Truck Hunting

I’ve been giving some thought to buying an old truck. It will have to be an old one as my budget is limited. It gives me something to do while healing up. At least I can search on-line sites for interesting vehicles.

Trucks, even old trucks, are popular, but I’ve got a few advantages. One big thing in my favor is that I’d prefer a manual transmission. Over the years I’ve had to replace three automatic transmissions. Compare that to the one time I replaced a clutch. Not only was it a lot cheaper, I did the job in my dad’s driveway. A lot of people don’t know how to drive standard, so that reduces the pool of interested buyers.

Another thing in my favor is that two wheel drive is preferred over four wheel drive. Most people here in the snow country want a 4X4. While four wheel drive is nice is the snow, the trade offs aren’t worth it. Two wheel drive is easier to maintain and gives better fuel mileage. My plan is spend the better part of next winter down south and avoid the snow. Not only that, I’m retired. If the snow is too deep I can stay home.

A lot of younger people are looking for lifted trucks. Unless a truck has been lifted at the factory, I don’t want it. Custom lift jobs usually cause a lot of problems. Too much stress is put on parts not designed for it. For example, universal joints end up working at angles that wear them out quicker. I’m looking for a plain Jane truck.

Of course, these are just guidelines. If a low mileage automatic transmission 4X4 comes my way for the right price I could still go that way. While the odds of that are long, it’s not impossible. Never close the door on something just because it’s unlikely.

-Sixbears