Choosing the wrong truck for your power spray equipment can impact profitability and productivity. Be sure to consider some of the following factors when buying a truck to install your power sprayers.
Many new trucks have features that can impact installation and use of power spray equipment.
Payload Capacity – The truck must be able to safely haul your power spray rig. The heaviest component is usually your full chemical tank. Water weighs approximately 8.4 pounds per gallon. Too big a truck means higher purchase price, insurance and gas expense. Too small a truck can mean increased expenses for tires, brakes and transmission repairs.
New Versus Existing Power Spray Equipment
Truck Bed Size – Obviously the bed must be large enough to hold your equipment in the configuration you want. It is not a good idea to assume that equipment that fit exactly the same way in a given truck make and model will fit in the current year truck of the same make and model.
There are fewer issues with the installation of new equipment since there is more flexibility than with installing existing equipment.
Truck Bed Depth – The depth on the new Ford F-150 is greater than on prior year trucks. This can impact access to engine pull starts, hose reel and electric switches for pumps, reels, etc.
Bed Material – Some smaller trucks now have beds made entirely of plastic. Bed strength is provided by plastic ribs molded in the underside of the bed. More care is required when fastening equipment to these beds in order ensure stability and strength. Piercing a support rib might impact bed strength.
Gas Tank – The size, location and position of some gas tanks has changed. For some smaller trucks, it is not possible to access the bed above the tank. This can impact installation.
Clearance – Ground clearance on some smaller trucks has been reduced. Getting under the truck to bolt equipment or wire electrical components is a little more challenging. These trucks must be put on a lift or jack to gain access.
Electrical System – The electrical system of many vehicles is becoming more complex. Many vehicles have computer controlled electrical systems making wiring electrical components more complex and time-consuming.
None of these issues is a show stopper. They are factors for you or your equipment provider to consider in selecting, laying out, installing and budgeting for equipment installation.
