Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Little Bill, Location: Tennessee NEC:2017
Asked on: Sunday, May 1, 2011 at 11:52 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:51 am EDT
Question: I've read posts on here before about what kind of service truck/van/trailer is used or preferred. I didn't see anything about this though. I have a friend that is a HVAC contractor and he drives a SUV type vehicle. I don't know if he has 2 or has traded from what I saw him in originally, but I've seen him in a Honda and a GMC Jimmy. He took the rear seat out and put in a tool chest and some other storage means. He said the only other thing he had to do was change the rear springs/shocks to a heavy duty type. His choice of this vehicle was based on fuel mileage and 4-wheel drive. I currently only have a pickup truck and have done ok for the few jobs I've done. But I haven't had to carry inventory yet and would be kind of hard to carry tools, wire, inventory without using the bed which would leave things exposed. I do like the 4-wheel drive and fuel mileage idea but I'm not sure how a ladder rack would work on the SUV.I guess my question is has anyone here used this type of vehicle for a service truck? Or would just adding a trailer to my truck be the best option until I can get established better? All opinions welcome!
Using an SUV as a Service Truck Advantages
Fuel efficiency Four-wheel drive for off-road capabilities Compact size for maneuverability in tight spaces
Disadvantages
Limited cargo capacity Difficulty mounting a ladder rack securely Safety concerns due to lack of separation between tools and occupants
Adding a Trailer to a Pickup Truck Advantages
Increased cargo capacity Option for a dedicated tool storage area Easier and more secure ladder rack mounting
Disadvantages
Reduced fuel efficiency Less maneuverability than an SUV Can be more expensive than using an SUV
Comparison
Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and budget. For smaller jobs with limited inventory
An SUV may be a cost-effective option.
For larger jobs with significant inventory
A trailer added to a pickup truck provides more cargo capacity and better organization.
For off-road capabilities
An SUV with four-wheel drive may be necessary.
For fuel efficiency
An SUV typically offers better fuel mileage than a pickup truck with a trailer.
Other Considerations
Ladder rack mounting
Custom brackets or a roof rack system can be used to mount a ladder rack on an SUV.
Tool storage
Tool chests and organizers can be installed inside the SUV to maximize space.*
Cargo safety
Tying down cargo securely is essential for both SUV and trailer options.
Recommendation
If you need significant cargo capacity and organization, adding a trailer to your pickup truck is the best option. However, if fuel efficiency and four-wheel drive are critical, an SUV with a ladder rack and tool storage solutions could be a viable alternative for smaller jobs. Flag for review