Looking to become an owner operator....Need detailed advice as far as truck goes...

That's great that you have that amount of money, but be careful. Believe it or not, it is possible to go broke even with that amount of money.

There was a thread on here a while back of an owner operator that started out with I think $150,000 cash. He had alot of experience and a real plan, and he said that he went through almost all of that getting started.

In the beginning it is best to try to lay out as little money as possible, and keep as much cash on hand as possible.

Unless it is serious otr coast to coast, I prefer the set back front axle. The trucks are less expensive, still give you that great Freightliner ride, and they are more maneuverable. The one that I drove when I lived in California, I went from the Mexican border to just about the Canadian border. And I enjoyed every mile with the set back axle.

They really are about the same truck except the Classic has a forward axle and a longer hood.

Oh, and with the set back axle, the engine is completely in front of the cab and vey easy to work on, just like the Classic.

 

it looks like a modern Classic

 

Can't comment on the Coronado. Never drove one.

 

just the price tag

 

I heard that some of the newer trucks have rack and pinion steering, and there were problems with that. Sorry I don't know which trucks had that. I just remember reading about it.

 

Im cheering for you , but youll be surprised how quickly that money can be vacuumed out when youre an owner op.
Im not trying to discourage you. I was scared sh*tless when I bought my truck, after I bought it, I regreted not doing it earlier.
Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders and youll be allright either way.

 

Don't get into trucking unless you love trucks. From your questions you don't sound very educated about trucks or even have a favorite brand or model. That tells me you don't love trucks. You just think you could make some easy money. Profit margins are slim to none in this business.

Go buy your favorite truck get trucking if your gonna do it. The brand ain't gonna matter as much as if your heart is in it or not.

ME? I liked Petes, K dubs, cornbinders, Freightliners and Marmons back when I was looking. And the only engine that would do was a mechanical CAT. So i bought a FLD CATliner brand new and still driving her today. I would hate my job if I had to climb up into some ugly plastic truck the "smart" binnizmen are so fond of.

If you can drive and you can wrench and you know your gazintas just get a truck you can love. The rest is easy!