'Lighter' weight rig?

Don't forget the weight of fuel and don't fall into the trap of having to have every last possible thing regarding equipment. The stuff adds up and then you'll need another toolbox and on and on it goes....

Figure out what you need for the type of work you're doing and equip yourself for that.

 

My last truck, a 2006 Columbia Midroof XT, Mercedes motor and 13 speed, 233"wb, air ride front axle, was the lightest truck in the fleet. I could haul 6 axle freight on 5 axles, thus make some very good money. Truck weight, with a box headache rack, 1/2" chains/binders, generator, and so on, was 20,200lbs with 300 gallons of fuel.
About 1500lbs heavier now with the Western Star, but the Columbia made me extra money from being so light, absolutely no doubt about it. There is absolutely no downsides to having a lightweight truck, business wise. Now, the Star drives a LOT better, and feels a whole lot more solid in general, but that is not a business opinion, just a personal one.

Martin

 

Lighter trucks can make more money, no doubt. But a very comfortable truck can make the job like an escape or like be on vacation.
I truely enjoy my truck and would not go to a smaller truck. But that's is just me.

 

When I jump into my truck and leave the redhead and 3 little blondes behind, I'm not on vacation. I have one purpose in mind. Generate as much revenue with as little cost as I can. Period.

 

I totally understand. I was there years ago, now somewhat retired and my kids are grown, actually got grandkids now to spoil. But they don't live locally. So I just try to enjoy life anymore. I'm sure my situation is alot different than most.

 

My '03 W900L with C15 pulling a Utility 48' combo weighs in at 32,500 full of fuel.

 

A lot of decent companies don't gross out. I've haul a load that weighed about 500 lbs on a dedicated trailer, and paid the same as an 80.000 load.