2000 Western Star - need advice

I will pass on this "opportunity". As noted, between issues with rodent infestation, sitting for at least two years, etc it will cost at least $10-20K to make it right. My search continues.

 

Not sure about that. At the least fumigation would be in order. I did forget to mention that in addition to rat feces the cupboards in the sleeper berth we're covered in tiny black "####roach pellets". What would it cost to fumigate the entire truck?

I don't know that I will post the pictures, it's now a hassle due to file size, but rust, broken fuel tank brackets, replace all belts and most hoses, the list goes on...

...then it's the fact the truck last worked in '12. The last owner ignored the "STOP RIGHT THE #### NOW!!!" light when he ran out of oil and seized up the engine. The mechanic said he already replaced the head, but that same SRTFN light came on when I cranked it up this morning.

I will pass. For $45-50K I can buy the same year and make that's been well cared for and ready to roll.

I'm not married to a WS or the CAT engine. What I DO want is a robust truck with an 18 speed and full lockers. I have looked and seen a few vintage Macks, Pete's, WS's, and KW's that might fit the bill.

Meanwhile I will keep feeding slop to my pig and see how much bacon I can get.

 

Agreed. Although for $25K the mechanic would drop in an 18 speed transmission, install locking differentials, and thoroughly clean it, I would still want to fumigate it and hope no insect eggs survive. Then there's the issue of chewed wiring. Then there's the dozens of expensive fixes necessary to make it road Worthy. All that in addition to needing to install a headache rack and side boxes.

I have driven newer Mack's with the Maxforce. I was impressed. An older Mack is in my target range.

 

I am likely wrong, but on occasion I drive '16 and newer Mack's for a customer that I could have sworn had the engine. I'll take a picture next opportunity.