5 Tips for Spec’ing the Right Heavy Truck
Coming out of the global pandemic, truck sales in Canada are expected to see a growth of around 20%. As business begins to pick up, many companies are thinking of expanding or upgrading their fleet. But how do you choose the right truck for your needs?
Spec’ing a truck needs careful consideration. Read on as we discuss how to choose the right heavy truck for your needs.
1. Get the Right Horsepower
Getting the right horsepower is a balancing act. Go too high, and you have purchased added power that you don’t need, which will also impact fuel economy.
Go too low, and you will be underpowered, meaning you can’t haul the amount you want. If you continue to push the engine, it can burn out, costing even more money.
2. Think About Transmissions
Automatic transmissions are quickly becoming the standard in the Canadian marketplace. They are operator-friendly, creating a blend of fuel efficiency, with ease of use.
Their biggest downside is that they are more suitable for medium-duty trucks. You should consider the control from a manual for bigger applications such as logging, agriculture, and other off-road applications.
3. Plan Ahead
One of the best tips for spec’ing a truck in Kamloops, Kelowna, Calgary and Red Deer is to plan ahead. If you don’t do this, a time may come when the truck and its specs don’t suit your needs. The consequence is downtime, and this will cost you revenue.
Also, plan ahead when ordering. It can take six to eight months for a dealership to get your truck in, even more when COVID-related backlogs are involved.
4. Consider the Tires
Tires are one of the priciest parts when buying a heavy or semi-truck. It helps to research the manufacturers and get the right tire for the job.
Premium tires can often be less expensive when you buy them packaged as part of a new vehicle. You need to weigh out the costs for paying upfront, against mileage and the warranty provided.
Always make sure the tire load rating matches the axle weight rating. If similar tires in a fleet have different load ratings, make sure everyone who may be repairing and maintaining your fleet knows.
5. Think About Fuel Mileage
Gone are the days when fuel mileage was an afterthought. Emissions and rising prices have meant that fuel can really cut into your profit, particularly if you have a large fleet. However, do not make the mistake that fuel efficiency and reliable engines go hand in hand.
If you pick a substandard engine simply because of fuel efficiency, it will result in repairs and downtime. Speak with our experts on heavy trucks and semi-trucks in Calgary, Red Deer, Kelowna, or Kamloops and get their opinion.
Choosing a Heavy Truck Dealer
All of these questions can be answered by choosing the right heavy truck dealer. Be prepared when consulting with them by knowing your needs, what you may need in the future, and with a budget. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
RJames Management Group should be your first stop. We supply trucks, trailers, and parts for all your heavy truck and commercial trailer needs. Get in touch with us here to start on the journey towards your new truck.