First major expenses as an Owner Operator on the truck.

Just fyi if u get wheel seal done at ta. They will make you sign a waiver stating that once they take the wheel end apart , if there is any broken parts or bearing play is out of spec, they will not continue to work on it nor will they put it back together. You will have to get it towed to another shop. Just something to be aware of.

 

Yep. Seen it happen many times.

 

First major expenses

Get used to it. Spending money is just a part of this business. Be smart about what you spend on.

Never forget it's a revolving door money comes in but money is always going to go out whether it's on small things or big things... you have to just make sure you put money away all the time.

And don't be the guy that's cheap or that cries every time you have to do something. Not saying that you are but don't be afraid to make your truck right and keep it right.

Maintenance is your best friend and it's money well-spent but when it's time to actually spend more spend it and make your truck right and keep going.

 

You ever do a good pre trip inspection ?

Is this something that a good pre trip would have noticed ?

I always set aside 10% of my income , after I took out fuel and insurance , for Maint and repairs .
And for me that was almost spot on.
and find a good independent mechanic near your home and when you’re home for a few days , drop your truck off for an inspection.

I know one small fleet that has their trucks home every weekend, and they have a mechanic inspect the trucks and trailers, thoroughly, every weekend .
They still have some unexpected Maint issues on the road , but not as much as they would have without regular inspections .

start hosing all the bolts that have to be removed with PB Blaster three times a day

will make it a lot easier for the shop that does it .

 

If you don't know what your brake linings look like when they're worn out you need to take your equipment and get it inspected by someone who does. Those pads are beyond toast. That's something that could have been caught a long time ago. Also, a stuck bolt is BS. 99 percent of the time a torch will have it out in minutes. Even a little propane torch can save the day sometimes. Just used mine Sunday to remove a rusted exhaust clamp bolt.

4k isn't much when running class 8 equipment. Get used to it, my friend. When you're in the five digit cost range is what I would consider major. Rebuilds come to mind immediately. You'll be routinely spending on four digit repairs/maintenance. Better make sure you are always putting a percentage of your revenue away for said expenses or you won't be operating for long.