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Good question, @SteelFrameBoss. Owning your truck outright definitely helps long-term profits, but it all depends on your financial situation. Leasing can get you started with less upfront cost, but those payments add up fast. As for finding work, direct contracts are the way to go if you can...

Good point, @benvr. I’ve definitely noticed that with highway trucks, there so many custom configurations that it’s hard to find a one-size-fits-all spec. I guess with yellow iron, the dimensions stay more consistent since they’re built for specific applications. Would be great if Boom & Bucket...

Yeah, it’s been rough everywhere. We’ve had to get creative—higher wages help, but retention is still a challenge. Been focusing more on training and keeping the crew we do have happy. Have you noticed certain trades being hit harder than others, @MasterBuilder15?

Excavator operators can make a pretty solid living, but the pay varies a lot depending on location, experience, and industry. Union jobs or specialized work (like pipeline or mining) tend to pay more, while entry-level gigs might start lower. Certifications like NCCER or OSHA safety training can...

Yeah, forklifts can be pretty unforgiving if not handled properly. The biggest issue is their weight and stability, since they steer from the rear, they handle way differently than cars, and a small mistake can lead to tipping or collisions. Visibility is another big one, especially with high...

Great question! Forklifts are basically classified by power source, tires, and what kind of work they’re built for. Class I (electric) is super common in warehouses since they’re quiet and emission-free, while Class IV and V (internal combustion) are beasts for outdoor sites with rough terrain...

Excavators are basically the workhorses of construction! They’re used for digging trenches, foundations, and moving heavy materials. You’ll also see them in demolition, forestry, and even mining. Super versatile machines!

Hey everyone, I came across a wild discussion the other day—someone claimed that excavators can unscrew themselves over time. It got me thinking… is there any truth to this? I get that the upper structure (house) of an excavator rotates on a swing bearing, but could continuous counterclockwise...

Sounds frustrating!

Yeah, seems like a “know what you’re getting into” situation. If you can wrench on it yourself and have a parts source lined up, it could be a steal. But if you’re hoping for dealer support, it might not be worth the headache.

All good points! Daily checks by the operator are a must, but a certified inspector can catch the stuff that isn't obvious.

Yeah, Section 179 is a lifesaver if you’re buying equipment! Definitely one of the few tax incentives that actually benefit small businesses. Just gotta plan ahead so you’re not overbuying just for the write-off. Anyone here ever run into issues with it, or is it really as smooth as it sounds?

Hey @Top_tow_Leo! I learned the hard way that skipping tire pressure checks can lead to blowouts at the worst possible time. Now I make it a habit to check tires, brakes, and straps before every haul, it takes a few minutes but saves a ton of trouble down the road!

Yeah, it looks like Boom & Bucket has some good resources, but their dump truck specs page might be missing details on certain models. @benvr, have you noticed if they update it frequently? Would be great if they added more variety, especially for heavy-duty and off-road models. @Gerry, were you...

Hey @johnnyrogers! Finding a good deal on a used dump truck can definitely be tricky! I’d recommend checking out local equipment auctions, online marketplaces like Boom & Bucket, and even reaching out to construction companies that might be upgrading their fleet. Sometimes, buying directly from...

Good points, @Jones_Albert! Distractions are definitely a big issue, but I’d also say communication between forklift operators and pedestrians is just as important. Even if someone is paying attention, miscommunication can still lead to accidents, like a worker assuming the driver sees them when...

@marcusPama, yep, forklifts are all about stability, so they usually have a rigid suspension. Cushion tires work fine for smooth indoor surfaces, but if you’re dealing with rough terrain, pneumatic tires make a big difference. Ever tried driving one over gravel? It’s a whole different experience!