On my way...Forward.

I was not trying to be rude, maybe it appeared that way.
From the first sight, by asking what else to carry besides screwdriver, you appeared just like thousands of other company drivers posting here, who decide to go independent having no idea what they are doing, but worrying about silly things.

 

That reminds me, I need a new tape measure...

 

Common Sense

 

Get a ScanGauge D or other device that will let you read the J1939 codes that the ECM produces.
Then if you get a check engine light, you may be able to figure out the issue yourself and save hundreds or more on repairs. Sometimes it will still need to go to the shop, but at least you’ll have an idea of what the problem is.

 

I was company driver then O/O and now back company driver. You need to learn you numbers. Stuff like driving and getting a truck for MPG. You want a direct drive transmission or drive it in direct drive most times.

These new emission trucks are very expensive to repair as they get older. I would look at Glider Kit truck if I doing it over again. Just no go to California, you want low rolling resistance tires. I wouldn't get an APU, they are expensive need repairs and burn like a gallon per hour when the engine is going for a/c. You can get Optimized Idle System on Detroit it will start and stop the truck engine for heat or a/c plus battery voltage or engine oil temperature. My company truck has it again on 2017 truck. Today they even do automatic Parked Regeneration.


People think the mega carrier are keeping all the profit for themselves. It not true and it hard to make money trucking.

 

Diagnostic equipment, a laptop, software, courses in mechanical engineering, a basic understanding of emission systems, basically a full blown mechanics shop if you go with an emission truck. If you go old school, non emission truck, a bag of wrenches will suffice.

Oh, a basic understanding of automotive electrical systems and be able to read schematics. Also the basic tools to troubleshoot and diagnose those electrical issues. This is just off the top of my head... I have thousands upon thousands of dollars in tools and diagnostic equipment to keep my truck on the road. This is my seventh truck and first EPA mandated one, I did eventual rid myself of the mandate. Prior to the emission truck, I had my bag of wrenches and rarely ever used them because I did not have to.

 

To tell you the truth my tool set has not changed since the days I was a driver. Its always been Home Depot bought set of wrenched and ratchets. Few screwdrivers and and a hacksaw to cut padlocks when I lose a key. Pretty basic. I do carry extra hoses and belts. Guerilla Magic tape, These are life savers. For more I'd need to get myself a external tool box. I don't think more is needed, you can't carry everything and fix everything like extra turbo or radiator for instance. Some are equipped to mount their own spare tires.

 

Break out the checkbook... I would not wish one of those trucks on anyone. I own one, and have the repair and parts receipts to prove it. God only knows how much revenue was lost.

 

YEAH! don't think you just REPLY on a thread you started. cuz this place is reeeeeal clicky. like a group of 8th grade girls....

and be real careful with the phrasing. these big girls are delicate!

internet forums....good grief....