Would You Use a Third Party Maintenance Company?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by theLongNoseMechanic, Jan 16, 2025.

  1. theLongNoseMechanic

    theLongNoseMechanic Bobtail Member

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    Jan 16, 2025
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    Hey everyone,
    I’ve been toying with the idea of starting a service for owner-operators and truck drivers, and I wanted to get your thoughts.


    A little background: I’m a Cummins & Peterbilt certified diesel technician, and I’ve worked in the industry for a while. This idea came up because of issues my family members, who are also truck drivers, have run into. My dad and uncle have told me countless stories about having to return to the dealership multiple times because of misdiagnosed fault codes or incorrect processes.

    I’ve been able to help them by calling the dealerships, asking the hard questions, and practically diagnosing the truck over the phone —but it made me realize this is probably a common issue for a lot of drivers.

    So, here’s what I’m thinking:

    •A service that ensures you’re getting proper diagnostics and repairs the first time to avoid downtime and comebacks.

    •Simple, easy-to-understand explanations about the issue and root cause—stuff that many service advisors either won’t or can’t explain.

    •Helping you create and stick to customized maintenance schedules for your truck, with reminders to keep you ahead of breakdowns.


    It’s basically like having your own third-party fleet manager to help you navigate repairs, stay on top of maintenance, and save time and money.


    Would something like this be useful? Have you had similar issues? Let me know what you think or if there’s something else you’d want from a service like this.

    I’d really appreciate any feedback!
     
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  3. skallagrime

    skallagrime Road Train Member

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    The people that NEED that service, dont know they need it/cant afford it. The ones that manage it themselves already can afford it, but dont need it.
     
  4. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    This might work for local customers.
    ONLY.

    There's no way you can keep track of customers that aren't local. And the smart owner operator should already know the schedule.

    Unfortunately most only care about the wheels turning. Nothing more.

    That didn't post right. Can't even make out my additions to your comments.
     
  5. Short Fuse EOD

    Short Fuse EOD Road Train Member

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    Fleet services are great. They come to you and get to work. Yes, there is a demand. Only problem is when you don’t own a shop for them to work in.
     
    Last edited: Jan 16, 2025
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  6. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    I know a Mechanic that does this for Local companies in his area. Some well known companies. He has previous experience with Freighter Dealership. He’s mobile, works on Trucks at their yards. He stays busy. Doesn’t even advertise. I know it’s possible, in his case his reputation precedes him. He provides fast repairs, at a fair price. Other models of fleet maintenance I’ve seen are weekly yard checks on trailers. Tires, lights, air brake tests. If you’re good, word gets out. Around me, we have a few shops, a few engine rebuilders, and one great ecm guy. Everyone knows them it seems. Get your name out, through O/O’s, Parts suppliers, cold calling larger local companies. Also out of state companies with drop lots in the area. Let them know you’re available. I think if you’re good and honest you have a good chance at success. Wouldn’t hurt to know others in the area that you can direct customers to for jobs you may not be able to do yourself. Considering all the incompetence in the Industry. If you can be straight forward, upfront and direct, networking, and willing to work hard. Anything’s possible.
     
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  7. 062

    062 Road Train Member

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    I think @skallagrime hit the nail on the head.
    I have a niece that’s a nurse and she gets medical questions all the time. If she was to start charging for advice, I bet she wouldn’t hear a peep from some folks.
     
  8. Midwest Trucker

    Midwest Trucker Road Train Member

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    Yep, exactly right and this type of mechanic/service is what I utilize. Only time my trucks see an actual shop is for warranty work if needed.
     
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  9. Accidental Trucker

    Accidental Trucker Road Train Member

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    Yes. We're not a trucking company, we're a company that transports our own goods to market. We don't want to deal with the truck, we want to deal with our production and our sales. We have to have our own trucks, but we aren't truckers. A company that has access to information that allows us to replace stuff that is likely to break before it breaks and does preventative and periodic maintenance as needed? Sign me up.
     
  10. D.Tibbitt

    D.Tibbitt Road Train Member

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    There is just a much shortage of good mechanics as there is good truck drivers . With as many complex problems these new trucks have, I would bet a guy could make a good living doing something like that.

    The only problem is, being a good mechanic and being a good business man are 2 different things and they require 2 completely different skill sets
     
  11. Numb

    Numb Crusty Curmudgeon

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    there's a shortage of any kind of mechanic.

    most of what you get is a "parts changer",

    plug the problem into your computer and it tells you to change a part.

    no test drive either! lol

    gone are the days of the guy putting his hand on the valve covers and telling you what cylinder is going and why.
     
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