newbie and new build

[hayseed-TC]

Ok everyone lots of good input on here been looking for a while, we are looking to do a conversion on a hdt prefer a Volvo but does not have to be, what I do need is a decent medium sized sleeper that I can put seats in, also need an 8 to 9 foot flat bed with goose neck hitch, must be on the 400hp range with a manual transmission, I want to set this up with the right rear end gear to achieve the best mpg, will be towing our 40 foot horse trailer with living quarters approx. 21,000 lbs loaded with 3 horses and the dog and so on.

what is everyone's thoughts and suggestions
I plan to buy a single axle if I can find it not I will single a tandem.
I have looked at the LP MTD trucks and they are ridiculous in prices I can get an HDT for a lot less, not worried about the license or driving we farm and I have been in all kinds of trucks and tractors my whole life.

thanks in advance

 

[MnTom-FRF]

A Volvo 780 would probably fit your desires. They have a larger sleeper and sometimes even come with a work station. A lot depends on your budget. You can find high mileage ones for under $20k or go above $100k. Just one question though, why is a manual a must? The auto shift transmissions seem to do quite well, but obviously the choice is yours. With the load you are talking about the taller the gears the better for economy and the display on the newer trucks even have an economy meter built in.

 

[hayseed-TC]

Thanks I am leaning towards a Volvo and I had already plan on changing the rear end gear to like a 2:85 or so waiting to see engine and transmission combo before I decide on the rear end gear. I choose a manual because I am not a fan of the auto or automated transmissions, just my choice

 

[MnTom-FRF]

Thanks I am leaning towards a Volvo and I had already plan on changing the rear end gear to like a 2:85 or so waiting to see engine and transmission combo before I decide on the rear end gear. I choose a manual because I am not a fan of the auto or automated transmissions, just my choice

I have been watching what was for sale as far as the Volvo trucks, and you shouldn't have any problem finding one that suits your needs except for the gears. Most of the trucks would have a tough time with gears that high when they are working close to rated capacity.
I have no problem with a manual transmission either, but if by chance my wife needed to 'herd it' somewhere...... Well, let's just say it may get interesting...

 

[hayseed-TC]

That should not be an issue for me or my wife she may just need a little getting used to the different feel it was a requirement lol...

 

[MnTom-FRF]

My wife doesn't seem to grasp how easy the bigger trucks are to drive. Oh well, maybe when I get my truck she will understand, but then again, my little pick up is a challenge for her.......

 

[Bob86ZZ4]

Welcome to Truckconversion.net! You've figured it out. The MDT's are more expensive and less capable. Now, you are planning an "HDT," not exactly a "Truck Conversion." There is a very active group of people doing what you are planning, except they are pulling 5th wheel campers. They have a forum here: HDT - Escapees Discussion Forum

The first few sticky threads are chock full of great info for the HDT enthusiast.
The main forum there also has a rig for sale section that often has trucks already built and used for what you are planning. Most will have a 5th wheel hitch but a gooseneck could certainly be installed.

The other best source of info would be the HDT Rally . It's a great gathering of HDT (and some Truck Conversions too) where you could glean a ton of info. You can often drive peoples trucks and see how you like them. And there's nothing better than chatting endlessly with people that have been doing what you're planning for years and know a lot.