Flatbed tractor questions

I'm not who you asked, but every place I've unloaded is fast. Truck is empty, and the time it takes ends up being however long it takes me to roll up my straps and tarps. So my time there depends on how fast I can get that done.

 

We all know I'm not an engine guru...

Some of you on here have amazing knowledge. I'm so grateful to be able to read these posts. So informative.

Here's a couple of things I learned the hard way, and something that came to mind when I read the original post:

First, you were looking at a 2000 truck. If you are looking to get out of elogs (I don't know if that was a goal), you need to look at 1999 and older trucks. Another favorable part of that is I believe the more metal and less wiring on an engine is better. That's knowledge from personal experience.

Second, the Series 60 is a great engine...until it isn't. Inframe? $35k is what I was just quoted. Something I found out the hard way is to avoid Variable Geometry turbos. They are EXXXPENSIVE!!!!! (I put three x's to give you an idea of the graphic screwing you will take from them). They are tied into so many systems, that when they fail, they screw the whole truck.

CAT mechanics are getting harder to find...and parts.

Finally, as a new O/O, I applaud you being willing to listen to these old timers and adjust your thinking. Ignore the trolls. There's always one. It's great you want to live within your means and look at something older. That's more responsible than buying something brand new and shiny then drowning in debt. Whatever you do, make sure the darn thing is mechanically sound. I lost because I spent all my money at the shop. I wasn't working for me, I was working for the dealership.

I really wish you the best of luck!

 

Unload for flatbed is around 45 minutes to an hour, on average based on my experience, to unload and roll your straps/fold your tarps. Loading takes a bit longer if you factor in the tarping and strapping times. Figure a couple of hours for that part. Paperwork? If you are talking getting the BOL's signed or given to you at the shipper, no extra time. For record keeping, do it on your 10 and don't let it build up.

I personally loved the exercise and always carried the mentality that strapping loads was work for free, since the wheels weren't turning. I know, some disagree with my thought process, but it motivated me to work harder. I was a demon tarping and strapping. I did it to work up a sweat, and get out of there faster. Others take their time and don't push it. You'll learn where you fit in that model. Also, some days you're into it, others...not so much.

A tip: since it's now your profession, invest in the tools to make your life easier. Buy a strap winder! The time you save on the first load will pay for itself. Buy a winch winder of some sort. I used the $15 crank handle. That, too, pays for itself. Accept that straps are consumables. You will go through them. Go to the thrift store and purchase old welcome mats, bath mats, etc. to use for padding.

 

Is LJ Kennedy still in the flatbed game down there....?

 

Bankrupt 8/9 years ago

 

I did a few of their loads from north Jersey to northern New England.....just all right back then.

And shingles from Millis Mass .........the good old days.

 

I don't know that that truck is that overpriced.

That 475 horsepower Cummins engine is kind of rare. That was just rebuilt with papers.

And it has a brand new 13-speed transmission.

That right there is probably worth half the price of the whole truck.

You don't have to worry about horsepower with that engine. You could easily turn that up to 550 or 600.

I would imagine if that truck sat for 10 years it probably needs all Driveline seals and wheel seals and transmission seal and probably some other things also, air cans whatever, unless they really worked the truck itself over.

Not the most maneuverable truck but is pretty nice.

I always liked that model auto car.

I would imagine some parts are hard to get for that truck, the Cab itself I mean.

You don't know the condition of the rest of the truck, but having a brand new engine and a brand new transmission is really a good start.

I would be looking for something at least along the lines of that.