Archive for June, 2008
Monday, June 30th, 2008
Getting finance for a dump truck is similar to getting finance for anything else. You have to undergo the same steps to find the right program to suit your needs. Whichever type of truck, dump truck, semi truck or heavy-duty truck you want to buy- there is a loan program for each. There are many other options available for financing.
The first place one would normally checkout is the local bank. Mostly the criteria would be to have a good credit score at the personal level and other documentation required. The previous year’ s income tax returns may be needed along with the current financial statements. If it is a new business just starting off, it also should have a credit score of 680 or higher. Such businesses are considered high-risk areas and the companies should be able to meet the higher lending standards. Most of these banks as well as the financial organizations offer loan programs for the purchase of or lease of dump trucks.
When the company that requires finance for the purchase of dump truck takes up a loan program, the ownership title is transferred at the end of the loan repayment period. However, the documentation required initially to acquire a loan is a lot and hence, many companies drop the idea. When opting for the loan option, the organization has to be careful and enquire whether the loans extended are only for new trucks or also converted trucks. Most often there is lot of paperwork involved in this. However, now such companies are trying to design a system which would involve only using the applications to provide loans. The dump truck would be the collateral in this case for the loan. In most cases the credit score required is 575.
One alternative is opting for the partial finance, where part of the amount is given as loan and you put down part of the amount and finance it accordingly. These loans are easier to avail of and you may get better rates and terms of payments.
Another option that these companies have is the dealer ’s financing and inventory program. The lending company displays an inventory he has and the financing agreements. This kind of financing is useful for the large as well as the new start up companies. This provides an excellent opportunity to the companies to access great deals to the buy the appropriate dump trucks, as per their specific requirements.
One can also opt for the equipment leasing option. It is a contract for a longer period with a take-over option. The dump truck is owned by the leasing company till the period of rent, while the company uses the dump truck. The truck is the security itself. In leasing, the first and last payments are usually about 20% of the truck cost amount as down payment. This is preferred than the loan method as the initial expenditure is lower. Generally, credit history of larger periods like 2 to 3 years is not required as is the case with the loan method. The advantage of leasing is also the tax benefit.
When you are on the lookout for financing your dump truck purchase you need to consider things like the initial payment, the monthly payments, collateral required and any buyout clauses. You may even consult a broker regarding the benefits of dump truck financing. Each type will have its own pros and cons and you need to consider all these factors before selecting the correct one.
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
Everyone knows a Bulldog when they see it. The Bulldog has long been the symbol of the Mack truck. The company earned its nickname during World War I when the British government bought the Mack AC model in order to supply troops, food and equipment to its soldiers on the front line. Those British soldiers named the truck the Bulldog Mack due to the flat nosed hood which reminded them of the British mascot which was the British Bulldog. Since then the Bulldog has been a trucking industry favorite.
Today this is one of the leading truck manufacturing companies in the world. Now a subsidiary of Volvo, the company headquarters are located in Allentown, Pennsylvania in the United States. Primary manufacturing facilities for Mack trucks are located in Macungie, Pennsylvania and in Dublin, Virginia. The company today enjoys being one of the top producers of vocational vehicles from Class eight through Class thirteen. It also produces off road trucks. The Bulldog logo is very distinctive on the front of each truck.
Mack trucks have been sold throughout the company’s history in a total of forty-five countries. Right hand driven vehicles are currently produced in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia and are distributed worldwide. Plants are also located in Caracas, Venezuela as well as Hagerstown, Maryland in the United States. These trucks hold the distinction of being one of the most popularly driven heavy duty trucks on the road due to their longevity and dependability.
It was early in the 1960s that the then executive vice president of engineering, Walter May developed the Maxidyne high-torque rise engine which has given Mack trucks much of their rise to popularity. The engine was first evident in 1968 with the new line of trucks. The placement of the Maxidyne engine became an event that would change the trucking industry forever. The engine allowed for a heavy duty Class 8 truck to be operated with a 5 speed transmission. Before this time heavy duty trucks held 10 gears or more. The development of the Maxidyne engine became one of the most popular aspects of the Mack truck and drivers everywhere were soon anxious to drive one of these miracle trucks. Since that time the company has enjoyed being one of the most popularly chosen truck brands of all time. Given the history behind their logo it is not surprising that this tough competitor has outlasted many others.
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
Although a Mitsubishi Fuso may not be a name that you see or hear very often, these medium to light duty trucks have been around since the 1960s. Mitsubishi is a very well known name and their Fuso line of commercial haulers has made itself quite a reputation among truck drivers. From dump trucks to sweepers these trucks are dependable and efficient, according to those who drive them.
The first Mitsubishi Fuso trucks were first seen on a global scale in the 1980s. They began their ascent to popularity in the Asia-Pacific market in the 1970s and soon found themselves being accepted worldwide. Australia has given much rise to the Fuso’s popularity over the past few years. Today you can normally recognize a Fuso by the Canter badge on the front or by the Mitsubishi badge which is typically found on the back of the truck. The Mitsubishi Fuso is comparable to United States models such as the Toyota Dyna, Hino Dutro, and the Chevrolet W Series of commercial vehicles.
The Mitsubishi Fuso Canter is a lighter duty commercial vehicle that is primarily manufactured in Japan and a few other Asian countries, but is also sold in the United States. Europe, the Mid-East and a several other countries have also seen the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter come to life. The Fuso is manufactured by the Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation in Japan with facilities also operating in Portugal since the 1980s.
From reefers to construction models, the line of Mitsubishi Fuso trucks offers the perfect choices for those looking for a medium to light duty professional vehicle. The manufacturers turn out approximately 15,000 new units each year and to date there have been more than 100,000 vehicles produced by this company. These trucks typically boast high production quality standards which are certified by ISO standards and when combined with a test track and a very extensive final inspection for quality it really is no surprised that these are one of the most popularly sought after trucks for light duty work. You can simply type in Mitsubishi Fuso on your browser’s search engine to see the listings for sellers of these trucks. Finding used Mitsubishi Fuso trucks is also possible, and at very reasonable prices. And of course, you would expect a Mitsubishi to be very fuel economical as well. If you are vying for a truck that provides quality craftsmanship and massive fuel savings you really can not go wrong with this one.
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
Nissan hits hard when they remodel their vehicles. The new Frontier is no exception. This truck finally has the power and looks to rival any of the competition. I wanted to help you in your shopping by pointing out the features I saw the other day on my test drive.
The 4.0 DOHC V6 puts 265 hp down and 284 lb-ft of torque. It feels like it can pull a house down. The new engine has an aluminum block and is very smooth. The 4-cylinder is no slouch. It puts down 154 hp and is much more balanced for a smooth like comparison to the V6.
The new, boxed frame is similar to the big brother Titan’s full size frame. The welded in cross members add to the midsize trucks rigid handling. Nissan went all out. This truck has a double wishbone suspension and leaf spring rear suspension. Drives like a car in the city, but the structure of a big truck for work or off road time. Speaking of off roading – your 4×4 guys will like the 10.1” of ground clearance. Nothing is hanging down anymore. Add a skid plate to the 4WD model and some optional off road tires and you are ready to climb a hill with just the push of a 4WD button.
Technology was put into this bad boy, too. 4 wheel limited slip so that the wheels don’t loose traction and a vehicle dynamic control. It keeps your truck in control by braking and engine controls to help maintain total vehicle control. Of course, it may not prevent an accident, but it sure could help on a rainy day.
My friend got the NISMO Frontier. It has the off road package and some special graphics along with Bilstein shocks. The interior was a unique as were the wheels. His was an automatic, and although he doesn’t take it off roading, it sure did ride nice and it wasn’t that much more with all of these options. He had a bed protector and the utili-track bed rail system. The tie down locations were limitless. It has two glove boxes. Yes, in the front where you only get one. The Nissan also had neat under seat storage and the front passenger seat folded up to provide a desk type surface.
The truck has been really well thought out. There are tons of air bags for protection on the sides, window curtains, and of course in front. ABS and brake assist (helps you apply more braking force if necessary) features along with the brake distribution (applies more braking power to the rear wheels balance the weight) helps remove safety as a concern.
The truck is truly a world-class midsize pickup and leads in most categories. I wish you had to opportunity to drive one as I did.
Nissan hits hard when they remodel their vehicles. The new Frontier is no exception. This truck finally has the power and looks to rival any of the competition. I wanted to help you in your shopping by pointing out the features I saw the other day on my test drive.
The 4.0 DOHC V6 puts 265 hp down and 284 lb-ft of torque. It feels like it can pull a house down. The new engine has an aluminum block and is very smooth. The 4-cylinder is no slouch. It puts down 154 hp and is much more balanced for a smooth like comparison to the V6.
The new, boxed frame is similar to the big brother Titan’s full size frame. The welded in cross members add to the midsize trucks rigid handling. Nissan went all out. This truck has a double wishbone suspension and leaf spring rear suspension. Drives like a car in the city, but the structure of a big truck for work or off road time. Speaking of off roading – your 4×4 guys will like the 10.1” of ground clearance. Nothing is hanging down anymore. Add a skid plate to the 4WD model and some optional off road tires and you are ready to climb a hill with just the push of a 4WD button.
Technology was put into this bad boy, too. 4 wheel limited slip so that the wheels don’t loose traction and a vehicle dynamic control. It keeps your truck in control by braking and engine controls to help maintain total vehicle control. Of course, it may not prevent an accident, but it sure could help on a rainy day.
My friend got the NISMO Frontier. It has the off road package and some special graphics along with Bilstein shocks. The interior was a unique as were the wheels. His was an automatic, and although he doesn’t take it off roading, it sure did ride nice and it wasn’t that much more with all of these options. He had a bed protector and the utili-track bed rail system. The tie down locations were limitless. It has two glove boxes. Yes, in the front where you only get one. The Nissan also had neat under seat storage and the front passenger seat folded up to provide a desk type surface.
The truck has been really well thought out. There are tons of air bags for protection on the sides, window curtains, and of course in front. ABS and brake assist (helps you apply more braking force if necessary) features along with the brake distribution (applies more braking power to the rear wheels balance the weight) helps remove safety as a concern.
The truck is truly a world-class midsize pickup and leads in most categories. I wish you had to opportunity to drive one as I did.
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
The auto industry is a continually growing trade with companies expanding their businesses to other parts of the auto market. International Truck and Engine Corporation, a leading manufacturer of medium and heavy trucks, recently announced that they will be branching out their business in the RV territory.
The truck manufacturer recently entered into an agreement with Conquest Motorhomes which will see International Truck and Engine as the sole provider of chassis and cab to the Conquest. The Conquest Motorhomes is a division of Gulf Stream Coach, a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles or RVs. This partnership between the two huge companies will surely make waves in the RV industry.
The partnership was announced by Steve Guillaume, the General Manager for Medium Truck, International and during the announcement, Guillaume was saying that: “This partnership is a tremendous growth opportunity for us. The Class C motor home market represents a substantial portion of a growing industry - approximately 33 percent of the total motorized RV market. Once again, International is challenging convention as this is a great opportunity to leverage the scale of our core business and generate growth outside of the commercial trucking sector.”
International will be providing cab and chassis for Gulf Stream’s Class C diesel motorhomes. International already received an order for 625 DuraStar™ chassis which shows that the partnership is indeed benefiting the two companies. The number of orders placed by Gulf Stream is expected to increase as time goes on and their partnership becomes stronger.
International Truck and Engine has been working with Workhorse Custom Chassis in order for International to break into the profitable RV industry. The effort paid off when they partnered with the leading manufacture of RV motorhomes. Models from the Gulf Stream that will be using the chassis from International Truck and Engine are the Super Nova and the Gladiator.
Jim Johnson, the Vice President of Operations, Conquest Motorhome Division for Gulf Stream Coach, has this to say about their partnership with International Truck and Engine: “When a leader in the commercial truck industry collaborates with a leader in the RV industry to build a great product, RV customers are going to be the big winners. Moreover, our industry is coming into its sweet spot for growth as population and demographic trends favor long-term RV market growth. Buyers aged 35-54 are the largest and fastest growing segment of RV owners. Every day, 11,000 Americans turn 50. This is a huge plus for International, because the International nameplate is viewed very favorably by that demographic.”
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
There is just something about that bow-tie. Chevrolet trucks have long gained a reputation for being sturdy and dependable. This does not only reflect on their pick-ups and SUVs but on their semi trucks and other heavy duties as well. From the Kodiak to the W Series, the boys behind the bow-ties really know how to manufacture a truck that is as nice to look at as it is thrilling to drive.
Light and medium duty trucks are available in a wide range of styles, colors and even manufacturer’s brands. If you have never driven a particular brand then you may not have a preference. Of course you probably know about Ford, Freightliner, Peterbilt and all the others, but there are many truck drivers who simply will not drive anything but a Chevrolet truck. Of course there are also people who will not drive anything but a Chevy car or SUV. Beginning to see a pattern here?
If you know the Chevrolet brand then you definitely know that it stands for quality and service. This is true whether you are referring to the smallest car or the most heavy duty truck. There really is something in a name, and the bow-tie symbol represents a name that stands for one of the most stellar reputations in the history of automobiles. Whether you drive a small commercial truck or one of the biggest and baddest rigs on the road, there is absolutely no denying that when you see that bow-tie you think of quality. Why else would they be one of the very top automobile and truck manufacturers in the world for so many years in a row?
It is because of quality. If you are planning to purchase a commercial or heavy duty truck, then this is a brand that you should definitely consider. The trucks are manufactured with the highest quality and safety standards in mind. If you are setting up your own trucking business or are considering becoming an owner/operator then you definitely want a truck that you can depend on for traveling without costly repairs. Remember the bow-tie. Chevrolet trucks are popular for a reason. They are good trucks. Companies and drivers depend on them to transport their cargo without incident and they deliver more than what they promise. When you get ready to purchase your new truck remember - the power of the bow-tie compels you.
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
pickup truck is a light but powerful truck that was originally built to haul heavy construction material. People also use it to move luggage, especially when they are moving between homes. A pickup truck is a sturdy vehicle with bed-space to carry goods, and walls of strong metal sheets on its two sides. The rear side is fitted with a gate for ease of loading and unloading.Pickup trucks come in different types and sizes, and run on gasoline. The bigger, or full-sized, pickups are used to carry larger and heavier cargos. They can also haul trailers and are fitted with double tires at the rear wheels.
There are many automotive companies that manufacture pickup trucks. Some of the popular companies are Volvo, Renault, Mercedes-Benz, DAF, CF, Nissan, and Iveco, to name a few. Used pickup trucks are also freely available. Some Japanese companies sell used pickup trucks online. This is because the cost of maintenance and repair of the old vehicles is uneconomical in Japan. They accept payment in Japanese Yen only.
Though the primary function of a pickup truck is to haul cargo, the manufacturing companies have introduced innovative features in their models to get a competitive edge over each other. If you are out to buy a pickup truck, there is a big market that offers a wide spectrum and variety of choices. You can choose from a basic utility truck to a multifeatured vehicle fitted with luxury options that can compete even with the best luxury cars. They can be fitted with accessories to make the drive comfortable. Compared to cars, they also have the luxury of extra space. This makes a long journey extremely comfortable
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
Pickup trucks are designed to operate efficiently on roads as well as uneven dirt tracks. They have a strong steel body and use long lasting engines. These features have enabled many pickup trucks manufactured between 1930 and 1970 to remain operational and deliver consistent performance for many decades.
A number of firms sell old pickup trucks, which are usually targeted at antique collectors and truck enthusiasts. These firms operate websites that contains a detailed list of all old pickup trucks available with the seller. A detailed description is given about the year of manufacture, brand name, present condition of the engine and other components, and prices. Some firms carry out repair works on old pickup trucks to make it operational based on customer demands.
Old pickup trucks are sold as pieces of historical memorabilia and prices of some old pickup trucks are higher than currently available pickup trucks. People who own old pickups and need cash can sell their vehicles to old pickup dealers. Old pickups are priced according to their uniqueness and operational age. A pickup manufactured in the thirties is usually priced higher than those produced in the fifties or sixties. Some old pickup trucks are available in the range of two thousand to fifteen thousand dollars.
With age and time, many of these pickups have managed to transform their image and value. People take great pleasure in owning and maintaining their old pickup trucks. They are great attractions at vintage truck rallies and fairs. However, in some cases it becomes difficult to get replacement parts, as many companies that manufactured pickups are no longer in existence.
Old pickup trucks may not have advanced features present in modern day pickup trucks. However, these shortcomings do not undermine the status of old pickup trucks and with age the value of old pickups is expected to increase even further
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
Police truck auctions are held regularly in every police department trying to get rid of their surplus vehicles. These auctions are one of the best markets for quality police vehicles that may have already lived up to its use for our men patrolling the streets.
These types of auctions offer you one of the best deals around. That is because the police and other federal and state agencies take pride in having well-maintained vehicles. It would be more likely that you will have for yourself bid on many well maintained used police trucks at prices that you may not be able to get at any other second hand dealerships.
Police truck auctions are usually held several times over the course of the year because there is always surplus inventory lying around. Aside from aging (2 years and above) police vehicles to impounded and seized cars, there are always plenty of units to get rid of to make way new inventory and to free up some valuable storage space. In such auctions, you might even be able to find slightly used or even some fairly new vehicles to bid on, if you are lucky.
Police truck auctions offer the chance to check out good quality vehicles that you may be able to get at prices way below retail. But all the great deals will depend on how good you can bid for it. It is a gross misconception that every item at an auction can be yours at very cheap prices.
On the contrary, some items may even go over their fair market value. Credit this to some overeager but inexperienced bidders. There are some instances that bidding wars at these police truck auctions can get out of hand that the vehicles can end up priced outrageously. So it is a good idea to come well prepared.
Just like any other auction, the action starts when the bidding begins. But if you are after great deals in these auctions, the action for you starts way before the actual auction day. Prepare yourself by getting to know what is required to be a part of the bidding public. Registration is usually required for such auctions with each bidder given his own number to put some order into the whole process. This is usually free in most government held public auctions.
Inspection Day is sometimes also scheduled prior to the actual auction date to give the bidders a chance to see the auctioned vehicles more closely. On a typical Inspection Day, the bidders can check each vehicle inside and out. Bidders are also allowed to start and give the engine a run through, but that is as far as they can go over each vehicle. Moving the vehicles in any way is prohibited.
In all government auctions, catalogs are also handed out beforehand to the bidders, which become their guide on the order of the vehicles put on the auction block. These catalog also contain some important information concerning each vehicle including model, color, year of manufacture, vehicle history and other special features
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
GPS vehicle tracking systems are more affordable and more popular than ever before, but do you need one? Take this short quiz and keep track of your ‘yes’ answers. I’ll help you total your score and decide after you finish.
Step One: Take Quiz
- Do I use vehicles in my business? Yes/No
(The definition of ‘vehicles’ includes heavy, medium and light-duty vehicles, construction equipment (dozers, graders, backhoes, etc), cars, motorcycles, RV’s, pick-up trucks, vans, tractor trailers, buses, trailers, dump trucks, snow plows, limousines, taxis, etc.)
- Have any of my vehicles been stolen in the past? Yes/No
- I’d like to know what is going on and where my employees/vehicles are during the day: Yes/No
- I’d like to reduce my fuel expenses and know if any of my vehicles are wasting gas: Yes/No
- Being able to give my customers accurate and precise arrival/delivery estimates is important to me: Yes/No
- It is important to know if any of my vehicles are used after hours or on weekends for non-business purposes: Yes/No
- I’d like save up to 30% on my vehicle insurance: Yes/No
- It is important to know if my employees are speeding or otherwise abusing my vehicles: Yes/No
- If any of my employees are using my vehicles to ‘moonlight’ or do work without my knowledge, I’d want to know: Yes/No
- Knowing about mechanical problems before they become expensive to fix is important: Yes/No
- If any of my vehicles are ever stolen, I’d like to locate them within minutes: Yes/No
- I’d like to have vehicle use data to compare with overtime requests as a way to guard against errors and fraud: Yes/No
- I’d like a reminder when it is time to do routine maintenance on my vehicles: Yes/No
- Occasionally, customers question when we were at their location, having the exact date and time recorded in our tracking system would really help in those cases: Yes/No
- I’d like to help my employees be more productive by seeing where they go each day: Yes/No
Step Two: Total Your ‘Yes’ Answers
Posted in Dump trucks, trailers, truck | No Comments »
