708-467-7181     16425 Van Dam Rd., South Holland, IL 60473

 

The year was 1939. T.A Peterman leaves the logging industry after finding an interest in buying excess trucks from the Army and rebuilding/improving them for heavy hauling. He bought a failed Fageol Motors, turning it into, well you guessed it, Peterbilt. The first few truck models that Peterman came out with were Model 334 and Model 260. Both of these were known for their all-steel cab. When WWII started, Peterbilt focused on bringing their expertise in trucking to help out their country by creating Model 364, which was known for being a dependable workhorse. T.A was unfortunately only able to enjoy his success for five short years until he passed away in 1944; a year before the war ended. His wife sold the company to a handful of managers.
Once the war ended, Peterbilt had new goals to reach.

1954 comes and introduces Model 351, becoming the longest production in Peterbilt history! It was then that the Peterbilt’s Red Oval logo was made. It was in 1958, that the Pacific Car & Foundry, who later changed their name to PACCAR, purchased Peterbilt, starting a relationship that has lasted for 60 years (and still going).  The 1960s was a period of innovation for Peterbilt. One of the biggest changes was Model 352. The 352 switched to a lightweight aluminum cab and had a 90-degree tilt UniLite cab. The next big addition was made on Model 358 with the addition of the Peterbilt bird hood ornament.

 

   There are several benefits of buying used commercial trucks that help make it a viable, and sometimes preferable, option for owner operators looking to build their fleet. Shopping the pre-owned market can be an excellent way to choose from a wide selection of trucks at a lower price compared to newer semi truck models.
Maximizing Investment and Choice is our first benefit of buying a used semi truck.

  Used Kenworth ModelThe obvious draw of a pre-owned truck is the lower price tag. This is just part of what makes used models a good investment for budget-minded shoppers. Pre-owned trucks also suffer less depreciation than new purchases. This means that they retain more of their initial value than new trucks, which can make them a better investmen for you as an owner operator. Financing options are also available on pre-owned trucks that can help ease the financial burden of these purchases even more.United Truck sales of Chicago offers financing for used commercial purchases through our  Financial affiliate.

 

Wind and ice present unique challenges for drivers. Being highly aware of weather conditions can prevent unexpected circumstances and get you to your destination safely.

As part of the Our Roads, Our Safety campaign, the FMCSA has mapped out helpful tips for commercial vehicle drivers, which include:

1. Drive defensively.
Commercial drivers have to be constantly vigilant to stay aware of any unexpected road conditions, distracted drivers and motorists who don’t understand how commercial vehicles operate. Scan ahead about 15 seconds for traffic issues, work zones and other dangers. It’s also encouraged to check mirrors every 8-10 seconds to be aware of vehicles entering your blind spots.

2. Use your turn signals.
Signal and brake to give other drivers plenty of time to notice your intentions. If you need to pull off the road, use flashers, reflective triangles and road flares to alert approaching drivers.

3. Know when to slow down.
When you drive too fast for weather or poor road conditions, it creates risks for spills and rollovers, as well as crashes.

4. Maintain your vehicle.
Make sure that pre-trip safety inspections are completed, especially on your truck’s tires and brakes. Check that your load is well balanced and secure. Loose materials create road hazards.

5. Buckle up.
Safety belts save lives, reduce injuries and allow drivers to stay inside and in control of their vehicles in case of a crash.

6. Get enough rest.
Don’t drive a commercial vehicle when you’re feeling fatigued, too ill to focus or on medications that make you drowsy or dizzy.

7. Stay up to date on weather and road conditions.
Getting the right information helps you plan your trip. Be aware that non-commercial navigation systems and apps may not provide warning of height and weight limitations, as well as other commercial vehicle restrictions.

8. Practice work zone safety.