Tailor Trucks for a Close Fit

by Curt Bennink
Created: November 12, 2007

Check options before purchasing a pickup/chassis cab.

Mets agrees, adding, "Pros include increased payload capability and better stability during towing. Cons include impact on fuel economy in some circumstances, and a wider vehicle track."

Dual rear wheel trucks can often provide the necessary towing capacity without having to jump up a size class. "Most people would prefer the smaller truck that is more efficient, fits in most garages and still gets the jobs done," says Aubrey.

Other off-road considerations
If your jobsites require you to traverse rough terrain, you need to carefully examine options that will make the truck more capable in this environment.

There is a variety of equipment that may be useful, including skid plates, locking differentials, trailering/handling or off-road suspensions, recovery hooks, heavy-duty air cleaners, etc. "Options that can increase capability in various conditions are also available, including anti-spin differentials, heavy-duty cooling systems and four-wheel-drive systems," says Mets.

There are also many electronic technologies that deserve a closer look. These include hands-free communication systems using Bluetooth technology, DVD-based navigation systems and power adjustable seats.

A backup camera system can also be a useful feature. "This is helpful for backing up in tight parking lots and for lining up the truck to hitch a trailer," says Aubrey.

Sterling Targets Vocational Market
Sterling Trucks is targeting its Bullet chassis cab trucks (see cover image) for buyers who want the level of service that a commercial truck dealer can provide.

"The Sterling Bullet focuses more on the vocational truck buyer," says Jeff Hallam, product manager. "That's why it comes standard with a power take-off (PTO) prep package, air conditioning and cruise control. Adjustable idle control is a requirement for PTO hydraulic pump applications. Without using a PTO, however, it can be used to help the engine warm up faster."

With this truck, the combined weight rating is the same for all models. "It boasts a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,000 lbs.," says Hallam. "There are 48 different variations of the Bullet available when taking transmissions, wheelbases, 2WD vs. 4WD, and regular cab vs. Quad Cab into account."

Plan Ahead for Resale
If you frequently turn your vehicle fleet, you need to factor resale value into the ownership cost. "According to ALG, the company that helps establish residual values on vehicles for OEMs and banks, options that add to resale value include automatic transmissions, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, power accessories, sunroofs, leather interiors and entertainment systems, such as DVD players, satellite navigation and high-performance audio systems," says Kevin Mets, Chrysler LLC.

"One option that definitely increases resale value is an automatic transmission," adds Jeff Hallam, Sterling Trucks. He also notes, "While an upgraded trim level may not 'pay for itself' at retail, it does provide drivers with a more comfortable work environment, reducing fatigue and making for a happier employee."

Dan Tigges, General Motors, believes almost any option can add resale value. "But it is the amount of value added vs. the cost that matters," he states. "Options that have broad appeal are most likely to raise resale value. Some big options, like air conditioning or automatic transmissions, are critical to high resale value. Common options, like power door locks and power windows, are more likely to add value than things fewer buyers order."

Other options can be more regional in their appeal. "Resale value for a 4WD truck vs. a 2WD will vary depending upon the region of the country and the local terrain/conditions," says Tigges.