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BUCKET TRUCKS

Bucket trucks are an asset to industries like industrial, construction, utility, forestry and more. Designed to secure personnel working at great heights, bucket trucks ensure that workers complete their tasks safely in any environment. Various industries use bucket trucks, digger derricks and cranes on a daily basis. Bucket trucks can be used for construction purposes, electric utility & telecom, construction, forestry, tree care & landscaping, fire rescue, photography & film making, animal rescue and window washing.

Bucket truck buying guide:

One needs to consider different makes and models of bucket trucks before finalizing on one. Each has different attributes in regards to weight capacity, working height and side reach. Job requirements and site conditions will impact your decision on what bucket truck to buy or rent. When looking for the right bucket truck, consider some of the following factors:

• Platform height. This describes the maximum height of the bucket based on boom height and bucket position. The platform is at the end of an extending arm. The greater the arm extension, the higher your employee can work.

• Side reach. This is the horizontal movement of the platform from side to side. Side reach is the distance that the boom can move the platform and basket. There are bucket truck arms that can swivel 360 degrees while others models are limited by the boom position on the vehicle itself.

• Driveline. Driveline refers to the type of transmission and the driveshaft, axles, joints, differentials and wheels. The size and specifications of those components is dictated by purpose of use and transmission types.

• Transmission type. Transmission types include automatic, two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Four wheel drive is used in all rough terrain and heavy jobs, such as forestry and construction. Two-wheel drive is used for lightweight bucket trucks. While you can find automatic transmissions in every type of bucket truck, there are models that use manual transmissions to give the operators more control over movement in tough areas.

Comparison Of Bucket Trucks:

The features of a bucket truck include the big truck, a large mechanical boom mounted on a bed with a bucket at the end of the boom. It also contains controls to move vertically and sideways. What is compared here is the difference between the International, Freightliner, GMC and Ford trucks as bucket trucks.

• International 4700: It has 210 hp with a 6-speed transmission. The motor is a diesel, DTR66E. They have a 34,000 GVW and give plenty of torque for the operators that need it. However, the weak point with this truck is the power. When compared to the competition, the 210 hp does not seem to quite measure up. However, the International is considered one of the most reliable and long lasting vehicles for utility trucks.

• Ford has the bucket truck that uses the 7.3L Powerstroke Diesel. It has 275 hp. These engines are available with up to 60,000 GVW. The engine is the same as the International 4700. The difference between these and International is that Ford actually made some of its components. The strong point for Ford is the transmission is better because it lasts longer. This fact was based on actual road tests from an unbiased source.

• The Freightliner FL-70 has a 430 hp engine and an automatic transmission. It gets 1,650-pound feet of torque. It has air brakes and a 75-gallon fuel tank. The six-speed transmission comes with a magnetic engine drain and a transrear axle fill. It also includes a frame-mounted transmission oil cooler. This truck is built by Mercedes-Benz.

• The 2002 GMC C6500 is a 190 hp, 7-speed truck with a GVW of 26,000. It has a 60′ working height with 2 hydraulic outriggers. This is a forestry truck that does not require a CDL to operate.

Choosing a brand

With so many options to choose from, selecting the right bucket truck for your needs can be confusing. Talking with an experienced dealer allows you to ask questions relating to your intended use and benefit from their industry experience. Look out for brand reviews, awards and recognition, training and maintenance agreements.

Purchasing a new bucket truck can be daunting, especially if it’s a first-time purchase. Knowing what specs to consider when purchasing is important in helping you make the right decision. You can also go in for a used bucket truck if you need it for a short time or if there are any budget constraints. Remember, it’s a one-time investment. Purchase it wisely.