Pile of Parts
Posts: 29
Joined: Thu Oct 18, 2018 9:28 am
Newbie: Loadstar tanker purchase soon? Looking for advice.
Thanks for adding me to the group. I am very interested in International trucks for a while now. I love the KB series and the Loadstar. I like their simplicity in design and the fact that there are no sensors or electronic doo dads that require a hook up to a computer. Basic is what I am after. After looking at my share of Loadstars, I have come to appreciate their lines and might say I even like them! I have always wanted a "farm truck" but have never needed one or even had a farm- until last year.
My wife and kids and I now own a small home on 3 acres with a barn, and orchard- and someday chickens (hence the Egg in the name). The property is in an area notorious for having unreliable water (hand dug wells- and clay earth) Our well is less than productive and we use a holding tank and have water delivered for around $300 for 4000 gallons once the well runs dry. I priced out drilling a new well and it is big bucks! More than we can afford and doesn't guarantee it will produce either. water deliveries are adding up.
So, I now need a tank truck rather than just want one! Its OK - I have a CDL and it is valid once again. Also, I have found a city source for Potable chlorinated water for 3 dollars a thousand gallons- I just have to pick it up!
My search has taken me to the fire tanker version of the Loadstar. Over the past year of occasional searching I have been finding is usually a Stainless steel baffled tank about 1800-2000 gallons mounted on a 20,000- 33,000 GVW chassis and cab. These 1960's trucks have maintenance records (some) and usually very low miles for their age. Usually, I have encountered hydraulic brakes with a MYCO e-brake assist. Some trucks have been separated for the tank and would need a plastic tank to be mounted (I am hoping to find a Stainless tank). Some have a massive front mounted Hale PTO driven pump which seems a bit much- others have an additional motor driven pump for the tank. Most have the standard 5 speed some have a splitter. All have hydraulic brakes.
I will likely need to buy a runner (perhaps a "crawler") and drive it home to my house. I can do most mechanical things as I am one of those fix it types as I'm sure you all can identify with. I would like to use the truck every month or so to drive about 40 miles round trip. I have gotten estimates for insurance and its not too bad.
Rust may be an issue but where are typical spots and how much is acceptable will be a factor. I expect this truck to be a slow and steady drive, and I will enjoy every moment of this gear jamming piece of performance art. I am hoping the brakes are up to the work as well as the springs and transmission. Ultimately it will need to pass a NYS heavy vehicle inspection.
My questions are many. But mostly looking for advice on what to look at when purchasing.
Any assistance, guidance, or advice is more than welcomed here.
Cheers,
Greg the Egg