We had a 2000 Kenworth T600 that was four years old when we bought it. Price and modified to carry two eight hundred pound motorcycles was less then a 1 ton dually. The truck was 25 foot long and with our RV trailer 60 ft. Had the truck and trailer for 13 years of full-time RVing. Back in 2004 toyhaulers didn't fit me and the wife didn't like diamond back. A big truck isn't for everyone, but it worked great for us.
That radar on the front can also work for an adaptive cruise control. Basically, if there's a slower moving car in front of you moving at 55 MPH and you are moving 60, It will reduce your speed to 55 MPH untill you change lanes or they are no longer there and then continue at 60 MPH
I know this is a long comment so i apologize in advance. Being an otr driver myself i think this a little over kill for towing rv's. Yes there are pro's and con's for using a class 8 truck like this for towing the rv's. But in the end its just not cost effective to go this big, maybe a class 6 would be a better option, if this is the route you plan on taking. some of the pro's with this big of a truck are as fallows; the sleeper birth cuts down on drag over the front of the rv, you will not slow down as much on hills with a truck this big, the range you are going to get on fuel is around 1400 miles per fill, you will have a bed or a bunk bed if you opt for it and lastly, you will not have to worry about being weight limited when the truck can tow 80k pounds. Some of the cons are as fallows; tires just a set of drives all 8 will cost $2200 to $3000 to replace, the steers are about $1200 to replace as well, cost of maintenance will be significantly high then it will be with a pick up, the engine will not be able to work its hardest because you ain't able to work it as much, fuel cost per fill is around $600-$850 per fill, the ride will be stiffer for a longer period of time, you need air brake endorsement on your license, your ground clearance with the side skirts on the fuel tank is around 3-4" and lastly, your bridge clearance has to be a minimum of 13'6" on all your routes as well as truck legal even though you might not be licensed commercially. These are subject to change as well but these are the top things i would keep in mind if you or anyone wants to buy a class 8 truck like this. On a side note if this is the route anyone takes my suggestions for getting as close to the right truck that you need for towing rv's are as fallows; get a 68'' sleeper it has plenty of room for 2 people to live in comfortably, get an automatic unless you know how to SAFELY shift a 9,10,13,15,or18 speed transmission, get the smallest engine available for the truck with the max power that engine can produce, opt for an 11L with 455-485hp and 1450-1650trq, go with a single set of rears and set the gears ratio to around 2.93 this allows you to work the engine like it needs, go with a standard 12K steer axle no need for something bigger. the rest is up to you for customizing. these are just my thoughts and suggestions so take them as you will and by no means am i trying to discourage anyone from getting this kind of a truck for towing but you need to be aware that the world your stepping into with a class 8 truck is a bit different then your use to.
If I was going to build a truck to haul a trailer it would be a custom built KW, something different, could be A model or a B or just to be really different a T800H with a flat top sleeper, made into a single axle.
I don't believe it can tow 80,000 pounds. The gross vehicle weight power and trailer may be up to 80,000 pounds gross. On a standard class 8 set up. Now oversized is a whole different story.
Insane to get into a class 8 to do anything but actually truck. If you insist at least find a donor title and spec a pre emissions powered glider or at least find something pre owned thats solid if you know what you're looking at. Lots of reliable buys around 35k to 50k
Also just to note if anyone is going to go buy one the gold Dog on the front means it was built with all Mac parts and the silver dog means it could have a different transmission like a Allison or a different engine like a Cummins
James Mark Jackson There is a big asphalt plant near my house and my mom is friends with the owners and we went on a tour of his place that's how I know
Great video!! We were full-time RVers for twelve years. We had the HDT and the 5th wheel camper for the same amount of time. Was a 2000 Kenworth T6. Four years old when we bought it. Had an axle removed and frame cut off, had the Holland hitch removed and a air hitch put on. A few other things too. Worked great. We didn't fear any mountain roads.
I'd rather have a rig that is overkill that be right on the edge of the towing capacity in a f350/f450, Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving.
TheDestroyer32 I hope if he gets that semi to tow an RV as the primary purpose he mentions that over the CB radio. We truckers love a good laugh over the cb radio.😂
The last truck I had before my 2500 HD was a 2006 4500 Kodiak (which I believe is a Class 4 chassis) believe it or not because of the height of the rear fifth wheel hitch I was unable to get the fifth wheel level so I experienced a fair amount of sway (it had one of those custom pickup beds and the deck height was very high) the truck maneuvered very well because of the tight steering so now I have a little less maneuverability but also considerably less sway
I 100% agree with Derek Hoffman and I agree, I'd have an F650/750 Class 6. I've used my old Cascadia to haul my 5th wheel in a pinch. However, there are a few things people don't realize when towing a 5th wheel. 1) is distance from the hitch to the rear T light bar or bumper area. With dual axels, you have more distance than a standard truck so, you will need to adjust your 5th wheel backwards or face hitting wheels on the 5th wheels overhang door. Mine 5th wheel was air adjusted while others are bolted. 2) brakes are "on" at rest with a semi trailer and use air to push the brake lock off. This leads to... 3) the jaws are extra strong on a semi truck 5th wheel. You will push your trailer back by trying to hitch it up as RV trailers are "off" at rest. 4) 99% of rigs don't have a brake controller or 7pin plug. They use air and a 6 pin round connectors.
Completely different league moving up to a class 8. I speak from experience having moved up from a 1 ton dually to a FL60 Freightliner( Class 6 with hydraulic brakes) then to a Volvo 660 Highway tractor with air brakes. I should have stayed with the Freightliner as it was more than enough truck and cost much, much less to operate. Also, the Freightliner had many of the same" from the factory" features available as the Volvo like; a serious in line 6 diesel engine ( 7.2 l Cat) ,air ride suspension, air ride cab and air ride captain chairs, available Allison automatic transmission etc. Only it got a little bit better than twice the fuel mileage and the parts, service and insurance were much more affordable. So if you feel you need a bigger truck to haul your 38 -42 foot trailer do yourself a favour and look into a nice "Sportchassis" Just my two cents. Cheers!
Not necessarily. I know a guy who bought a used single axle Volvo to pull his large RV. Paid 18 grand for it. A new Freightshaker Sportchassis is a 100k. You'll never worry about pulling anything with a Class 8. Now I'm not plunking down 150k or more for a new Mack, but you can do quite well for a fraction of the price of the Sport Chassis or the F450.
You would be better off with a "Baby 8" ... Lighter class 8 truck for towing a 5th wheel trailer. Better turn radius, vision of surroundings, not so intimidating to drive.
The “rear end collision avoidance” is a great safety feature but a major pain in the rear for the driver. It forces safe following distance at a distance determined by the company. Mine won’t let me get any closer that about 350ft behind a vehicle. That means when I need to pass I have to change lanes long before I’m ready to pass which puts me in the way of other cars on the highway that are going faster.
It's a colossal pain in the balls. Happily we have a few trucks that have either broken "speakers" or the volume is turned way down. In traffic they suck.
...and the difference between each planet as you move further out in the orbit of the sun. Also, a definition of each Ocean and their differences please. Thx.
Mack have stepped up their game as far as specs and looks. Never thought Macks looked good. See if you can find Western Star in your neck of the woods, or the new Freightliner Cascadia's. Lots of people use the Volvo tractors for RV's, those are easier to single. servicing = costs, much more oil. on the up side, the diagnostic hookups test nearly everything. plus they are truly designed for distance. nice video, cant wait for the drive test.
I'm surprise Mack never made a pick up truck . I'm sure if they did, Mack will do very well for themselves. They have an excellent reputation of building quality rigs.
There's a great guy in Kansas (RVH Lifestyles) who will take a used Volvo VNL (just like these Macks), with 500K miles on them (these trucks are good for a million, if you can believe it), reconditions them, removes one of the rear axles, puts on a very strong fifth wheel hitch, and can option out all sorts of stuff, from hauling smart cars, to motorcycles, to just shortening the frame...amazing stuff. A used truck like this can start at $50K, and then all that reconditioning and adding a hauler bed will maybe double that (maybe less, maybe a bunch more) - but you end up with a truck that laughs at hauling your DRV Houston 44 over Colorado mountain passes -. And it's not just about power - its the unbelievable engine braking that these trucks have. Lose your RV brakes? Who cares...these trucks don't even know your 25,000lb RV is behind it. And the gas mileage isn't even all that different from an F450 doing the same work. Certainly, this route isn't for everyone, and it's pretty specialized, but it's a very interesting option. Search for RVHLifestyles - the owner, Gregg Shields, has a huge library of videos explaining the process and showing off a ton of examples. I've learned a ton from his videos as I dream of RVing around North America after retirement (still a long way off...) Edit: Just today, Gregg announced his retirement. But www.rvhlifestyles.com is still doing this work.
Love the Mack series one thing to remember is cost difference for tires oil ch as neg any type of repairs etc. Tires cost $250 - 500 each oil change starts over $150. Takes about 2 hrs. CDL license. And training not cheap. Engine alone is $25,000 - up to 45000 Transmission is 10k just fyi
Actually you can get the Class 8 tractor reclassified as a Private RV meaning that you don't need a CDL (might need some special licence like a Class A non CDL in some states) as for the tires they will last 200k+ miles $3k-5k max to replace all of them (most people that use these for towing RVs get them singled so thats 4 less to replace) every 200k miles isn't that bad considering most people won't even do 50k miles per year. Engine is supposed to last at least 1 million miles (about 4x longer than regular pickup) while towing 80k lbs so towing maximum 30k lbs fifth wheel with it wont harm it.
Have you looked at medium duty trucks like ud isuzu ford and chevy/gmc.I think ud still offers a extended cab with air over hydrolic which is under cdl as the braking is done by hydrolic.
I have seen some new class 8 trucks with a bench seat in the back with seat belts. Some even had a convertible dinet like in an rv. guess they were built for team drivers. Just don't remember what brand
Would you be able to do a video on how to properly tow/ load a cargo trailer for moving With an suv like a Tahoe?? Using a regular Reese hitch and a U-Haul 6x12
J Patt the types of 5th wheels you typically would be pulling with a class 8 truck you're typically living in them full time or long term and rarely does the trailer have to leave the park. If I was buying something to go camping in once or twice a year I wouldn't even consider a large 5th wheel and class 8.
Wonder how often the showcase sidewalk, has to have the drool washed down. 🤪. That’s a gorgeous rig. Can’t wait to see the drive, and if it’s anything like the older Mack P I was in (it didn’t compare to that) I think you’ll enjoy it. 🙂
Its interesting what Mack did with the axles, all the ones I see have the bowl facing forwards, and they've tilted it 90 degrees and put the power divider up top. you would think that would weaken the axle overall.
Now you are talking let’s do a 8ft frame extension and slap a super slider 80k wrecker body. Now that’s a truck! A big 5th wheel trailer is going to need a F550 cab and chassis in Lariat 4x4 or 5500 series Cummins Turbo Diesel. Hope all is well with you and your family!! We have the snow birds here for the start of spring break!!
I was running a FL Cascadia Evolution a few years ago with a DD15 (~500HP) backed to a 13 speed and was getting ~9mpg on gross weights of 40-50k. anything over 50K gross steadily dropped mph. A full 80K load would average 7mpg. My numbers where an average calculation in loads over 1000 miles in length.
You do not have to worry about a fifth wheel that is light , I know of one fifth wheel trailer that has air brakes & 45 ' long , they also make smaller fifth wheels with electric brakes .
A Couple of observations everyone needs to know. First off the MACK was originally designed for Heavy off the road usage. By that I mean OIL FIELDS and the Like. It is a Very Heavy Truck, built like a Brick SHT House! I have driven over the road for a number of years, Peterbilts, Freightliners and Volvos. Freight Shakers are my favorite. There are only a small number of companies that actually use the MACK for freight operations, largely due to the HUGE COST of maintaining these Rigs. You better have a sizable bank account to own one of these. Insurance, Licensing, state road fees. Also, you will be required to have a Commercial Drivers License due to the weight of just the truck. And of course with a CDL comes a required Medical every 1 to 2 years, depending on your health.Even if you are hauling a Heavy 5th Wheel, consider the very few RV Parks around the country you can park this setup. You will have to modify the rear axles and Hitch setup for you to be able to clear the RV when you make a turn or risk tearing up the front of the trailer. Then you consider the cost of the 22 inch tires, around $600 each. Since it is a commercial vehicle you won't be able to due much maintenance yourself on it, since everything must be documented for DOT inspections. Then of course there is the roads you drive on! Interstate highways have weight scales and unless you have a PrePass, you will have to stop and be scaled. No charge for this, but DOT inspectors will look over the Rig with extra scrutiny! Bottom Line: There are so many costs to owning a Commercial vehicle like this, it is very Cost Prohibited, Unless you have Boxes and Boxes of Cash!Curious to know how much that RIG costs? Well over $100K, I'm sure.
I'm looking at a 79 autocar. I plan on getting a w900a as well at some point. I love old trucks lol. I'm currently running a 2005 379 and I can't stand the acert motor it has lol.
I'm going to be looking at buying my first used toy hauler bumper pull very soon finally and was wondering if you could give me any tips hints etc. On things to look for or look out for ?
06:40 Why is the connector of the radar sensor up front out in the open weather? There should be atleast another cover over it, I dont think these last long in harsh weather...
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also make the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everwhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a pickup geting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
TheDestroyer32 baby freightliner can have a crew cab set up similar to a crew cab class 3. Makes more sense than having a sleeper cab pulling a camper.
Have you every done or plan to do videos on the Over Land Expos (west / east) that shows campers and rv for off road use. Most come from Europe or Australia.Three companies that come to mind are Earth Roamer, Global Expedition and Unicat Expedition.
We know the MAC is nice but overkill. Keep an eye out for something like what "The Deprey's" use to haul their big 5th wheel. They've been using a Volvo M11 RV Hauler for a little over 2 years now. RV haulers are purpose built with a flat bed platform around the pin and LOTS of storage built in and around the bed.
I like the reviews on the different trucks both class 3 and 8. How about a review on the Freightliner M2-106 and/or M2-112 in the Sport Chassis configuration. I see a lot of those pulling large horse trailers.
Sportchassis requires a regular Class A CDL, where as a semi with sleeper and the rear axle singled would simply register as a RV and Not For Hire only requires a regular Class A License. hhrvresource.com
Peterbilt has redesigned their 579 interior. Kenworths T680 is a awesome truck inside and out, it drives nice, spacious inside and lots of storage. If towing a RV why not get a class 6 truck. I'm thinking freightliner business class or Pete 300 serious. Not quite as big as class 8 but more power than the more than enough power than ford 450, but a lot of options and more maneuverable then the Mack.
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also makes the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everywhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a regular pickup getting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
That is a nice truck but for just hauling a travel trailer around there has to be some point where an outfit like that just isn't cost effective and you might as well but an RV, unless you have a second application you plan on using it for.
Most people that use Class 8 trucks will have 25k-30k+ lbs fifth wheels and then have a smart car behind the sleeper area so all they sue them for is towing the RV then use the 45-50mpg smart car for driving around normally. I've also seen 1 truck that has a commercial fifth wheel hitch and a regular consumer fifth wheel hitch so the owners could use the Class 8 tractor for towing the fifth wheel and towing 80k lbs trailers across the country.
I’m recalling from back in the day when I was studying to get my hazmat endorsement for my cdl, if I’m recalling correctly it seams like 119 or 120 gallons and above of hazardous materials classifies you as “bulk”, and less that 119 or 120 classifies you as “non-bulk” which exempts you from needing a HME endorsement. So my question is obviously fuel weather it’s gasoline or diesel is hazardous material, well both tanks full and you are now transporting 250 gallons/6 barrels of hazardous material. Wouldn’t this require you to have a HME just based on the fuel capacity? I know there is some sort of exemption that I’m not aware of because almost every tractor on the road today would hold at least 119 gallons so if this were true every tractor weather it’s a Walmart delivery truck or anything would have to have hazmat placards on all four sides of vehicle. Can some one elaborate. We in the oil field transporting crude oil always practice either 119 or 120 (I can’t remember for sure) gallons and above and must have placards and HME
I'm from Europe, Poland and we have much shorter trucks, only in north (Sweden, Finland) they can use bigger setups. These american trucks are AMAZING!!! That Mack - WOW! But in Europe it would be impossible to travel with it, only highways. In many cities you couldn't manouver even with that pickup :D
You’d be better to compare a low pro crew cab single axle ...this Mack isn’t even the same league ...but if your going to go over it ,I’m all in! We have single axle Mack Granite at work 2017s,they are stout trucks 43,500 gvwr 30k rear/18k front ,Cummins L9 powered/Allison 3000 6 speed auto...they make .great plowing dump trucks
That truck has been spect to pull flatbed that’s why the wheelbase is so long. I would look into getting a smaller freightliner. Plus that’s the Mack with the gold dog on the hood that trucks prob somewhere in the neighborhood of 175k-200k. That truck has all Mack engine trans and differentials that’s why they have the gold dog instead of the silver
That is a MAJOR truck! Yeah, there are condiderations- licenses, insurance, fuel and driving the whole thing is different than a regular p/u. It is seriously powerful!
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also make the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everwhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a pickup geting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
the only true downside to heavy duty towing (HDT) is the increased cost of maintenance...though is usually offset by the much longer service intervals.....theres an entire community dedicated to it....just put in hdt full time rv into google
TheDestroyer32 Much safer in an accident? Are you forgetting there will be other big trucks on the road also? And that road rage between truckers is not incredibly rare..
longer service intervals but add in 11 gallons of oil, oil, fuel, and fuel/water separator filter. You'll eventually need dpf filters aired out or replaced which costs a lot. Just a wheel seal is hundreds. Torque arms wearing, tune ups, and the extra cost of having to go and WAIT for a week behind 20 trucks at your local dealer because they will never be able to get you in right away. Engines are 10s of thousands and transmissions Re just as ridiculous. And yeah, safer if you get in a collision but you also have to understand the person on the other end if their in a car are probably dead. You people that can barely drive RV's around let alone drive an actual truck.
Would a big 5th wheel trailer put enough weight on the over the axles? These trucks really don't like being driven "light" your braking, ride and shifting suffer.
It amazes me that someone with no A license or experience can drive something like this. This ain't a regular truck and it will kill you if you don't know how to drive it
Has Ranch Hand announced their line if class 8 compatible front bumpers yet, and which Warn hitch would you recommend for this rig with a 20K lb 5th wheel in tow?
From my knowledge it would require a CDL Class A license, where as a HDT rebuilt for RV hauling would register as a Not For Hire as RV and thus only need a simple Class A license. hhrvresource.com
I've been a truck driver for 20 years and I would prefer a class 8 any day. But the biggest difference in comparison that you failed to mention is licensing. Your Ford only requires an operator's license where as a class 8 requires a cdl. Unless the registration is changed to a motorhome, which is hard to do.
If it has as shown ans after singling of rear axle to a single to save weight and improve fuel efficiency you can register in most states as a RV Not For Hire. Here is a listing from a great HDT Hauler resource website showing what I mean. hhrvresource.com/node/45
Sandra Goodman Class 6 and 7 trucks cost about the same or more used than a class 8. So why not get the better capacity and capability for the same or less money?
Volvo/Mack, Volvo is the parent company to Mack. Mack is striving to get back into mainstream freight hauling however they still build a good rig. The 12 speed automatic transmission that Volvo has developed, and Mack uses, is by far the best in the industry. The features that Volvo/Mack have in there trucks for drivability are again good. Now the draw backs MAINTENANCE! Cannot stress enough about issues with modern trucks and it’s not limited to Volvo, for example DEF systems class 8’s typically hold 20 gallons of DEF although usage depends upon the mileage driven but it’s extremely important to keep the tanks full anything under 1/2 tanks and it puts stress on the DEF heaters (think winter) and the pumps. Electrical systems are another key area for issues. Modern trucks wiring do not typically have nice weather resistant plugs etc as do cars and trucks so they are very prone to corrosion, every class 8 is different because of spec for different commercial uses therefore issues arise in the electrical department, moreover these trucks are all controlled electronically there is more wiring than a spaceship. Now these rigs are laid out like an automobile and this more intuitive than jumping behind the wheel of an old school truck. My fleet uses Volvo’s and although the trucks drive ok the issues we have are unreal but on the lighter side a non commercial user would probably not come close to the use and abuse of what a typical truck goes through in its lifetime therefore, again, is different we typical put 100K a year on out trucks their speced out for 125K annually my rig has 380K and I’ve had it for 3 years, and it takes nightly trips to NJ from NY the roads are not nice to the suspension components it drives more like a 500K truck than a 300K truck so that should lend an idea to some of the least amount of differences between what a non commercial may expect upon even owning a big truck.
We had a 2000 Kenworth T600 that was four years old when we bought it. Price and modified to carry two eight hundred pound motorcycles was less then a 1 ton dually. The truck was 25 foot long and with our RV trailer 60 ft. Had the truck and trailer for 13 years of full-time RVing. Back in 2004 toyhaulers didn't fit me and the wife didn't like diamond back. A big truck isn't for everyone, but it worked great for us.
Next week we look at the differences between a Suzuki Hayabusa and my Schwinn.
2 years later this comment doesn't have enough likes
Funny.
That radar on the front can also work for an adaptive cruise control. Basically, if there's a slower moving car in front of you moving at 55 MPH and you are moving 60, It will reduce your speed to 55 MPH untill you change lanes or they are no longer there and then continue at 60 MPH
I know this is a long comment so i apologize in advance. Being an otr driver myself i think this a little over kill for towing rv's. Yes there are pro's and con's for using a class 8 truck like this for towing the rv's. But in the end its just not cost effective to go this big, maybe a class 6 would be a better option, if this is the route you plan on taking. some of the pro's with this big of a truck are as fallows; the sleeper birth cuts down on drag over the front of the rv, you will not slow down as much on hills with a truck this big, the range you are going to get on fuel is around 1400 miles per fill, you will have a bed or a bunk bed if you opt for it and lastly, you will not have to worry about being weight limited when the truck can tow 80k pounds. Some of the cons are as fallows; tires just a set of drives all 8 will cost $2200 to $3000 to replace, the steers are about $1200 to replace as well, cost of maintenance will be significantly high then it will be with a pick up, the engine will not be able to work its hardest because you ain't able to work it as much, fuel cost per fill is around $600-$850 per fill, the ride will be stiffer for a longer period of time, you need air brake endorsement on your license, your ground clearance with the side skirts on the fuel tank is around 3-4" and lastly, your bridge clearance has to be a minimum of 13'6" on all your routes as well as truck legal even though you might not be licensed commercially. These are subject to change as well but these are the top things i would keep in mind if you or anyone wants to buy a class 8 truck like this. On a side note if this is the route anyone takes my suggestions for getting as close to the right truck that you need for towing rv's are as fallows; get a 68'' sleeper it has plenty of room for 2 people to live in comfortably, get an automatic unless you know how to SAFELY shift a 9,10,13,15,or18 speed transmission, get the smallest engine available for the truck with the max power that engine can produce, opt for an 11L with 455-485hp and 1450-1650trq, go with a single set of rears and set the gears ratio to around 2.93 this allows you to work the engine like it needs, go with a standard 12K steer axle no need for something bigger. the rest is up to you for customizing. these are just my thoughts and suggestions so take them as you will and by no means am i trying to discourage anyone from getting this kind of a truck for towing but you need to be aware that the world your stepping into with a class 8 truck is a bit different then your use to.
If I was going to build a truck to haul a trailer it would be a custom built KW, something different, could be A model or a B or just to be really different a T800H with a flat top sleeper, made into a single axle.
Graveltrucking I would like a w900L flat top
Derek. Great response. Thanks.
I don't believe it can tow 80,000 pounds. The gross vehicle weight power and trailer may be up to 80,000 pounds gross. On a standard class 8 set up. Now oversized is a whole different story.
Insane to get into a class 8 to do anything but actually truck. If you insist at least find a donor title and spec a pre emissions powered glider or at least find something pre owned thats solid if you know what you're looking at. Lots of reliable buys around 35k to 50k
Also just to note if anyone is going to go buy one the gold Dog on the front means it was built with all Mac parts and the silver dog means it could have a different transmission like a Allison or a different engine like a Cummins
Yea most people dont know that
James Mark Jackson There is a big asphalt plant near my house and my mom is friends with the owners and we went on a tour of his place that's how I know
You don’t get an Allison in a class 8 truck. You get an Eaton Autoshift or since Mack is now Volvo owned the Volvo iShift AMT.
Great video!! We were full-time RVers for twelve years. We had the HDT and the 5th wheel camper for the same amount of time. Was a 2000 Kenworth T6. Four years old when we bought it. Had an axle removed and frame cut off, had the Holland hitch removed and a air hitch put on. A few other things too. Worked great. We didn't fear any mountain roads.
Just a tip the gold bulldog on the hood means it has a 100% mack drive train. Engine clutch transmission axles. Mack’s are my favorite.
Flat6 Hemi basically a Volvo now days.
Looks like overkill for towing a RV or caravan !
I'd rather have a rig that is overkill that be right on the edge of the towing capacity in a f350/f450, Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving.
TheDestroyer32
I hope if he gets that semi to tow an RV as the primary purpose he mentions that over the CB radio. We truckers love a good laugh over the cb radio.😂
Mack and Volvo have their headquarters right up the road from me in NC.
I work at Volvo in Dublin
Go Mack! Pennsylvania pride sitting right there!
Now in 2024 the F450 is damn near as powerful and has as much tow capabilities as the Mack.
The last truck I had before my 2500 HD was a 2006 4500 Kodiak (which I believe is a Class 4 chassis) believe it or not because of the height of the rear fifth wheel hitch I was unable to get the fifth wheel level so I experienced a fair amount of sway (it had one of those custom pickup beds and the deck height was very high) the truck maneuvered very well because of the tight steering so now I have a little less maneuverability but also considerably less sway
There is a guy in Tenn. who builds Jr. size Mack, Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks.
Wow! now your talking, like you said in other video's don't have to worry about stopping anything you have behind this rig. Enjoy that ride.
Never would have thought people actually use it for RV use. Great info.
They do but they’re not set up quite like that one.
Just the full gas tanks would put me over my payload capacity on my 1500 Chevy lol
I 100% agree with Derek Hoffman and I agree, I'd have an F650/750 Class 6.
I've used my old Cascadia to haul my 5th wheel in a pinch. However, there are a few things people don't realize when towing a 5th wheel. 1) is distance from the hitch to the rear T light bar or bumper area. With dual axels, you have more distance than a standard truck so, you will need to adjust your 5th wheel backwards or face hitting wheels on the 5th wheels overhang door. Mine 5th wheel was air adjusted while others are bolted. 2) brakes are "on" at rest with a semi trailer and use air to push the brake lock off. This leads to... 3) the jaws are extra strong on a semi truck 5th wheel. You will push your trailer back by trying to hitch it up as RV trailers are "off" at rest. 4) 99% of rigs don't have a brake controller or 7pin plug. They use air and a 6 pin round connectors.
Completely different league moving up to a class 8. I speak from experience having moved up from a 1 ton dually to a FL60 Freightliner( Class 6 with hydraulic brakes) then to a Volvo 660 Highway tractor with air brakes. I should have stayed with the Freightliner as it was more than enough truck and cost much, much less to operate. Also, the Freightliner had many of the same" from the factory" features available as the Volvo like; a serious in line 6 diesel engine ( 7.2 l Cat) ,air ride suspension, air ride cab and air ride captain chairs, available Allison automatic transmission etc. Only it got a little bit better than twice the fuel mileage and the parts, service and insurance were much more affordable. So if you feel you need a bigger truck to haul your 38 -42 foot trailer do yourself a favour and look into a nice "Sportchassis" Just my two cents. Cheers!
Robert Keith Three mentions of "air" comfort. Lay off the donuts superchunk. :)
Not necessarily. I know a guy who bought a used single axle Volvo to pull his large RV. Paid 18 grand for it. A new Freightshaker Sportchassis is a 100k. You'll never worry about pulling anything with a Class 8.
Now I'm not plunking down 150k or more for a new Mack, but you can do quite well for a fraction of the price of the Sport Chassis or the F450.
You would be better off with a "Baby 8" ... Lighter class 8 truck for towing a 5th wheel trailer.
Better turn radius, vision of surroundings, not so intimidating to drive.
The “rear end collision avoidance” is a great safety feature but a major pain in the rear for the driver. It forces safe following distance at a distance determined by the company. Mine won’t let me get any closer that about 350ft behind a vehicle. That means when I need to pass I have to change lanes long before I’m ready to pass which puts me in the way of other cars on the highway that are going faster.
I've heard about that issue
Need someone that knows how to mod that in the computer or disabled it.
It's a colossal pain in the balls. Happily we have a few trucks that have either broken "speakers" or the volume is turned way down. In traffic they suck.
Great channel. Can you do a video explaining all the various truck classifications? 1 through 8, with an example of each? Thanks
Also the explanation behind 1/2, 3/4, and 1 ton trucks. Thanks
...and the difference between each planet as you move further out in the orbit of the sun. Also, a definition of each Ocean and their differences please. Thx.
Medium duty trucks in between. A big jump.
if you are looking for atruck to pull a travel trailer you can get a class 7 or 6 truck which would be more apprpriate
Mack have stepped up their game as far as specs and looks. Never thought Macks looked good. See if you can find Western Star in your neck of the woods, or the new Freightliner Cascadia's. Lots of people use the Volvo tractors for RV's, those are easier to single. servicing = costs, much more oil. on the up side, the diagnostic hookups test nearly everything. plus they are truly designed for distance. nice video, cant wait for the drive test.
I'm surprise Mack never made a pick up truck . I'm sure if they did, Mack will do very well for themselves. They have an excellent reputation of building quality rigs.
I think they did back in the days of the old b-61 but don't quote me
There's a great guy in Kansas (RVH Lifestyles) who will take a used Volvo VNL (just like these Macks), with 500K miles on them (these trucks are good for a million, if you can believe it), reconditions them, removes one of the rear axles, puts on a very strong fifth wheel hitch, and can option out all sorts of stuff, from hauling smart cars, to motorcycles, to just shortening the frame...amazing stuff. A used truck like this can start at $50K, and then all that reconditioning and adding a hauler bed will maybe double that (maybe less, maybe a bunch more) - but you end up with a truck that laughs at hauling your DRV Houston 44 over Colorado mountain passes -. And it's not just about power - its the unbelievable engine braking that these trucks have. Lose your RV brakes? Who cares...these trucks don't even know your 25,000lb RV is behind it. And the gas mileage isn't even all that different from an F450 doing the same work. Certainly, this route isn't for everyone, and it's pretty specialized, but it's a very interesting option. Search for RVHLifestyles - the owner, Gregg Shields, has a huge library of videos explaining the process and showing off a ton of examples. I've learned a ton from his videos as I dream of RVing around North America after retirement (still a long way off...)
Edit: Just today, Gregg announced his retirement. But www.rvhlifestyles.com is still doing this work.
Love the Mack series one thing to remember is cost difference for tires oil ch as neg any type of repairs etc. Tires cost $250 - 500 each oil change starts over $150. Takes about 2 hrs. CDL license. And training not cheap. Engine alone is $25,000 - up to 45000
Transmission is 10k just fyi
Actually you can get the Class 8 tractor reclassified as a Private RV meaning that you don't need a CDL (might need some special licence like a Class A non CDL in some states) as for the tires they will last 200k+ miles $3k-5k max to replace all of them (most people that use these for towing RVs get them singled so thats 4 less to replace) every 200k miles isn't that bad considering most people won't even do 50k miles per year. Engine is supposed to last at least 1 million miles (about 4x longer than regular pickup) while towing 80k lbs so towing maximum 30k lbs fifth wheel with it wont harm it.
Your class 8 must have a sleeper cab and not be for hire in order to be reclassified as a rv.
That’s right by my work. I work for TNT crane and rigging. Out of corpus yard.
Have you looked at medium duty trucks like ud isuzu ford and chevy/gmc.I think ud still offers a extended cab with air over hydrolic which is under cdl as the braking is done by hydrolic.
Looks good. Can't wait to see the inside.
I have seen some new class 8 trucks with a bench seat in the back with seat belts. Some even had a convertible dinet like in an rv. guess they were built for team drivers. Just don't remember what brand
You can get a w900 t800 or t660 in a studio sleeper that has a coach witch is set up for passengers also get those in gliders with no def
well you do you 👍
also the gold bulldog on the front means it has a all-Mack powertrain.
Would you be able to do a video on how to properly tow/ load a cargo trailer for moving With an suv like a Tahoe?? Using a regular Reese hitch and a U-Haul 6x12
yes we need to see the inside after this great look
Is the Freightliner Sportchassis pickup discontinued? Would that be easier to drive since it's bigger than the pickup but smaller than the Mack?
You do have the correct license to drive that thing. I don’t want you losing your license.
Seems quite Overkill for rving and it'd be pretty difficult to maneuver in the campgrounds that I go to but cool video thanks!!!
J Patt for delivering rvs
J Patt the types of 5th wheels you typically would be pulling with a class 8 truck you're typically living in them full time or long term and rarely does the trailer have to leave the park. If I was buying something to go camping in once or twice a year I wouldn't even consider a large 5th wheel and class 8.
Love the new Mack's...they build them about 10 minutes away from where I work in Macungie PA
I use a Freightliner Sport chassis And I love it.
Wonder how often the showcase sidewalk, has to have the drool washed down. 🤪. That’s a gorgeous rig. Can’t wait to see the drive, and if it’s anything like the older Mack P I was in (it didn’t compare to that) I think you’ll enjoy it. 🙂
Its interesting what Mack did with the axles, all the ones I see have the bowl facing forwards, and they've tilted it 90 degrees and put the power divider up top. you would think that would weaken the axle overall.
Who else was excited when you noticed the gold bulldog?
Mack made itself unlike the silver bulldog
I would've been more excited if it had a maxitorque 13 speed instead of the automatic.
Now you are talking let’s do a 8ft frame extension and slap a super slider 80k wrecker body. Now that’s a truck! A big 5th wheel trailer is going to need a F550 cab and chassis in Lariat 4x4 or 5500 series Cummins Turbo Diesel. Hope all is well with you and your family!! We have the snow birds here for the start of spring break!!
I was running a FL Cascadia Evolution a few years ago with a DD15 (~500HP) backed to a 13 speed and was getting ~9mpg on gross weights of 40-50k. anything over 50K gross steadily dropped mph. A full 80K load would average 7mpg. My numbers where an average calculation in loads over 1000 miles in length.
You do not have to worry about a fifth wheel that is light , I know of one fifth wheel trailer that has air brakes & 45 ' long , they also make smaller fifth wheels with electric brakes .
A Couple of observations everyone needs to know. First off the MACK was originally designed for Heavy off the road usage. By that I mean OIL FIELDS and the Like. It is a Very Heavy Truck, built like a Brick SHT House! I have driven over the road for a number of years, Peterbilts, Freightliners and Volvos. Freight Shakers are my favorite. There are only a small number of companies that actually use the MACK for freight operations, largely due to the HUGE COST of maintaining these Rigs. You better have a sizable bank account to own one of these. Insurance, Licensing, state road fees. Also, you will be required to have a Commercial Drivers License due to the weight of just the truck. And of course with a CDL comes a required Medical every 1 to 2 years, depending on your health.Even if you are hauling a Heavy 5th Wheel, consider the very few RV Parks around the country you can park this setup. You will have to modify the rear axles and Hitch setup for you to be able to clear the RV when you make a turn or risk tearing up the front of the trailer. Then you consider the cost of the 22 inch tires, around $600 each. Since it is a commercial vehicle you won't be able to due much maintenance yourself on it, since everything must be documented for DOT inspections. Then of course there is the roads you drive on! Interstate highways have weight scales and unless you have a PrePass, you will have to stop and be scaled. No charge for this, but DOT inspectors will look over the Rig with extra scrutiny! Bottom Line: There are so many costs to owning a Commercial vehicle like this, it is very Cost Prohibited, Unless you have Boxes and Boxes of Cash!Curious to know how much that RIG costs? Well over $100K, I'm sure.
I love the way this Mack and the new Volvo's look!
It would be cool to see more semi videos. As a bakken oilfield trucker it would be cool seeing semi related videos.
I'm in the process of restoring a 1987 marmon. I'll have 40k into it when I'm done. That mack does look good though.
ryancj1542 always been my dream. My favorite truck next to my KW.
I'm looking at a 79 autocar. I plan on getting a w900a as well at some point. I love old trucks lol. I'm currently running a 2005 379 and I can't stand the acert motor it has lol.
I'm going to be looking at buying my first used toy hauler bumper pull very soon finally and was wondering if you could give me any tips hints etc. On things to look for or look out for ?
06:40 Why is the connector of the radar sensor up front out in the open weather? There should be atleast another cover over it, I dont think these last long in harsh weather...
The Mack Anthem is one beautiful rig.
Baby freightliner would be more suitable to pull an RV than this class 8 in my mind.
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also make the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everwhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a pickup geting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
TheDestroyer32 baby freightliner can have a crew cab set up similar to a crew cab class 3. Makes more sense than having a sleeper cab pulling a camper.
I am looking to use my 84' International 9670 COE... I think it would be perfect...
@@thedestroyer3262
I believe they are designed to be 80,000 pounds gross. Not to pull that much. It also depends on the trailer and axle rating.
Have you every done or plan to do videos on the Over Land Expos (west / east) that shows campers and rv for off road use. Most come from Europe or Australia.Three companies that come to mind are Earth Roamer, Global Expedition and Unicat Expedition.
Can you park it in your garage? Also, does it come with a sunroof?
Most who get such a truck do not own a permanent home let alone have a "garage" to park it in.
Nice comparison! I have a Volvo VNL780 I am building into an RV hauler.
I'm happy to see Mack using that Gold Bulldog on its new Semis
Gold means its all Mack drivetrain.
We know the MAC is nice but overkill. Keep an eye out for something like what "The Deprey's" use to haul their big 5th wheel. They've been using a Volvo M11 RV Hauler for a little over 2 years now. RV haulers are purpose built with a flat bed platform around the pin and LOTS of storage built in and around the bed.
That is a beautiful semi.
Great video, quick question. What class is c4500 series for chevy/gm, same as your f450??
I like the reviews on the different trucks both class 3 and 8. How about a review on the Freightliner M2-106 and/or M2-112 in the Sport Chassis configuration. I see a lot of those pulling large horse trailers.
Sportchassis requires a regular Class A CDL, where as a semi with sleeper and the rear axle singled would simply register as a RV and Not For Hire only requires a regular Class A License.
hhrvresource.com
Just a suggestion, what about a Ford F-750? It's basically the middle ground between a class 8 and a heavy duty pick up
Peterbilt has redesigned their 579 interior. Kenworths T680 is a awesome truck inside and out, it drives nice, spacious inside and lots of storage. If towing a RV why not get a class 6 truck. I'm thinking freightliner business class or Pete 300 serious. Not quite as big as class 8 but more power than the more than enough power than ford 450, but a lot of options and more maneuverable then the Mack.
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also makes the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everywhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a regular pickup getting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
TheDestroyer32 freightliners can get about 10mpg. If you get a class 8 don't use recapped tires especially on the drive tires
That is a nice truck but for just hauling a travel trailer around there has to be some point where an outfit like that just isn't cost effective and you might as well but an RV, unless you have a second application you plan on using it for.
Most people that use Class 8 trucks will have 25k-30k+ lbs fifth wheels and then have a smart car behind the sleeper area so all they sue them for is towing the RV then use the 45-50mpg smart car for driving around normally. I've also seen 1 truck that has a commercial fifth wheel hitch and a regular consumer fifth wheel hitch so the owners could use the Class 8 tractor for towing the fifth wheel and towing 80k lbs trailers across the country.
I have my CDL but you need one to tow with a pick up truck
It really depends on ones state per Licensing requirements to what they follow per Federal regulations.
hhrvresource.com
I’m recalling from back in the day when I was studying to get my hazmat endorsement for my cdl, if I’m recalling correctly it seams like 119 or 120 gallons and above of hazardous materials classifies you as “bulk”, and less that 119 or 120 classifies you as “non-bulk” which exempts you from needing a HME endorsement. So my question is obviously fuel weather it’s gasoline or diesel is hazardous material, well both tanks full and you are now transporting 250 gallons/6 barrels of hazardous material. Wouldn’t this require you to have a HME just based on the fuel capacity? I know there is some sort of exemption that I’m not aware of because almost every tractor on the road today would hold at least 119 gallons so if this were true every tractor weather it’s a Walmart delivery truck or anything would have to have hazmat placards on all four sides of vehicle. Can some one elaborate. We in the oil field transporting crude oil always practice either 119 or 120 (I can’t remember for sure) gallons and above and must have placards and HME
aaron grant no, haling hazemat as a payload in your trailer requires hzmt endorsement
aaron grant fuel isn’t considered cargo, therefore doesn’t need to have placards.
Quick question can i tow an rv with raptop f150?
excellent video, very informative and professionnel presentation!
Cool video! I live down the street from the MACK factory!
Well now I know what my new company truck will look like at the end of the year lol
You didn't mention purchase, maintenance and depreciation cost comparison etc.
Is this better for hauling 5+ cars than a ram 5500?
I'm from Europe, Poland and we have much shorter trucks, only in north (Sweden, Finland) they can use bigger setups. These american trucks are AMAZING!!! That Mack - WOW! But in Europe it would be impossible to travel with it, only highways. In many cities you couldn't manouver even with that pickup :D
Looking forward to the next video!
You’d be better to compare a low pro crew cab single axle ...this Mack isn’t even the same league ...but if your going to go over it ,I’m all in! We have single axle Mack Granite at work 2017s,they are stout trucks 43,500 gvwr 30k rear/18k front ,Cummins L9 powered/Allison 3000 6 speed auto...they make .great plowing dump trucks
That truck has been spect to pull flatbed that’s why the wheelbase is so long. I would look into getting a smaller freightliner. Plus that’s the Mack with the gold dog on the hood that trucks prob somewhere in the neighborhood of 175k-200k. That truck has all Mack engine trans and differentials that’s why they have the gold dog instead of the silver
If you buy a class 8 truck for personal use do you still need to keep a log book?
no. only if you have a CDL or use it for commerce
That is a MAJOR truck! Yeah, there are condiderations- licenses, insurance, fuel and driving the whole thing is different than a regular p/u. It is seriously powerful!
Most people who use class 8 trucks are towing 25k+ lb fifth wheels then most will put a smart car behind the sleeper area so they don't need to use the truck for normal driving they will only use it for towing and nothing else. You can also have these class 8 trucks reclassified to make them be classed as RVs so you don't need the special licence (Depending on the state it's registered in) this also make the insurance cheaper and most of these new class 8 trucks will get around 10mpg when towing a fifth wheel so fuel isn't that bad when you also factor in the ultra economy you get in the smart car over driving the regular pickup everwhere because you can get 45-50mpg in a smart car compared to a pickup geting less than 20mpg when not towing. Also you would have less chance of something going wrong in a class 8 truck because they are designed to pull 80k lbs for 1,000,000 miles compared to the f450- 30k lbs for ~200k miles. My last point is that if you do end up in an accident then you would be much safer in a class 8 than a F450.
the only true downside to heavy duty towing (HDT) is the increased cost of maintenance...though is usually offset by the much longer service intervals.....theres an entire community dedicated to it....just put in hdt full time rv into google
TheDestroyer32
Much safer in an accident? Are you forgetting there will be other big trucks on the road also? And that road rage between truckers is not incredibly rare..
TheDestroyer32
I have been in a wreck driving a semi vs semi. Heavier loads will dominate the lighter emptier semi.
longer service intervals but add in 11 gallons of oil, oil, fuel, and fuel/water separator filter. You'll eventually need dpf filters aired out or replaced which costs a lot. Just a wheel seal is hundreds. Torque arms wearing, tune ups, and the extra cost of having to go and WAIT for a week behind 20 trucks at your local dealer because they will never be able to get you in right away. Engines are 10s of thousands and transmissions Re just as ridiculous. And yeah, safer if you get in a collision but you also have to understand the person on the other end if their in a car are probably dead. You people that can barely drive RV's around let alone drive an actual truck.
Would a big 5th wheel trailer put enough weight on the over the axles? These trucks really don't like being driven "light" your braking, ride and shifting suffer.
Fun Fact; The golden MACK pupper on the hood means that specific mac truck has a mack engine and transmission
What your opinion on 15” Trailer tires?
It amazes me that someone with no A license or experience can drive something like this. This ain't a regular truck and it will kill you if you don't know how to drive it
Has Ranch Hand announced their line if class 8 compatible front bumpers yet, and which Warn hitch would you recommend for this rig with a 20K lb 5th wheel in tow?
Check out RVHLifestyles channel, RV Hauler Gregg is the main guy with the expertise in the HDT business.
LOL That semi is not the next step up there buddy. There are many in between an F450 vs an actual semi truck like the one in this video. LMAO
I got to sit in the new anthem and oh my God is it luxurious and comfortable didn't get to drive it but it is just amazing in person
It looks so narrow! I know it isn't but it looks so much narrower than the 2018 Cascadia.
Cool looking beast of a machine!
What about something like a crew cab freightliner RV hauler?
From my knowledge it would require a CDL Class A license, where as a HDT rebuilt for RV hauling would register as a Not For Hire as RV and thus only need a simple Class A license.
hhrvresource.com
I've been a truck driver for 20 years and I would prefer a class 8 any day. But the biggest difference in comparison that you failed to mention is licensing. Your Ford only requires an operator's license where as a class 8 requires a cdl. Unless the registration is changed to a motorhome, which is hard to do.
If it has as shown ans after singling of rear axle to a single to save weight and improve fuel efficiency you can register in most states as a RV Not For Hire. Here is a listing from a great HDT Hauler resource website showing what I mean.
hhrvresource.com/node/45
Great looking rig, tricked-out Mack love!
Seeing the trouble some people have driving or towing their RVs, it is a little scary thinking of them in something like this...
What about a medium duty truck such as a FL60? Should be plenty for larger RV's.
How about the f450 vs an f650? I really don't see these two as comparable
Please do a full review on that semi
already planned
Daily 30k towing why not use a F550 or F650? It’s like a mid point between a pickup and a big rig.
Can’t wait for the next video!
Very nice truck
There's a kenworth w900 studio that has seats in the back or the kenworth 660 studio too. Look it up guys...
What kind of drivers license do you need for the class 8 truck?
Sandra Goodman Class 6 and 7 trucks cost about the same or more used than a class 8. So why not get the better capacity and capability for the same or less money?
Volvo/Mack, Volvo is the parent company to Mack. Mack is striving to get back into mainstream freight hauling however they still build a good rig. The 12 speed automatic transmission that Volvo has developed, and Mack uses, is by far the best in the industry. The features that Volvo/Mack have in there trucks for drivability are again good. Now the draw backs MAINTENANCE! Cannot stress enough about issues with modern trucks and it’s not limited to Volvo, for example DEF systems class 8’s typically hold 20 gallons of DEF although usage depends upon the mileage driven but it’s extremely important to keep the tanks full anything under 1/2 tanks and it puts stress on the DEF heaters (think winter) and the pumps. Electrical systems are another key area for issues. Modern trucks wiring do not typically have nice weather resistant plugs etc as do cars and trucks so they are very prone to corrosion, every class 8 is different because of spec for different commercial uses therefore issues arise in the electrical department, moreover these trucks are all controlled electronically there is more wiring than a spaceship. Now these rigs are laid out like an automobile and this more intuitive than jumping behind the wheel of an old school truck. My fleet uses Volvo’s and although the trucks drive ok the issues we have are unreal but on the lighter side a non commercial user would probably not come close to the use and abuse of what a typical truck goes through in its lifetime therefore, again, is different we typical put 100K a year on out trucks their speced out for 125K annually my rig has 380K and I’ve had it for 3 years, and it takes nightly trips to NJ from NY the roads are not nice to the suspension components it drives more like a 500K truck than a 300K truck so that should lend an idea to some of the least amount of differences between what a non commercial may expect upon even owning a big truck.