I currently have a PJ 40' tandem dual typical hotshot setup. This is my 2nd PJ and though they do make a nice trailer I have noticed some things that make me doubt that the quality of there trailers is what they once were. The aluminum is double what a PJ is but I'm trying to way the upfront cost with long term savings. With a estimated 3k pound difference between the two models I'm wondering what kind of mpg savings I would see going with aluminum. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Aluminum or steel 40' trailer
Discussion in 'Expediter and Hot Shot Trucking Forum' started by Midwest1, Feb 15, 2014.
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Its lighter so it could assist you with higher payloads, helping to add an extra ltl on a trip. Plus I dont know why exactly, but it seems to ride smoother down the road. Without corrosion that you have with steel it has a longer life expectancy.
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I'm curious if you would notice a difference in overall mileage. Assuming your not dragging around an extra 3000 pounds how much if any do you think your mpg would increase?
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What at don't you like about the PJ?
Im planning on having one built with air ride suspension this year.
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It's not that I don't like PJ trailers I still own one. When they were a smaller company I think they produced a better trailer. Now that there a volume trailer dealer there made in Mexico to stay competitive. My current trailer is three years old and already rusting. There paint and powder coating is not what it used to be. Living where you live in California you probably don't have to worry about that. It's been in twice for braking issues the first time they covered it no complaints the second time I had to really fight for them to fix it.
They make a nice trailer for the money. I'm going to be upgrading soon and that's why I'm thinking about going aluminum. I would be lighter and never have to worry about rust, paint, wood decking etc... Yes the he cost is double but if I don't have to buy another one it could be worth it. Just my .02Foxcover Thanks this. -
In my experience weight does not effect mpg so much as wind, so I don't think you will see much gain there, remember if you go with aluminum that you will need a welder that can weld aluminum when it needs repair.
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The welding issue is something I considered. That definitely is A drawback. So from your experience being lighter won't get increase your mpg? I'm talking about one ton dually's not anything larger. The wind is a killer not matter what.
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I've always gotten better fuel mileage with a load of flat steel that weighed 10k verse 500# 12' high.
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That would be a good question, if you do a lot of dead heading that would be something to consider, remember also that an aluminum deck is going to be hard to keep freight secured to, I'd at least get a wooden deck.
Something to check would be your mpg with a light load (up to 5k?) Versus empty, that might give you some numbers
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