How many years of exp. should I get to be an O/O?

theres a lot buy where in building this new truck stop in ft lauderdale there a realy nice pete 2001 guy wants $12.000 for it but its got a nice 18 spd buy fuel economy is out the window with the big 600 cat that in it lol.and yes i miss my time on the road,but atleast im makeing a steady check where im at

 

I have asked the same questions to owner operators and have got several answers. Most have said get a year in to determine if you like it. If you do, get enough for the down payment in plus three payments in case you get sick. I have looked at all options including Freightliners First time buyer program available at select trucks.

Heres what I found out through the dealers:In order for the major ones to take a look at you, you need to have good or near perfect credit at 75% of the dealers. I looked at Arrow Truck Sales, UTC International, and Select Trucks. The better credit, the lower the payment. I asked if dealers have all maintenance records and some do not depending on who you go to. Most if not all dealers do interest annually. This can work in your favor or against you.

Hope this helps,
Hunter

 

I'm definitely out of place, but I don't see this mentioned and it is an important aspect of truck operation.

The successful O/O's who run older trucks are likely to be very handy with a wrench.

The other side of the older truck game is that they are usually easier for the shade-tree mechanic to diagnose and repair. This would potentially reduce repair bills.

The increased down time possible with an older truck becomes a much larger overhead problem when you are paying upwards of $100 per hour for labor.

As for me personally, my repair skills are currently what I like to call "Amateur Parts Replacer" if I were to start an O/O operation, I would work to expand them to "Shade-Tree Mechanic" at least. Then go with the older, paid for truck route.

Best of luck to you.