When choosing a heavy-duty truck, you want to consider a few factors that go into your purchasing decision. This is because the usage of the truck will determine the features you'll want for it, from the cab to the back and the engine as well. Note a few tips for choosing a heavy-duty truck so you know you get the right one for your job.
Weight of load
Note the weight of each unit you might be hauling and how many units you would haul in total on any given run, or the standard weight of a load. If you'll be regularly carrying heavy loads that are close to the towing or hauling capacity of the truck, you'll need higher torque from the engine for hauling abilities. However, if your loads will be relatively lighter and you'll be driving in the city most of the time, you want more horsepower. This will allow for higher speeds and more control over stopping and starting at lights and intersections.
Consider how the load will be placed
How the load in the back will be placed and where it will hold the most weight will help determine the payload capacity you need for the truck. As an example, you might be carrying heavy water tanks that you need to secure near the cab of the truck. In this case, the rear axle won't help to displace that weight. You'll need more payload capacity from the truck itself as you'll be getting less support from the axle. If the load will be spread out more evenly, such as for gravel and other materials, you won't need as much payload capacity.
Crew members
How many crew members will be in the truck regularly? Don't assume that a bunch of workers will want to squeeze together in a standard cab; this can even interfere with the driver's ability to easily shift and steer. You might opt for an extended cab or what is called a crew cab; the extended cab has smaller seats in the back and small doors that open behind the front doors to provide more access to the rear seats. A crew cab has four full-size doors for the back and full seating in the back as well. Remember that the extended or crew cab can be used for storing tools, coolers, and other supplies even when you don't have crew members onboard, so it can still be a good investment.
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