Used big rigs

Discussion in 'Expediter and Hot Shot Trucking Forum' started by rccarlson22, Jul 14, 2020.

  1. rccarlson22

    rccarlson22 Medium Load Member

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    I’m thinking of going the “singlescrewshaker” route and getting a pre-2000 big rig.

    My price range dictates it’s going to have some miles. I can do the mechanical work to engines, axles, brakes, etc. basically anything that doesn’t require a proprietary computer software. Down time wouldn’t be an issue because I still have the Ram to fill in. I’ll be keeping the 40’ hot shot trailer for now until I get the big rig into “cross country” running condition.

    School me on what to look for other than the obvious. I know to bring me flashlight and scan for leaks, damaged wiring, missing hardware.

    My main concern is I am not up to speed on maintenance intervals of the big rigs. At what mileage should I be concerned about major overhauls?


    Thanks in advance
     
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  3. Lite bug

    Lite bug Road Train Member

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    Good idea!! Singlescrewshaker has a lot of wisdom. Besides that his setup looks cool.
     
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  4. rccarlson22

    rccarlson22 Medium Load Member

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    And he’s ELD exempt, that thing is a pain in the rear
     
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  5. Lite bug

    Lite bug Road Train Member

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    I stay within 200 miles from the house so the ELD is not a issue. I see how it interferes if I was still out carrying state to state. Placement of tarps on different things, finding food, finding places to park all the while clock is running. Working in areas and knowing where everything is at allows one to adjust on the fly. If unexpected pop up normally is no big deal. Your idea about switching up should give you more flexibility and credibility with shippers. So many times a guy with a pickup has let them down that they say No Pickup Trucks on the load board. Instantly shutting you out of a opportunity.
     
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  6. rccarlson22

    rccarlson22 Medium Load Member

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    I wouldn’t say it’s the “no pickups allowed” that loses me more loads but simply the weight and space. If I can run a little more expensive truck and trailer than now, but make up for it with the extra space and availability of loads, plus have a full size sleeper, fridge, etc. I’d be a lot happier OTR. The Ram is comfortable but I know it could be better.

    Following your advice I’ve made some regular contacts in Texas and I get calls/emails quite frequently now. Thank you for that
     
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  7. Lite bug

    Lite bug Road Train Member

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    Agree 100%
     
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  8. singlescrewshaker

    singlescrewshaker Road Train Member

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    Hey @Lite bug , you want to see something funny.?
    So my truck had a flat black spray painted circle close to the grill on both sides of the hood. Well I've had this tractor since Dec '17 right when the eld mandate 1st hit. Curiosity finally got to me, so grabbed some mineral spirits & started scrubbing. Look who popped out.!! LoL :D I've decided too keep him for a little while just because of the smiles, waves, & goofy looks I've been getting!! :)

    20200708_142715.jpg

    20200607_113841.jpg
     
  9. singlescrewshaker

    singlescrewshaker Road Train Member

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  10. tnpete

    tnpete Medium Load Member

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    Ran team in those in 94 and 95. We got a new one every 4 months. As we ran 7200 miles per week. And Penske trucks they did not want us running the miles up. So we ran one 4 months. Then a new one our old one went to teams only running 4500 per week.
    470hp, 9 speed trans and pulling 53ft vans with fiberglass bath tubs. So almost empty going west and half the time coming back with tubs. Man those Detroit's sure sipped fuel back then.
     
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  11. singlescrewshaker

    singlescrewshaker Road Train Member

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    Holy moley, almost 29k miles a month!! :eek: Man that's alot of miles..
    Yes sir, I'm a big Detroit series 60 fan. Specifically looked for one because they are darn reliable, & IMO nothing can compete in the fuel economy department..

    The one I linked above has an N14 in it though. Still, good looking truck with a reliable motor..

    You still got the brown anteater.? I really like that rig, it's a cool truck..
     
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