Cost difference C15 v ISX

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by CMoore, Aug 23, 2007.

  1. CMoore

    CMoore Bobtail Member

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    Mar 8, 2007
    Manassas, VA
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    Ok I've read all the horror stories about the high cost and limited availability of Cat parts. But what is the difference in the upfront purchase costs?

    Two trucks spec'ed the same, one's got a an ISX the other a Cat, same hp etc etc? How much more is the CAT?

    Is it worth it? Or are you just paying for a name?
     
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  3. Brickman

    Brickman Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Most likely it'll be a bigger difference at replacement parts time.

    But if I had to guess and just pull numbers out of my butt I doubt you would see more than a $2000 spread at the time of purchase. Unless you are buying new, then I aint even gonna try.
     
  4. CMoore

    CMoore Bobtail Member

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    Mar 8, 2007
    Manassas, VA
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    Is anyone buying 07 engines? haha

    I'm looking at used, 04-05 range.

    I'm leery of the Cat's because of the parts, especially going for used equipment, but there seem to be so many more Cats out there for sale than cummins, so I don't know if it's worth limiting my searchs to isxs only.
     
  5. broncrider

    broncrider Road Train Member

    get the yellow one


    if it aint a cat it MUST be a dog!!
     
  6. CaptCaveman

    CaptCaveman <strong>"Positive Pessimist"</strong>

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    Amarillo Tx
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    When a Cat is working right its a great engine but if it starts eating parts your well and truly screwed. If your going to buy a used truck with any brand of engine ask to see the maintenance logs and see how its service life has been and if there are no logs, walk away.
     
  7. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    Good point on the maintenance logs. All CMV are required to maintain such records for DOT. If there is no maintenance records, then they must be hiding something.
     
  8. wallbanger

    wallbanger "Enemy of showers everywhere"

    CMoore, if you are looking for a used truck, then find yourself an '03(or older) PRE-EMISSION motor, you know a Cat 3406E or a Cummins N14.

    Without the EGR those motors run cooler and your underhood temps run much cooler, sparing your components from a lot of extra wear and tear.
    Just my $.02 bud.
     
  9. CMoore

    CMoore Bobtail Member

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    Mar 8, 2007
    Manassas, VA
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    That's exactly what I'm worried about going used.

    But a very good point on the logs.

    I'd love to find a used Cat with one previous anal-retentive owner who is just parting ways towards the end of a warranty, instead of someone who is just fed up with the thing.
     
  10. CMoore

    CMoore Bobtail Member

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    Mar 8, 2007
    Manassas, VA
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    Peer pressure! haha

    Yeah I'm leaning towards the yellow.

    The one and only truck I ever owned had an ISM 400, and it was nothing but problems. So I don't really have much experience or knowledge to really weigh in. Which is why I'm here.
     
  11. CMoore

    CMoore Bobtail Member

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    Mar 8, 2007
    Manassas, VA
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    I hear you. My only worry with those would be dealing with an engine that is getting long in the tooth and due for some big ticket repairs.

    Also about limiting my options with who will lease me on with an older truck.
     
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