Simple lightweight truck question.

Discussion in 'Prime' started by FutureDriver89, Jul 21, 2013.

  1. FutureDriver89

    FutureDriver89 Bobtail Member

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    Hey guys. I'll spare the long introduction but long story short I have been researching company-paid trucking schools for about 5 months now (mostly Stevens, Roehl, Prime).

    I really really want to go with Prime but my MAJOR concern is about these lightweight trucks they seem too offer all the new drivers. I am 6 foot 6 for one thing and on the other hand I just love the bigger trucks so much and honestly I'm surprised at the amount of people who are willing to drive OTR in these small trucks and not be bothered.

    So my question for you Prime guys, is ther ANY way I can be assured that I would be able to get a full size condo sleeper before going to the program? It unfortunately would be a deal breaker for me if I got a lightweight and I know that might sound silly to some of you but please understand it means a great deal to me. I really want to become a driver but being so tall I just can't handle the smaller version of an already small-living lifestyle.

    Thanks in advance!
     
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  3. Wanderingaimlessly

    Wanderingaimlessly Medium Load Member

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    From what I have read, the only way to try to get a full size as a company driver is to talk with the higher ups after you are hired, or become a trainer, or lease.
     
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  4. Chucktaylor

    Chucktaylor Road Train Member

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    No way to insure getting a condo.

    I had a 6'7' trainee, former boxer, that had concerns. He had no problem with a lightweight once he got in one and checked it out.
    No one should expect to lay on their stomach and not be able to stretch finger tip to toe across the bed. However, I am 6'3" and sleep on my stomach. I layed on his bed like I would normally and easily had quite a few more inches before my feet would touch the wall.

    In my opinion, people at your height, or less, are just angling for a bigger truck with more storage.

    Unless you grow a few more inches your argument that your height is a problem is "bunk"

    If it a deal breaker, good luck. No one will promise you a condo truck as a company driver, and if they do you better get it in writing from the head of either the reefer, or flatbed divisions. If you are assigned a lightweight, and most people are, those guys are the only ones that can override Success Leasings company truck assignments.

    Before anyone says that their fleet manager got them a condo... Yes, but only after getting approval from the Division head.
     
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  5. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    teh sleeper portion of the truck is usually about 8 feet wide. i have a midroof and you taller people would have no problem standing up in my truck.

    i'm 6 ft even
     
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  6. ironpony

    ironpony Road Train Member

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    One question: Do you plan on making money?
     
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  7. FutureDriver89

    FutureDriver89 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 21, 2013
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    Hmm

    To an extent yes. But looking for more of a career and lifestyle change. I currently make about 55k a year so I will be taking a pay cut (at least for a few years) to pursue something I think I will really enjoy. Are you implying you can't make money driving a full size truck? Seems like Prime is the only company running leightweights and I doubt they are the only company who has drivers that make money.

    Thanks. Good to know. Unfortunately I still can't get it out of my head of living in the smaller version of an already small living quarters.

    ####. Thanks for the info. I suppose maybe being inside of one is the only way I can really decide. However I really really want a big truck. I just can't see myself living in the smaller version. Part of my major love of the industry is the idea of having my home on wheels. It will be more than just a job to make money for me. I'm sure some of you can relate to this. I know Stevens and the other companies give their new guys full size rigs but I REALLY want to go with Prime. Ugh!
     
  8. long_run

    long_run Light Load Member

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    Its highly unlikely if u go flatbed that you'll get a lw. Almost guaranteed to get a condo. When I got my truck it wasn't even mentioned.
     
  9. Chucktaylor

    Chucktaylor Road Train Member

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    Ahh... but Ive seen a few lightweight Prime trucks with headache racks pulling flatbed. Mind you VERY few, but I have seen them.

    So yes, "ALMOST" guarantee would be correct.
     
  10. FutureDriver89

    FutureDriver89 Bobtail Member

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    Thanks guys. Maybe I'll end up going with Stevens they seem to have really nice new trucks and "according" to their websites all their trucks are full size condos with thermoking APU and all new qualcomms etc. but Prime schooling seems so much better. Guess there's a trade off for everything. Also Stevens school isn't "free" it's just financed. Maybe I'll go with Roehl. Still not sure yet. Maybe I'll just go with prime but #### all I want is a full size truck since I will be living in it for so long! They can have their 5 cents a mile back I just want a condo!
     
  11. ironpony

    ironpony Road Train Member

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    But they don't pay anything close to what you'll get starting at Prime. If you really want a full size, think about teaming or training. Like I said, are you interested in making money?
     
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