RAM 3500 vs 5500. What is the biggest difference?

Discussion in 'Car Hauler and Auto Carrier Trucking Forum' started by MisterX, Jun 12, 2014.

  1. Night_driver

    Night_driver Light Load Member

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    I was considering a SA with 5-car 1 axle but realized the weight had to be under 20k on each side. I haven't thought about a SA with 4-car. One thing I'm worried about is expensive repairs on a used semi, in particular all the sensors if I get 2011-2012 model.
    One thing I liked about GN400 is the weight - 8200 lbs. I know you mentioned high cost of brake replacement on your older trailer. How much was it for the new brakes?
     
  2. Night_driver

    Night_driver Light Load Member

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    Is that an F350 DRW? I'm sure pulling that little trailer with a semi you get similar mpg as bobtailing.
     
  3. truckon

    truckon Swamp Thing

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    Electric brakes on the infinity run about $200 per axle, but if your doing them once per year then you might as well do the seals and bearings well your in there.

    This was one of my set ups.


    uploadfromtaptalk1428160098341.jpg
     
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  4. Terry270

    Terry270 Road Train Member

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    Buying the wrong semi is just as bad as buying an f350 lol. Find yourself a pre emissions truck either N14 or series 60.

    Yes you're looking at around 1500 just in parts to do the brakes and bearings which you'll be doing once a year. More expensive than an air brake trailer!
     
    Last edited: Apr 4, 2015
  5. SLANT6

    SLANT6 Road Train Member

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    How many axles? 1? 5-car 1 axle? I don't think there is a 1 axle vehicle trailer. Moving 5 units with a dually p/u truck? You will not be able to stop. Axles = a set of brakes, not just the ability to carry more weight.
    I'll take a real truck with air brakes that is meant for the job for my money.

    Actually, if I was going to buy a truck and go into business hauling cars, I'd seriously think about a 3 axle 5 pack. You can do a lot with one of those.

    [​IMG]
     
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  6. SHO-TYME

    SHO-TYME Road Train Member

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    Pretty close, I weighed it with 2 Bentleys and I was right at 40,000lbs.
     
  7. Hammer166

    Hammer166 Crusty Information Officer

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    Slant, these guys are running on shoestring budgets, they can't swing a 5-pack. About 25% of the calls I get on the strays I list on Central hang up as soon as they find out it's 15 day pay; it's COD or nothing. :biggrin_25511:
     
  8. Night_driver

    Night_driver Light Load Member

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    How did you like it? I was told hydraulic brakes are better than electric. I know there is an option of 2 - 12k axles with super singles. How long did your tired last?
     
  9. Night_driver

    Night_driver Light Load Member

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    Sun Country makes 5-car with 1 axle rates 25,000 lbs. I never considered moving 5 cars with a dually. Maybe 4 cars if it's a 2 ton dually would be ok.
     
  10. SLANT6

    SLANT6 Road Train Member

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    Exactly.

    I was just adding what I would do, should I get the burning desire to get behind the wheel again. In reality, I'd rather play golf every afternoon.
     
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