Build a Dump Body that Meets Your Needs

 


Not every driver needs the same type of dump body and that’s the joy of a custom Cab and Chassis build.  The downside is that if your two pieces don’t perfectly match up, you’ll be in big trouble – driving a dump of a truck rather than driving a Dump Truck.

The Fine Details

In order to ensure you have your ducks in a row, you’ll need to take a good look at the specs and your reasons for them.  What’s the job or jobs you’ll be doing with the truck? What requirements do those jobs entail? Are there any additional details you’d like to add? 

Weight of All Things Considered

You will also want to take into consideration the type of material you’ll be hauling and the weight of it.  What about the crew?  While you, the driver, may not weigh that much, once your crew gets in, it will make a difference. Also think about the tools and equipment you’ll be carrying along.

The GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the sum of all the weight the truck will be supporting as well as the weight of the truck itself.  GVWR is the limit set for the weight the truck can safely handle. Don’t forget that you will need to consider all the different types of material you might load such as gravel, sand, and mud. Determine which weighs the most and use it as the figure.

Short or Long Haul

You will want to determine the length of your routes.  What you’ll need in a truck that is used locally is much different than one that will be used for long hauls. While a standard transmission may be perfect for in-town jobs, you might rather drive an automatic on long trips due to the ease. 

Options for Chassis

It’s imperative to get it right when it comes to chassis options.  Anything over 26,000 pounds will require the driver to have a CDL.  Basically, you have your choice of:
•  Class 3:  10,001 to 14,000 pounds
•  Class 4:  14,001 to 16,000 pounds
•  Class 5:  16,001 to 19,500 pounds
•  Class 6:  19,501 to 26,000 pounds
•  Class 7:  26,001 to 33,000 pounds

Think about what you will be doing and what your work requires.  Don’t get too much but certainly don’t settle for less than enough.  If you aren’t sure, ask an expert.

The Hitch                 

The hitch is one of the most important considerations. Be sure you plan for the correct hitch required for your upfit. It is well worth spending the extra bucks on a high-quality hitch. You will need to have a trailer plug in order to power the lights and the brake lights on the trailer.  Don’t neglect to get a safety chain with D rings to prevent the trailer from coming off in the event the hitch failed.

Options on Dump Bodies

To make sure you get an excellent dump body, check the gauge of steel.  It should be 10 gauge or better and should also be double-walled. A sturdy and strong understructure is a must so it supports the dump body and an adequate hoist properly. 

To figure out what body is a good fit for a certain chassis, you will need to consider the measurement of the back of the cab to the center of the trunnion (CT) and the back of the cab to the center axel (CA).  You must know the wheelbase and the GVWR, height of the cab, after frame, clear frame, interface, transmission type, and interference behind the cab.  Bed capabilities are different depending on the height of the sides, length, and rear and front gates.  Keep in mind the configuration and design will affect its capacity.  Bed capacities vary depending on length, the height of sides, and front and rear gates.

MJ TruckNation

If you are confused about the configuration of your Dump Cab and Chassis, don’t be.  At MJ TruckNation, we have you covered.  That’s what we do. Let us walk you through it and get you behind the wheel.  With our helpful team members and in-house financing, we are at your service. Give us a call today – (561) 840-9800.


 

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