Know What to Look for in a Semi-Truck Sleeper
If you're planning on buying a used semi-truck, then there's a good chance you'll be on the road for days on end. Unless you want countless overnight motel stops to be in your future, you'll definitely want a truck with a sleeper attached to it. The following offers a quick guide on what to look for in a sleeper on a typical used semi-truck so you'll be comfortable as you spend your downtime in your home away from home after you purchase a commercial truck.
Size Matters
Sleepers come in a wide range of sizes, from berths that are just large enough to accommodate a basic mattress and little else to truly gargantuan affairs that resemble miniature RVs. Federal regulations require sleeper berths to be at least 24 inches in height and width.
The size of your sleeper will depend on the type and model of truck you're shopping for. If you like a certain cab and engine combination but need a bigger sleeping berth, for example, you may have to cast a wider net to find the perfect used semi-truck.
Keep in mind that a big sleeper adds extra weight to a truck. This isn't a big deal if you're looking at trucks with factory-built and -installed sleepers, but custom-made sleepers can easily tack on the pounds. In some cases, the extra weight of a sleeper can take away from your truck's overall hauling capacity once the trailer is added to the equation, and that could easily limit your hauling prospects.
Amenities Matter
The allure of a good sleeper is that it becomes a home away from home, packed with all of the latest creature comforts and gadgets you want and need. Many sleepers come equipped with mini fridges and microwaves for cooking and full-size closets for clothes and toiletries, among other neat features.
The level of amenities you can expect in your semi-truck sleeper may vary depending on your used truck budget. Fortunately, the whole point of buying a used truck is to stretch your budget, and with the price of used sleeper trucks on the decline as of 2016, chances are you'll get more amenities than you would from a brand-new rig.
Be on the lookout for convenience features such as in-berth HVAC controls, 12-volt power outlets, and overhead storage compartments. If you're team-driving with a partner, make sure to find a sleeper that offers a double-bunk arrangement that can accommodate both drivers at the same time.
Red Flags Matter
As you inspect the sleeper on your potential used semi-truck purchase, you'll want to keep an eye out for the following red flags:
- Outside damage to the sleeper area - Check for any dents, scratches, or cracks in the exterior of the sleeper berth. Depending on the material, these damages can be time consuming and expensive to fix.
- Dirty, worn-out, or damaged interior - A semi-truck is only as good as the person who takes care of it. An unkempt sleeper area can suggest deferred maintenance and neglect. If you find worn-out upholstery and bedding, soiled carpet, or damaged glass, you might want to keep on looking.
- Missing appliances and equipment - Be wary if you find out the mini fridge is missing in action or if the previous owner had to "get rid" of the HVAC control panel. If the sleeper features are nowhere to be found or don't work, consider looking at another truck with a more complete sleeper.
Replacement Costs Matter
After you bring your semi-truck home, there's always the possibility that you'll end up having to replace something in your sleeper berth, whether it be a microwave or a mattress. As a result, you could end up spending an extra $100 or more on getting your sleeper up to snuff. It's a good idea to factor these costs into your overall budget for your used truck.
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