Evaluating Used Semi Trucks
Purchasing a semi truck is important if you are hoping to generate income by starting your own independent shipping company. If the cost of purchasing a truck new is too great, then buying a used semi can be a great solution.
To ensure you end up with a used truck that you can rely on to haul you and your loads safely from one place to another, here are three key features you should evaluate before deciding which used truck is best suited to meet your needs.
1. Evaluate the quality of the engine oil.
Taking the time to check a used semi truck's engine oil can tell you a lot about the condition of the truck. The engine oil circulates throughout the truck's engine while the vehicle is in use. If the truck's engine is in good condition, the engine oil will have a slightly brown tint and be viscous.
If the engine oil appears to be almost black and has a thick texture, these could be signs that the oil has picked up particulate matter as it traveled throughout the truck's engine. Particulate matter could be a sign of serious engine problems, so you should avoid investing in a used truck whose engine oil doesn't appear to be in good condition.
2. Evaluate the body of the truck for rust.
There are few things that can destroy the structural integrity of a semi truck like rust. Since semi trucks spend a significant amount of time on the road, they are subjected to contact with road salt and other contaminants that contribute to the corrosion of their undercarriages and drivetrains.
By taking the time to thoroughly inspect a used semi for signs of rust, you can determine whether or not the truck you are thinking of purchasing will be structurally sound and able to safely tow a loaded trailer well into the future.
3. Evaluate the suspension system.
Since you will be spending a lot of time behind the wheel of your used semi, it's important that the truck is able to offer a comfortable ride. As you test drive a semi, pay close attention to the quality of the suspension system. You want a truck that rides smoothly and quietly. Any bouncing or excessive noise during use could signal suspension problems that will not only be uncomfortable, but expensive to repair.
When you know what to look for as you evaluate used semi trucks, you will be able to purchase a reliable truck to help you meet your shipping and transportation needs. For more information, contact local professionals like Arrow Truck Sales.
