Time to buy a new semitruck, but not sure what brand

I didn’t say it needs it. I said it’s begging for it, as in, it’s a ripe situation for capacity to move in. I probably wouldn’t put a highway spec into that line of line of work. It wouldn’t be much different though. The European market has proven that 13l motors have enough juice up to 150k gross. Anything over that, you need something bigger.
Volvo has their VNX model as a good example of a 13l package, purpose built for heavy work and it does so very efficiently. With their 13l that truck is approved up to 160k gross right out of the box. For more capacity it requires other components.
I’m not trying to argue heavy haul specs. I’m just saying, as I said about highway trucks previously, is that there has been a lot changes and new opportunities as a result. It doesn’t hurt just checking them out and knowing what’s out there.

 

New trucks certainly have their issues and added costs. Older trucks, in my opinion and I'm sure most others, are more reliable. Granted, their are "lemons" in each category (old/new). Being a diesel mechanic for semis, after time on the road, I might be able to help you. Please forgive me if I repeat anything, I didn't read every post here.

As for brands; I suggest KW or Pete and buying NEW (or later mentioned older trucks), for the most part. This is based off of my opinion of interior, driver comfort, mechanical reliability as well as EPA compliance. If you purchase a current year model truck, I recommend buying NEW. Reason being is pre-owned trucks equipped with the current ATS (aftertreatment systems) have a notorious history of having nothing but issues due to prior maintenance or lack thereof. The ATS requires special maintenance that is not well known to drivers (no fault of the driver, but instead the manufacturer).

As for the aforementioned older trucks. The main issue I've seen with them is A) mileage (regardless of model, stuff breaks) B) the lovely EPA. Older trucks (most popularly and with good reason the W900 or 379) arent equipped with current emissions equipment. I am not saying you CANT run them now, many do. BUT I think it's a bad business move to buy one now as your truck. Why? Let's say the EPA, or other govt entities BAN gliders, or non-emissions equipped trucks... you're out of commission and now have a truck making no money.

I am not putting older trucks down. I believe and preach they are the way to go. However, caution the use due to impending/paranoia of future regulations.

 

I can only speak for myself-But Im certainly not willing to take a "Chance" on new equipment to save a few bucks,.

I'll happily spend an extra 5k per year in fuel as opposed to leaving my business in the hands of new truck manufacturers that clearly have problems right out the gate- I don't have Time or patience for my "Warranty".

If /when they ever stat building them with reliability in mind (Which they wont) I may consider...But its become just like cars- Pump em out quickly down the line-With no Care or character.

 

Exactly. The requirements needed to keep these new trucks in any way, shape or form CLOSE to reliable they require a ridiculous amount of maintenance. Myself and my dad are contemplating getting back into the O/O life, and are wanting an older truck. I'd rather take the hit for fuel mileage then have the reliability issues with new trucks.

However, in our case, maintenance isn't a big issue in either case with me being a diesel mechanic and having all the equipment necessary for maintenance.

Drive safe and happy Holidays

 

Obscene is a good choice of words. I wish I had the time to open the books for every driver or construction guy that's asked me about getting into heavy work.
I think they'd be surprised at how little we put in our pocket at the end of the year.
Do we make a profit? Of course. Usually, anyway. But all the people who should probably know better still think we're getting rich.

 

So what exactly would be the point of using a 13L engine in a heavy haul application just because you could?

Why? At that point ya might as well install a turbo 3000, aircell, air tabs, get some plastic wheel covers, KR scan gauge, put a rainbow bumper sticker on the back and you'll be ready to ride.

 

Fuel mileage isn't that big an issue with an older truck you paid cash for, everything the guy driving anew truck thinks he's saving on fuel he's putting into payments. When interest rates start going higher, and from the sound of it they're going to, and freight slows down, you'll see a lot of repoed new trucks sitting around that nobody will be buying.

 

You are absolutely right. I often chuckle when fuel mileage is mentioned. I understand it is important for many reasons. One of my main points is this; older trucks may not get the best fuel mileage, however, once comparing yearly expenditures between new and old trucks (everything equal) the gap of savings cant be all that huge once maintenance, DEF ( for new trucks ),etc is included.

Old is the way to go. I just caution with the ever changing gov't regs...

 

If enough of Us would tell the government where to stick their regulations we'd be better off. I'm sure you're aware of the new regs that are supposed to be coming saying joe blow can't buy a 30lb keg of Freon because we'll hurt the environment, but you can buy all the 1lb cans you want.

 

Unfortunately, I am all to aware of the current and proposed upcoming regulations. As you pointed out with your example of Freon, common sense has gone out the window. Luckily, having all the software and mechanical background I have, my dad who drives, avoids alot of maintenance BS due to the flawed ATS system.

People would be surprised as to the detrimental and fairly low effect the ATS actually has...