Truck Conversion & Toterhome Community - View Single Post - Ideal truck / engine / transmission combination

madbrit · 02-23-2005, 04:41 PM

Matt,

Personally I would aim for an automatic tranny rather than an Autoshift style, which still requires a clutch to start off and stop with. The repair bills on the autoshift control head are apparently very expensive.

The 6 speed Allison is a very good tranny and has many dealers who can fix it if you do have a problem.

Horsepower/Torque is really a matter of choice as most class 8 trucks will be able to pull your trailer with ease, just remember that if you opt for a 700 hp motor, it will get used and so fuel economy could well suffer.

Freightliner and Volvo trucks will be cheaper than the Peterbilts and Kenworths, again it is really personal choice but even more so, availablility for the combination that you want. Autos are becoming more popular but still in a minority unless you are ordering a new truck for your conversion.

Peter.

02-23-2005, 04:41 PM	#2
madbrit Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Kingman AZ. Posts: 59	Matt, Personally I would aim for an automatic tranny rather than an Autoshift style, which still requires a clutch to start off and stop with. The repair bills on the autoshift control head are apparently very expensive. The 6 speed Allison is a very good tranny and has many dealers who can fix it if you do have a problem. Horsepower/Torque is really a matter of choice as most class 8 trucks will be able to pull your trailer with ease, just remember that if you opt for a 700 hp motor, it will get used and so fuel economy could well suffer. Freightliner and Volvo trucks will be cheaper than the Peterbilts and Kenworths, again it is really personal choice but even more so, availablility for the combination that you want. Autos are becoming more popular but still in a minority unless you are ordering a new truck for your conversion. Peter.