What truck to get if I want to haul containers?

[henboy1]

Most of you read my other post in searching for a truck.I plan on hauling containers with the truck from GA to south eastern states and the ports.
I am not sure what engine I should be looking into.
One guy told me to stay away from CAT because they are quite hard to rebuild their engines and they costs soo much when they go bad.Another draw back is the fuel consumption.
One guys said I would need a conventional truck with a short wheel base because those are more work trucks.Another veteran said I would need a truck with a shorter wheelbase because of the tight spots at the ports.
Another veteran recommended cummins because they can be rebuilt for about $4000-5000 easily.
Should I go with the DETROIT 60 series,N14,C12s,CAT 3176 etc....??
I am looking for a truck between 1992-1997.
Any help will be appreciated

 

[henboy1]

RE: What truck to get if I want to haul containers

Any takes on this yet?

 

[greg334]

RE: What truck to get if I want to haul containers

Sorry I figured someone would answer.

Dukesadog is a good source for this info, he sent me a good description about life as a container hauler.

 

[Broompilot]

RE: What truck to get if I want to haul containers

A big one

 

[mrgoodtude]

RE: What truck to get if I want to haul containers

I have never hauled containers but have known people that have and have used large cars to do it (classics and petes) Engines are the preference of the owner but I would suggest something in the 435+ horsepower range and if say a 10 speed look for 373 gear ratio (lower ratio) for pulling power as containers are heavy. If you opt for fuel milage you can look for something in the 355 ratio but need a tougher tranny with more gears to get it rolling (13-18 speed).You might try posting your question on the mad trucker forum www.madtrucker.com as you will be more likely to find someone with container experience than here.
Good luck!
Mike and Cyn