Advice for buying a used semi-truck

·       Don't fall in Love with a Truck! Fall in love with the Engine, Transmission, Rear end and electrical system. Buy a brand of truck that can be repaired anywhere. Ask around.  

·       No matter what you get, while it's under that 120 day warranty get that radiator repaired- after 500,000 miles it's going to go out.

·       Maintenance records. If there's no paperwork on a rebuild, assume it's original and untouched. Take a creeper and gloves, check EVERYTHING, and don't be afraid to make the dealer nervous about how long you're taking on your test drive. Make sure it’s been rebuilt completely with record papers and guarantee.

·       Have a reputable mechanic check it out (engine/transmission). Then get under the truck and look at the brakes (all components of the brake system), suspension system (air bags, springs, hangers, torsion bars, all bolts are tight and proper strength, etc), electrical system works as designed and properly secured to frame/body/mounts, maintenance records, and if possible the alignment on steer (don't forget steering system components are in good working order) and drive axles. The checking of the alignment can be done on a test drive. While test driving, roll down the windows and listen for any strange noises, such as when making a turn, stopping, accelerating, etc.

·       Get it D.O.T. inspected first

·       Have it put on a dyno to check to see how much blow-by there is.

·       Look at everything twice...and do a cam inspection.

·       You are going to have down time- Preventative Maintenance, Good Warranty, and Good Freight. You can rebuild 2 trucks for what you can buy one new for.

·       Get an oil analysis done also take oil filler cap off and if she's puffing smoke she's wore out. Also send the transmission fluid out to be tested. 

·       Warranty Warranty Warranty and…. Extended Warranties!!!