So, our dump truck has taught us over the last few weeks that it's never good to depend solely on one vehicle. Gets very expensive very fast. So, I'm looking into picking up another dump truck. Our budget is ~$10,000. I'm wanting something that can haul tree trunks in the bed, so a payload capacity of ~10,000lbs is needed. I would also like to have a diesel, for the gas mileage and longevity. I've been looking around at a bunch of options, each with their own pros/cons. I'm looking at all options of domestic made dump trucks. First off, I considered the GM Top Kick or Chevy Kodiak trucks. Prices were a bit on the high side, but they were newer with more amenities (AC, better stereos, more comfortable rides, etc...). But, it seems that many of the trucks in my price range run a Cat 3116 motor which seems to be very problematic. Also, these trucks seemed to have many other quality control issues. I have been looking at the Ford/International trucks, but they are generally higher mileage and have been beat on and abused (at least in my price range). The only other option I have looked into is to pick up an AM General M817. I have found some in our area that run ~$8500 and they seem to be built like tanks. I keep hearing how these trucks are supposedly way over-engineered, yet they last forever. Only downside is the lack of creature comforts. But, I have no intention of driving the truck far from home (never over 100 miles from home), and we drive minimal distances on the interstates. It seems as if these trucks hold their value very well, and will basically run in any situation imaginable (engineered to supposedly operate from -50*F-150*F). I do not have a Class B CDL right now, but it's simple to get in Virginia (written test, 30 day wait driving on a CDL permit, then a driving test on the type of vehicle intended to be licensed for). I've been needing to pick up one anyway. Anyone have any experience with bigger trucks? What do you guys think? 1970 M817 MILITARY 5 TON 6X6 WINCH DUMP TRUCK m35a2 m917 m813 skid steer loader | eBay That's the specific truck I've been eyeballing. Just a lot of money to spend. ~Will Courtier~
This one comes with a chipper! You can probably deal them down to 10K. http://richmond.craigslist.org/cto/3264291872.html
Just happens to have the original paint. Probably wouldn't change it, as that paint is pretty tough and doing tree work is hard on trucks (trucks are always a magnet for falling limbs). Also, i think these trucks look pretty cool. Thanks, Tacdriver. But, that is already pretty similar to what we have. Those trucks really aren't built heavy enough. That's why i am debating on such a heavy replacement truck. We really want something that has very little sheetmetal and extra crap to quit working or get damaged. ~Will Courtier~
Yep, it really does at first sight. The specific truck I'm looking at was completely rebuilt (by the military) somewhere near 2005. That included new front end components (to take out the slack and tighten things up), a rebuilt motor (done professionally, not by the military) and a once over to fix anything that could have potentially worn out (interior, electrical issues, hydraulic leaks, new tires, etc...). The truck I'm looking at also only has just over 20,000 miles total on it. The seller is a dealer that sells a lot of these all over the US, and offers a warranty on the trucks he sells. If I didn't have a history on the vehicle like this, I'd never even consider it. ~Will Courtier~
