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Looking over a lot full of trucks can be overwhelming. But remember, choosing the right truck, tractor or trailer
ultimately depends on your intended use. Tandem or single axle, sleeper or conventional, dry or refrigerated, fixed or
sliding fifth wheel, heavy or light duty engines, as well as gross vehicle weight ratings are all important
considerations to help you select the right equipment for the job.
The following information can help make your decision easier.
Start With The Right Questions To Get the Best Buy on the Right Used Truck.
Relying on used trucks to transport your goods can be a very profitable way to manage your business. Your initial capital
investment for a used truck will be much lower than for a new one. Of course, the performance of the truck will determine
if your decision to invest in a used truck was a sound one, an inexpensive truck that is in poor condition is no bargain;
it will cost you money for repairs and lost business. However, a – high quality used truck can give you many years of trouble
free service. As with used cars, the quality of used trucks on the market varies greatly It's important to ask the right
questions as you shop, so you get the right equipment for your business needs. This booklet of useful tips is designed to
help you make a sound, profitable purchase.
Do the truck's specifications meet your needs?
Body Size & Type
Selection differs depending on weight and cube (volume) of goods transported.
Weight Capacity (GVWR)
Select a tractor, trailer or straight truck based on its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) in relation to your maximum
load. For safety and efficiency, choose the right truck to accommodate your specific cargo applications.
Refrigeration Requirements
Selection should be based on type of product from heat to cool/frozen requirements. Consider electric standby and multi-temp
for both dry and refrigerated loads.
Weight Distribution
Sliding fifth wheels and tandem trailers will help distribute loads safely.
If you are shipping items which are bulky but not very heavy, such as light furniture or decorations, you need to buy a truck
that will fit the goods. For example if you ship barbells, you will need a truck that can carry the goods. There's a big
difference. Tractors, trailers and straight trucks are rated to handle specific gross vehicle weight (GVW) loads. It's very
important to match your truck's
weight capacity with the maximum load you will haul. If you buy a truck with a weight capacity that% too small, you will wear
it out before its time–not to mention the fact that it could be illegal. Buy a truck with a capacity that's too large, and you
will waste fuel and money if you are in the market for a "reefer" (a refrigerated truck to ship confectionaries, food or
flowers), you need to buy one that has the correct amount of insulation and the correct refrigeration unit for your product.
For example, if you are hauling frozen goods. Your truck will need extra insulation. If you are hauling perishable produce
from a warm climate to a cold one, your refrigeration unit will need to both cool the produce to keep it fresh and heat it to
keep it from freezing.
Should your refrigeration unit have electric standby? This lets you connect the unit to an outlet for power during stopovers
and save on fuel. What kind of floor does the truck have? Corrugated or diamond- plate floors are preferable for refrigerated
goods because they permit better air flow than wooden floors.
If your truck or tractor will be operating in urban areas, you will need a vehicle with a small turning radius which will
enable your driver to negotiate sharp turns. A truck or tractor with a cab- over engine will negotiate sharp turns more easily
than one with a standard configuration.
Other things to look for in a truck to be used for city driving are power steering as well as a light fuel-efficient engine.
But make sure the engine is right for the truck. An engine that is too small for the truck it is powering will wear out much
more quickly In addition, a truck that travels over hilly city streets will need a larger engine.
If your tractor will be hauling a variety of weight loads, a sliding fifth wheel will enable your driver to redistribute the
load for safety and efficiency
If you're picking up goods at street level, you might need a truck with a lift- gate. Adding a Iiftgate is generally more
expensive than the incremental cost of buying a truck equipped with one If you load and unload curbside on city streets, your
truck should have side doors. If you load and unload with a forklift, the inside height of your truck must be large enough to
accommodate it. "Scuff-liners" along the side walls of the truck body or trailer will protect the walls.
If your truck will log more than 20,000 miles a year–a modest figure in trucking terms–a diesel engine will economize on fuel
consumption. If it's less than 20,000 miles per year you need a less expensive gasoline powered truck.
A previously well-maintained truck can provide years of reliable and cost-effective service. So when you're shopping for a
truck, always look beyond its outward appearance. And ask to see the truck's maintenance log. The law requires that a dated
maintenance log be kept on all commercial vehicles used in interstate commerce. The log should detail the truck's complete
service history, covering everything from oil changes to engine overhauls. A certified mechanic can help you compare the
truck's written maintenance record against its mechanical condition.
Engine, transmission, wheel, pinion and power steering component seals for coolant or lubricant leaks. Oil change history.
A truck requires an oil change every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, while a tractor requires one about every 15,000 to 18,000 miles.
Primary filter on diesel engines. Water or sediment in the water separator instead of clean diesel may indicate problems.
Frame alignment–it should be symmetrical. Fuel tank and crossover lines–they should be strapped or bolted on tightly. Excessive moisture in an air brake
system's tank. This can cause corrosion or ice-over in cold weather. An air drier, if present, eliminates such problems. Tires
to make sure that at least 35–50% of the tread remains and that no cuts or tears are evident. Recaps are usually acceptable on
all but the steering axle tires. Radial tires and disc wheels are generally best. Brake linings to ensure that at least 50% of
the original pad depth remains. Wiring and battery connections for installation of standardized lighting
and instrument fixtures. Fasteners to ensure that the dashboard is secure. Odometer reading–be sure it matches maintenance log.
Convex and motorized mirrors–they provide better visibility. Make sure the mirrors are securely fastened. Valid federal annual
inspection sticker.
Once you've thoroughly checked over the truck, it's time for a road test. Check: Engine for smoke, knocks, unusual noises or
cylinder misfiring Engine oil pressure at high and low idle–it should be in the normal range Clutch to make sure it engages
and releases freely shifting to ensure it is smooth steering and braking–be sure the truck does not pull to one side–power
steering is usually safest instruments for proper functioning Air conditioning and heating, no matter what the season An inexpensive used truck may seem
like a good deal–but in poor condition, it will cost you more for repairs and lost business than you initially saved by
purchasing it. That's why it's important to buy a well maintained truck. Steer clear of a vehicle in need of major body or
mechanical repairs–unless you're willing to make an investment or fix it yourself. And remember, to ensure optimum performance,
it's important to continue to care for your vehicle.
Ask your sales representative about the laws governing truck length, width, height and weight. You should know the maximum
load weight permitted on the truck you are considering. And be certain the truck you buy can accommodate a full load and still
he within legal guidelines. A "stripped" truck may be more expensive in the long run if it reduces your driver's productivity
certain features that enhance driver comfort and efficiency will pay off for your business. Many newer-model used trucks have
power steering, air conditioners and an air cushioned driver's seat. An AM/FM radio will also make long trips easier to handle.
Your tractor trailer driver will find a sliding fifth wheel a great help in redistributing varying loads.
Although specific laws vary from state to state–and there are unique issues associated with interstate use of a vehicle–in most
states, any truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more is subject to laws governing commercial
vehicles. So before purchasing a truck, know the weight, length, height and width limitations set by the state(s) in which you
will operate. Buying one truck or significantly adding to your fleet is an important decision. So be a smart shopper–and buyer.
And be sure to be aware of all your financing options and state laws governing your vehicles.
When deciding on a payment plan for your truck, be sure to explore alternatives for the most favorable terms. You have a choice
between paying cash and financing the purchase. Financing may offer tax advantages and allow you to avoid tying up cash that
might be used more profitably elsewhere in your business. Also remember that since many banks do not finance used trucks, you
may need to consider a reputable used truck dealer who can obtain a loan for you through a well-established finance company.
Physical damage insurance and credit life insurance may also be available. Also remember that since many banks do not finance
used trucks, you may need to consider a reputable used truck dealer who can obtain a loan for you through a well-established finance company. Physical damage
insurance and credit life insurance may also be available through a used truck dealer.
The most common warranty in the used truck market is a 30-day "50/50" coverage on the drive train: any repair costs incurred
during the first 30 days are split by the dealer and the new owner many banks do not offer conventional financing for a used
truck. Ask your sales representative about the plans he can arrange. Explore different financing options for the most favorable
terms.
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