Thinking of buying a 1998 Freightliner Classic, anything to be aware of?

Howdy All,

For the last two years I have been towing a 45 foot long, 20,000 pound GVW RV trailer with a 2002 Freightliner condo style Columbia, and have been very happy with this setup. However I really like the look of the older style trucks and have found a 1998 Freightliner condo style Classic, that just gets the juices running in my veins so I thought I would throw out a few questions concerning this style of truck to those who may be able to give me some answers.

Is there a big difference in the turning radius between the Columbia and the Classic, both have nearly the same wheel base, will the flat nose, external air filters and twin stacks drastically affect fuel mileage, I am NOT making a living with my truck so I can afford some drop in mileage just don't want to go from an average of 8.2 to something like 6 or less while doing the same amount of work.

My Columbia has a 12.7 DD 430-470HP engine with a 10 speed three pedal auto-shift, the Classic has a 12.7 DD 500HP with a 13 speed which I would much prefer in the mountains, going both up and down.

So if any of you folks have any pointers on what to look out for, or can offer advise on if I am being swayed by looks rather then practical use I would appreciate hearing from you, THANKS.

Dave

 

Howdy jackhartjr,

Thanks for your reply, I was afraid of the turning radius, as I use my Columbia to tow a 45 foot long RV trailer turning radius is important as maneuvering in and out of some of the older camp grounds can be a real challenge at times.

The aerodynamics of the Columbia really come into play at higher speeds, when I first got the truck I drove at 60-62mph as I was told that's were the sweet spot was. I have a 3.55 rear axle, however after buying and installing a "Scan Gage" I have found that I get the same or better mileage at 70mph, climb grades better and less down shifting so now whenever its legal and safe I run at higher speeds. The flat nose of the Classic I am sure will cost in fuel but as I am retired and not in a hurry to get anywhere maybe I could just slow down and get about the same or a tad less fuel mileage.

Again thanks for your reply.

Dave

 

Howdy lovesthedrive,

Thanks for your reply, lots of good information. A friend of mine tows his large RV trailer with a Coronado, it is a very nice truck lots of options over what my Columbia has.

Towing at 50-55 would drive me nuts, I hate it now when I run across two governed trucks drag racing up a hill one at 62, the other other at 62.2mph with traffic backed up for miles. There are times I'll admit to getting over in the far left lane when traffic will safely allow it and blowing past such jerks just to get on down the road. I often tow at 70mph so perhaps I should just get over the looks of my Columbia and appreciate it for what it is, an UGLY tool that gets the job done in an efficient manner.

Dave

 

Howdy x1Heavy,

Thanks for your reply, you have said pretty much what others have told me perhaps I should just close my eyes and listen to the advise of others rather then be swayed by a trucks look alone.

My Columbia has treated me well over the last three years, its just so darn plain looking, heck if I could find the twin outside stack system I'd install that and be happy but I have searched every truck junk yard on the west coast and haven't found one worth buying and the cost of it new just doesn't make sense just for the look.

Dave