Splitting an MC with friend

Hello all, I recently trained a guy how to flatbed who bought a tractor and trailer with cash out of trucking school. The guy is a former mechanic who wants to build a company and already cuts the brokers out except for back haul. In exchange for the training I provided, he offered a partnership on the mc and help to fix up a high mileage tractor should I buy one. That being said, I don't have the cash amount that I consider ideal to start out with cash. Should I continue to work for owner operator as employee, or buy something like 07 Pete 386 with c15 and 700k something on credit for around $30k and lease trailer. I know buying with cash is important, but I see his paycheck compared to mine and cry. Thank you oos!

 

How much should I escrow for incidentals prior to undertaking a financed truck? I know that with buying an 07 it won't be perfect, and expect to drop at least 10k getting it dot ready.