What is the best tractor truck?

Truck drivers know the impact a new semi truck can have on their success as a driver. The best semi trucks for truck drivers is a heated debate with each driver having their favorite. Though, you should know that you can't go wrong if you're driving or buying a semi truck in our Top 5 list. In this blog post, we will look into why each semi truck belongs in the Top 5, as well as the drawbacks of each.

So whether you want to:

1. Buy a semi truck in the future
2. Stay up-to-date on features of the latest semi trucks
3. Or add to conversations with other drivers at the truck stop (without physical violence!)

Then, read on to learn what the Top 5 semi truck models are for truck drivers in 2024!

Top 5 best semi trucks for truck drivers

1. Best Semi Truck - Freightliner

You can expect to see Freightliner on every list comparing the best semi trucks for truck drivers. It's for good reason too because they are one of the nicest trucks for truck drivers in the US, with a market share of 40%! The Freightliner engine comes equipped with anywhere from 350-600 horsepower and up to 2050 lb of torque, which allows drivers to haul a variety of loads. Known to be aerodynamically efficient, Freightliners help you save money with fuel efficiency. They also cost less and provide top features that drivers expect from Peterbilts and Kenworths. With a great build quality and more accessible price, it's easy to see why the Freightliner is the best semi truck for truck drivers in 2024.

Interesting facts:

• Cascadia is the signature of their semi truck models
• More than 70,000 Class 8 semi trucks are sold annually
• The highest market share with 40% of semi trucks!
• Founded in 1942 by Leland James
• Made the first semi truck with an all-aluminum cab
• Aluminum is lighter and more affordable than steel 

Drawbacks:

• Could have a lower resale value due to a saturated market
• Maintenance and repair can be a hassle with long wait times

 

2. Most reliable semi truck - Kenworth

Kenworths are 18 wheeler trucks built by truckers for truckers. They have experienced drivers who advise on the design and features of their semi trucks. Kenworth semi trucks are known for making the driver's day on the road less stressful with their smooth navigational technology. They also have a reputation among truck drivers as one of the most reliable semi trucks and with lower operating and maintenance costs. While Kenworth semi truck models are heavier and less fuel-efficient, this gives them the sturdy feel that truck drivers love. If you are interested in a Kenworth, you should know that most drivers prefer the Cummins engine over others. It's also interesting to know that Kenworths are manufactured by PACCAR, the same parent company that makes Peterbilt 18 wheelers!

Interesting facts:

• Founded in 1923 by Harry Kent and Edgar Worthington in Seattle and currently in Kirkland, WA
• Second largest semi truck brands in the US with a 16% market share
• Models include: T680, T680 Next gen, W990, and the W900L 

Drawbacks:

• Heavier on materials and build than their Peterbilt counterparts and other semi trucks
• More expensive than other semi truck brands
• Lose out on fuel efficiency

 

3. Nicest trucks - Volvo

Though not as common in the US, Volvo is known to be an international leader in quality semi trucks. Volvos are the 5th most popular semi truck manufacturers in the US but are #2 in the world. And for good reason too, Volvos come from the same company that makes Mack trucks and have an excellent support network. It's hard to beat a Volvo for durability, performance, and comfort. Volvos are known to be more fuel-efficient and easier to drive because they're generally lighter and smaller in size. Volvo comes with cutting-edge technology such as dynamic steering, which gives additional torque to the steering column. This causes the steering wheel to return to neutral with ease and prevents crosswinds from moving the steering wheel.

Interesting facts:

• Smallest market share of all top 5 semi trucks - 10%
• 5 semi truck models in their VNL line
• Industry-leading parts 

Drawbacks:

• Repairs can be more expensive
  
  

4. Over the top truck - Peterbilt

Peterbilts are classic American semi trucks, and for style, there's no topping their iconic long nose. Peterbilt has two non-electric Class 8 semi truck models, Model 389 and 579. Both are high quality but they do differ from each other in looks. Model 389 has a more classic look and the 579 goes for a more modern design that makes significant aerodynamic improvements, with increased fuel efficiency. The Model 579 also has predictive cruise control, which improves fuel efficiency, and has the largest mattress you will find, making the Peterbilt one of the semi trucks with big sleepers! If you want to join Peterbilt's loyal fanbase, you can expect a lighter and more fuel-efficient ride thanks to the aluminum body. Made by PACCAR, the same semi truck manufacturers that manufacture Kenworth semi trucks, you can also expect a high-quality build and parts.

Interesting facts:

• Similar market share as Kenworth, about 13%
• Made by PACCAR, same as Kenworth
• Started in 1939

 

Drawbacks:

• Not the best truck for hauling heavy loads
  
  

5. Solid truck on the road - International 

As long as you avoid the International Prostar with the MaxxForce engine, which is known for severe breakdown issues, you can expect a good-looking and quality truck on the road. Historically, International semi trucks have been known for power and performance. Their Class 8 semi truck models include the Lonestar and the LT Series and were designed with the driver's comfort in mind. Drivers enjoy a pleasant driving experience thanks to the handling that International has become known for. Add increased safety due to improved front and side visibility and it's easy to understand why International semi trucks belong in the top 5 best semi trucks for truck drivers in 2024.

Interesting facts:

• Navistar International Corporation holds an 11% market share
• Located in Lisle, Illinois
• Founded in 1986 

Drawbacks:

• Prostar with the MaxxForce engine is known to have serious breakdown issues
  
  

Top 5 nicest trucks

You've made it to the end of our guide for the Top 5 Best Semi Trucks for Truck Drivers in 2024! You now have a solid understanding of which semi trucks are the best and the reasons why. Don't forget that the best semi trucks among drivers are based on the driver's needs and preferences. So while you might think that a semi truck is the best commercial truck, don't get into a verbal tussle with a driver at the truck stop over preference!

Speaking of preference, at MigWay we prefer the Freightliner Cascadia and the Volvo semi trucks because we've learned that's what keeps our drivers and mechanics happy. Both are driver favorites because they offer a smooth ride, plenty of torque, reliably handle tough terrain, and make long hours on the road more comfortable for drivers!

If you're looking for a trucking company with new and safe semi trucks, MigWay is a perfect choice. We offer drivers a safe driving experience and the opportunity to take their professional driving careers to the next level.

Get in touch with our recruiter today to learn more!

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ne iowa

started looking for a daycab tractor to haul my own grain . Which is the best brand and model ? Dont know alot about trucks. ( Autoshift) ? flatlander2010

Posted 1/7/2016 17:04 (#5018867 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Good ones arent cheap cheap ones arent good(but will still get the job done). 3 groups of opinions on here. 1. Dont buy a semi just hire it done. 2. Spend under 20k and get somethin that will get the job done. 3. 500 horse minimum pete or kw MNCORNFARMER

Posted 1/7/2016 17:12 (#5018880 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

SE MN

We have a 2001 9100 IH daycab with a ISM in it and it gets the job done day in and day out.  paid 17500 for it 3 years ago with 425k miles and its got a 10spd in it.  Honestly its a very easy to drive truck and it for the most part its a comfortable truck.  Plenty of power unless you want to pull 120k up a mountain.  No its not flashy it doesn't have an nat approved motor or tranny but its paid for and to me that's more important.  I wouldn't have made a different decision given the chance but I do like the looks of a 379 ext hood Pete just not the price for what you get.  It's a farm truck.  You are not making a living out of driving it.  

Nothing against guy that have the nice flashy Pete's at all and yes I am a little jealous. 

jason

Posted 1/7/2016 17:24 (#5018905 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Is this just for local farm hauling? If so T600 or IH 9200 or somethin cheap with paperwork. Thud

Posted 1/7/2016 17:33 (#5018923 - in reply to #5018880)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Near-north Ontario, French River

You are right in that the international and freightliners go up and down the road just like the KWs and Petes. Where the Pete and KW shine, apart from looks, is that the cabs tend to last longer, fewer rattles,quieter, more room etc. I think it boils down to the type of hauling you are intending to do, how long you intend to keep the truck, and to a certain point just personal preference for how a truck looks. I prefer KW T-800s, doesn't make it a better truck than a Pete or a FL or Int, after all once you get past the different cabs most trucks offer the same tranny, engine,rear end ratios, axles options. So my advice would be decide on what you feel your ideal drive train would be... engine make, HP, tranny, rear end ratios etc ....narrow it down to a few units that fit your preferences and THEN choose which cab style you prefer. Local dealer support and overall past maintenance records should play into your decision as well. deereonly1

Posted 1/7/2016 17:37 (#5018935 - in reply to #5018905)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

EC IL

Sure happy with my Pete with 10 speed & 60 series Detroit. steerstopper

Posted 1/7/2016 17:42 (#5018950 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

I would pay more attention to the engine, tranny, drive train specs and years to avoid for emissions rather than the name on the hood. Also maintenance /history. k&d farms

Posted 1/7/2016 17:51 (#5018970 - in reply to #5018950)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

ne iowa

i wont get 60 miles from home. e-plant is only 20. I really like the freightliner. look nice , Fair price, detroit i think good motor? 4450deereman

Posted 1/7/2016 18:08 (#5019016 - in reply to #5018970)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

I've got a International 9200i and 42 foot Maurer air ride hopper bottom for sale. On Craigslist if interested. TD15

Posted 1/7/2016 18:12 (#5019028 - in reply to #5018867)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

I think #3 is the most important, 400 just isn't enough. k&d farms

Posted 1/7/2016 18:25 (#5019077 - in reply to #5019016)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

ne iowa

where u at AGB

Posted 1/7/2016 18:25 (#5019079 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Mid-Michigan

I don't own a semi but I've driven everything from a brigadier to long hood Pete's with stupid horsepower. From a drivers standpoint this is how it worked: in the brigadier I was the highest paid DRI er on the road. In the Pete, I got lots of comments but no sleep and no check. If money is no object go Pete of kw. Personally when I buy I'm probably going with an International (but if I win the powerball it will be a Pete). roush9799

Posted 1/7/2016 18:34 (#5019107 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

West Central IL

West Central IL

You can get a t 800 kw with a daycab that's a little bigger than a standard one. We got one, its got more leg room. jncia

Posted 1/7/2016 18:36 (#5019112 - in reply to #5019107)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

north central iowa

Boy i would contact deereman. He has a good combo. Dave7060

Posted 1/7/2016 18:41 (#5019130 - in reply to #5019028)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

For 80,000# 400 is fine. I'm grossing 121,000 with 430, and do fine. Used to gross 66,000 with a 250 Cummins, and I always got there. Didn't set any land speed records, but I got there. I refuse to have anything less than a 13 speed though. Thud

Posted 1/7/2016 18:44 (#5019136 - in reply to #5019028)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Near-north Ontario, French River

400hp no enough in 80k,,, flat IOWA??? 350 is more than enough unless are trying to do rabbit starts off of green lights. Rayl

Posted 1/7/2016 18:46 (#5019141 - in reply to #5019136)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Saline County, Mo

My dad tells stories of weighing 72k with ten wheeler and a pup with a 427 gas gmc. So I think anything that drinks diesel will do the job. Thud

Posted 1/7/2016 18:54 (#5019161 - in reply to #5019141)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Near-north Ontario, French River

Guy I used to drive for had a LT9000 with a 270hp cummins.. 13sp not sure of the rear ends but he pulled 110-120k all day long. Not a speed demon but it would get up to 62mph,,, just took a bit longer than the billy big rigs with 400hp. MrBodecker

Posted 1/7/2016 18:54 (#5019162 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

EC WI

Nothing sweeter than a long-nose Peter!

Except a long nose W900. snowden

Posted 1/7/2016 19:00 (#5019191 - in reply to #5019162)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

michigan

There were a bunch of freightliner columbias on a ritchie brothers sale in december 515 detroits 370 gears penske lease trucks low miles most sold for 17 to 20 thousand and they were 2007 and 2008 year trucks them would make nice farm trucks watch there sales they have alot of them Redrat

Posted 1/7/2016 19:14 (#5019230 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Southeast mn

I drive semi everyday for work. For my farm I chose a mack semi since in my line of work they are the king for offroad roadwork and such.Don't get me wrong Petes and kenworths are great trucks but some road trucks aren't designed to pull 90,000 out of the field at least not as well for long periods of time. If it was me buying semi for the first time I would make sure it has,full lockers and a good reduction transmission if your are not driving hundreds of mIles in each direction. But that's just my 2 cents. Steve

Posted 1/7/2016 19:37 (#5019319 - in reply to #5019230)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Full lockers are great but also few and far between Mark (EC,IN)

Posted 1/7/2016 19:51 (#5019374 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Schlegel Farms, Hagerstown Indiana

Schlegel Farms, Hagerstown Indiana

I've heard over and over....there are a lot of nice fancy trucks, but if you just want a good old workhorse truck.....get a Mack.

Of course, my cousin sells Mack's olwhda

Posted 1/7/2016 19:57 (#5019401 - in reply to #5019374)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Liberty, MO

Or a VHD VOLVO , Macks 1/2 brother. Five Lock Boll

Posted 1/7/2016 20:15 (#5019466 - in reply to #5019028)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Northeast Louisiana

I must really be getting old. I remember when a 350 Cummins had BMF on its wallet. German Shepherd

Posted 1/7/2016 20:22 (#5019491 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Wrong place to ask that question.   Too many egos here demand a Pete or a Kenny.   I've got an IH 9200, but that hardly qualifies as the "best".   I'd say look around and buy what is in good condition and has what you want.

ILCORNGROWER

Posted 1/7/2016 20:23 (#5019498 - in reply to #5019401)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Northern Illinois

I am biased..... If it ain't a Mack take it back.

Seriously though. All the new trucks are junk IMHO. EPA ruined trucks. I would look for a pre emissions truck.

If you need a truck that isn't going to get a ton of miles fairly local and cheap. I will argue that nothing will last, be as tough or good off road as an old R model. They are NOT fancy. You CANNOT get a 550 cat in them. They do NOT have a lot of room in the cab. They DO go anywhere off road and run forever.

If I wanted a little better riding/driving truck I would look for a 97 or pre Mack CH with an E7350-400 in it. The old mechanical E7 is a great engine. Some of the Mack E Techs in newer trucks had cam and injector issues. I forget what years. I believe like 01-02s. The VMAC motors weren't bad they are still an injection pump engine but have electronic control. The E TECH is an ECM motor.

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4450deereman

Posted 1/7/2016 20:34 (#5019539 - in reply to #5019077)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

It's located at Curt's Truck and diesel repair in Owatonna Mn. It's not on his website yet. I'm having him sell it for me because it was too big for our operation and I originally bought it from him. We have to stick with our single axle rigs for our tight driveways and bin setup. Big L

Posted 1/7/2016 20:34 (#5019543 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Auxvasse, MO

truck that has some ground clearence and a low enough gear to move a load in soft field. amhfarm

Posted 1/7/2016 20:39 (#5019561 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

central IN

central IN

We bought a 06' international 8600, came from tx with only 310,000 miles. Should last us a very long time, it's light weight and still gets up to 65mph with an ism and 10 speed. All for less than 30k. Pete would be fun but I'll spend money elsewhere . IADAVE

Posted 1/7/2016 20:58 (#5019640 - in reply to #5019561)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Just because it is a common set up I would recommend a pre 2002 series 60 Detroit with a 10 c transmission. With 11-24.5 rubber 370-4.11 gears are good. With 22.5 rubber especially low pro 3.42 or slower is good. Air ride and just for price and service either a Freightliner or IHC.
Don't let them tell you an M-11, a series 50 or an MBE 4000 won't work. Just remember they should be priced cheaper. Had the M-11 and have the mbe4000 now. It appears they will run over 1,000,000 miles with a little care. Just not as common to buy or find a mechanic for. Cummins N-14 is a good motor also.
Don't be afraid of a sleeper truck either. The miles on an over the road tractor are a lot easier on them than the day cab trucks. A little longer wheelbase doesn't hurt the turning much and makes for a better ride. Also helps with bridge laws and gives storage space. Wouldn't be the first time I was glad for a place to lie down when I was sick also!

Edited by IADAVE 1/7/2016 21:01

Steady Eddie

Posted 1/7/2016 21:18 (#5019707 - in reply to #5019466)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

SE IL / SW IN

Me too Five Lock. What year was Pulp Fiction? bnelu

Posted 1/7/2016 21:24 (#5019730 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Ullin, Illinois

We bought a used Columbia daycab with a 14L Detroit 515hp and an ultrashift. Was an old US Express truck. We have some rolling hills and I agree 500hp minimum. We really like the ultrashift AFTER I had the shift points changed to performance mode, it was in economy mode and it was very doggy. Pull a steel hopper bottom and empty weight around 26k to 27k depending on fuel level.
This is our second Detroit and our diesel mechanic has nothing bad to say about them and that's why we keep buying them. I would ask your mechanic or go with something you can get worked on locally and not have to travel very far for greenfarmer

Posted 1/7/2016 21:41 (#5019792 - in reply to #5018923)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Central Minnesota

I think your spot on with how the cabs don't tend to stay nice and tight in the INT and FL. I have a 93 FL here that has more rattles in the cab, more wind noise, rides rougher than the 97 and 98 petes with more miles on them. But that FL will get the job done everyday of the week. Just not as many ponies in the Detroit that's in there as there are in the kittys in the petes.

You will get a nice FL or INT in the 15-25k range. Newer, and will run up and down the road all day long. Might not be as fancy as a pete or kw, but it will get the job done. Big Ben

Posted 1/7/2016 22:11 (#5019880 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Columbia Basin, Ephrata, WA

Get something with a long hood and a big radiator, and not because they look cool. They run cool when they get a little dirty and are easier to clean and work on. Trucks with their engines tucked halfway under the cab do turn nice and tight, but field debris can get stuck in their crowded engine compartments and catch fire. Low gears, tall rubber, and high ground clearance are also nice but not usually found on cheap road trucks.

Peterbilt 379's are my current favorite trucks for a lot of the reasons above, not just because they look cool. I have five now, the last one cost $7,000.

Edited by Big Ben 1/7/2016 22:15

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Lizton farmer

Posted 1/7/2016 23:03 (#5019969 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

lizton IN

lizton IN

When the trucks started with the new epa rules in 2007 (I think) -2010 they had a lot of problems. You want to stay away from them. There are a lot of KW T600 in junk yards for parts if you want. I like my 93 KW T600 no computers. Cat engines are the most expensive to rebuild. Find what you can afford and go from there. I don't like Freightliner parts seems high and special pipe for the exhaust. Freightliners does have a good ride.


Keith GM Guy

Posted 1/8/2016 01:17 (#5020055 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

NW KS/ SC ID

IMO stick with Pre-02 non-emission trucks. 02-06 have less garbage than 07+, but still have some EPA goodies. 02 and older is the most simple.

Dont fear a cabover. :) Frankly, IH had a decent cabover with the 9000 series. I personally love our Peterbilt Cabovers and Marmon conventionals, well built trucks, and dont carry the premium that a longhood Pete or KW carries.

Also, the autoshift will likely cost more and be less reliable in the long run, so price the truck cheaper if it has it.

The highest horsepower truck on the farm is the most recent purchase, a 1991? Marmon with a 450 hp 60 series Detroit and a 15 speed. The lowest HP is dad's favorite purchase, a 1978? White with a 903 NA Cummins. wont even smoke with a load, probably a 250 hp. :) gutless, but still can make it into the high side of the roadranger before it gets to town, and only cost him 900 bucks IIRC. My favorite is a twin screw bed and hoist truck, the 74 Peterbilt 352 with a 1674 Cat @ 270 HP and a 13 speed.

You dont need a hood, you dont need power, you just need well maintained and good condition with a agreeable price tag. Also, keep it as simple and cheap to maintain as possible, otherwise you would be better off hiring it done.

Now wants are totally different thing.... :)

If you can afford it and it does not cost a horrible amount to maintain, do whatever trips your trigger. :)

Edited by GM Guy 1/8/2016 01:19

Five Lock Boll

Posted 1/8/2016 05:20 (#5020098 - in reply to #5019707)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Northeast Louisiana

1994. balefire

Posted 1/8/2016 05:37 (#5020110 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Oxford County, ON

Oxford County, ON

If you're looking for a good farm truck, look at a Volvo. No it's not as "cool" as a Pete or KW, but they work just fine. Some guys have complained about Volvo being expensive on parts but any we've had to buy we have thought to be reasonable. They're the tightest turning trucks out there, so they're great for pulling out of the field of around a tight yard.
Don't be shy of a Volvo motor, either. They are smooth running and start easy well below freezing.

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JD 9400

Posted 1/8/2016 07:35 (#5020308 - in reply to #5019498)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Southern Pa.

ILCORNGROWER - 1/7/2016 20:23

I am biased..... If it ain't a Mack take it back.

Seriously though. All the new trucks are junk IMHO. EPA ruined trucks. I would look for a pre emissions truck.

If you need a truck that isn't going to get a ton of miles fairly local and cheap. I will argue that nothing will last, be as tough or good off road as an old R model. They are NOT fancy. You CANNOT get a 550 cat in them. They do NOT have a lot of room in the cab. They DO go anywhere off road and run forebears.

If I wanted a little better riding/driving truck I would look for a 97 or pre Mack CH with an E7350-400 in it. The old mechanical E7 is a great engine. Some of the Mack E Techs in newer trucks had cam and injector issues. I forget what years. I believe like 01-02s. The VMAC motors weren't bad they are still an injection pump engine but have electronic control. The E TECH is an ECM motor.

I'm a little biased towards Mack as well. The older R models are as tough as nails, and if equipped with Camel back suspension and a lower ratio rear are great offroad trucks. A little rough riding though, especially if you're used to a longer wheelbase Pete or KW, LOL. Air ride is nice, but not as good for off road. However, for me in my situation, I definitely prefer air ride suspension and cab. One drawback on Macks is propietary parts. They can be a little expensive sometimes, kinda like Cat.

I have a '99 CH 613. Was originally a 355/380 hp. We have some nice hills, (and mountains,LOL) so we bumped the hp up. Mack was OK to reprogram the ECM to a straight 400 hp.Any more than that, and they wanted like $6 or $7k to do it. IIRC, about $300 ea. x 6 for high flow injectors, around $3500 for an upgraded turbo, than labor to remove entire front timing gear cover, and install an offset camshaft drive gear key to optimize the injector/valve timing. All that to set it at 427 hp. To go to 460, they wanted to do all the above, plus replace the original 38k rears with 40k rears. INSANE.

Fortunately for me, I have known Richard (the owner of Antrim Diesel, Greencastle, Pa) for around 25 years. Richard knows how to make most any truck engine run like you stole it, and is very knowledgeable on where to get performance parts, Including aftermarket. He had/has? a Mack pulling truck for a number of years. He recommended a set of 25% (over stock) high flow injectors for $100 each (exchange), a 60 series Detroit turbo for approximately $1000. (including a few air intake/outlet adapters, and turbo oil drain line) Combining those parts with the initial 400 hp. ECM Reprogram made a Sweeeeeeet running CH613. 60 Series Detroit turbo's have a mighty pleasing 'song' as well, LOL. Buddy of mine runs a KW 900 with a 550 hp. 6nz Cat, and I'm generally not very far behind topping the hills when running together with similar weights.

Good luck on whatever you decide!! Austin

Posted 1/8/2016 07:55 (#5020362 - in reply to #5018831)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Garrett County, MD

Garrett County, MD

Your going to get a million opinions but for me I would focus on dependability and parts availability.

I would go with a pete or kw. Resale is good, dealers are everywhere, and they are some of the best made trucks on the road. Mechanics wont whine about working on them, any more than usual.

I would go with a single turbo cat 3406 for powerplant. These are extremely common, pre emissions engine which everyone knows how to work on. They are dependable, powerful, and again resale would be good. Cat parts network is second to none in the world, so while parts may be pricey, they will be available.

This engine would put you in the range of 425-550 stock hp. Plenty for anyone hauling 80k loads in my opinion. If your not in hills any trans would work. 10 spd, 13 spd etc. I dont know anything about autoshifts.

As far as the engine, I would recommend an E model or a c15. I believe this puts your truck options in the range from 1996 (i think) to 2002. Stay away from the 3406 C model, the predecessor to the E model.

One thing you might hear when looking at these trucks is the best motor is a "6NZ" The 6nz is a serial number prefix to the c15 engine. While it is a good engine, I wouldn't pay a penny more for one over a normal 3406E engine. I have both, have majored both and there isn't a different worth anything in my mind. Some people's opinions may differ. Good luck and dont underestimate cost of ownership on a truck, they are expensive to have and expensive to run. But if you can justify it, go for it.

Oh and before I get grouped into the Pete and KW crowd, I currently run Pete, KW, International, Mack and Volvo trucks. My opinion is based off of my experiences with these trucks.

Edited by Austin 1/8/2016 07:57

jdbob8100

Posted 1/8/2016 12:03 (#5020946 - in reply to #5020362)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

ND

First semi I bought was a unit from a farmer that had records for last 12 yrs-that meant a lot to me as most trucks are a hope so!! That first one is lacking on power with a 3307 Cat at 300 hp pulling a 36' hopper--its a 1988 Frtlnr, had only 494000 mi on it-I do like the truck but no power but it gets there. Actually its spring ride is nicer than my other one with an air bags a 1992 IH 9200 with a Cat C-12, it has 410 HP pulling a 36' hopper--has a lot more pep. You should have at least 400 hp minimum. If your trips are short in miles, you don't need a fancy one unless you want one. DutchMontana

Posted 1/8/2016 13:39 (#5021136 - in reply to #5019880)
Subject: RE: best semi tractor?

Mount Vernon, WA

Big Ben - 1/7/2016 21:11

Get something with a long hood and a big radiator, and not because they look cool. They run cool when they get a little dirty and are easier to clean and work on. Trucks with their engines tucked halfway under the cab do turn nice and tight, but field debris can get stuck in their crowded engine compartments and catch fire. Low gears, tall rubber, and high ground clearance are also nice but not usually found on cheap road trucks.

Peterbilt 379's are my current favorite trucks for a lot of the reasons above, not just because they look cool. I have five now, the last one cost $7,000.

I'm with Ben, but prefer Kenworths myself, just because I grew up with them. 70s-80s W900, 855 Cummins or 3406 Cat, and a 13 speed is one of the best combos I've ever driven, and can be found for pretty cheap. Last one I bought I paid $1000 for (got a steal on an online auction). Needed a little bit of love, but plenty of room in the budget to do brakes/tires/etc. vs. buying a $30k truck that will probably need the same treatment a year from now. My $.02.