Buying Used Commercial Trucks: 3 Upgrades To Make For Long Journeys

Commercial truck drivers are almost always on the road. If you are looking to enter this profession, keep in mind that truck drivers can legally drive 70 hours within an 8-day period, which means that they spend a significant portion of their time within their trucks, and get very little sleep. You're probably going to want to invest in a used truck in order to save on capital. When purchasing a used truck, you want to make sure that the truck is not only able to perform well, but also comfortable considering the amount of time you'll be spending in it. After inspecting the condition of the vehicle and finalizing the purchase, here are 3 upgrades you'll want to make in order to survive long journeys.

Getting an Air Freshener and Checking the Air Conditioning System

Take a good whiff of any used commercial trucks, and you'll almost always notice a distinct odor. As most truck drivers spend a lot of time in their trucks, it's almost inevitable that the used trucks will be quite smelly. Although the original owner may be used to the smell, you might find the odor simply unbearable if you're going to be spending a lot of time in the truck on your first journey. Make sure you get an air freshener for the road.

Air fresheners that clip onto the air conditioning system tend to be most effective, as the fragrance from the air fresheners can be easily distributed throughout the truck. You might want to get a couple of different fragrances to stimulate your senses. Also, make sure to get the air conditioning system inspected and cleaned. It's easy for fungi and bacteria to grow within the ducts, and you definitely do not want the spores or microbes to become airborne. 

Buying an Ergonomic Seat Cushion

As truck drivers spend a lot of time sitting in their trucks, you can expect to experience occupational low back pain. A previous study performed in 2012 found that 62.10% of participants, made up of a random sampling of truck drivers, experienced low back pain. The vibrations from driving a truck significantly increase the risk of injury by causing the back muscles to contract more frequently.

The seats of used commercial trucks are generally quite worn, and will not offer any more support for those who will be sitting for prolonged periods of time. An ergonomic seat cushion not only help you ease back and body pain, but will also help bolster circulation within the legs. Seat cushions can also help improve back posture in order to prevent the muscles from becoming strained. 

Getting Around with a GPS System

When your job involves driving for long periods of time from one destination to another, there's a good chance that you might get lost or complications may arise on the way. Many used commercial trucks do not have GPS systems in them. You should definitely consider getting an up-to-date GPS system so that it will be easier to navigate to your destination. A GPS system will also come in handy when roads are closed for construction or for quickly locating auto shops nearby should any problems with the truck arise. You'll also be able to quickly find gas stations and other facilities or shops that you may need during the trip.

Conclusion

When purchasing a commercial truck, you'll be able to easily fetch a used one for a bargain. Upgrade and improve your used truck with these small upgrades, and it'll be like new. Long journeys will become a lot more bearable and comfortable, and your truck will be better suited for your journey ahead. To get started, contact a company like Arrow Truck Sales.