In January of 2007, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) updated their emissions guidelines for semi-trucks. The goal was to help reduce carbon emissions being generated by the trucking industry. This forced truck manufacturers to quickly change the way that they built their truck engines to meet the guidelines
It wasn’t long after that truck drivers started complaining about mechanical issues with their new trucks. While the new EPA guidelines meant well, the rush to update the engine designs meant that the new technology hadn’t spent enough time being road-tested.
This left truck drivers, shipping companies, and fleet operators with the need to find a solution to this problem. The result was the rise of a new type of truck that gave owners a workaround — the glider kit truck.
What is a Glider Kit?
A glider is a truck that can be purchased without an engine, transmission, or rear axle. The name “glider” comes from the fact that the vehicle essentially comes unpowered from the factory. Because the truck is missing these important components, they are not subject to the new EPA guidelines. The truck owner can then have used or refurbished parts installed to complete the truck. Glider kits usually come complete with a brand-new frame, front axle, cab, and brakes.
Pros of Owning a Glider
It’s important to understand the pros and cons of purchasing and owning a glider truck. Here are some of the reasons why some owners have opted to purchase gliders versus new trucks.
Purchase Price – Because some of the parts in a glider are reused or refurbished, the total cost to get a glider on the road is lower. Buyers can expect to spend about 25% less than a brand-new truck.
Safety Features – Newer vehicles usually come with updated technology and safety features. Since most of the glider is new, you get access to these new features that you probably didn’t have on your older model.
Maintenance – When properly cared for, older engines will last for many years. Newer engines and transmissions are more complex and usually require an experienced mechanic to repair. By operating a glider, you get the advantage of the durability and simplicity of older parts.
Recycling – A glider can be more environmentally friendly because of the number of materials and labor that goes into casting the new parts. This is especially true if an existing truck runs fine but the body has seen better days. A glider can be a great option to update the truck without sending the whole vehicle to the junkyard.
Cons of Owning a Glider
While there are many great benefits to owning a glider truck, some downsides should be considered before making a purchase.
Changing Regulations – It wasn’t long before the EPA started recognizing that manufacturers and truck owners had found a loophole to sidestep the new guidelines. For this reason, some areas of the country are beginning to update their laws to address this. States like California are leading the pack. For example, the State of California only allows engines that are 2010 or newer to be installed in glider trucks.
Used Parts – Repairs to the engine and transmission can be costly. Although these parts are typically refurbished, they are not entirely new and may fail unexpectedly.
Shorter Warranties – Glider trucks usually come with a warranty but are usually not as long as the warranty of a new truck. On average, you can expect the glider to be covered for the first year.
Resale Value and Trade-ins – The great thing about a glider is an initial lower cost. However, owners may have challenges selling their glider kit truck. Some people are apprehensive about purchasing these types of trucks. Since truck dealerships businesses rely on the sale of new trucks, many of them will not accept glider trucks as trade-ins.
Making the Decision to Purchase a Glider
If you are still trying to decide if a glider is right for you, spend some time doing research. Evaluate the costs and features of an equivalent truck. You can also talk to other drivers who own gliders or mechanics that have worked on them. New or preowned, purchasing a truck is a major expense and investment in your business. Be sure that you select the right truck for you.
Working with JR’s Expedited Freight
Glider or no, all of JR’s trucks are guaranteed to get the job done. Now that you know a bit more about this unique type of truck, why not get in touch with us to see how we can help YOUR business? Contact us today!