is that sitting over the engine and front axle can make the ride more uncomfortable. Another shortcoming is the challenge of getting into and out of the cab. In addition, a cabover truck can be more susceptible to debris – such as rocks – causing chips in the windshield due to the increased size of the windshield and no hood in front to possibly keep debris from hitting the windshield.

GASOLINE OR DIESEL POWER?

Another major consideration is fuel type. Factor into that decision budget, annual mileage, operating environment and maintenance schedules. Typically, diesel engines cost more than gas engines but diesels hold their value better. Because diesel engines are built very robust, they have a lengthier

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

lifecycle than gasoline-powered engines and they usually go much longer before they require major repairs. Gasoline engines usually have the edge in horsepower. Diesel engines characteristically offer lower rpm but high torque. Diesel engines are more fuel efficient than similarly performing gasoline engines for two main reasons. One, per gallon of fuel, there is more energy in diesel than there is in gasoline. Two, diesel engines have a higher thermal efficiency than gasoline engines. Basically, thermal efficiency is a measure of how much of the total energy potential of a fuel an engine can convert into energy to move a vehicle down the road. When it comes to maintenance costs, it is cheaper to maintain a gasoline-powered truck than

a diesel-powered truck. This is due to routine maintenance costs and frequency. Diesel truck parts like starters, alternators, water pumps and batteries all cost more than parts for gasoline trucks. There is selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emission system maintenance and repair and turbocharger maintenance, components that are not present on gasoline engines.

TRANSMISSION TYPE

Both automatic and manual transmissions are available for light duty and medium duty wreckers. Manual transmission offers more control overall because the driver has full control over gears and when to shift. By downshifting, manual transmissions can slow a vehicle without utilizing brakes as often

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AmericanTowman.com | June 2021 • 21