Truck Driving in the Wind

Driving in high winds with a high profile vehicle can be extremely dangerous, yet there are times you need to press on regardless of weather conditions.  Based on a video you may or may not have seen that was posted a few days ago, we thought this might be a good time to remember some tips when truck driving in the wind.

First, take a look at this miraculous save by the driver who should be commended for his quick reaction which kept his vehicle on the ground:

Tips for Driving Semi Tractor Trailers in the Wind:

First off, it must be said that if weather conditions are severe enough to cause a burst or gust of wind like in the video above, a driver is ALWAYS better off pulling to the side of the road and waiting for conditions to calm.  Safety comes first and the time you might save is not worth potentially destroying your load and wrecking your vehicle or trailer.  

If conditions are difficult but drive-able, keep these tips in mind:

1. Have a plan.  This includes potential alternative routes as well as allocating additional time as weather conditions can delay your speed significantly!
2. Keep your speed low.  A lower speed will present less counter-currents and will keep your trailer from tipping or lifting as seen in the video above.
3. Maintain your distance.  In any weather condition that may complicate your driving you want to maintain additional space between you and any other vehicle.  In heavy winds you may want to keep space on both sides of your vehicle as well to prevent a sudden shift from a strong gust.
4. Watch for debris.  Winds can bring all kinds of debris flying at you depending on where you are driving.  Stay alert and keep your eyes open for anything on the side of the road that might leap out at you.  
5. Listen to your gut.  Again, if you are having any doubts as to your ability to maneuver safely through winds take the opportunity to be safe rather than sorry.  Pull over and hit the roads once conditions have calmed.

Prime Time Equipment is a dealer of choice in Southern California, selling used semis trucks in So Cal as well as trailers in Fontana.  We take pride in working with small and medium sized fleet owners and in helping you find the right piece of heavy duty equipment to keep you moving forward safely and effectively.

Tips for Truck Driving in the Heat

As we approach summer and the heatwave that inevitably arrives we thought it apt to discuss a few tips for truckers who are out on the road during those summer months.  With air conditioned cabs and APU units, along with 44 ounce Big Gulps, it's often easy to forget what the sun can do not only to your equipment but to the driver as well.  Here are a few precautions to take this summer as you prepare to get out on the road:

Bundle Up:

Luckily sun damage typically doesn't get this bad...

It may seem contrary that in the heat you'll want to wear layered clothing, however we've seen many truckers who suffer from skin damage or what can be referred to as "the Trucker's arm."  As drivers typically have one arm next to the window all day, every day, they can be susceptible to sunburns and skin damage from the sun's rays.  Whether you choose to wear sleeves or use sun protection, make sure you're addressing the wear that can come from being in front of the sun all day.

Stay Hydrated:

Most heat exhaustion with truckers doesn't occur while they are in the cab but when they are in the back, unloading or loading their trailers.  The heat within a trailer will be amplified after driving through the sun all day and can quickly cause exposure from heat fatigue to more serious issues.  Be sure to stay hydrated -- water will be your best friend in these summer months.  Try to avoid caffeinated sodas and keep an extra water bottle handy in the back of your rig.  

Other Tips:

Other tips from parking your tractor in the shade to taking time to stay healthy and in shape will enable you to perform at your best during these summer months.  Keep your equipment from overheating by scheduling a tune-up and you should be prepared for your summer driving.

Used Freightliner Cascadia in Fontana

Here at Prime Time Equipment we're helping many owner-operators get into new equipment in preparation for the summer months!  From Used International Trucks in Fontana to Used Freighliners in Fontana, we have a large inventory that will fit your needs!  Schedule an appointment today or visit us on the web at:  www.fontanatrucksandtrailers.com.  

Considering Purchasing a Used Semi Truck?

When a truck driver is ready to make their first purchase, becoming an owner-operator, one has to consider many factors...  Purchasing the right CARB Compliant truck, current contracts and future opportunities as well as creating a business plan, however one of the most immediate and important concerns is the means to purchase the vehicle.  The good news is there are plenty of options!

You Don't Have to Break the Bank to Purchase
a Used Semi Truck in Fontana!
(photo courtesy of:  Images Money)

Good Credit?

For those with decent credit, applying for a financial loan is simple and quick.  Typically a credit application will be required. It is important to note that the more detailed information provided the easier it will be for a financial institution to approve the loan.  

If you have had experience driving trucks this puts you in a better position than those with little to no experience.  Also we have found that if this is not your first purchase of a Used Semi in Fontana you will have a much higher chance of getting your application approved.  

Here at Prime Time Equipment our experienced finance manager has helped hundreds of drivers become owner-operators, getting approvals for loans and new heavy duty equipment in Fontana.

Poor Credit?

For those who may be "credit challenged" (and in today's economy there are few of us who aren't!) there is no reason to give up your search!  There are still plenty of options available to you:

Make Sure You Find the Right Option
When Looking for Fontana Used Trucks!
(photo courtesy of: maddy3m)

• See if you can find a co-signer with good credit who can help you secure a loan.
• Having a higher than normal down payment can help a loan company feel more at ease.
• A trade-in vehicle can often help in offsetting a down payment.
• Non-traditional lenders can also be the right option in certain circumstances to get started, including lease-to-own options.
• We have seen many trucking companies who will actually get involved and help their drivers make the shift from employee to owner-operator, sometimes even financing or brokering the deal.   

Where Do I Start?

The best place to start if you are considering purchasing a Used Semi Truck is to speak with an experienced finance manager who can help in navigating these decisions.  Rather than falling in love with a piece of equipment that may be out of your price-range, find out how much you can qualify for first. Put your business plan in place and determine your monthly budget.  With these in place you will be able to make that purchase, moving one step further into your career and future.

CARB Compliant Trucks in Fontana

With fleets and owner-operators scrambling to replace older pieces of heavy duty equipment in order to comply with the Air Resources Board requirements in California it is becoming imperative to find quality used semi trucks that are CARB Compliant.  Because of limited resources and a lack of available trucks in the marketplace inventory for most dealerships can be scarce.

Come visit our yard in Fontana to find Quality Used Trucks
that meet CARB requirements at Great Prices

CARB Compliant Trucks in Fontana

When looking for CARB Complaint Trucks in Fontana or Southern California, Prime Time Equipment is a dealer of choice.  Our inventory of 2010 or newer used semis is one of Fontana's largest.

We carry a large inventory of International Trucks, Volvo Trucks, Kenworth & Freighliner Trucks in Fontana at our yard on Valley Boulevard.  Looking for Automatic Transmission?  10 or 13 speed?  We have what you are looking for.


Here a few facts you can always rely on when purchasing a Used Semi at Prime Time Equipment:

• Trustworthy & Knowledgeable Sales Staff:  Our dedicated and experienced salesmen have over 50 years of experience between them working in the trucking industry.  Their interest is to find you the right vehicle for your needs not their commission checks.  With this in mind, Prime Time Equipment has one of the largest referral networks and repeat customers because we know how to treat our customers right.
• Trucks You Can Rely On:  All of our used semi trucks in Fontana have been thoroughly serviced. Every DPF Filter is baked and we take equipment only from the strongest fleets and sources we trust. When you purchase a used Semi Truck with Prime Time Equipment, you can purchase with confidence.
• A Great Selection of Used Semis:  Almost every week we are receiving new inventory of used International trucks, Kenworth, Volvo and Freightliners in Fontana.  With over 50 pieces of heavy duty equipment to choose from there's a good chance we'll have a CARB compliant truck to fit your needs.  Our constantly shifting inventory means if we don't have the truck you are looking for today we could have it tomorrow.  If there is a specific truck or model you are looking for, our sales staff is adept at locating at.  We will do all we need to in order to make it available for you.
• The Best Available Financing:  Our finance manager is one of the most experienced in the industries.  Through her network she will be able to locate the best rates putting you in your truck with as little down payment as possible.  Credit history is always a concern for most buyers but even with poor credit we have been able to help many owner-operators purchase CARB compliant trucks in Fontana.

The best way to see if we can help you find a CARB Compliant Used Semi in Fontana is to come by our dealership and visit our yard.  We are open Monday through Friday 8:30 - 5pm.  No appointments are necessary.  Our sales staff is non-threatening and helpful. For a look at our inventory of used CARB Compliant trucks visit our website today: www.fontanatrucksandtrailers.com.