Choosing the Right Truck for Your Needs

When it comes to selecting the right truck, several factors must be considered, such as the type of bed, engine power, and the intended use. This article explores the differences between small, medium, and large trucks, along with the author's personal experiences with various pickup models over the years.

The Right Fit: Small, Medium, or Large Pickups?

The author of this piece has a vested interest in small and medium-sized pickup trucks. However, they have moved away from pickup trucks due to a preference for enclosed cargo areas and practical features such as sliding side doors, which make loading easier for personal necessities such as a wheelchair and robotic arm. Instead, they own a Minivan equipped with a V6 engine, believing that turbo engines can be too fragile and may have too much turbo lag for their liking.

Professional Grade: One and Two Ton Trucks

For those in need of a truck for work purposes, the author recommends focusing on one and two ton trucks, specifically those that might be badged as 3500/350 or 4500/450. These trucks are better suited for work due to their heavy-duty capabilities. The author also emphasizes a preference for pre-1980 trucks, stating that they were designed for practicality rather than luxury. While less comfortable, these trucks were considerably cheaper and better suited for the demands of work.

Bed Size Matters: Understanding What Constitutes a Truck

A true truck, according to the author, must have a bed large enough to fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood or plasterboard lying flat on the floor. Additionally, it should have a bench seat and no rear seat behind it. Any truck that lacks these features, like the El Camino with a luxury interior, is not considered a true truck. The author suggests buying a truck based on specific needs, such as a 4-cylinder Chevy Luv for gas savings, a 4-door truck for hauling groceries, or a Dodge Dakota for a balance of practicality and features.

The Author's Journey with Trucks

The author has owned several pickups over the years, many purchased at auctions for very little money, as they were used but still in good shape. Among the trucks owned are a 2001 Silverado extended cab, a 1965 Ford F100, a 1973 GMC 1500, and a 2005 Ram 3500 4wd. All these trucks shared a feature of having an 8-foot bed, which the author considers essential for practicality. The 2000 F250 and the current Ram were particularly appreciated by the author, as they offered 6-passenger seating and a full-size bed. The use of these trucks has shifted as the author's daily driving became less frequent after retirement, leading to the decision to purchase a 4x4 Ram for its workhorse capabilities in winter conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you choose a small, medium, or full-size pickup truck, it depends on your specific needs, the intended use, and personal preferences. For work purposes, focusing on one and two ton trucks could be ideal, while for personal use, an enclosed cargo area and practical features are more beneficial. Understanding the nuances of what makes a true truck is crucial in making the right choice.