On my way...Forward.

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by BigPappa707, Feb 4, 2018.

  1. BigPappa707

    BigPappa707 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2010
    Suisun, California
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    I have made the decision to take the leap away from being a company driver. As a new O/O what tools would you veterans say are essential? I am talking about both mechanic tools and business tools. Obviously standard wrenches, screwdrivers, sockets etc. Any specialized things you have come to rely on?
     
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  3. DUNE-T

    DUNE-T Road Train Member

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    Detroit, MI
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    Wrenches and screwdrivers is the last thing to worry about when opening an authority. You should be asking different questions.
    Did you read the DoubleYellow's thread btw?
     
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  4. BigPappa707

    BigPappa707 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2010
    Suisun, California
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    I think I will ask whatever questions I desire to ask. Be they simple, or complex. If you do not want to answer then don't, but don't tell me the questions I am asking are irrelevant.

    No I have not read that thread. I will look for it.
     
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  5. DieselDrivinDaddy

    DieselDrivinDaddy Light Load Member

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    Feb 13, 2016
    Poconos, PA
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    Mechanical must-haves:

    60 gallon or larger Air Compressor, 5HP or more motor capable of producing at least 15cfm at 90psi.

    3/4” impact wrench for everyday work

    1” impact wrench for removing lug nuts

    Wide variety of standard and metric wrenches and sockets, in some cases up to 2 3/4” (transmission output shaft nut is the largest I’ve found on my Mack)

    1/2” 12 point socket for changing U-joint straps

    3/4” Torque Wrench rated to 450-600 ft/lb

    Fuel and oil filter wrenches

    A F#ckton of patience
     
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  6. DUNE-T

    DUNE-T Road Train Member

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    Detroit, MI
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    Have a good day, sir and good luck in your journey (no sarcasm)
     
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  7. DieselDrivinDaddy

    DieselDrivinDaddy Light Load Member

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    Feb 13, 2016
    Poconos, PA
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    Business must-haves:

    A good tax accountant

    Fuel card (I’m using NASTC)

    Organization and book keeping skills

    $20k or more in available funds for unexpected repairs and costs

    Responsible spending habits (don’t go and buy a $50k pickup when a $30k trailer will make you money instead of cost you money).

    Even more patience.
     
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  8. ZVar

    ZVar Road Train Member

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    Sep 10, 2010
    Flint, MI
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    Another must have.

    The ability to not piss off the thousands of years of experienced knowledge this forum brings. If you don't like the answer from someone that has been there, done that, and was smart enough not to buy the overpriced t-shirt then you simply don't reply.

    Or ask in a slightly different way. Maybe it's just miscommunication.

    In either case by being rude to one member, you are telling all the others that would have helped you it's not worth their effort.
     
  9. BigPappa707

    BigPappa707 Bobtail Member

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    Suisun, California
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    I guess I could concede that there are many who post asking how to do this by starting in the middle. I have spoken to, taken notes from over a dozen O/O from leasers to fleet owners. I have researched for the last 6 months. Assuming that I have not done anything else was a tad rude. My question was really made to just get on the board here and establish some discussion.

    If standing up for yourself is being rude then I guess I am rude. I appreciate any help that is offered.
     
  10. Brandt

    Brandt Road Train Member

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    Keep driving company truck and put the truck money in a Roth IRA. Your money will basically double every 7 year. So 20k today would be 40k then 80k then 160k then 320k then 640k tax free money in 35 year. Go 42 years and you could have $1,280,000
     
  11. BigPappa707

    BigPappa707 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2010
    Suisun, California
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    I would if I could trust the company I drive for to treat me like a human being with a life outside of work. Being self reliant will be a lot more work, I am ready for that. I will be away from home a bit more, I can deal with that as well. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
     
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