Four Things You Absolutely Have To Check Before You Buy A Used Semi Truck
Posted on: 21 December 2016
Buying a used semi truck takes experience and knowledge. If you do not have that experience and knowledge, take someone with you who does. Then he or she will be able to point out to you four things that you absolutely have to check before you buy any used semi truck.
The Drive Train
Given the monstrous size of most semi trucks, the drive train has to be near mint if you want to avoid major repairs in the next year or two. The drive train supports the many wheels on a semi truck as well as the weight of the cab and the engine. A rusted out or less than acceptable drive train will bust under you or your drivers within a short time, placing everyone in danger.
The Diesel Exhaust System
Diesel exhaust systems operate very differently from standard gas systems. As such, they require more care and maintenance to make sure they are continuously operational. You will also want to be sure that the exhaust system meets or exceeds the emissions and smog test codes and regulations, regardless of what state the truck will be driving through. Your own state may have loose standards regarding smog, but if the truck drives through California (for example), then the truck has to pass those regulations. Have a DOT inspector perform emissions and smog tests on any semi truck you are looking to buy before you buy it.
The Engine
As with any vehicle, you want to check the engine. Unless the second-hand semi truck seller guarantees the operation and function of the engine of each truck he/she sells, get a commercial truck mechanic to look at the engine. You do not want to invest in this reasonably-priced (but still expensive) piece of equipment only to have it end up in the shop a month later for engine trouble. If the engine checks out, but you still want reassurance, ask the seller for an extended warranty plan on the truck and/or the truck's engine.
The Truck's History
You may be as surprised as the seller to find out that a truck is water damage property or stolen property. While most sellers do a really great job on checking the history of every vehicle on their lots, sometimes one or two slip by the security checkpoints. Before you buy a semi truck, or any vehicle for that matter, ask to see the vehicle's operations and owner history.
For more information, contact local professionals like Arrow Truck Sales.
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