I don't like, and will never like, the overly wide cab of these aero trucks. Say, the KW 680 update of my current T660. The "large car" shaped cab is far more "natural" to drive. To remain easily lane centered, as, indeed, one is far closer to lane center. Etc. The extra interior space is just that much harder to keep cool or warmed. And I genuinely hate the giant windshields. No advantage whatsoever. Hard as **** to clean, lets in way too much solar radiation, and the A-pillars are ALWAYS in the way.
Etc.
Driver ergonomics, first.
For all you civilians, the common as dirt Freightliners are terrible. Hit the washers and the mirrors get nailed. Obviously not designed by someone who has done this for a living. The work day becomes too long and tiring. Conversely, a Pete or a KW is far easier on one. And can last two million owner operator miles. A Freightcrapper is a rattling POS by about 400k.
The T660 I'm in has 770k on it. No noises. No leaking windshield. No door whistle. Etc. Does pretty well with a lightweight 10.8 liter Cummins/10-speed (really, a bus motor great for up to 55k. We're at 78-79k for half of all miles).
Dock bumpers (lower life forms) are the majority, granted, but there's a helluva lot of other kinds of trucking.
Last edited by slowmover; 06-22-2016 at 07:25 AM..
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