Just can't get a good basic truck, like the old days!

[3930dave]

Just my EV data point -just past 2 1/2 years on the Model Y and so far it has needed washer fluid . Nothing else.

Tesla also has just increased the longevity of parts of electric drivetrain coverage on some of the newest just released models. I have no plans to ever replace the 03 RAM with Cummins power and a manual transmission with a new truck. I really dislike what GM and Ford have done with the new automatic trans valve bodies.. nothing like locking up a driveline at 70 MPH for fun.

Not hating-on T here..... just saying the mechanical aspects of even modern ICE platforms (seen an engine lately ?) has taken a back-seat to the Computer/Home Theatre-on-Wheels aspect of the marketing.....

Edit - with you on modern slushboxes..... I was hoping that if I won a lottery and decided to buy a new gas Superduty, I'd be OK, but a mechanic buddy of mine was telling me about problems on that 10spd (with stock engines).

2 Lottery Wins Later.... just Tremec what you want to buy New ? (To get a manual transmission).

Rgds, D.

 

[3930dave]

You know that you want one, you've been threatening to for years!!!

I really can't hide on here... .at least from the long-time TBN'ers

Even with a resto-mod, I'd make sure to get a good-quality recording of the Clampett's truck, and loop it to external speakers...... if modern cars can make "Vroom" sounds through the audio-system to fool the driver, I wanna Take it To the Streets !

Rgds, D.

 

[deserteagle71]

I really can't hide on here... .at least from the long-time TBN'ers

Even with a resto-mod, I'd make sure to get a good-quality recording of the Clampett's truck, and loop it to external speakers...... if modern cars can make "Vroom" sounds through the audio-system to fool the driver, I wanna Take it To the Streets !

Rgds, D.

Found just the truck for you...at the McClouth Threshing Bee in McClouth, Kansas last week. Zoom in on that sticker on the side!

 

[not2old]

Around here it's hard to find one which doesn't have all of the junk I don't want. I call them pimpmobiles... can I say that here?

I'm not a pimp but I want a leather interior, power seats, power windows, power steering, power brakes,power door locks,power mirrors, air conditioning, automatic transmission and a little of the electronic
crap we're forced to accept today. I do like the cameras and heated seats. The rest of the crap is what I'm stuck with.

 

[paulsharvey]

If you can't find a fleet type optioned truck, set the search radius to 250 miles; if you are about anywhere in the mainland US, there will be dozens of near base trims available. Some fleets like 4wd, some hate it, some have V8s, some order the smallest engine possible; some like extended, others like crews; but if you want a near base, they Are available. Its not even a matter of ordering one; but dont expect a dealer to advertise their base stuff. They dont Hide them either, but they have them.

Edit: Yes, they will likely be white, maybe a few yellow, but we are talking cheap, base type teucks, and yeah, those are white with black plastic trims 9 times out of 10

 

[paulsharvey]

Typical fleet is gonna target 150k miles turn over, or about every 3-4 years. They are replacing trucks every year, on a rotation. Ford is probably (i would shocked if they arent) by far the largest player in fleet vehicles, but all of them play in that field.

I kinda partially stand corrected; according to AI, 25-35% of Stellantis' sales are fleet; Ford is 25-30%, GM is 20-25%; Nissian 15-20%; Toyota is down at 8-12%. A Major note; this is commercial fleets, government sales, And rental fleets. Im mostly thinking trucks, and not rental car fleets...

 

[ultrarunner]

Progress ?



Rgds, D.

Longevity…

 

[ultrarunner]

Found just the truck for you...at the McClouth Threshing Bee in McClouth, Kansas last week. Zoom in on that sticker on the side!

View attachment 4133574

Definitely a fusion of several production years…

30-31 bumper and cowl section with with 28-29 wheels and radiator…

 

[ultrarunner]

Typical fleet is gonna target 150k miles turn over, or about every 3-4 years. They are replacing trucks every year, on a rotation. Ford is probably (i would shocked if they arent) by far the largest player in fleet vehicles, but all of them play in that field.

I kinda partially stand corrected; according to AI, 25-35% of Stellantis' sales are fleet; Ford is 25-30%, GM is 20-25%; Nissian 15-20%; Toyota is down at 8-12%. A Major note; this is commercial fleets, government sales, And rental fleets. Im mostly thinking trucks, and not rental car fleets...

The county ordered new pickups… white with rubber mats, auto with A/C and black trim.

Then I saw one oddball with chrome and radio with carpet and upgrade wheels… it was for county Director of maintenance…

Can’t say if true or not but was told with large fleet orders getting one for the top dog a little more plush is not unusual…

 

[3930dave]

Found just the truck for you...at the McClouth Threshing Bee in McClouth, Kansas last week. Zoom in on that sticker on the side!

View attachment 4133574

Big and, from the American company that won @ Lemans, again.

Breezy up here 6+mo/yr, and hot down your way, much of the year, but probably wouldn't even notice an Echo Mike Papa....

Rgds, D.