Toy Truck Purchase

This should be a fun thread for you guys to bat around.

As I said in my introduction, I’m a 56 year-old semi-retired diesel teacher. I got into that line of work from the marine world and moved on to other systems on OTR trucks and heavy equipment.

I’ve lurked about this, and other forums, for some time picking up knowledge from the forumites. I’ve never joined any of the trucking forums as I didn’t feel like I belonged. Believe me, I know the difference between doing something & teaching something.

What brings me here now is a very, very bad idea that came to me within the last few days – at least my wife will think it’s a bad idea. I think I’m going to buy a truck in the not too distant future. I can’t see me driving professionally, but I’d like to clean up & play with an older truck. It looks like I could reasonably expect to pick one up for $5k or even less. I know that won't buy much of a truck, but it doesn't have to be. Since it’s only going to be a toy, I can’t justify putting much money into the purchase.

I see myself, now and then, running an hour up the road to see my parents or grab a burger or something like I did when I owned my old Avanti. Many of the practical considerations in selecting a truck won’t have to be dealt with in my case.

So here it is, I’m thinking about picking up a retired cabover to play with. I’m should say I’m leaning heavily towards a cabover, but that’s still open to debate. As I’m probably not going to be towing anything, engine size and gearing probably isn’t as important. A single rear axle would probably be OK, but I’m open to two. I’m not sold on any one brand, but I’d really like an old 2-stroke DD – provided parts aren’t a problem. I love the sound and simplicity of a 2-stroke.

I can picture a number of you shaking your head at just another poser, but, aside from my enjoyment, I imagine it will make me a better teacher. I'm hoping you gents, and ladies, will be kind enough to keep me from stepping in something nasty.

What should I look for? What should I stay away from?

 

brsims, I've also thot of turning a tractor into an RV.

 

Thanks Pappa bear,
You say Freightliners are inexpensive & easy to get parts for - that's the kind of info I'm looking for.