Purchasing NEW 2008 Freightliner

I am no expert but do know the Volvo engines are notorious for engine problems here in the US compared to their counter parts in Europe. What size sleeper are you looking for as the 430 is only a 42in flat top???

 

Jesster, the rental rates are good when I ask my Paclease agent.

 

Or you could do a rental/full maintenance lease and let the leasing company worry about the engines! That's the great thing about dealing with Paclease. When I have a problem it gets repaired, when it can't be repaired in a timely fashion the truck gets replaced no matter where I am.

 

Jesster, the perfect truck doesn't exist. Every truck will have its down side. I will say that the Volvo 430 is more of a regional truck, not overly suited for OTR use. Although, they are a very VERY light weight truck if thats important to you.

 

A glider is a new truck without engine, transmission or rear drive(s). You then put in the (old, refurbished) engine and driveline of your choice. You can buy one from a select few dealers (Fitzgerald is one, their guy is, or was, posting here). IIRC, the only manufacturer still doing gliders is Freightliner.

A couple of pros and cons: you get a new truck, but (typically) with an older (pre-emissions) refurbished engine. You can install a new or rebuilt transmission and drive(s). One potential downside is that it won't be too long before a glider won't be able to go to California (wait a minute, maybe that's not a problem ). Another issue is that because it didn't come fully assembled from the factory, no dealer will be able to access a complete build sheet. This is important when getting parts and/or service, especially if you're away from home.

I might replace my '03 Classic with a glider.

EDIT: According to Fitzgerald's website, their trucks come with the drives.

 

No Calif? Aint a problem for me. I fired them a while back, dont even consider going there any more

 

you can also get some modles of peterbuilt in a glider kit. there is someone up in or that does gliders also. sorry don't rember there name but have scene there ad when i was out west. there is a co out of al. doing refurbs on older trucks for about 40 k less than a glider. you are staying close to home. look at the used market. there are a lot of good used trucks out there for 25 to 35 k. being close to home all the time gives you a lot of options. drivers will be at home every other night even if they go to la and back. so big sleepers are maybe not as important as a little more cash in there pockets ever week. just something to think about. good luck