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Updated over 6 years ago, 04/30/2018
Best Vehicle for DIY Landlord
Hello Everyone!
I am looking for a new vehicle that I can use for construction projects, and also outdoor activities in Minnesota-- hunting, fishing, hauling kayaks..
For my business, I usually redo the unit once I buy it, and always find myself needing to carry more tools than my little car will allow!
I'm curious what you use?
- Econoline Van?
- SUV?
- Pickup?
- Old School VW Van
- 1980's or 90's model Toyota Landcruiser
- Suburu Outback-- yes, lots of negative stereotypes, but such a practical vehicle ;-)
I own all my cars, and I have no intention of taking out a loan even though interest rates are super low. I'm mechanically inclined and was looking for a truck in the 3-5k range that is easy to live with and can seat 4 comfortably (for when my parents come). After talking about it this weekend with friends and family that seems like the best bet for a daily/utility vehicle. I'll use what ever is left over from selling my cars to buy something fun :D
just get an economical truck. with 4x4 for fun weekends.
Originally posted by @Kevin Williams`:
I was only considering gas 1/2 tons until now, do you find that you use the extra torque or is it just nice to have? I don't plan on pulling any stumps or houses lol
For me it was more the fuel economy and towing capacity that was attractive.
I have always loved 1/2 trucks. And as I sit here looking at drain tile DIYs, I know I want a full size. I don't know diesels that well, so I'll probably stay away from those. I think I'm going to sell my cars and get a Tundra 4 door (clamshell).
I am also a DIY landlord/rehabber. I drive an F150. The cab is large enough that I can fold up the back seats and throw whatever is needed in top of the Weather Tech's and not worry. Also have a mounted toolbox in the bed that locks.
The short bed is a pain sometimes, but a 14' utility trailer meets any need la the short bed can't.
Originally posted by @Kevin Williams`:
I was only considering gas 1/2 tons until now, do you find that you use the extra torque or is it just nice to have? I don't plan on pulling any stumps or houses lol
I like used diesels (especially the Ford 7.3 litre engine) because they just keep going. They are awesome trucks and the motors are just plain reliable. Mind you, everything else will break, but the motor just goes. You can pull just about anything and have enough power to get up just about anything.
I've gone down to a Ford Ranger once or twice (1/2 ton) with added Timbren overload springs. On one truck, I cracked the frame above the axle (towing 18 foot boat with a pop-up camper) and on the other truck, I bottomed out multiple times trying to bring some sheathing home from Home Depot for a roof replacement (Timbren replaced the spring that popped out of place). I don't think you need a one ton, but I prefer at minimum a 3/4 ton.
I've also had a dually - I got rid of it because it costs more to maintain (i.e. rotating the tires).
@Account Closed
A Merc Sprinter 412/413, VW LT/Crafter 46 or the equivalent Ford Transit - with or w/o the 3-way dump body - has a bigger box (9 x 6.5 on crew cab; 13 x 6.5 on a single cab); carries a bigger load (2300kgs / ~5000lbs); gets better fuel economy (20 - 25mpg) ... all with a 2.8l turbo diesel and some amazing gearing.
Originally posted by @Roy N.:
@Account Closed
A Merc Sprinter 412/413, VW LT/Crafter 46 or the equivalent Ford Transit - with or w/o the 3-way dump body - has a bigger box (9 x 6.5 on crew cab; 13 x 6.5 on a single cab); carries a bigger load (2300kgs / ~5000lbs); gets better fuel economy (20 - 25mpg) ... all with a 2.8l turbo diesel and some amazing gearing.
Nice! I'll have to check them out.
@Account Closed
Go back to page 2 of this thread ;-) The one there is the 3500kg model (payload about 1.5 tonnes), physically the same size but lighter rear suspension.
Originally posted by @Roy N.:
@Account Closed
Go back to page 2 of this thread ;-) The one there is the 3500kg model (payload about 1.5 tonnes), physically the same size but lighter rear suspension.
The trouble is, I'm not finding anything that's 4 Wheel Drive. I would LOVE a 4 wheel drive van. About the most practical option is Quigley or buying a 4 wheel drive chasis and putting a utility back end on it.
In the winter, I really do need 4 wheel drive (one of my rentals is in Eastern Colorado - I regularly pass rollover accidents on a notoriously icy stretch). In the summer, 4 wheel drive is great for fishing. In the Fall, it's great for hunting (especially when the dirt roads in the mountains are wet).
They come with 4-motion (4 wheel drive) ... but we have lots of winter up here as well and I have no trouble with my two wheel drive (with locking differential) .. as long as the tyres are not too hard and I throw a little weight on back.
Kevin Williams`
I've had them all and you can't beat the 7.3 Ford crew cab for all around usefulness
saw this & couldn't resist posting it :)
I recommend a Dodge Dakota. Just make sure it's from 1997-2004 and not one of those bastardized eyesores that were released in 2005 when Dodge said "let's see if we can increase waning sales by making this truck unspeakably ugly". Do it. There's no law saying that you can't drive in style while being a landlord (well a permit is probably required in San Francisco or Chicago)
If you're looking for an enclosed SUV then a 1998-2003 Dodge Durango fits the bill.
I have renovated 3 houses with this truck and am a very active landlord. This weekend I strained/sealed the wooden fence on two properties with it. 220,000 and going strong. And it was built right before the explosion in popularity in computerizing EVERYTHING in a vehicle which, as we all know, brings with it the problems, unreliability, and tears that Microsoft built into the must frustrating empire in the world.
I have a Roll-n-Lock cover over the bed to protect the contents too.
