Truck Topics
Stretch That Expediter! Fyda Freightliner's Class 8 conversion trucks
The past few years have seen the emergence of some trends in the expediting world, particularly in the realm of trucks and equipment. Among these are the introduction and acceptance of the Freightliner/Dodge Sprinter van, the trend towards larger straight truck sleepers as well as the heavier duty upgrades of the business class series of trucks.
Another one of those trends is the use of Class 8 platforms in building straight truck expediters. Proponents of the big trucks in expediting point to the Class 8's enhanced service life, power and reliability and there is growing interest in the heavy-duty units converted for use in the fast freight business.
One truck dealership that has been involved in this process is Fyda Freightliner of Columbus, OH. Fyda's John LaLonde says, "We have been converting Class 8 tractors into expediters for about 2 1/2 years now. We've had great success with these trucks, and to answer the growing demand for these units, I decided to build a temperature-control truck."
Fyda has custom-built a number of trucks designed for the growing "specialized handling" market, a service that many expedited carriers now offer to their customers. The trucks are typically outfitted with temperature-control units, lift gates, tandem axles, etc.
Premium Class 8 temperature-control conversion trucks.
"We first start with a carefully handpicked, low-mileage tractor that comes from a premium fleet with a good maintenance history. Our most common units have been Freightliner Century Class tractors with big-block power and auto shift transmission."
One example of Fyda's work is the 2000 Freightliner Century Class shown in the accompanying photos. This model features a Detroit 12.7 liter, 470HP motor hooked to a 10-speed auto shift .
"John continues, "The frame stretching is an involved process that takes seven days or more. We extend the frame and slide the tandems back, leaving it a live tandem, which increases the payload capacity. An insert is then installed into the frame to give it added strength. This is followed by re-routing the exhaust and batteries as well as extending the driveline."
We then construct a brand new van body using a new Supreme Kold King XL 22' box with all the logistics (freight securement equipment) and barn doors. The refrigeration unit is a Carrier Supra 844 belly-mount tied to a Carrier Data Logger system."
This truck offers an integral 70" double-bunk, condo sleeper and is fully-equipped with a new refrigerator, microwave, TV/VCR and a 2500-watt inverter. The truck is Jake Brake equipped and also features a tilt/telescoping wheel and dual air ride seats.
The truck rides on new, low-profile 22.5 rubber fitted on aluminum wheels. Keeping in mind the truck's specialized handling service intent, a Maxon 2500lb., 60"x79" aluminum platform, tuck away lift gate completes the package. 
"This truck is ready to roll and meets all expedited carriers' specialized handling requirements when it leaves our lot," says John. "The high demand for temperature-control expediters has prompted us to build these trucks and at a fraction of the cost of new - it only makes sense."
Contact Fyda's Expediting Specialists:
John LaLonde
Bobby Snyder
Brandon Creek
Fyda Freightliner of Columbus
800 589-3932