All posts tagged trucks

Truck Talk: 4 Tips for Buying a Semi-Truck

A semi-truck can be a great investment, since the payments you make as an owner/operator will go towards financing it instead of simply leasing it. Once it’s paid off, it will be yours to continue using or sell. Semi-trucks are expensive, though, which means it’s crucial that you do your homework as you go through the sales process. Here are four tips that will help you find the right truck at the right price.

Match the Semi-Truck to the Job You Intend to Do

Getting a great price on a semi-truck means nothing if it can’t handle the job you intend to do with it. You need to check the specs to ensure that the engine, transmission, axle capacities and gearings all match what you plan to do with the truck. Pulling over 100,000 pounds requires a much different truck than pulling under 10,000. Flat terrain requires different gearing than hilly areas. Figure out your needs in a truck first before you start shopping.

Be Open to Buying a Used Semi-Truck

Just like with any other type of vehicle, you can get a much lower price buying a semi-truck if you get one used. This does require enough knowledge that you can determine whether the truck is in good shape and if any parts will need replacing or rebuilding soon. Consider only shopping at reputable dealers like Arrow Truck Sales or similar businesses, or with private sellers that you know personally. This can help you feel confident in the truck you get.

Conduct a Thorough Inspection

Whether you’re buying a new or used truck, you should inspect every inch of it to look for any issues, but it’s even more important when you’re buying used. Make sure you ask about maintenance records and requirements during this time. If you’re not confident in your mechanical knowledge, bring a mechanic with you to help.

Keep Control during the Sales Process

You’re making a major purchase, which means you shouldn’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you want. Don’t let the salesperson rush you, either, even if they tell you a deal is good for today only. Be patient and remember that as the buyer, it’s your decision.

It usually takes some time and plenty of shopping around to find the semi-truck that feels right to you. Don’t get discouraged if you have trouble finding one. Keep at it and wait for the right deal to present itself.

Basic Types of Trailers to Know About

There are a wide range of trailers manufactured for commercial and transport purposes. There are several trucks with varying load capacities and for each type there is a different trailer that can be attached to it. Each trailer has a category of applications linked to it.

While loading your truck by attaching a trailer, there are various factors to consider like the load bearing capacity of the truck and the road guidelines, the size and the cargo to be carried. While considering the total weight, do not forget to add-up both the weight of the trailer as well as the freight that is to be shipped within it.

These trailers are generally classified into 14 basic types. Here is a list:

#1. Flatbed trailer

There are one of the most commonly used trailers because of their versatility. They are used for all types of freight. It has load capacity of 40,000 pounds and a length of 48 to 53 ft. It is an open container with no cover over the cargo that is being shipped.

#2. Dry trailer van

These are also known as enclosed trailers. It is just like a flatbed trailer but with a box around it. The best feature about is that it is waterproof and it protects the cargo from rain and dew during transit. It is mainly used by the grocery stores, clothes stores, electronics industries, and all such organizations that have products that can be damaged by rain.

#3. Refrigerated trailer

Some items need to be kept in a restricted and controlled environment continuously. For such items, refrigerated trailers are used. Stuff like frozen food, pharmaceuticals, and dairy products are to be shipped by such a trailer.

#4. Speciality trailers

This is a category of trailer built specially for transporting a particular type of cargo. For example, the air-tight tank trailers built for hazardous liquids and the inert material trailer for transporting natural gas and LPG. There are discreet regulations to be followed while making such trailers to match the safety requirements of the trailer during transport of hazardous and inflammable materials.

#5. Side-kit trailers

This trailer is equipped with a side wood panel and are used to transport loads that are packed like sand, gravel, dirt, wood, bricks, and all such materials. All the materials that are to be transported in free-form without a packaging is hauled in side-kit trailers. It is generally a flatbed style with a 4-5 ft side panel attached to the deck.

#6. Double drop trailers

There are extendable trailers that enables you to extend the trailer length to fit in longer cargos. They are designed exclusively to handle excessive lengths as well as weights. Though the heights if this type of trailer is low.

#7. Stretch RNG trailers

This is the type that carries extra-long objects that cannot fit into double drop trailers or flatbed trailers. The loads generally are low in weight. But in case the load is more, the truck may need to attach more axles in order to prevent the trailer from slacking in the middle.

#8. Multi-car trailers

These are most commonly used to transport automobiles. There are 2 types in this section of trailers- single layered and double layered. The weight allowance for such a trailer is high and that lets you carry 8 cars at a time. This is also used as a mobile home as that would need an equally high load capacity to be able to carry all your heavy belongings.

All these above-mentioned types are the most commonly used types of trailers. If you are hiring a freight trailer for the first time, it is necessary that you know the basic use of each trailer type to pick the right one for your cargo.

Need a Truck, but Don’t Want to Pay a Fortune for Gas? 5 Models with Reasonable Gas Mileage

A pickup truck is a versatile workhorse that can fulfill a variety of duties. Unfortunately, pickup trucks have never been known for delivering good fuel efficiency. This can put you in a bind if you need a truck to support your business or lifestyle, but don’t want to pay a fortune for gas. If you are thinking about buying a truck, but would like a reasonable gas bill every month, you might consider a few of the following models with the best mileage:

Toyota Tacoma

With an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma proves to be an efficient daily-driver. Although a V-6 engine is offered, the four-cylinder engine is clearly the most efficient option. Some of this truck’s standard features include an anti-lock braking system, a five-speed manual gearbox, a four-speaker sound system, and electronic traction control.

Dodge Ram 1500

The 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 offers two very efficient engine choices. Despite the V-6 engine’s strong performance, it still manages an impressive fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the optional Eco-diesel engine is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the open road. According to Topspeed.com, the diesel-powered Ram 1500 actually delivered 33 mpg when cruising along the highway.

Ford F-150

For good reason, the F-150 has remained the top-selling truck in America. In an effort to boost gas mileage, all F-150 models are now constructed using lightweight aluminum. While the F-150 offers several engine choices, the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine has been specially tuned for efficiency. Gas mileage stands at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, the 325-horsepower engine is strong enough to tow about 8,500 pounds.

2015 GMC Canyon

Equipped with a peppy four-cylinder engine, the newly-redesigned GMC Canyon offers an exciting blend of power and efficiency. Drivers can expect to get 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the freeway. As a testament to the 2015 Canyon’s outstanding performance and build quality, Autoweek named the Canyon as their “Best of the Best Truck”. Some of the truck’s standout features include LED running lights and a rear CornerStep bumper.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado

Featuring essentially the same chassis as the GMC Canyon, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado also offers excellent gas mileage. While the four-cylinder model is rated at 27 mpg on the freeway and 20 mpg in the city, the V-6 version is almost as impressive. When fitted with a powerful V-6 engine, the new Canyon can still return a commendable 26 mpg on the highway.

No longer do truck owners have to suffer from poor fuel efficiency. These five truck models will definitely keep fuel consumption to a minimum, while allowing you to get the job done.

The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Tonka 4-Wheel Drive Ltd., who specialize in truck accessories in Edmonton.

6 Trucks that Seamlessly Blend Comfort and Functionality

Today’s trucks aren’t your grandad’s rusted out old rig; they offer all the comforts of a highway car. These new trucks handle everything from towing trailers and hauling heavy loads to comfortable commuting and vacation travel for the whole family.

1. Car-like Comfort: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

With its car-like ride and luxurious interior, the Silverado handles daily commutes or long road trips in comfort. It can tow a trailer, carry a big load, or go off-road. Engine choices range from more economical 6-speed automatic V6s to an eight-speed automatic 6.2-liter V8 with a 12,000-pound tow rating.

2. Chrysler Ram 1500: Comfort and Performance

With a comfortable ride, widely-praised interior styling, and a well-designed cabin, the Ram’s smooth-shifting standard 8-speed automatic balances power with comfort. Choose 2WD or 4WD, V6 or V8, diesel or gas, and a variety of cabin styles and trim levels.

3. Ford F-150: The Most Popular Choice

The Ford 150 remains the best-selling truck in North America. This full-sized workhorse tows up to 11,300 pounds and carries 3,120 pounds, with a 81.3 cubic feet cargo box, several V6 and V8 engine choices, and a six-speed automatic transmission with a haul/tow mode. You can choose standard, extended or crew-style cabins. 

4. Chevrolet Colorado: Best Gas Mileage

With a top-rated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, the Chevrolet Colorado is the mid-size truck of choice for high-mileage drivers. With a choice of automatic or manual transmissions, V4 or V6 engines, and standard, extended or crew cabins, this versatile truck can carry up to 1,590 lbs. of payload and tow trailers up to 7,000 pounds.

5. Toyota Tacoma: Economical Off-Roader

The Tacoma is an economical performer, compact enough to fit in small parallel parking spaces and navigate narrow jeep trails or sandy washes equally well. Its quickness and agility make it the choice for drivers who need to navigate both urban traffic and backcountry wilderness.

6. Nissan Frontier: Most Affordable

The compact Nissan Frontier offers a low sticker price and good gas mileage. You can choose 2WD or 4WD, manual or automatic, and V4 or V6 engines, with a maximum 1,524 pounds payload and 6,500 pound trailer. It offers a state-of-the-art infotainment system including hands-free text messaging.

Although you can research trucks on the internet, what matters most is how they feel on the road and how they suit your driving style. Expressway Dodge can configure trucks for your needs.

The Six Most Economical New Pickup Trucks

In the past, owning a pickup truck meant that you had to deal with extremely poor fuel economy. Today’s automakers have taken major steps to improve the gas mileage of their pickup trucks. Certain pickup trucks are actually able to surpass the fuel efficiency of some cars. The best part is that these trucks are also very affordable—the following is a list of the most economical of the newest pickup trucks:

Dodge Ram 1500

Very few trucks can match the Dodge Ram 1500’s rare combination of brute strength and efficiency. The new EcoDiesel engine rewards the owner with a highway fuel economy rating of 28 mpg on the highway. However, the V-6 version of the truck is a tad bit cheaper to buy.

Toyota Tacoma

A brand new Toyota Tacoma can be obtained for less than $20,000. While its four-cylinder engine is not capable of pulling extremely heavy loads, it is perfectly suitable for light-duty applications. The driver will certainly appreciate the Tacoma’s gas mileage rating of 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevy Silverado’s new 4.3-liter, V-6 engine helps it to average 24 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, the base Silverado is still able to tow a commendable 7,200 pounds. The entry-level Silverado has all of the basic essentials, including a six-speaker sound system, air-conditioning, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The 2014 Silverado, due to these features and its combination of high performance and high safety ratings, has been declared the 2014 Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show.

Ford F-150

While the Ford F-150 offers several engine choices, the 3.7 engine is the most cost-efficient option. The 302-horsepower engine revs with enthusiasm while returning a fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the freeway. You will be hard-pressed to find a better pickup truck for $24,200. The F-150, as one of the most popular models on the current market, is both easy and inexpensive to repair, as you will experience no shortage of experienced Ford mechanics and replacement parts.

GMC Sierra 1500

Based on the same platform as the Silverado, the GMC Sierra offers great fuel economy and unmatched durability. Although you will have to forgo options, such as a rear-view camera and remote starting, the Sierra can be obtained for as little as $26,000. One of the 1500’s best, most economical new features is its considerable lightness compared to other pickups in its class. This has significantly improved fuel economy, making the Sierra one of the most efficient vehicles on this list.

Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier’s base price of $18,850 is very economical. When equipped with four-wheel drive, the Frontier transforms into one of the most capable pickup trucks on the market. The rear-wheel drive model, according to a Drayton Valley truck body specialist, is able to deliver an impressive 23 miles-per-gallon when traveling on the open road.

Becoming the owner of a pickup truck does not have to be a financial burden. Each one of these capable pickup trucks offers great gas mileage and an attractive price tag.

Informational Credit to Western Truck Body Mfg