Super T, welcome to our forum. We really don't spend much time here giving information out like this. We focus on helping new drivers make a good start into trucking. We have a few members who are Owner/Operators, but it is not a business model we generally recommend.
You should go to OOIDA. Get a membership and they will be a big help to you.
You may get a few responses from some of our O/O's. I'm not sure, but we can wait and see.
OOIDA is an international trade association representing the interests of independent owner-operators and professional drivers on all issues that affect truckers. The over 150,000 members of OOIDA are men and women in all 50 states and Canada who collectively own and/or operate more than 240,000 individual heavy-duty trucks and small truck fleets.
The mission of OOIDA is to serve owner-operators, small fleets and professional truckers; to work for a business climate where truckers are treated equally and fairly; to promote highway safety and responsibility among all highway users; and to promote a better business climate and efficiency for all truck operators.
Neither one would do it fo me, as the rear end ratios are way too high. Rust showing is also going to equal corrosion that you may not see in the electrical system. You should do more research, and consult OOIDA as Old School recommended.
OOIDA is an international trade association representing the interests of independent owner-operators and professional drivers on all issues that affect truckers. The over 150,000 members of OOIDA are men and women in all 50 states and Canada who collectively own and/or operate more than 240,000 individual heavy-duty trucks and small truck fleets.
The mission of OOIDA is to serve owner-operators, small fleets and professional truckers; to work for a business climate where truckers are treated equally and fairly; to promote highway safety and responsibility among all highway users; and to promote a better business climate and efficiency for all truck operators.
Operating While Intoxicated
Does the Volvo come with flip flops? 😂
Looked at the pics... just looks like surface rust to me. Should be fine as long as you take care of it.
Whats up with the right U Bolt?
It looks like it had a casing or something that is shedding like a snake skin.
Looks like the underside of a truck that spends alot of time in New England. I have a 2018 F150 and noticed surface rust on my chrome bumper already.
I wouldn't spend a penny on something that had so much rust. It's only a matter of time before it starts failing inspections.
Surface rust isn't that big of a deal. Most truck shops will clean it up and paint it for around $800. The gear ratios will work fine with either unit. The Volvo with the 3.42 is a better combo in my personal opinion because it'll give you decent fuel economy on the flats and will climb a hill without too much effort. The 3.23 is great on the flats but go across 68 or some of the state roads and US highways in PA and WV and you'll be wanting that extra kick you get from the 3.42. Personally, if you're so hell bent on owning a truck, I wouldn't buy either one. I'd pick up a cheap truck, put 15k in it to freshen everything up and drive the wheels off of it, then save that money (if you make it), put it aside and go work as a company driver. Or, just get with a good company and avoid the extra hassles altogether. If you can't wrench on your own truck, you'll be giving money away to the folks who can.
New! Check out our help videos for a better understanding of our forum features
Hey guys,
I am 4 years into trucking now, 1.5years of that long haul and I'm about to jump into becoming an owner operator. I've looked at a few trucks and would like some experienced advice on which to proceed with.
Purpose of truck is hauling Van/Reefer loaded around 70,000 lbs gross to the mid west.
The trucks are; 1. 2016 Western Star 5700XE Engine: DD15, 505HP Transmission: DT12 Auto Axle Ratio: 3.23 Mileage: 450,000 Km or 280,000 Miles Price: $95,000 CAD or $71,000 USD
Pro's: Below market price, and low mileage. Con's: Has been in a small accident (cosmetics damage only, has been sufficiently repaired), excessive rust from operating in western Canada.
The rust is excessive and I'm wondering if it needs to be sand blasted off and painted or is it something I can handle with a drill wire brush, rust remover/inhibitor and some spray paint.
2. 2015 Volvo VNL780 Engine: D-13, 455HP Transmission: Eaton13 Axle Ratio: 3.42 Mileage: 725,000 Km or 450,000 Miles Price: $80,000 CAD or $60,000 USD
Pro's: Looks well maintained, very little rust showing on the entire truck, Better interior and larger cab Con's: Priced at market value (5700XE is around 10 to 15k CAD below market value)
I'm leaning towards the Western Star because of the value. The biggest cause of friction for me is the rust (I've never driven a truck with this amount and I don't know what problems it can cause in the future). I've attached a few pictures of the rust, what do you guys think?
Thank you
Rust Pics https://imgur.com/a/ZLgERHY
P.S. I've posted this same thread on multiple forums, here's a link if you're interested https://www.thetruckersreport.com/truckingindustryforum/threads/looking-for-input-on-first-truck-purchase.1379144/
Owner Operator:
An owner-operator is a driver who either owns or leases the truck they are driving. A self-employed driver.
Reefer:
A refrigerated trailer.
OWI:
Operating While Intoxicated