
States.

     With respect to matters of fact upon which such opinion is based, Chapman
and Cutler may rely on appropriate certificates of public officials and
officers of the Company.


C-2
<PAGE>
 
           DESCRIPTION OF CLOSING OPINION OF COUNSEL TO THE COMPANY

     The closing opinion of Bernard E. Lyons, Esq., counsel for the Company,
which is called for by (S)4.1 of the Note Agreements, shall be dated the Closing
Date and addressed to the Purchasers, shall be satisfactory in scope and form to
the Purchasers and shall be to the effect that:

         1. The Company is a corporation, duly incorporated, validly existing
     and in good standing under the laws of the State of State of California,
     has the corporate power and the corporate authority to execute and perform
     the Note Agreements, the Security Document and the Intercreditor Agreement
     and to issue the Notes and has the full corporate power and the corporate
     authority to conduct the activities in which it is now engaged and is duly
     licensed or qualified and is in good standing as a foreign corporation in
     each jurisdiction in which the character of the properties owned or leased
     by it or the nature of the business transacted by it makes such licensing
     or qualification necessary.

         2. Each Subsidiary is a corporation duly organized, validly existing
     and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation
     and is duly licensed or qualified and is in good standing in each
     jurisdiction in which the character of the properties owned or leased by it
     or the nature of the business transacted by it makes such licensing or
     qualification necessary and all of the issued and outstanding shares of
     capital stock of each such Subsidiary have been duly issued, are fully paid
     and non-assessable and are owned by the Company, by one or more
     Subsidiaries, or by the Company and one or more Subsidiaries.

         3. Each Note Agreement, the Security Document and the Intercreditor
     Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on
     the part of the Company, has been duly executed and delivered by the
     Company and constitute the legal, valid and binding contracts of the
     Company enforceable in accordance with its terms, subject to bankruptcy,
     insolvency, fraudulent conveyance or 


                                   EXHIBIT D
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
     similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally, and general principles
     of equity (regardless of whether the application of such principles is
     considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

         4. The Notes have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate
     action on the part of the Company, have been duly executed and delivered by
     the Company and constitute the legal, valid and binding obligations of the
     Company enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
     insolvency, fraudulent conveyance or similar laws affecting creditors'
     rights generally, and general principles of equity (regardless of whether
     the application of such principles is considered in a proceeding in equity
     or at law).

         5. Each Security Document has been duly authorized by all necessary
     corporate action on the part of the Company, has been duly executed and
     delivered by the Company and constitutes the legal, valid and binding
     contract of such Subsidiary enforceable in accordance with its terms,
     subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance and similar laws
     affecting creditors' rights generally, and general principles of equity
     (regardless of whether the application of such principles is considered in
     a proceeding in equity or at law).

         6. No approval, consent or withholding of objection on the part of, or
     filing, registration or qualification with, any governmental body, Federal,
     state or local, is necessary in connection with the execution, delivery and
     performance of the Note Agreements, the Security Document, the
     Intercreditor Agreement or the Notes.

         7. The Security Document (or financing statements or similar notices
     thereof to the extent permitted or required by applicable law) have been
     filed for record or recorded in all public offices wherein such filing or
     recordation is necessary to perfect the security interest granted by such
     Security Document in the collateral therein described as against creditors
     of and purchasers from the Company and its Subsidiaries and the Security
     Document create a valid and perfected first security interest in such
     collateral effective as against creditors of and purchasers from the
     Company and its Subsidiaries subject only to 


D-2
<PAGE>
 
     encumbrances expressly permitted by the terms of such Security Document.

         8. The issuance and sale of the Notes and the execution, delivery and
     performance by the Company of the Note Agreements, the Security Document
     and the Intercreditor Agreement do not conflict with or result in any
     breach of any of the provisions of or constitute a default under or result
     in the creation or imposition of any Lien upon any of the property of the
     Company pursuant to the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation or By-
     laws of the Company or any agreement or other instrument known to such
     counsel to which the Company is a party or by which the Company may be
     bound.

         9. The issuance, sale and delivery of the Notes under the circumstances
     contemplated by the Note Agreements does not, under existing law, require
     the registration of the Notes under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
     or the qualification of an indenture under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939,
     as amended.

         10. The issuance of the Notes and the use of the proceeds of the sale
     of the Notes in accordance with the provisions of and contemplated by the
     Note Agreements do not violate or conflict with Regulation G, T, U or X of
     the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

         11. There is no litigation pending or, to the best knowledge of such
     counsel, threatened which in such counsel's opinion could reasonably be
     expected to have a materially adverse effect on the Company's business or
     assets or which would impair the ability of the Company to issue and
     deliver the Notes or to comply with the provisions of the Note Agreements,
     the Security Document and the Intercreditor Agreement, as the case may be.

     The opinion of Bernard E. Lyons, Esq. shall cover such other matters
relating to the sale of the Notes as the Purchasers may reasonably request. With
respect to matters of fact on which such opinion is based, such counsel shall be
entitled to rely on appropriate certificates of public officials and officers of
the Company.


D-3
<PAGE>
 
                      SUBORDINATION PROVISIONS APPLICABLE
                         TO SUBORDINATED INDEBTEDNESS

     (a) The indebtedness evidenced by the subordinated notes*, any renewals or
extensions thereof, premium, if any, interest (including, without limitation,
any such interest accruing subsequent to the filing by or against the Company of
any proceeding brought under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (11 U.S.C.
Section 100 et seq.)) and any fees, charges, expenses or other sums payable
under or in respect of the agreements pursuant to which such subordinated notes
were issued, shall at all times be wholly and unconditionally subordinate and
junior in right of payment to all principal, premium, if any, and interest
(including, without limitation, any such interest accruing subsequent to the
filing by or against the Company of any proceeding brought under Chapter 11 of
the Bankruptcy Code (11 U.S.C. Section 100 et seq.), whether or not such
interest is allowed as a claim pursuant to the provisions of such Chapter) and
all other fees, charges, expenses and other sums payable in respect of (1) the
Company's $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 6.82% Senior Secured Notes,
Series A, Due August 21, 1999, $10,000,000 aggregate principal amount 6.89%
Senior Secured Notes, Series B, Due August 21, 2000, $10,000,000 7.04% Senior
Secured Notes, Series C, Due August 21, 2001 and $20,000,000 aggregate principal
amount 7.13% Senior Secured Notes, Series D, Due August 21, 2002 (collectively
the "Notes") issued pursuant to the separate and several Note Agreements, each
dated as of August 15, 1995 between the Company and Massachusetts Mutual Life
Insurance Company, Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company, Principal Mutual Life
Insurance Company, Phoenix Home Life Mutual Insurance Company and Alexander
Hamilton Life Insurance Company and (2) any other indebtedness for money
borrowed of the Company not expressed to be subordinate or junior to any other
indebtedness of the Company (the indebtedness described in the preceding clauses
(1) and (2) is hereinafter called "Superior Indebtedness"), in the manner and
with the force and effect hereafter set forth:

         (1) In the event of (i) any liquidation, dissolution or other winding
     up of the Company, voluntary or involuntary, (ii) any execution, sale,
     receivership, insolvency, bankruptcy, liquidation, 

- ----------------
*Or debentures or other designation as may be appropriate.

                                   EXHIBIT E
                              (to Note Agreement)
<PAGE>
 
     readjustment, reorganization, composition or other similar proceeding
     relative to the Company or its property, (iii) any general assignment by
     the Company for the benefit of creditors, or (iv) any distribution,
     division, marshalling or application of any of the properties or assets of
     the Company or the proceeds thereof to creditors, voluntary or involuntary,
     and whether or not involving legal proceedings, then and in any event:

               (A) all principal, premium, if any, any interest and all other
         sums owing on all Superior Indebtedness shall first be paid in full in
         cash before any payment or distribution of any kind or character,
         whether in cash, property or securities (other than in securities,
         including equity securities, or other evidences of indebtedness, the
         payment of which is unconditionally subordinated, to at least the same
         degree as the subordinated securities being paid, to the payment of all
         Superior Indebtedness which may at the time be outstanding) shall be
         made on indebtedness evidenced by the subordinated notes;

               (B) any payment or distribution of any kind or character, whether
         in cash, property or securities which would otherwise (but for the
         terms hereof) be payable or deliverable in respect of the subordinated
         notes, shall be paid or delivered directly to the holders of the
         Superior Indebtedness, for application to the payment of the Superior
         Indebtedness, until all Superior Indebtedness shall have been paid in
         full, and the holders of the subordinated notes at the time outstanding
         irrevocably authorize, empower and direct all receivers, trustees,
         liquidators, conservators, fiscal agents and others having authority in
         the premises to effect all such payments and deliveries;

               (C) any payment or distribution of any kind or character, whether
         in cash, property or securities which shall be made upon or in respect
         of the subordinated notes shall be paid over to the holders of Superior
         Indebtedness, pro rata, for application and payment thereof unless and
         until such Superior Indebtedness shall have been paid or satisfied in
         full; and


E-2
<PAGE>
 
               (D) notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, if for any reason
         whatsoever any payment or distribution of any kind or character,
         whether in cash, property or securities, should be received by a holder
         of the subordinated notes before all such Superior Indebtedness is paid
         in full, such payment or distribution shall be held in trust for the
         benefit of, and shall be immediately paid or delivered by such holder
         to, as the case may be, the holders of such Superior Indebtedness
         remaining unpaid, or their representative or representatives, for
         application to the payment of all such Superior Indebtedness, pro rata,
         unless and until such Superior Indebtedness shall have been paid or
         satisfied in full.

         (2) In the event that the subordinated notes are declared or become due
     and payable because of the occurrence of any event of default hereunder (or
     under the agreement or indenture, as appropriate) or otherwise than at the
     option of the Company, under circumstances when the foregoing clause (1)
     shall not be applicable, then no amount shall be paid by the Company in
     respect of the principal of, premium, if any, or interest on the
     subordinated notes in excess of current interest payments as provided
     herein prior to the 90th day after any holder of the Subordinated Notes has
     given notice to the Company that such Subordinated Notes have been declared
     or have become due and payable before their expressed maturity date, unless
     and until all Superior Indebtedness shall have been paid in full in cash,
     provided that if during such 90 day period the holders of the Superior
     Indebtedness initiate legal proceedings to enforce the Company's
     obligations in respect of the Superior Indebtedness, such period of non-
     payment shall be tolled for so long as the holders of the Superior
     Indebtedness continue to prosecute such legal proceedings.

         (3) Upon the happening of any Superior Indebtedness Payment Default (as
     defined below), the holders of the subordinated notes shall not be entitled
     to receive any payment on account thereof during the period beginning on
     the date such Senior Indebtedness Payment Default shall occur and ending
     upon the earlier of (i) the date such Superior Indebtedness Payment Default
     has been waived in writing by the holders of the related Superior
     Indebtedness, (ii) the date

E-3
<PAGE>
 
     on which notice that such Superior Indebtedness Payment Default shall have
     ceased to exist is given by any holder of the related Superior Indebtedness
     to the Company, and (iii) the date on which such Superior Indebtedness
     Payment Default has been cured or shall have ceased to exist. "Superior
     Indebtedness Payment Default" shall mean any default or failure by the
     Company to make any optional, required or mandatory prepayment or payment
     of principal, premium, if any, or interest with respect to any Superior
     Indebtedness.

         (4) In case any default on any Superior Indebtedness other than a
     default in respect of the payment of principal, premium, if any, or
     interest in respect of such Superior Indebtedness ("Superior Indebtedness
     Nonmonetary Event of Default") shall have occurred and be continuing with
     respect to any Superior Indebtedness, no holder of the subordinated notes
     shall be entitled to receive any payment on account thereof during the
     period beginning on a Payment Blockage Commencement Date (as defined below)
     and ending upon the earlier of (A) the date such Superior Indebtedness
     Nonmonetary Event of Default has been waived in writing by the holders of
     such Superior Indebtedness, (B) the date on which notice that such Superior
     Indebtedness Nonmonetary Event of Default shall have ceased to exist is
     given by the holders of such Superior Indebtedness to the Company, and (C)
     the date on which such Superior Indebtedness Nonmonetary Event of Default
     has been cured; provided, however, that (x) no more than one blockage
     period under this paragraph (4) may occur during any period of 360
     consecutive days, (y) blockage periods under this paragraph (4) shall not
     be in effect for more than 150 days during any period of 360 consecutive
     days, and (z) no facts or circumstances constituting a Superior
     Indebtedness Nonmonetary Event of Default existing on any Payment Blockage
     Commencement Date may be used as a basis for any subsequent blockage period
     unless cured or waived. As used herein, the term "Payment Blockage
     Commencement Date" shall mean the date on which written notice of a
     Superior Indebtedness Nonmonetary Event of Default is given by any holder
     of such Superior Indebtedness to the Company.

     (b) If any payment or distribution of any kind or character (whether in
cash, securities or other property) or any security shall be received by any


E-4
<PAGE>
 
holder of the subordinated notes in contravention of any of the terms of this
(S)___, such payment or distribution or security shall be held in trust for the
benefit of, and shall be paid over or delivered and transferred to, holders of
the Superior Indebtedness pro rata for application to the payment of all
Superior Indebtedness remaining unpaid, to the extent necessary to pay all such
Superior Indebtedness in full in cash.  In the event of the failure of any
holder of the subordinated notes to endorse or assign any such payment,
distribution or security, any holder of the Superior Indebtedness or such
holder's representative is hereby irrevocably authorized to endorse or assign
the same.

     (c) The holder of each subordinated note undertakes and agrees for the
benefit of each holder of Superior Indebtedness to execute, verify, deliver and
file any proofs of claim within 30 days before the expiration of the time to
file the same which any holder of Superior Indebtedness may at any time require
in order to prove and realize upon any rights or claims pertaining to the
subordinated notes and to effectuate the full benefit of the subordination
contained herein; and upon failure of the holder of any subordinated note so to
do, any such holder of Superior Indebtedness shall be deemed to be irrevocably
appointed the agent and attorney-in-fact of the holder of such note to execute,
verify, deliver and file any such proofs of claim.

     (d) No right of any holder of any Superior Indebtedness to enforce
subordination as herein provided shall at any time or in any way be affected or
impaired by any failure to act on the part of the Company or the holders of
Superior Indebtedness, or by any noncompliance by the Company with any of the
terms, provisions and covenants of the subordinated notes or the agreement under
which they are issued, regardless of any knowledge thereof that any such holder
of Superior Indebtedness may have or be otherwise charged with.

     (e) No holder of any subordinated notes will sell, assign, pledge, encumber
or otherwise dispose of any of its subordinated notes unless such sale,
assignment, pledge, encumbrance or disposition is made expressly subject to the
foregoing provisions.

     (f) The Company agrees, for the benefit of the holders of Superior
Indebtedness, that in the event that any subordinated note is declared due and


E-5
<PAGE>
 
payable before its expressed maturity because of the occurrence of a default
hereunder, (1) the Company will give prompt notice in writing of such happening
to the holders of Superior Indebtedness, (2) all Superior Indebtedness shall
forthwith become immediately due and payable upon demand, regardless of the
expressed maturity thereof and (3) the holders of such subordinated notes shall
not be entitled to receive any payment or distribution in respect thereof or
applicable thereto until all Superior Indebtedness at the time outstanding shall
have been paid in full in cash.

     (g) The subordination effected by the foregoing provisions and the rights
created thereby of the holders of the Superior Indebtedness shall not be
affected by (1) any amendment of or addition or supplement to any Superior
Indebtedness or any instrument or agreement relating thereto, (2) any exercise
or non-exercise of any right, power or remedy under or in respect of any
Superior Indebtedness or any instrument or agreement relating thereto, or (3)
the giving or denial of any waiver, consent, release, indulgence, extension,
renewal, modification or delay or the taking or nontaking of any other action,
inaction or omission, in respect of any Superior Indebtedness or any instrument
or agreement relating thereto or to any securities relating thereto or any
guarantee thereof, whether or not any holder of any subordinated notes shall
have had notice or knowledge of any of the foregoing.
 

E-6

<PAGE>
 
                                 Exhibit 10.10

            Schedule to Note Agreement and Intercreditor Agreement


A.   JULY 1, 1996 PRIVATELY PLACED NOTES.  Separate and several Note Agreements
     -----------------------------------                                       
     dated as of July 1, 1996, in the form substantially similar to that of
     Exhibit 10.6 to this Registration Statement filed on Form S-1, with the
     differences summarized below, were entered into by Company with each of the
     institutions named below. The Note Agreements were executed on behalf of
     the Company by William F. Berry, President and Chief Executive Officer. The
     separate Note Agreements were addressed to each of the Purchasers named
     below and accepted by the officers of the respective institutions as shown
     below.

     1.   Principle Terms of Note Agreements

          $20,000,000 7.62% Senior Secured Notes, Series E,
                    Due July 12, 2001,
                         and
          $20,000,000 7.76% Senior Secured Notes, Series F,
                    Due July 12, 2002

                    Series E, PPN 90341 *AE 9
                    Series F, PPN 90341 *AF 6

     2.   Purchasers

          MASSACHUSETTS MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
          1295 State Street
          Springfield, Massachusetts  01111

               By:  /s/   John B. Joyce
                          Vice President

          CM LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
          c/o Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company
          1295 State Street
          Springfield, Massachusetts  01111
 
               By:  /s/   Thomas T.S. Li
                          Managing Director
 
          PRINCIPAL MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
          711 High Street
          Des Moines, Iowa  50392-0800
 
               By:  /s/   Jon C. Heiny
                          Counsel
 
               By:  /s/   Annette M. Masterson
                          Director - Securities Investment
 

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
          PHOENIX HOME LIFE MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
          One American Row
          Hartford, Connecticut  06115
 
               By:  /s/  Anthony Zeppetella
                         Senior Vice President

          ALEXANDER HAMILTON LIFE INSURANCE
           COMPANY OF AMERICA
          P.O. Box 21008
          Greensboro, North Carolina  27420

               By:  /s/  W. Hardee Mills
                         Vice President

B.   First Amendment to Intercreditor Agreement

          The First Amendment to Intercreditor Agreement dated as of July 1,
     1996 (the "First Amendment") amends the Intercreditor Agreement dated as of
     August 15, 1995 (the "Intercreditor Agreement"). The First Amendment is
     substantially similar to the Intercreditor Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.9
     to this Registration Statement filed on Form S-1, with the differences
     summarized below.

           The First Amendment was entered into by (a) Massachusetts Mutual Life
     Insurance Company, Jefferson-Pilot Life Insurance Company, Principal Mutual
     Life Insurance Company, Phoenix Home Life Mutual Insurance Company, Phoenix
     American Life Insurance Company, Alexander Hamilton Life Insurance Company
     of America, as holders of the Company's Senior Secured Notes, Series A
     through D, due 1999-2002 and (b) Bank of America National Trust and Savings
     Association.

          The Company sold to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, CM
     Life Insurance Company, Principal Mutual Life Insurance Company, Phoenix
     Home Life Mutual Insurance Company and Alexander Hamilton Life Insurance
     Company of America its (i) $20,000,000 7.62% Senior Secured Notes, Series
     E, Due July 12, 2001 and (ii) $20,000,000 7.76% Senior Secured Notes,
     Series F, Due July 12, 2002. Pursuant to the First Amendment, the Series E
     and F Senior Secured Notes are pari passu with the existing Series A
     through D Senior Secured Notes and are secured ratably with the existing
     Series A through D Senior Secured Notes pursuant to the Third Amended and
     Restated Security Agreement.

                                       2

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1



                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS



   We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting part of this 
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of our report dated May 22, 1996 relating to 
the financial statements of U.S. Rentals, Inc., a California corporation, and of
our report dated December 6, 1996 relating to the financial statement of U.S.
Rentals, Inc., a Delaware corporation, which appear in such Prospectus. We also
consent to the references to us under the heading "Experts" and "Selected
Financial Data" in such Prospectus. However, it should be noted that Price
Waterhouse LLP has not prepared or certified such "Selected Financial Data".






PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
Sacramento, California
December 13, 1996


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
 
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM U.S.
RENTALS, INC. (THE PREDECESSOR) COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1995             DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1995             JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1995             SEP-30-1996
<CASH>                                           3,479                   3,766
<SECURITIES>                                         0                       0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   54,822                  65,461
<ALLOWANCES>                                     6,166                  10,397
<INVENTORY>                                      3,938                   4,278
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                     0                       0
<PP&E>                                         179,218                 242,417
<DEPRECIATION>                                  49,398                  46,440
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 245,184                 321,390
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                                0                       0
<BONDS>                                              0                       0
                                0                       0
                                          0                       0
<COMMON>                                           699                     699
<OTHER-SE>                                      82,378                  90,277
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   245,184                 321,390
<SALES>                                        242,847                 216,462
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               242,847                 216,462
<CGS>                                          167,872                 158,664
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  204,825                 188,136
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                 1,620                     342
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 3,441<F1>               4,176<F1>
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               8,876                   8,286
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 31,092                  22,952
<INCOME-TAX>                                       468                     316
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             30,624                  22,636
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0                       0
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                    30,624                  22,636
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                        0                       0
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0                       0
<FN>
<F1>REPRESENTS THE PROVISION FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS.
</FN>
        

</TABLE>


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