First Post

Howdy all! 22yrs old, been "officially" driving for 3 years. (Grew up on a dairy farm where I learned to drive.) Currently drag a skateboard for a local company hauling landscape block all around. Planning to soon buy my own truck (90's model with a fully mechanical 425cat. And don't try to talk me out of it) and lease onto a NC company, power only starting out, where I will pull a dry box. I'm handy with a wrench and after my truck is tuned and modified to my liking (weekends) I am going to buy my own trailer (flat or step) and do some flatbedding OTR. Joined TTR to gain access to the wealth of knowledge of the more experienced drivers who hang out here. I have learned that in order to become brilliant, you gotta hang around people smarter than you, and that's why I'm here. I am ready to absorb every drop of advice I can get from any owner ops around. Thanks

 

Thanks for the warning RetiredUSN lol. It's all good. I have done my research and that coupled with experience (farm boy) I know what to expect with this make and model and engine. I have seen you around the forum and respect your experience, wisdom and advice. I will always take any advice I can get.
And thanks also KWCajun. I look forward to reading after all of you guys who have years in the business. I am a learner and appreciate the opportunity to learn from you guys. I hope I can meet at least some of you sometime.
A little explanation.
I prefer a fully mechanical engine and know several guys that are getting 7+mpg outta this same motor, so I know it's possible to not get killed by the fuel mileage. That said, I sure won't buy a truck that is beat all to pieces tho. The one I got my eye on now has been gone through. Rebuilt motor (with papers), all new fluids, wheel bearings, seals, brakes, new rubber, sharp clean paint (including frame) new exhaust, new radiator, alignment, clutch, airlines ... etc. I don't expect to have to do much work on it, but I am prepared for it when the time comes.

 

Been talking to Randy Berry at 2Berry Transportation about coming on with him, pullin his dry boxes. Real down to earth guy.

 

Yeah, I'm eyeballin two trucks. One's a pete with a big cam 400, the other's a freightliner with a 425 cat. I'd be satisfied with either engine, I've dealt with them both. Both have had rebuild, the shaker has a better sleeper but the pete is a nicer truck. I'd rather have the pete, and normally I wouldn't hesitate to snatch it up, but it's got a 300" wheelbase. That is the only thing causing me to hesitate. Somebody give me your thoughts on that. The shaker has a 265" WB. Will that extra 35" make a big difference? Both about the same price, I'm just wondering about maneuverability and aerodynamics now. I would appreciate any advice here. Thanks guys.

 

That's a good lookin truck in your singnature picture, wore out. How you comin with them ribs?