QuestionI wanted to purchase a tractor and step deck trailer unit. Since I am doing this as a second job to make ends meet, economy is a big factor. Will be going back and forth Canada to California. With equipment and cars-nothing very heavy.
I wanted to purchase a single axle c/w sleeper, but for every person tells me this is a good truck another tells me it isn't. I hear a lot of good things about the DT466, but I don't think an early 2000 international(about my budget) could pull a 48ft step deck trailer. then someone suggested a DT530, but said early versions had there problems (what is considered early version) I heard M11 are hard on gas. Realistically what is good on gas, reliable, and between 270-400hp (the aforementioned is what I think I need). Rear end gear ratio I thought around 3:50-3:78.
For a trailer either a 48-53ft solid aluminum or aluminum combo
AnswerHi Curtis.
First off, in trucking, everyone is biased about equipment! For every person who loves a Kenworth, another person hates them. Take it all in, but keep your mind open.
I've owned (and driven) an International 4300 with a DT466. It pushed out about 195 hp. It is a great engine and it ran great for me, but was underpowered. I'm not sure what you can turn them up to (hp), but I would look for something a little bigger.
I have a twin axles, daycab International with an M11 in it. It runs just Florida with 45,000 pounds of lumber on a daily basis. It runs like a champ and is turned up to 410 hp. The down side is, yes, it's not going to be as great on fuel. It may be overkill for your use.
The DT530 has a rating up to 300 hp and is a good option for you. My brother owns a Freightliner FL60 with a Cat 3126 in it. It pushes about 275 hp, which would work for you. The downside, CAT engines aren't cheap to work on. I'd keep my eyes open for a mid-size Cummins or Detroit.
Your gearing sounds about right. Too tall of a gear, you'll be cursing in the mountains. Too short and you lose the top end.
The most important thing I can tell you is, try to get an engine warranty! You may find a good deal without a warranty, and if you have the cash for a rebuild, great. I've seen many owner-operators fail because they buy a used truck and 6 months later the engine needs a rebuild. Now, it's time to cough up thousands for a rebuild. It puts many back as a company driver or out of the business. Even if a guy has papers for the rebuild he had done, if there is no warranty, I'd walk away.
Second, take the truck on a long test drive. Drive it around town and on the interstate. Does the engine sound good? Does it drive smooth? Is the all important A/C cold? Do all the gauges, switches, lights, etc. work? Is this truck comfortable enough for me to drive it long distances? Little things like a gauge not working isn't a deal breaker, but gives negotiating power and if you buy it from a dealer, they can fix it before you buy it. I bought a used GMC C-6500, without a test drive. When I drove it home, the seating position was terrible and it was horribly uncomfortable (for me anyway). I made it home and sold it to another dealer the next day. Test drive everything you can so you have a lot to compare and contrast to.
Good luck and hope I helped out.
Bob Stephens
