Best Under CDL Box Truck

Cargodog · Apr 25, 2009

What Is The Best Under CDL Box Truck For Longhaul?

I am working on establishing my own authority at the end of the year and hauling cargo throughout the United States.

I have been searching for a used 24' box truck; yet, I am not sure which way to go. I feel the International DT466 might be the best choice with the Freightliner FL60 running a close second - then, perhaps GMC and Ford diesel box trucks.

Can anyone help me with this situation?

Also, I am checking into the Allison Automatic Transmissions with overdrive - would this be a good choice?

nightcreacher · Apr 26, 2009

Re: What Is The Best Under CDL Box Truck For Longhaul?

i dont believe you will be able to drive a truck with a 24 ft box and not have at least a B cdl,especially over the road

DougTravels · Apr 26, 2009

I like my truck,but is it the best?
Mine is a 05 chevy 6500,(bought it new) 20 ft box under cdl 25,950, I can carry about 9,250 lbs with full tanks, so a little over if I don't fill up.
355,000 and still seems strong, time will tell. I worry about the automatic trans, but no problems with it yet, other than trans cooler lines leaking twice but I had them replaced. They have a bad connecter design. I still make my 12,000m oil changes without adding any oil.
So far so good.

bluejaybee · Apr 26, 2009

Re: What Is The Best Under CDL Box Truck For Longhaul?

nightcreacher said:
i dont believe you will be able to drive a truck with a 24 ft box and not have at least a B cdl,especially over the road

Sure he can. No cdl needed if under 26000 GVWR. Even with air brakes. All he needs is an endorsement like "For Hire". In Tn it is a F endorsement. Other states may call it something else.

As far as the truck, I had an International, I had a Sterling, and now have a Peterbilt. Have driven Freightliners alot. If you want driver comfort, Sterling is the one I would choose. It had the best ride and just seemed to drive itself. I don't think there is a nickels difference in the drive trains on the all of them except for the International. The DT466 is a good engine, but in my opinion, is not an over the road engine. And the comfort level is way low. Before everybody starts jumping and hollering, we are talking class 7 under 26000 here. I would love to have an International class 8. But class 7's are more limited to the amount of room in the cab. I always thought I wanted a Peterbilt, til I owned one. It is so cramped and I am not the biggest guy. All these class 7's are fine for day cabs, but just aren't big enough for over road type driving. Yes, I know how many are out there doing just that, (over the road).

I have never driven an automatic so only know what I have heard. Only negative I hear is when it comes to repair bills on them. They cost to repair, but then, what doesn't these days. I also hear talk of the mileage they get or don't get. So who do you believe on that? I guess it depends on engine, ratios and driving patterns.

Cargodog · Apr 26, 2009

Thanks for all your replies. I appreciate all info and advice given and will consider all.

The Chevy sounds like it is running good; perhaps, I'll check into them a little further. Thank you.

CargoDog

A rough sea makes a great captain!!!