QuestionThanks for your answer to my previous question.
I was trying to investigate on a durable truck to buy for my about to start haulage business as mentioned in mylast question. Initially I decided to buy a Mack truck because it is the most common truck in Nigeria and I think the parts are relatively available compared to other brands. However, I discovered that Mack trucks are generally expensive. Mack trucks of similar specifications are as much as about 150% higher than freightliner, International, etc. I would have preferred to buy a freightliner truck but I'm concerned about parts and/or service technicians availability in Portharcourt, Nigeria where the business is going to start from. Some technicians I discussed with advised that it's better I buy Mack trucks and even recommended old models (say 1988 -1995) of Macks because the technicians dont have expertise/experience in newer models. For example they dont have expertise for electronically controlled injector. I want to start with fairly used truck say 1998 - 2004 depending on the price. I will appreciate it if you can advise me on whether to buy Mack or freightliner and which model or specification is durable enough for Nigerian roads and container activities. I have a budget of 10,000 - 20,000 dollars for the project. Please advised. Thanks.
AnswerHi Bunmi,
Generally speaking, most mechanics in Nigeria would prefer any conventional type truck that does not carry "brain box" or complicated electrical wiring system for ease of repair, swapping of parts, and quick troubleshooting. Presently, there is a dearth of facilities good enough to carry out repairs of ECM controlled engines in a cost effective way.
Freightliners carryiing Cummins engines N14/855, L10/M11 and caterpillar engines 3406 and Detroit GM engines have proven to be durable and cost effective.
I am not very conversant with the facilities in Port harcourt but I believe there must be mechanics there capable of handling non electronically managed engines of the make mentioned above.
If you are operating or want to operate in an environment where the preponderance of mechanics opinion favours a particular type of engine or truck, it may be wise to follow their advice to get the best result from your investment. But Know fully well that it is only the lack of facilities and the high cost of electronic troubleshooting that is scaring Nigerians from these ECM controlled engines.
Mack truck is very common in Nigeria (mostly west, east and southern states) The CH612 613 series are very common. the older type RS 686 are much more familiar and popular among mechanics on highways.
The model or year to buy does not matter much if the engine is sound and has been refurbished to specification. Trucks with odometer reading below 750,000 miles can give you from one year to 2 year of durable work depending on the type of goods you subject them to haul. You should not expect to have durability in excess of 18 months at reasonable cost.
I hope I have been able to guide you and please let me know if I can be of further help.
Regards,
