Heavy Duty Trucks: What Do You Do When You Need Replacement Parts?
Posted on: 22 December 2016
If you're slowly amassing a number of affordable used heavy duty trucks for your growing company, you probably already know that you'll have to replace parts. In order to keep the trucks on the road, it's a good idea to know where those parts will be coming from and how you'll have them installed before there is an emergency. Use these tips when searching for the truck parts you'll be using and having the parts installed.
Check Out Salvage Yards
Even though many salvage yards have parts for cars and smaller trucks, you may still be able to find some components that you can use in your heavy duty trucks. Call ahead to find out if a local lot has any parts you may be able to use. Parts from salvage yards are typically the most affordable used parts you can find, but ensure that you have a mechanic check that the part works as it should. In addition, talk to the salvage yard about their policies regarding parts that do not work to see if you can get your money back if necessary.
Consider Aftermarket Parts and Remanufactured Parts
To save money, you might not want to get your parts directly from the manufacturer. You may instead want to investigate aftermarket parts that are made by companies other than the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) that can deliver parts to you easily. Because they are not custom-made for the exact brand of truck you have, you might find that they are more affordable than OEM parts.
Remanufactured parts are also a possibility that you may be able to use. These parts have been taken apart by the manufacturer, repaired, and assembled again. Because they are not brand new, you may still be able to get a sizable discount.
During your search for truck parts, you might come across rebuilt parts as well. These are typically not the same quality as aftermarket parts or remanufactured parts; they may be much cheaper, but think twice about purchasing them if you have other parts available.
Have a Specialty Mechanic Do Repairs
To keep costs down you may want to do part installations yourself, but it's wise to allow a specialty mechanic to do the work. The trucks are so heavy that making the wrong move while underneath one can be dangerous; specialty mechanics use pits and hydraulic lifts to ensure that repairs and installations are done safely and effectively.
After reading this article, you should be able to make more focused decisions about the kinds of parts you get and who you allow to install those parts. Make sure that your employees do frequent inspections of the trucks so that you're able to catch problems early and get the parts and assistance you need right away. Contact a company like King George Truck & Tire Center to learn more.
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