This would be a Cabover with NO box on the back... I'd be wanting to use it as a tractor- for work and pleasure- as in for possible truck shows and perhaps a parade here and there.
I've been researching prices and various makes and models, as well as conditions of these trucks. IF you look deep enough and look around- not just on the internet, you CAN Find Good Used trucks for less than 3 to 5 thousand (3,000 to 5,000). Ultimately, I'm looking to find a "barn find" as some call them- a truck that's been sort of neglected. Worked, but not to the point of being useless or a complete rust bucket. Some of you might be surprised, start looking- believe it or not I've found some neat class 8 trucks/tractors at of all places Used Car Lots!! These trucks are nowhere near pretty, or shined up- often times the paint is badly faded and the truck has surface rust in spots. But- that's what I'm looking for! Under $3,000!
I've come across a few, KW's, Freightliners, and Internationals. You pay a premium for Peterbilt- yes, even their cabovers. And you pay a premium for the KW and International Aerodyne/Condo style cabovers. Especially the KW K100E. Ultimately, sure- I'd love to find a KW K100E- but it's not going to happen for under 5k, if you do find one under 6 or 8- it's usually needing some kind of major work.
I'm curious about: When I do find this steal of a deal I'm seeking, and I choose to drive it home from ?? What do I need to have? Can I just call my insurance co. and say "Hi, I got a Class 8 tractor, can you throw some insurance on it until I get home?" Surely there's more involved? Maybe not, but I figured somebody here on EO would know or know somebody who would... I have not called OOIDA yet on this- figured I'd strike up a post here and perhaps we could figure it all out here and learn from each other.
Do I need to get a DOT inspection if it's going a certain mileage? tags? if it's going to be registered as a recreational vehicle at 1st, what do I need?
I've heard in the past that a vehicle can only be registered as an RV if it's got certain living criteria aspects within it... Galley, full restroom.
IF I decide to register it as a commercial vehicle, is that easier- to a certain extent? what all is needed? I imagine that's a good bit more money though? or ?
What, if you were buying a cabover, would you seek in a truck?... Type of transmission? Tire brand/type, and size? and why? Gear Ratio's? and why? This is new territory for me- as always being a contract driver and/or a company driver- these are things that are not normally paid attention to. Remember, these question would apply Only for a cabover/class 8 Tractor- so there's going to be some difference in answers I know... and reasons for them.
I'd consider a single axle tractor, but really would prefer a 3 axle tractor.
I am seeking a condo though, because I really do Not want a flat top- I'm a tall guy, and got 3 kids... we need our space!
"Worse Case scenario" is I find a conventional tractor that's simply I can't live without- but I doubt it, it'd be a Freightliner or KW. I like the ride of a Pete, but not the styling. I like a Mack, but it's got to be done up just right. I like some Western Stars, and some Internationals- but prefer International cabover's over their conventional's. Never been overly thrilled with Volvo's- but always wanted to try out a 770 or 780.
What would it be pulling? a flatbed for hay, and a dry van... but that's much later. Right now, going after a rig to bring back to life... cosmetically- and maybe some minor mechanical work.
BBB
