When & Why to Buy a New Truck

[@johnderoy916]

I would rather see a tool truck like yours pull up to my job than a shiny new fancy truck - rightly or wrongly it would generate a level of trust in me that a guy with your truck really knows whats what

[@gregorymacneil2836]

Interesting - my clients have told me exactly that about my 15-year-old mint condition truck. You have to show up neat and tidy but you don't always need a suit.

[@dcorey35]

a well maintained clean used truck speaks more to me than a $100k driveway trophy

[@joseph7105]

@dcorey35 exactly. Driveway trophy with company decals all over tells me you're probably ripping people off and just interested in getting rich and having nice things. An old rusty work truck tells me you're probably an honest worker and a family man that's just trying to make an honest living and gets lots of work so doesn't care about company decals and other nonsense

[@bobmanns3623]

Exactly ​@@joseph7105

[@jfdb59]

@@joseph7105that is completely opinion based and nowhere represented in fact. Personally, a rusty old truck tells me that he’s probably not good enough at what he does to be successful enough to buy a better more reliable truck. The only guys around here driving junk do junk work in junk neighborhoods. At a certain point in your business it’s just not worth tinkering and constantly addressing the little issues of an old truck. It costs you more than it saves. A new truck is a write off and can have more uptime. If old rusty crap was worth it you’d see large successful companies running them. But they don’t. They change them out every few years because the hassles aren’t worth it.

[@abennett7223]

One of my first mentors taught me, "Never take on debt unless it creates positive cash flow" and I've followed that mantra my entire life

[@lonewolftech]

Just never take on debt period. Pay everything off as fast as possible and live simply. No need in fancy shit.

[@codyaragon93]

@@lonewolftechThat’s a broke-boy mentality. Why would I save up for years and beat up my body doing small jobs with shovels when I can take on debt for an excavator, have it pay for itself within a year and have the ability to tackle bigger jobs that will make me more money? Time is the most precious resource we have, and at the end of the day, time is money.

[@cristahe3960]

@@codyaragon93 until shit happens and u f. debt makes u a slave to bank.

[@codyaragon93]

@@cristahe3960 Risk is a big part why the contractor makes more than the people he employs. Scared money don’t make money. If you sit around worrying about market crashes and failure all day you’re in the wrong line of work. Don’t be dumb with debt and hedge, of course. But debt is a tool that, when used properly, can be extremely valuable. Just like any other tool.

[@thejdogcool]

@@lonewolftech Debt is leverage. There's a lot of "good ole boys" here in the comments section that lack basic financial literacy.

[@VitaKet]

All these 80-100k trucks driving around where I live it blows my mind.

[@debluetailfly]

Some years back the oil companies leased a lot of land for 'fracking'. Many of the landowners took their lease payment and bought new pickups. Now their truck is worn out and they have no money. Truck were cheaper then, but still overpriced. People are prouder of a shiny new vehicle than anything else.

[@johnowens178]

And most aren’t even used for what they were intended.

[@unitedgray]

Most of those people are drowning in debt and just a paycheck away from financial destruction.

[@jamessandifer3405]

I have a 2002 Tahoe with a 5.3 has 326k which I sometimes drive but use it to do all my towing, even though I have a 2006 Tacoma with 216k that has a 6000k towing capacity. It is the new daily driver. It's the nice vehicle now, where the Tahoe isn't pretty but incredibly reliable. I got 302k out first transmission and both a/c still work very well.

[@lloydflyhuntbc9923]

Don’t get payed to be stuck broken down and not being able to haul 10,000 pounds?

[@juligrlee556]

I'm 80 years old. This presentation is totally important. I hope everyone takes your advice and listens carefully to this thinking and doing!! I haven't had any debt in 40 years. I feel a whole lot more secure today than ever in my life.

[@olimarputin7862]

Literally just totalled my 1996 F350 yesterday. This has confirmed thoughts I've already had and altered and improved a number of others. Thank you. I was originally thinking of getting something much newer and more expensive but I just ran across a 1995 F350 for cheap with a few bad parts that I can swap out of my totaled truck and end up with a better truck than what I had using the same amount of money I spent on the truck I had.

[@benmorrow4233]

RIP

[@dwarnermg]

I’ve been looking for a 97 or older Ford for a while now but the prices are ridiculous now comparatively. Someone I know runs a diesel shop, VW’s to medium duty. I e seen all manners of issues with the new stuff, emissions, sensors, elec problems all of it. That said it’s black and white to me that older though not as powerful or efficient stock, last longer and is more reliable. It’s funny I’m seeing more of this type of vidya in other types of construction/business it’s been a thing for a while with guys on the pipeline that you don’t need a $100k truck pre tools/mods just a reliable decent one which to me is common sense.

[@olimarputin7862]

@@dwarnermg yup I started with an Arizona 1996 f250 with the big block 460. Put a comp cams cam in it and the cam wiped itself out just after the break in process. One lobe was completely gone. Talked with a guy at 460efiguys and he said that they stopped using comp because even after being professionally broken in at a shop prior to installing they still fail. The truck is still sitting in storage a year after the failure as I decide whether to remove the engine and have it inspected, or just throw a Howard cam in it and cross my fingers that the metal off that cam doesn't wipe the motor out. If someone out there wants to put a cam in their stuff, avoid comp cams like the plague.

[@dwarnermg]

@@olimarputin7862 I’ve read if you swap a 429 timing chain/sprocket set in it gives you a boost compatible to an RV cam.

[@Bigdickcactusman]

Did you keep the 7.3 from it?

[@fivevs1]

I bought a new truck last year, but it was already five years old. My mom is a contractor and she drives a 1995 Dodge 2500 with the Cummins. It looks pretty nice for a 1995 but it’s obvious that it’s an old well used truck. But she has more work than she can do and turns down so much work. It’s crazy. She invested and training, tools, and relationships. She apprentice for a couple of years under one of the best tile and floor people in the area and eventually surpassed him. She has all the tools to make the job easy for floor or tile related. And the quality of her work and her commitment to the customer have made her well sought after by the top-tier homebuilders.

[@alexmatthews2332]

You won't get a better value than a 2nd gen cummins. It's not a nice interior but it just gets the job done. I've had my 01 for 12 yrs my first truck outa high school!

[@Fishpalms]

Are we still talking about trucks?

[@alexmatthews2332]

@@Fishpalms we never were...

[@Fishpalms]

@@alexmatthews2332 lol I know right 🤣

[@SweeturKraut]

I used to work in auto sales. That whole thing about losing 20 or 25 percent in value when you drive it off the lot is misleading. In reality. That percentage is profit to the dealer… the “value” was never there.

[@jamesengland7461]

Resale value. That's the key. It's still true.

[@uncouthboy8028]

If I buy something and if that thing has a resale value, when I lose "25% the moment I drive it off a lot" I am losing that regardless of why.

[@jonathanbraswell6179]

Keep telling yourself this!

[@stratospapanikolaou7366]

Finally someone said it! This is a very valuable video for younger guys like myself to come across. Thank you sir.

[@arresthillary9502]

and worry about what you are doing, not what anybody else is doing

[@nicholasmendoza6159]

The determining factor in trucks should be how much equipment and material you need to move to the site. Don't get a brand new 1/2 , it will make you nothing. 3/4 ton starts a return on the investment and 1 ton can make some money. A 2 ton will make your crew money. Obviously all with relative increase in towning and hauling capacity. A 1 ton with a 5.4 gas engine won't get to the site what a 3/4 ton 6.6 diesel will etc.

[@seanelliott1762]

"Chrome won't get you home." What a great statement for life

[@kirkpalmer1709]

I don't think the younger guys even like chrome anymore. They seem to like everything painted now.

[@chaseweeks2708]

@@kirkpalmer1709 And hate sidewalls, for some reason.

[@kirkpalmer1709]

@@chaseweeks2708 That's because everything is ghetto now.

[@UnkleBen]

unless you're a war boy, then chrome does get you home... to Valhalla!!

[@dbdouglas]

I saw that on a bumper sticker about 50 years ago, in all honesty. Great one too.

[@bushratbeachbum]

So very, very true. Where i am it's a 60/40 split. The 60 are driving around madly, rushing, stressing and cutting corners in their shiny new vehicle. 40% are putting in the time and energy to achieve the best possible result at a rate that reflects their quality of work, then heading home to collect the kids from school on the way, stress free, happy and proud of their work and their choices.

[@wildbill23c]

I'd rather be the 40%....I'd rather do the job right, and not have a huge vehicle payment to worry about month to month. I'd rather not have a brand new shiny work truck, why? You are going to inevitably dent or scratch it or both.....I'd rather dent/scratch an older vehicle that I own over denting/scratching a new vehicle the bank owns that I rent from them month to month...unless you paid cash for that fancy new work truck, you don't own it....people seem to not understand that....if they're making payments, they don't own it, whether its leased or on loan from the bank.....one slip up and the repo-man shows up and takes it. Buy something used that you can afford to pay with cash, and maintain it, and it'll be just fine.

[@zulubravo5733]

Been a subscriber for a long while. My whole career has been a forestry professional, the last 30 years of that as a contractor. I’ve witnessed time and time again the same mistakes with new forestry contractors. The first thing they do is buy the contractor special “4x4 crew cab diesel” then comes the bling for it with aftermarket wheels and tires. Then the travel trailer, then the nice SUV for their wife. One of the best pieces of advice when I started my business was keep the overheads low. I shared your video with my grandson who starts community college in September to get into the electrical trade. His objective is to be self employed. Thanks for sharing such sage advice. 🇨🇦

[@wildbill23c]

When I got into finish carpentry several years ago for a while, the guy who trained me drove a Ford Festiva as his "work" car.....it wasn't the greatest, but it was fuel efficient, and reliable....we didn't have to carry much in the way of materials as they were all delivered to the jobsite....all we had to do was bring our tools, which was usually just an air compressor, and the nail guns, and a few hand tools (hammers, punches, chisels, tape measure, etc)....At that time I had a Jeep Grand Cherokee, so I threw my tools in it and went to jobsites....never once did I think, man I need a brand new shiny truck...oh sure it would have been nice, but not needed, and my vehicle was paid for, so I wasn't having to spend 1/2 my paycheck on a car payment. Keep it simple, don't buy all the toys to show off to family and friends, that's 99% of the fancy vehicles you see running around, its people who have the hey look at me I'm cool thoughts going on in their tiny brains, rather than seeing the whole picture of where all their money went, and always whining about being broke.

[@Bill-Tucson]

Good advice and best wishes to grandson. I suggest he think about what he needs to show up with at the job site and how to get it there. A couple tool bags will fit in the trunk of a car.

[@mikelowry9436]

I'm a forestry contractor and I'm currently wrestling with the truck thing. I drive about 50k miles a year and I'm finding that a good used truck is worn out pretty darn fast. It's a tough decision, make payments and have no downtime or drive an older rig and have to wrench on it

[@zulubravo5733]

@@mikelowry9436 My particular reference was to new forestry contractors, the forestry companies here will help finance new equipment, the new contractor sees a whole big influx of cash. They spend it too quickly not realizing it's not their money. Like you I drove about 80 000 kilometres (50,000 miles) a year a new truck is not new for very long. While I picked up a few used trucks most were new. Some of my equipment operators worked very remote locations thus needed dependable trucks. At least 2 of my pick up trucks I drove personally had over 500 000 kilometres on them by then they get to be unreliable not worth fixing anymore. Other than things that would help protect the trucks like headache racks there wasn't much bling on them. Now retired I can keep my trucks clean and shiny!

[@jeffputnam8554]

Yup. Years ago while working for a banker in an affluent part of town where most driveways had new recreational vehicles, he made the observation that most of them were one paycheck away from disaster. Great wisdom Scott. We all need to understand how the interest monster works so it can work for us.

[@saulgoodman2018]

ANd they had no idea hw much those people were making.

[@anindividual3889]

I am a farmer and I have older equipment. I have not had any issues with people looking down on it, other than implement dealers. No problem selling my hay. As a person who sometimes hires contractors, all I want to see is a clean and well maintained work truck/van. New doesn't mean that much to me personally.

[@mikewatson4644]

I am retired now but I farmed for a good portion of my life. The only new piece of equipment that I ever bought was a rotary mower. And the dealer had used it around their lot, so it wasn't really brand new. I kept farming and making money when my neighbors with new equipment were told by the bank "You're done. Line it up".

[@anindividual3889]

@@mikewatson4644 I think that a lot in my area would have been told this, but about 20 years ago, there was a big oil boom and a large windfarm was built so there were millions of dollars of royalties for both of those.

[@mikewatson4644]

@@anindividual3889 A friend has leased 2 sections of his ranch for a solar farm. He will be getting a ridiculous amount of money for the lease payment. In addition, he is working on a deal to run sheep under the solar panels during the summer. The sheep deal will make him more money than he currently makes from the cattle on the entire ranch. Sure helps to make ends meet!!

[@creativecraving]

❤ Funny how the only people who speak badly about your financial wisdom are those hoping to benefit from your lack of wisdom. 😂

[@birdsongblossoms8547]

I started a contracting business in the mid-1970s in Davis, CA. It was a boom-town at the time and I was working my way thru law school. I needed a truck and found one in the newspaper for $350. It was an International Travelall (their version of a Suburban) from the 1960s and was the color of faded salmon. The ugliest thing that you have ever seen on wheels. But it was built for farm work, had a V8 engine and a tow rig, was reliable and easily did everything that I asked of it. There is no reason whatsoever to start a business with a new, $120K truck that will probably be subject to several recalls... Use cash, buy the best tools that you can get for the money, never lie to a customer, do conscientious work and you will succeed.

[@509vista]

This is spot on! People get way too caught up on image and having shiny stuff. I have been a contractor since 20 years old (17 years). In this business you never really know where your next dollar is coming from. I have always been frugal and had money saved to weather potential work droughts. When work is slow its like a little vacation to me. Others have so much debt to service they find themselves cutting prices and stressing to make money. Financial security is true freedom. After about 15 years of this mindset and keeping my head down working I looked up and realized I had accumulated real wealth.

[@Bill-Tucson]

I remembered a story of a contractor who had to reduce overhead/fuel cost post 2008 downturn. To reduce costs he started using his wife's mini van instead of contractor pickup. Had sliding doors both side and hatch back and he had files/plans organized for different jobs as well as tools. Worked so well he didn't go back.

[@wallingj68]

My neighbor is an electrician and has a 15 year old Ford with the typical "Electricians" box on the back. He has a BBB sticker on it and that's it, yet he's busier than a 1-armed wallpaper hanger. Word of mouth is worth more than advertising. The concrete guy we hired drive the worst looking truck, yet it ran fine, and his work was amazing. Putting your money into the business instead of the frills makes a difference. Like a restaurant that puts its money into the food and not the furniture.

[@71rcode72]

You and Dave Ramsey are 100% correct. Your philosophies work!

[@johnschiltz6440]

I am very reluctant to hire a contractor with a raised truck with big wheels and tires. Their poor decision making undermines my confidence.

[@zackzander425]

Looks unprofessional. They’re usually hacks.

[@JMKady76]

See it all the time, not even a truck they work out of just a big jacked up toy but it's a "business expense" because it's got a company logo on the door or tailgate.

[@shanes481]

I figure if they can afford a 100k pickup, then they are overcharging their customers.

[@ravenbarsrepairs5594]

I'd say it depends on what type of contractor they area. A earthwork/foundation contractor is likely in need of a somewhat raised truck, as they're working undeveloped sites without the amenities of a driveway.

[@jons4686]

I would not hire much less be caught riding in such a thing

[@stan525]

I started driving a service truck in 1974. learned early to wax one fender or door or whatever every day it was always clean and presentable and check the vitals when you fuel up. my truck never broke down others did. yours is good advice

[@TokyoCraftsman]

I bought my Kei van in 2008, and I have no reason to get a new van it works very well, and it's reliable. I bought a new van because here in Tokyo a used Kei van is either in good shape, but 80% the price of a new van, or it's clapped out and run into the ground for a cheap price. I take it in twice a year for maintenance to a trusted mechanic and fix whatever needs to be fixed. It's 16 years old and I'll get at least another 4 years out of it, maybe even another 14 years. My van is a tool, it gets used, but NOT abused, it is a well-worn, hard-working reliable tool. I agree with you, Scott. Cheers from Tokyo!

[@disqusrubbish5467]

The Kei cars and trucks are becoming a real thing in Honolulu. Not for freeways, and you don't want to be in an accident with one, but for a reasonable price they are an interesting alternative.

[@johnotoole4018]

Thanks. I love your no nonsense approach in all your videos. Common sense isn't as common as we might like to think it is. You come across as a man with deep rooted integrity in your approach to life. Keep up the "good work".

[@lexwells4763]

I used to know a contractor that started out doing cabinets for a contractor and then branched out on his own with what he learned on the job. He never pulled a single permit for any of his work that included electrical wiring. He rented a house and bought all new cars for his son, wife, and himself. He never owned his own home. The last I saw him he was still renting. I had the misfortune of seeing some of his handwork and I saw so many code violations. The worst code violations were in his electrical wiring. The other stuff was just stupid stuff no one should do. I'm a firm believer in a man's work speaks for itself because no one ever tells you they don't know enough or they don't have the right experience for the job. Everyone says they have lots of experience. They can say whatever they like, but their work will tell you just how good they really are.

[@KevinHarper-k4d]

I love your videos I'm 61 and have lived the life of a carpenter I've always been passionate about my trade I can relate to your stories I've lived a life very similar to yours I'm getting prepared to retire shortly and have no regrets on the path I chose keep up the good work

[@AK-47ISTHEWAY]

What about just renting a truck when you need one? That's what I do. I can go days, weeks, and sometimes over a month before a potential project comes up, so whenever I do land a job I will just rent a work truck for a few days or however long it takes to complete. I do the same thing with heavy construction equipment like bulldozers, excavators, track loaders, and skid steers. I can't afford to buy stuff like that, and the total overall cost of ownership is mind-boggling, so it just makes more sense and is cheaper to rent.

[@bobireland1256]

Not to mention the entire rental fee is deductible!

[@jaydunbar7538]

@@bobireland1256 so is the cost of the equipment, you depreciate the cost of the equipment and right off the interest. The way you say it’s a deductible is like you think you get 100% back at taxes, which is not how it works at all.

[@workingcountry1776]

Most ppl can get away with a harbor freight 4x8 trailer behind their sedan for their few times a year they need a truck. But this is more of a homeowner solution. I can't go without my cargo van and pickups....

[@debluetailfly]

I never used rented heavy equipment, but have used rental equipment such as pressure washers and floor sanders. Every piece had something wrong with it. The floor sander had a bad bearing that made it jump up and down and mar the floor. You have to make another trip to the rental store and hope the next one they give you is better. A pressure washer had a leak and soaked my leg on a cold day. The different nozzles were also missing. I reported the problems when I took it back, but they didn't care.

[@dannyl2598]

​@@jaydunbar7538not only that but the county will change you property tax on all of the equipment that you own and they value it as high as they possibly can and tax you for it as long as they can.

[@BTimmer]

As a retired CPA, your advice is sound and also applies to consumers as well.

[@hermayneMUNSTER]

Good thing about having older equipment is learning how to fix it and that also saves you money

[@badgerlandturf]

Having retired from owning a business for 27 years I agree with your analysis! I learned early on it was better to learn to repair rather than replace so when something broke on the job site, you might have an idea on how to fix it rather than take it somewhere and maybe wait a week or two without that equipment. The skill of even basic maintenance can help save money over time which makes you more money in the long run that ISN’T spent. 🎉

[@darylhill9400]

You’re absolutely right stay small and keep it all!

[@Hilhub]

Highly agree! A fancy truck just makes you look more expensive to prospective customers. Show up looking like you just worked a hard day, covered in wood/concrete dust, in a modest truck and price the jobs fair. Build your business on trust and credibility, not marketing and flash. It’ll grow and you can increase the prices as you build a clientele.

[@stuartkorte1642]

Spot on!!!! I’ve been amazed at the all the local lawn care guys here in their new, big tire, 3/4 ton 4x4 trucks. Just like so many young mechanics buying new Snap On versus yard sale Craftsman

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

If you're starting out Carlyle Tools by NAPA are really the affordable alternative to Snap-On. Don't knock them till you try them.

[@mikelowry9436]

​@@jonathonrossebo1783Carlyle is way overpriced for what it is.

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

@@mikelowry9436 like the quality isn't there you mean?

[@mikelowry9436]

Yeah its about as good as harbor freight but a lot more expensive ​@jonathonrossebo1783

[@Bolockaye206]

Scott, while trucks are great tools, for those of us who work primarily in cities- a van is likely going to be more practical. A dodge sprinter 3500 diesel is one of best options out there. Especially if you primarily do trim and interiors.

[@localeightironworker]

rolling up in an older but still well taken care of vehicle shows that you can address issues as they arise in your business and that your customer will not be thinking they need to pay not only for the job they want done, but your new truck payment as well that being said, your 90s ford truck is better than anything they've made in the past 20. either of the 444 diesels are good choices for motors.

[@the32712]

I have 5 trucks for my farm. -1993 Chevy K3500 (4x4) dump truck 6.5L Turbodiesel stickshift -1994 Chevy K1500 (4x4) 350tbi stick shift -a 1994 Chevy C3500 Dually 350tbi auto -a 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 -2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 All of them used, only one I ever had a payment on was the 2013, and that still had 100K miles on it. Now that same truck, which is the "newest" has bad frame rust. The other 30 year old trucks are still kicking and working. Just put a new radiator, fan, fan clutch, water pump, and radiator hoses into the dump truck.

[@austinpatrick2682]

To expand on something you said, "Your truck can to an extent be a reflection of you yourself"... Well, I'm not getting any younger, so my truck doesn't necessarily have to either. I like the 90s model trucks best anyway. I don't currently have one but it just seemed that every manufacturer had one of their best offerings ever in that decade no matter what type of truck you want. From the massive dually to the humble S-10 (and all the other trucks that size) and everything in between. The only big common enemy for that era of trucks was rust. If you keep it in one piece though, it's only dead when they stop making internal combustion engines and all the junkyard engines are gone or outrageously expensive and used for collectors cars only in a few more decades.

[@lonewolftech]

I’m driving an 88 f150 and make well over $50k a year, I’m not changing that any time soon. I’ll just rebuild this one long before I want a new one.

[@johnrweiss]

Agreed. My truck is a 2011 my excavator is a 2022

[@ciphernemo]

Amen, Scott! Always sound advice and always with a humble heart.

[@hasanmatthew5204]

My 96 F250 with a wooded flatbed i built myself IS MY ADVERTISEMENT. I've gotten so much business just by having that truck wnd rockin' my wrangler technician pants and work boots with a T-shirt to the Depot. People see me as a man who puts in some SERIOUS work - not a pretender in a pretty truck.

[@tacklebox6239]

😂okay

[@stuartibbotson6632]

Spot on Scott. I’m in the UK and I’m always hesitant about folk who turn up in a brand new truck. At the other end of the spectrum, I drive a 53 year old Land Rover that has my company name and logo on the side. It’ll carry a fair amount, tow even more, and as a classic vehicle it says exactly what I want to about my business. Oh, and I can fix it myself as there isn’t a computer in sight!

[@B-leafer]

Totally agree. Your wisdom has been my personal experience. I'm 68 retired.. God bless America.

[@ericvaughn1126]

Sage advice for anyone. Even outside of self-employment or running a business. Those who are judging you by what you drive are shallow and focused on a material existence that doesn't "mean" anything.

[@BRIDGEBURNERSTV]

Arborist here. Work truck is 53 years old. Not flashy, but clean and strong. Carbureted, easily maintainable and easy to replace parts. This truck is my lifeline and has to be able to get me home even when it can’t. Ratchet set and screw drivers can fix most problems you encounter on the road. People also appreciate a vehicle that has been in service for so long that has been taken care of. Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.

[@dcorey35]

In a state where vehicles are sales taxed. That is another cost of swapping out cars every year or so. Where I live sales tax adds another 8% to the math. Good advice, I think so often just sitting down and thinking through needs and wants helps avoid some of the crazy traps finance companies are willing to help you walk into.

[@davidrayburn9818]

Agree 100%. I drive a 2005 F150 (only 115K on it since most of my work is within 20 minutes of the house) that I use to haul materials and debris, and a 2006 E250 that's the rolling tool shed when I need to work in the field. Both are in good shape because I maintain them like any other tool. The truck has been paid off for over 12 years and I paid cash for the van when I found a good deal that included all the racking and shelves. Considering getting a dump trailer for our remodeling jobs and putting that debris disposal money in my pocket instead of the dumpster company, but I would buy that outright too and take the writeoff. If you're going to buy a piece of equipment, truck, excavator, whatever, BE PATIENT and wait for a good deal- never buy in a panic because you need it next week.

[@bhensel100]

Sound advice for everyone, especially the young generation who seem to want everything without the realization that payments come along with it. Keep up the wisdom and good advice.

[@onogrirwin]

My little mobile mechanic business has always been out of my 96 subaru wagon. I can't take everything needed to tackle every job, but I change the loadout at my shop as needed, and have the heavy stuff like a press at the shop. Bought the car for $1000 in '16.

[@brady_morgan]

I pay cash for all my vehicles, never go into debt to buy a depreciating asset. If I dont have the cash, I dont buy it, I just save until I do have it.

[@jaydunbar7538]

As a business that’s not always the best way to handle it, reduced down time can be a major factor and well worth purchasing new equipment. My truck is a 1998 with a rebuilt drive train, payed cash for it roughly 1/8th the cost of a new class 8 truck. My trailer on the other hand is a 2025 Mac step deck with a hefty payment. The constant little problems with a truck I find it worth it to avoid the elds and emissions equipment, the trailer being new is well worth not having the hassles of old equipment.

[@dangerdan4x468]

I just did the same, after what you pay interest, id rather buy it now and own it. Plus 5 years unlimited km warranty, is a big factor considering the other issues i keep having with my other vehicles

[@hhjhj393]

My truck may be 30 years old, BUT all that steel is MINE.

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

You are ahead of so many other individuals. Being debt free is the greatest wealth.

[@717UT]

I recently bought myself a "new" truck in preparation for starting my own company. It's a 2006 Chevy. You know, new to me. I will say though, everyone in this modern society needs to learn how to leverage debt in smart ways because it's "part of the game". I will never say that all debt is dumb personally. Just like buying a new Kubota excavator, for example, will open up new sources of revenue. Thank you Scott. Your videos have been so important to my development as a carpenter for many years and now I am sure I will be rewatching many of them as I take that jump into self employment.

[@keithcurrams]

There's this audio technician I'm lucky enough to work with sometimes, and he advised me before: "Nobody cares what van you turn up in if you're just unloading gear. They only notice if you're working out* of the vehicle". That stuck with me. (*ie using the van as a mobile workspace, so you'd have your gear set-up in the van and just run cables to wherever rather than unloading stuff).

[@michaelwerner1836]

I've had my truck for 20 years, bought used at a year old and paid it off in 18 months. Looks like an older truck, but it's in very good shape. I've kept track of all the work that has gone into keeping it up, and over 20 years the average for maintenance has been $67 per month. So much less than a truck payment. Whenever someone mentions I might need a new truck, my reply is I don't need a new payment. Great advice, Scott, as usual.

[@DH-ry2ho]

Scott- we need more men like you. Thank you for talking sense into the trades and young men’s lives.

[@jeffsmith1858]

I live in the pick up truck capital of the world. Edmonton, Alberta. I am always astounded at the amount of money put into tires, wheels and lift kits. As if that will make you a better contractor. Most of them never see anything but asphalt. Right off the get go they are down about $8,000 for what amounts to nothing gained. Great comments in the video. Best truck is a paid for truck.

[@stevecooper2873]

""Best truck is a paid for truck."" YES!

[@_CAT-lg4sr]

1.38+ million subscribers? I can see why. Straight forward, clear thinking stand-up kinda guy. Just became a subscriber. Well done.

[@aarontracy5160]

Regardless of profession, this is great advice. I have been in sales for decades. Year over year, newer sales reps buy status cars. The customer response is often negative when they see an expensive car or truck pull into the business. And that rep gets significantly more resistance to price. The logic as presented by the customer, "why should I overpay for your product, you drive a nicer vehicle than me".

[@michaelpineda4370]

I got my contractors license last year and was planning on buying a new truck. I ended up getting a 1995 Chevy Silverado that’s pretty nice and has a fresh coat of paint. It still turn heads and get me thumbs up when people drive by. So glad I went this route.

[@TomvdHeuvel]

I work as a self employed welder/fabricator and i also do a lot of maintenance work for local industries, i do it all from the back of a 25 year old Volvo stationwagon. Sometimes people make fun of it, but it hasn't stopped them from hiring me.

[@SawyersMusic]

I started with a 2005 toyota tundra. 2 years in and it still gets the job done. From time to time I do have those thoughts, that maybe I don’t look the part. But my business is prosperous because I remained frugal, invested In tools and equipment. Thanks Scott for the reminder, I needed to hear it.

[@MachineIf]

Me too! Right there with you, almost identical situation. Cant help but want a new one sometimes when all the other contractors pull up in their 2024 2500 HD King Ranch Lariat limiteds. But at the end of the day, I’m making just as much, and I don’t have a $1200 payment for 84 months. For that reason alone, I’m gonna drive my tundra until she explodes. What’s the real flex, owing the bank 60-80k on a depreciating truck; or driving a reliable, paid off work truck and being able to put away $800-$1200 more a month than those guys?

[@matstaley388]

Totally agree. I bought a 2001 F450 with an 11' service bed for $200 and cleaned it up and it's been solid for over a year and a half. 365,000 miles on the 7.3 and 6 speed and it runs like a new truck.

[@3000gtalex]

I work in excavation, I am always sooo jealous of guys that roll up in beautiful new trucks and I know some day I will get there but my 3,000 Jeep has made me nearly 400,000 over the last 5 years and I think that is something to be happy about. I don’t have the look but my experience shines through 👍 skills to pay the bills as they say. Love your channel

[@CrimeVid]

Buy what you can afford to buy, not borrow to buy. Do your own mechanical work. If you don't know how, buy the book and ask anybody you know who is a trained mech, don't buy a load of brand new tools for that either !! Only buy a new truck if your accountant tells you to. Tools in general; Do not buy on recommendations from the comics or KZbin. Buy stuff that you can see other tradesmen using. Tools do not do the job, you do. When you reach a certain level of competence you can do a lot more with lower grade tools because you know how to set them up to work properly ! This is particularly true of Mitre saws and Routers.

[@Kim-ek2mt]

Scott your tool tank 👍 Bullet proof 7.3 No emissions No Def fluid needed

[@UriahtheHittie24601]

I can't tell you how much this channel means to me. I just found your team not long ago. I carry tremendous amounts of failure and guilt. I have more time behind me than before me generally speaking. I am not a craftsman, builder, or in the trades. But the decompression, inspiration and encouragement your channel offers me is so welcomed and I appreciate it. Just wanted you to know the far reaches of your content outside of where you thought it may live. Jeremiah 9:23-24. Thank you❤

[@tarquinnewman7653]

Hi Mate, I don’t need to tell you this but the wisdom you have accumulated over your years in the trade is highly valuable to not only myself but I’m sure a lot of men dealing with the stress of a construction business… If you ever read this, thank you and I personally appreciate the time it takes out of your day to help the vast majority of us perhaps less experienced. Don’t ever think it’s not helping, because it definitely is. Cheers 👍🏼

[@deepbludude4697]

So, im not a contractor just an old hard hat diver, but since I have moved up here to the Ozarks I am amazed at the amount of side gigs i get called or dropped in on for work. I came up here to retire and build my compound. Ive got an 89 F250 IDI diesel, a 87 Landcruiser I just got running and a 87 Dodge Raider all are capable of hauling the tools I need. I never went into debt for any of them. Im looking for Kubota for my property ive saved enough thru side gigs to get a decent used one. What everyone says to me "you showed up had tools and finished the job"

[@RESETTINGtheBAR]

There is wisdom in acknowledging that you don't know it all. I love the fact that he acknowledged the necessity of a CPA.

[@denniswilhelm1316]

Agree 100%. When I bought my first used log truck in 1976, several others bought log trucks at that time. Many went down and bought and bought new 4x4 pickups to pull their new boat. I didn’t. I stayed in business for 45 years. They did not

[@williebeale3265]

So cool my pop been self employed 40 yrs bought a 86 f250 and 97 250 new both still running and driving he retired ! Good maintenance easy right foot!!

[@JulianA-ui8cz]

This is sound and valuable advice to all folks, young and old, no matter what trade or profession. As a parent of children in their mid twenties, it troubles me how comfortable many of our younger generation are with taking on debt, especially to fast track their way to things that aren’t absolutely necessary. To so readily jump into financial decisions that could cost them everything if there’s a little slip up or slump. As always, thank you for sharing your wisdom here. It’s inspiring and appreciated!

[@chosenone101]

I agree 100%. I have a 2002 Freightliner Columbia with a Detroit engine and 13 spd transmission. It does the same work as a 2024 Kenworth. I paid cash for the truck in 2012 for $11,000 and kept it since. I purchased it for economical reasons ( low cost on repairs and excellent on fuel) to make a profit in the trucking industry and it is doing its job! You are right ..chrome won't get you home!

[@phooesnax]

Timely. Not a contractor but as I approach retirement I need a truck. Either a 10 year old ford or an old straight 6 manual from 60s 70s or 80s. lol

[@ohiofarmer5918]

I just found a straight six manual f150 when I went to buy a Coleman lantern. He had done some good me hanical repairs. Tempting at 1300...

[@danglin69]

292 Chevy or a 300 Ford straight 6. With a manual please!🔨🔨🔨💪

[@scottmcgilvery8511]

Dave Ramsay and Scott Wadsworth. Legends

[@normansawatzky4778]

I don't believe most people know who these guys are...

[@PhillyFixed]

Came here to say this

[@osu041]

Whenever I've had to hire a contractor the people actually doing the work always show up in old dingy trucks no matter how fancy the "sellers" truck is

[@CrimeVid]

Because they are probably subcontractors.

[@BrianVincent-k6g]

​@@CrimeVid that's what they're called to avoid workmanscomp fees for the shiny truck. The dingy trucks are employees that do all the work for hundreds that you pay thousands for. I know bc I had a dingy truck, and now I have a shiny truck.

[@BrianVincent-k6g]

I usually judge men by their character, and not what they drive though.

[@utahockey]

ok bud but when the dingy truck man doesn't dingies up your home, you will know you got what you paid for :D

[@BrianVincent-k6g]

@@Callsign_Sturm I have my old 96 1/2 ton ford tucked away in the back of my barn to do just that one day. May hire out the body work though bc I know it's a skilled trade with a lot of tricks to know; just like us remodeling guys. I am really starting to appreciate these old trucks considering the cost, and extreme technology in the new ones that you know is going to fail....on purpose 😂

[@dkmorris713]

The wisdom I have heard from this man's mouth over the years elevates him to legendary status. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@bruceyyyyy]

I started using an old (t)rusty Chevy Suburban as a work truck. I had it paid off and it was just a spare vehicle/camper van/dog limo. After almost 3 years of work I decided it wasn't worth using as a work truck anymore and recently bought a used 1 ton truck with a service body for 6k. It's exactly as you say! All the friends and family are running out of work and I am starting to get new clients that I've never met and aren't a friend of a friend etc. Both trucks are just enough to carry everything I need (I loved the suburban could hold 4x8 sheets safe from the rain) but now I'm not showing up at $500k homes in a $500 vehicle. Invested in equipment too in the form of a dump trailer to go with it. Really looking forward to seeing where this journey goes! And yes I promised the wife this is the last year she has to do the accounting.

[@MossSteiger]

As long as a vehicle is reliable and capable, it’s good. Evaluate it like you would any other tool. Plus, my current truck has my favorite feature - it’s paid for.

[@Hobotraveler82]

When my dad ran his business, it was a small home maintenance business. He drove his personal truck and I would go with him to help. That truck was a 1990 Nissan pickup. We hauled everything we needed in that truck. This was his way of supplementing his income with the school district. If we had a major project like putting in a fence at church. My dad would use my uncles 84 Ford pickup for that. My dad spent money where it needed and never on a vehicle. And that was over 30 yrs ago. Now he's retired and doesn't do much. But i learned alot from him. 😊

[@alvarogabrielaguirregarin3933]

My father was an accountant, I drive a 2008 Ford Ranger. Best truck ever.

[@debluetailfly]

I knew a VERY wealthy lady. She drove a Ford Ranger for years. Said that was all she needed.

[@jeffreyplumber1975]

ive got a 09 bought new (my only new truck ever) It was originally a commuter but when work got tough I had to get my own jobs thus its been a work truck with utility shell since about 6 monthes into ownership no regrets still have it and while I did go back to work as an employee in the plumbing field and didnt use it other than transportation to and fro work Ive maintaine a small plumbing company ever since makes me money Im 67 retired , and I get so tired of arguing with family that I need a new truck , I deserve a new truck. ..... but I try to tell them I dont want a new truck, my wife and I have a Rav 4, a lexus , rx350, and a suzuki samurai suburban neighborhood I dont have room Id love to shit can the Rav and Lexus but until that happens no way in hell do I want a new Truck LOL

[@kosinskiarek]

Smart man, especially that the prices of cars now are ridicilous. It's really criminal to see how much prices went up in recent years. Thank you sir for being common sense person.

[@Mullet020370]

Sage advice for anyone.

[@leftylee5068]

I'm on my 3rd 1997 Ford Aerostar. I wanted a newer van when my last one gave up at 287K. During the pandemic I wasn't going to spend 20 thousand on a 4 year old van with 100 thousand miles. Found another 97 with 19k miles from a university fleet with 19k miles! 2 years later and 57k, Running strong! I know how to work on it! It gets me and my tools to the job, and it's RELIABLE.

[@joseph7105]

Still rocking my rusty old 99 Tacoma and i own my own carpentry business. As far as i know my truck has never turned anybody off

[@Hoaxer51]

Well, as a Chevy guy, I don’t even have to see your truck (Tacoma) to be turned off. No, truthfully when I see a truck, what I really look for is how they store their tools, do they have any good ideas on organizing their stuff that I can use, any useful tricks on organizing their field office (the truck cab) that might come in handy. I’m more impressed with things like that than I am with the year or make of your vehicle. Keep up the good work!

[@bobireland1256]

AMEN on proper tool and equipment storage! Adam Savage’s “first order retrieval” mantra which translates to never have to move something to get to anything. Can’t always do that but whenever possible it saves time and aggravation. It also makes it easier to keep up with materials. Hard to make tons of money when you gotta run to the hardware store to get a box of screws ‘cause you didn’t know you were out of ‘em!

[@hugoglenn9741]

@@Hoaxer51 my 2006 Tacoma cost me 22K and a drove it 8 years without any repairs. Put 140K on the truck and sold it for 14K, could have gotten more. Stupid GM will never perform that well or hold value as good. Just worked on a stupid Cruze today with 1.8 liter Ecotec at the church. With 60K it’s already leaking out of the valve cover a significant amount of oil. Amongst other things the AC clutch shorted out and you can’t buy it separately from the Compressor. That’s $340 in parts down the drain at Rockauto prices. And you can defend GM and Chevy how??? PS I’m at 270K on my dad’s inherited Tundra with 1 repair. It will easily go 500K

[@HillBros06]

That's because Tacoma's are classy

[@codymoncrief8478]

I'm a mechanic. Still rocking my '97 ford. She's old, rusted a little, worn out in places even. But it works, it's reliable, and not a single customer has expressed contempt for it; in fact, most clients complement me on it. It isn't the age or appearance of your equipment that matters, it is the amount and quality of work you produce with it, and the care you take care of it.

[@probuilder961]

I'm on my 2nd work truck in 30yrs. Bought a new 1994 B350 van, traded it in 2008 when the economy hit the skids, for an '07 Ram2500 pick up which I drive today. Pd. $17k for the van & $21,500 for the pick up. Annual property taxes on a newer $60k truck is $1,600. vs $350 on this truck...it has been worth maintaining it. Waiting for the next crash to swoop in & get a deal.

[@danielsmith2447]

I'm not a construction contractor but your videos always give me good information and advice. I have an auto shop and my tow truck is getting a little old and shabby, was thinking of buying a new one to improve my image, glad I watched this video.

[@luckydogx2]

Scott, I have loved all of your instructional videos, but would have to say this is my favorite. I grew up in Las Vegas, and owned one of the major collision repair shops there until I sold it in 1996, so there is a good chance we have crossed paths. I have always loved construction, so started a B 1 General company after selling the auto repair business. We had to shut the company down in 2009 due to the collapse of the industry in Las Vegas. Now at 71 year of age, I look back on life, and see that debt is one of the biggest mistakes we make. My truck is a 2007 Ram 3500 with 311,000 miles on it, and my work truck is a 2005 Ford Super Duty single cab with a work bed. yes, I still work, doing handyman jobs in our valley. Shade structures, decks, etc. I love to work, and build things with my hands. It keeps me going. I would love to see you do a video on working as an old guy, and how it keeps us alive in our older years.

[@lashlarue7924]

I saw a contractor in an OLD truck the other day. I have way more respect for someone with an old truck who can keep it running. That to me automatically makes them more competent in my eyes.

[@nixonnow33]

In what you share I am reminded of another craftsman / carpenter who I believe is a legend Larry Haun. Thank you Scott!

[@debluetailfly]

I have all his videos. He was a great guy.

[@edwardgonfindini7295]

Scott, As a "car guy" as well as a craftsman (I build and install semi custom cabinets) I wanted to add my experiences. I have had the rusty, oil dripper and the brand new dream truck. You get one guy tells you he won't hire you unless you have new truck or you get told he can't afford you based on your expensive truck. Don't even show up to an estimate in your classic muscle car or Harley cause you won't need the work truck. They all have a comment. The key to a work truck is one that can carry your tools and materials dependably and presentably. That is all you need. You can either make payments at the bank or parts store. The absolute best I ever did was an older nice E Series for $4200 cash. Lasted many years and miles. Remember the Ricky Nelson song "Garden Party"? I live by it.

[@brianparkhurst1019]

Best truck I had in 25 years of owning a construction company was an 04 gmc 2500 hd with a utility body, 6.0 gas. Bought in 12 for 4k, drove it for 10 years, put about 4k into it over those years, mainly tires and brakes. Sold it in 22 when I retired with 460k miles. Absolute perfection.

[@synapticburn]

Agreed. My 02 has 210k all original, everything works. gmt800 platform trucks are the most reliable domestic trucks ever built

[@iceman0502me]

Great advice my friend! I’m with you. I pull my trailer with a shiny 23 year old one owner dodge ram that I bought off the lot in 2001. I paid way too much for it then but now all these years later she’s paying me back for taking care of her. Routine maintenance and necessary repairs when needed are much cheaper than a new truck. I’d love to have something newer but I can’t financially justify the cost at this time.

[@kirkpalmer1709]

Yep my work truck and daily driver is still my 1999 F-250 I bought in 2003. It has 341K miles on it and tows my excavator and skid steer from job to job and whatever else I need it to do. I keep it well maintained and fix whatever needs fixing and it has been extremely reliable over the years. I will buy another truck when I NEED to. My advice is to keep up on maintenance and do your own repairs. If you don't know how then learn.

[@TRPutterbaugh-sl3vz]

You’re absolutely right! Live within your means. “Debt is dumb “!

[@tom95521]

Bought a 2011 RAM Tradesman with 40K miles for $16K. Manual crank windows. Love it.

[@zackzander425]

In December 2019 I went to the RAM dealership in my town and looked at a white 2019 3500 Tradesmen. Had 8,000 miles on it. Crew Cab, Cummins / ASIN, 4x4, 4 door. They were only asking $40,000 for it. I should have bought it. Looking back that was a steal right before the pandemic. Truck would have lasted me at least 10-15 years.

[@machscga6238]

A complete restoration of an old 90's and older Ford or Chevy 1 ton truck is less than $20,000. The starting price for a brand new pretend truck called 1/2 tons or F150/1500 is $40,000. The old truck can be repaired by anyone, the new truck is dealership dependent. It always makes sence to restore old trucks. We need to spread the word.

[@robbflynn4325]

Always get words of wisdom from the EC. Guaranteed.

[@CarsonHassler]

Such a good topic for young people right now. Show this video to your teen kids. Even if they have no interest in contracting. Debt is a habit that can enslave you.

[@kansasscout4322]

AMEN!!! My philosophy as well. If something did not make me money it did not get purchased. My truck was always a "work truck" basic model, used most of the time.

[@gills3141]

that old 9th gen is crazy tough. I have one and the local junk yard basically gives the parts away (im 23 so it matters) best part is its a manual so it even has its own security device. God bless and all things for His glory.

[@mrbhood75]

Fantastic advice. Well said. Also I'd like to point out that if you do buy new vehicles that has to be worked off with extra hours away from home more work has to be done to pay for it which also means more income tax and more expense with fuel extra.

[@clintbrown4691]

Agreed!!!! I've been a contractor for 30 years about 10 of which I was a project manager for a developer in 20 years as a self-employed contractor. You could not have said it better! pre covid I had 8 to 10 Carpenters working for me work stopped overnight, I had to rebuild and it hasn't been the same. Operating capital is probably the greatest tool a contractor could have. I bet the lift kit chrome rims and fancy tires didn't mean a whole lot when you're sitting at home and could have used that 10,000, just saying . Tool tank is a phenomenal work truck.