When Purchasing a Used Semi..??
There’s many things to look into to find the “Proper Spec” that will function correctly for your “NICHE” in this industry.
- 1) What I ask is the Vin number on the Truck, ECM, and Trans to better understand the trucks life.
- 2) If anything was “Rebuilt” I always ask for the “Documentation Records” and Recipes to prove what was done.
- 3) Motor size and brand, it’s a preference but you can’t go against the facts and what your daily operations ask for. For instance I like to run Pre-Emission Caterpillar engines between 475-500hp & Detroit Series 60 470-500hp. Also you have to think about the availability of parts in the lanes you are going to run it because breakdowns to happen.
- 4) Your Transmission Speeds once again it’s a preference but you can’t go against the facts for your daily operations. The brands that I like are Eaton Fuller and Rockwell, now on the Speed for what we do is 13spd or 18spd with Easy Pedal Clutch your driver will Thank you!.
- 5) Is your “ Rear-end Ratio” this is super! Important to understand because if you get a High “Ratio”?for example 4.11’s that truck will rev so high that it’ll hurt that engine and kill your fuel efficiency. But everyone’s daily operation is so figure out what your niche needs. The Ratios I prefer is a 3.22-3.72”s and the brand we use is spicer.
- 6) You want to throughly inspect the fame for “Rust” and “Cracks” around u-joints and weak points of suspension. Inspect air bags for dry rot and hoses for air leaks. Also look for oil leaks around your hubs, king pins,subframe and axles. And aluminum fith-wheel is a plus with blocks if you are going to be hauling.
- 7) Wheelbase is important although I know a 300-Wheelbase is super cool but is it functional for what your going to be working at?..I like to be at 2.75-2.95 wheelbase?it’s perfect for what we do.
- 8) Avoid Re-Cap tires they’re junk, Get virgin rubber 16 ply we run 24in tall tires but now you can get a 22.5in on obviously 22inn rim. We have self inflation on all 4 rears and also make sure your trailer has the same size. Hancook or Goodyear tire they good tire programs and programs.
- 9) Interior just say or look for owner operators spec that’ll give you all the nice features any driver wants. 6-8 out of a perfect 10 is doable and fixable.
- 10) Let’s face it there is no perfect truck just look for good bones and build off of that and also just use your sense?to make a honest and proper decision on your investment. If it has warranty even better and also don’t look at price that much because if you have built relationships with good direct shippers you should be able to afford that and still make a profit. If you need any help be sure to connect with me and DM me with your concerns and I will be more than glad to help you out because I know this stuff is confusing at times and also these salesman like to take advantage of newcomers into the business so be aware of that at all times they are not your friends this is serious business..
