When purchasing any expensive item, one important thing buyers look for is the name of the manufacturer since certain producers always ensure that their products are manufactured with quality in mind to satisfy the needs of their valued customers. The same is true when purchasing a bucket truck.
Many buyers are loyal to a certain manufacturer because they are comfortable with their models, although in reality, the brand name is not the only aspect that should be considered when purchasing such a vehicle. Other important specification need to be carefully considered, scrutinized, and examined, such as the engine and transmission system, in order to choose the best model for a company. There are many popular vehicles and leading manufacturers available today, including Ford Motor Company, International Harvester, and General Motors Company.
Ford Motor Company
The Ford F800 has a 185 horsepower engine, with a five-speed transmission and two-speed rear axle for better control. It has a 7.8 liter turbo diesel engine and is available at a GVWR of 33,000 pounds. In terms of its speed, it can reach up to 92 mph. As always, Ford has a better transmission system based on actual road tests due to its powerful engine.
Ford also makes a bucket truck with a 7.3 liter diesel engine with a 275 horsepower engine. The difference between this vehicle and the F800 is the power stroke diesel engine and the GVWR, which reaches up to 60,000 pounds.
International Harvester
This manufacturer developed the International 4700 model using a DT466E engine with 210 horsepower. The International 4700 model has a six-speed transmission system with a GVWR of approximately 34,000 pounds. When compared to any other bucket truck in the competition, the gross vehicular weight is much lighter; however, thanks to advanced technology, this competitive manufacturer is continuously developing vehicles that are lighter, more powerful and eco-friendly.
General Motors
This company designed the Chevrolet Kodiak C5500 which is a model with a 6.6 liter diesel Duramax engine with 242 horsepower. It is a considerably light-weight vehicle with a GVW of approximately 19,500 pounds. Although this model is not as popular as the first two models they released, it is still a good value due to its inexpensive parts and accessories.
Bucket Truck Buying Considerations
A bucket truck is an important heavy-duty machine that is in high demand by various industries. To keep up with the competition, any company that uses this vehicle needs a quality aerial lift device that is efficient and productive. Many things must be considered when choosing the proper vehicle for a business. The most important consideration is the anticipated application of the vehicle which could include electric or telecommunication lines; signage; or fire-fighting purposes; each different use requires the selection of a model appropriate one for that company. Other things to consider are its boom-reaching capacity, lifting capacity, rotational ability, and built-in safety devices. Any choice must also fit into the requirements of the budget allowed for such a purchase.
When all the various models that different manufacturers have to offer in terms of a bucket truck have been examined, selection should rest upon the one that best suits the needs of the company. The answer usually lies in the ability of the vehicle to provide reliable, effective, productive, and safe work performance. Sometimes the brand name can be overshadowed by the performance of the individual bucket truck. It is important that all specifications of the vehicles should be closely examined before choosing the one that is the best choice for the job!
