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How to choose a truck

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by drivenmecrazy, Oct 30, 2009.

  1. Oct 30, 2009 #1
    drivenmecrazy

    drivenmecrazy Light Load Member

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    Ok I know this has probably been covered in some thread but I couldn't find it. Can you give me your opinions on how to mechanically choose the right truck when its time to buy. What things do you look for and what do you look out for. I am planning to buy in the next 3-6 months in the $25000 to $30000 range. I'm not looking for anyone with a cyrstal ball just some guidelines. Thanks. Your help is appreciated, your humor is tolerated. :biggrin_2559:
     
    drivenmecrazy, Oct 30, 2009
    drivenmecrazy, Oct 30, 2009
    #1
    grc56_tn Thanks this.
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  3. Oct 30, 2009 #2
    broncrider

    broncrider Road Train Member

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    somewhere drinkin beer probaly.....
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    easy.....hey i like that color!!

    everyones opionon is goin to be different
    i like cat, some guys like cummins or even driploit
    brand, trannys and rears will be the same way

    what ever you do get copy's of ALL maintenance reciepts, and have a GOOD mechanic check it over very closely
     
    broncrider, Oct 30, 2009
    broncrider, Oct 30, 2009
    #2
    drivenmecrazy Thanks this.
  4. Oct 30, 2009 #3
    The Challenger

    The Challenger Kinghunter

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    East Central FL
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    There deals to be made and as the economy gets better the deals will not last. What are you looking for: A Classic style Peterbilt 379, Freightliner classic or an aero truck like a KW T2000/ Peterbilt 387?

    KH
     
    The Challenger, Oct 30, 2009
    The Challenger, Oct 30, 2009
    #3
    drivenmecrazy Thanks this.
  5. Oct 30, 2009 #4
    grc56_tn

    grc56_tn Light Load Member

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    Jun 24, 2009
    all over
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    I am also planning on getting a truck early next year so I will be following this thread. I am more interested in the aero trucks because of the fuel economy.
     
    grc56_tn, Oct 30, 2009
    grc56_tn, Oct 30, 2009
    #4
    drivenmecrazy Thanks this.
  7. Oct 30, 2009 #5
    jtrnr1951

    jtrnr1951 Road Train Member

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    Standing in the corner, timed out
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    Be sure to have it put on the dyno. If you want a super deal-there are some o/o that are close to losing there trucks. Cash talks big time right now !! Stay away from the big truck dealer used lots, overpriced. Do NOT be in a big hurry !! Do not buy a used big fleet truck. Good Luck....
     
    jtrnr1951, Oct 30, 2009
    jtrnr1951, Oct 30, 2009
    #5
    drivenmecrazy Thanks this.
  8. Oct 30, 2009 #6
    Gears

    Gears Trucker Forum STAFF - Gone, But Not Forgotten.

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    +1 on the dyno.
    Oil analysis too if possible.
    You want to get as much background on the truck as possible. Another thing to consider is the availability of a warranty. If it's worth it's salt, it should give you a bit of piece of mind. Like buying a used car, most anything you look at will have some issues of some sort or another. Deciding which issues you can or want to deal with will also help you make your decision.

    Keep us posted as to your progress...I like watching the progression !
     
    Gears, Oct 30, 2009
    Gears, Oct 30, 2009
    #6
    drivenmecrazy Thanks this.
  9. Oct 30, 2009 #7
    drivenmecrazy

    drivenmecrazy Light Load Member

    54
    9
    Dec 5, 2007
    Oregon
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    I'm looking more toward the aero trucks. I love the classic conventionals but am also looking for fuel mileage. I really like the KW T600s. The dyno I will do and Ive thought about oil analysis also but will it be an honest indicator if the oil has recently been changed and the truck not used. I will also request copy's of ALL maintenance reciepts.
    I do have one question though. How can I have a GOOD mechanic check it over if say the truck that I am interested in is not in my local area? :biggrin_25524:

    And regardless of the deals not lasting I SURE HOPE THE ECONOMY GETS BETTER. For all our sakes.
     
    drivenmecrazy, Oct 30, 2009
    drivenmecrazy, Oct 30, 2009
    #7
  10. Oct 30, 2009 #8
    englewoodcowboy

    englewoodcowboy Light Load Member

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    Feb 14, 2008
    Chilhowie, VA
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    That is easy, if it is a pete, go to the local pete, if KW, go there, Freight shaker etc. Tell them you just bought it and want an estimate to put it in tip top shape, and money isnot an object as you want it to be reliable. Shouldn't cost you a thing and they will hunt for things to fix....:biggrin_2554:
     
    englewoodcowboy, Oct 30, 2009
    englewoodcowboy, Oct 30, 2009
    #8
    outerspacehillbilly, drivenmecrazy and grc56_tn Thank this.
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