Hi,
I am sure, this questions were asked here many times so I am sorry to ask it again.
I am new in this field, but I want to become an O/O in the future and I would like to be prepared ahead of time.
It is all about what to buy. JJ
First of, could somebody please explain the differences between “fleet spec” and “O/O spec”?
Also it will be great if somebody can help me to specify my first truck considering the following:

• I am in Winnipeg, MB, Canada, working for carrier who operates in all Canada and 48 States.
• 90% - 53’ “no touch” trailer or reefer with loads ranging 25K-40K
• About 30% - driving in the mountains
• Priorities list: Fuel economy, relialabilaty, maintenance cost.

At the first place I will be looking for best possible Engine – Transmission – Rear End combination, than – for driver’s comfort. And of course I will be looking for the used (3-4 y.o.) truck.
Any professional opinion is greatly appreciated.
Many thanks,
Viktor.

"Fleet spec'ed" trucks, generaly speaking, are ordered by people who've never driven a big truck, ie; the mega national carriers. Minimum gauges, 9 or 10 speeds, fixed fifth wheels, small rubber, steel wheels, no passenger air ride seat, etc, and worst of all they are usually Freightshakers or Cornbinders.

"O/O spec'ed" trucks have, generaly speaking, most, if not nearly all options, 13 speeds and higher horsepower. Petes and KW's are commonly the desired trucks of choice.

There are however, a few fleets who spec out their trucks quite nicely. Those would be the trucks I'd look at if I were you looking to make your first tractor purchase. I'm not saying you should be impressed with chrome and chicken lights, rather something you'll at least be proud to own and drive which would likely entail something inbetween loaded and stripped plane Jane.

I'd stay away from Freightliners and International trucks, Mercedes and Detroit motors. Just my opinion.

An old Kenworth slogan from years ago stated "You could buy something else, but then you'd have to drive it". So true..

Thank you for answer, 379 Peterbilt

Who else want to share knowledge and experience?

Thanks a lot!

3 or 4 year old truck. Depending on how long you intend to own it, you may want to consider engine rebuild and repair costs. Cat is really high. Here in IL, we appreciate people buying Cats putting money into the economy. But Cat controls the parts tightlya nd they make more money from repair parts than they do the sale of engines. Mack, Cummins, and DD seem to be much less expensive repair and rebuild when the miles start adding up. It may be something to consider.

Demmy

You also need to look at resale down the road. KW's, Pete's, cost more up front, but also seem to hold their value better at trade in time. Fleet spec trucks are a dime a dozen on lots these days. I also would stay away from Detroit, and Mercedes diesels. Just my $0.02 worth.....

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