Need advice on what truck to buy

[gg360]

Hey Guys,

I am looking at purchasing a flatbed truck for use in my business. I have a construction company and need a bigger truck to haul materials to job sites. My pickup and trailer doesn’t quite cut it anymore. I end up spending too much time behind the wheel and not enough time on site. My problem is the 4600 kg weight limit for trailers. I am considering getting my DZ licence and purchasing a tandem axle truck like an International 4900, a newer international 4400 or an FL80 or FL120.

Any recommendations on which trucks I should consider? I am not looking for the best, most comfortable truck on the road, but the most economical solution to suit my needs. I haul mainly lifts of lumber with it, but occasionally haul concrete materials and equipment.

Also, down the road I will be using the truck for hauling a trailer, with more material or heavier equipment. I’m thinking a 20 ton trailer would suffice. Mostly for hauling backhoes, mid-size excavators, forklifts and so on. Would any of these trucks fit the bill, or would I need a bigger truck at that point?

And most importantly, how many kms/miles is too many for truck. What would be the ideal amount of milage to look for. It seems the prices drop rather quickly after 250k miles. I can only assume that means that they die and need a rebuild some time around 300k to 400k?? Any thoughts on power train choices? I am highly leaning towards a 1998-2001 International 4900 tandem with a DT530 and 10 speed transmission.

Am I wrong in thinking I can pick up a decent truck to fit my needs for under $30,000 USD? I don’t know a whole lot about big trucks, am I being naïve about this?




http://www.truckpaper.com/listings/detail.aspx?OHID=1958995&guid=5E22EC596BD544DD96373B88BE07ADC0


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http://www.truckpaper.com/listings/detail.aspx?OHID=1513255&guid=5E22EC596BD544DD96373B88BE07ADC0

[Hawkeye001]

I would stay away from the FL models. They have been having issues at as little as 400k with their engines. International has a good solid reputation especially with the 3 and 5 ton trucks. GM has issues with their rear ends in the late 90's early 2000 models. Don't know if that was ever corrected.