Truck drivers from poorer parts of the world have a hard time understanding why so many American truckers are willing to drive old classic trucks. Interestingly, the answer to this question is also a good explanation as to why so many people buy new trucks and can’t make it. Wealth comes from keeping what you have and taking care of it so it will last. Some of us were fortunate to inherit this skill from our parents, while others have to struggle for years until they figure it out. An older (reliable) truck with no payments will set you free from poverty, even if you need to re-power it every once in a while. Back in the day, truck makers had to fight hard to earn your business so they built their trucks right – they built them to last!
3 Comments
Hello, I was very suspicious when my friend called me and said that a picture of my truck was in this article. Yesterday a driver come up to me as I parked and pulled out his phone and showed me the picture. I have had this truck for 17 years. Completely rebuilt it from the ground up in 2006. Not counting my labor it was still cheeper than buying a new truck. The best part was I got what I wanted.
Thanks Darwin
I think I encountered this truck at the J in Houston a few years ago…I met a friend there that was leased to the same company this guy was. I don’t remember the owner’s name, but if I remember right, this truck had a 3406B model in it with C-15 pistons; it was the most unique sounding B model Cat I have ever heard.
Darwin, Dan forwarded me email from Glenn last Sunday, I just didn’t have a chance to reply yet – but I’d love to talk to you about long forgot things from the past – like proper maintenance practices – it’s gotta be explanation to that breathtaking trucking scene you have created rolling your 1974 thru Salt Flats few months ago. I want to know how is tha possible – I also got me a Pete and there is no way I could ever afford another one, so… need to keep it forever… It’ not just me, I guess… I will call you shortly if you don’t mind