Truck specs???

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by TruckingPirate, Feb 17, 2020.

  1. TruckingPirate

    TruckingPirate Bobtail Member

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    Hello everyone, this is my 1st post. After reading several over the last couple of days, I haven't found any that really have answers for my type of setup. I need advice on setting up a camper/car hauler. The trailer is a 53' Shipsee trailer. I know I want a pre emission truck, preferably a '99 or older. I run the lower 48 mostly western states from Indiana. I will haul 3 campers one way then 3 vehicles back. I would like all suggestions for the specs to be able drive between 60-65mph, but have enough power to pass trucks when necessary. I don't need to fly up mountains, but I'm looking for the best over all fuel mileage. I understand a lot of it comes down to the driver, but starting with the right truck helps. I've been hauling campers with my pickup for 8yrs+ and now looking to upgrade to class 8. I'm getting older and sleeping in the back of a pickup is getting old. So any suggestions on engine, transmission, and rears will help. I would love a 379, but aerodynamic trucks are not out of the question. So please verify classic or aero truck when giving specs. I will answer any questions to the best of my knowledge.
    Thanks.
     
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  3. loudtom

    loudtom Road Train Member

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    You'll be running the lower 47 if you want a pre emissions truck.
     
    daf105paccar Thanks this.
  4. TruckingPirate

    TruckingPirate Bobtail Member

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    That's true, just so use to saying 48
     
  5. MinionTRookie

    MinionTRookie Bobtail Member

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    Cat c7 to co or Cummins 8 liter to 11, 10 speed, 3.90s on 22.5. I'd guess, any other takers?
     
  6. MinionTRookie

    MinionTRookie Bobtail Member

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    Sorry that was to c9, I'd guess maybe a integral sleeper 2000 or so Volvo with single axle may be a common chassis. Not sure of engine choices in that but d11 with 300+ horses would be common.
     
    TruckingPirate Thanks this.
  7. HillbillyDeluxeTruck

    HillbillyDeluxeTruck Road Train Member

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    You aint haulin a lot of weight, so find a singoe axle tractor. Anything that is class 8 is gonna run 11 liter or bigger engines. I think you could do 9+mpg even with a larger engine.

    A lot of RV guys like to run Volvos and remove 1 axle. If you find a clean 98,99, 00 one with a 12.7 Detroit and a 13spd, that'd be the way to go. I ran one pulling a dry van, empty weight was 34k and I could get 10mpg empty when deadheading. Averaged around 7 loaded.
     
    Deere hunter Thanks this.
  8. daf105paccar

    daf105paccar Road Train Member

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    Can you afford losing that market?
     
  9. Deere hunter

    Deere hunter Road Train Member

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    Definitely a 12.7 Detroit 13 speed 355s single axle arrow dynamic would save you a few miles per gallon but a single axle 379 can stroll pretty good!
     
  10. TruckingPirate

    TruckingPirate Bobtail Member

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    Feb 17, 2020
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    Yes
     
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