Coming out of early retirement and looking at putting a truck on the road to contract with a local logging company to haul chips and possibly also some logs. (Haven't chosen which company to go with, several to choose from as the industry is really picking up in this region with several new mills starting up.) Will haul within a 100 mile radius. Have located several 2003 FLD112's with CAT C12/410 hp, 10 speed, 3.90 rear, 187" wheelbase, daycab. Miles around 500k. These were long-term rentals and well-maintained by the rental company, detailed records. Price is right and am even thinking about buying two of them, which would be the same money as buying one of a newer model, giving me a backup or ability to add a second driver.
I realize this setup isn't for climbing the Rockies, but not an issue here in the coastal flatlands. Prefer economy over raw power anyway!
Any thoughts? What was the difference between the FLD's and other Freightliner models?
THANKS!
Would a FLD make a good chip/log truck?
Discussion in 'Freightliner Forum' started by Nottoway, Sep 14, 2013.
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No difference in cab/frame/running gear between fld & classic. FLD has a set back front axle & different hood. That's about it. I think the truck would do fine, the only thing you might want is a 13 or 18 if you are in mud or steep hills. I may get trashed for this, but I always liked FLD's. Great trucks IMHO. The door & dashboard rattles can be fixed if they bother you that much. The C12 is a great motor too.
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The question is.... what kind of gross weight will this truck be pulling?
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I don't think it would be bad at all for flat coastal hauling, the 3.90 gears are gonna help with the heavy ones. Used to haul chips from a lumber yard some were bad heavy esp. after a rain. LOL But we used a small cam cummins that done a good job long as we didn't rush it.
Nottoway Thanks this. -
I have a 2000 KW T600 thats pretty light spec hauling crude oil...alot of off road. It has a C12, 13 spd n 3.90 rears. It handles 102,000 lbs just fine bouncing around out there...
Nottoway Thanks this. -
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fld should be fine the fld and classics are probably the best trucks freightliner ever made
Nottoway Thanks this. -
I'd choose ISX ore C16
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