Trucking: Looking for good used truck, freightliner columbia, detroit engines

Question
I am looking for a good used truck (class 8), but I am unsure which Brand model, engine type, transmission type and ratio to buy. Any advice for a newbie into the trucking business. I been driving a box truck for about 3 years now for someone else and would like to go into business for myself

Answer
Hi Chris.

The biggest thing that I tell new owner-operators is to look for an engine warranty.  Engine rebuilds can run $10K or more.  If you drive that used truck off the lot and the engine goes, guess who has to come up with the money?  At the very least, find a truck with a recent engine rebuild AND papers to prove it!  

As far as trucks, there are a lot of good truck out there.  It really depends on what you plan to haul and if you'll be pulling in mountains or flat land.  Look at something like a Freightliner Columbia which is a good all around truck with at least 400 hp.  Many have Detroit engines which are good with a 10 or 13 speed.  I like the 3.58 gears, but again, it depends on the loads and hills.

There are other good trucks out there, but I've driven and owned a lot of Freightliners and they've been great trucks for me.

Good luck in your new driving job!

Bob Stephens