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Trucks are generally considered the most massive on-road traffic, and it is not wrong. These heavy-duty vehicles have applications in numerous fields, from construction to transportation and trailer pulling.
However, you might have noticed that a truck is not an enclosed vehicle like other automobiles. The constituent parts of the vehicle are visible. There is a truck head on the truck, and then there is the load.
Trucks have numerous categories like trailer trucks, wheeler trucks, etc. However, it all begins with a truck head. Let’s look at what a truck head is and what kinds are available for purchase.
What Is a Truck Head?
The one-liner answer is something like Optimus Prime from the transformers! And that is not wrong. A truck head is an engine that pulls the trailers, tankers, and other loads. These units include massive engines with automatic systems and security features. Many trucks heads also have adjustable seats with sleepers, airbags, and other fantastic features like LCDs and audio systems.
Truck heads go by different names in various countries. For instance, in Japan, many manufacturers call it trailer head; some other terms are towing head and prime mover.
Types Of Truck Heads Available
Trucks have countless applications, so manufacturers make truck heads with varying specifications. Truck heads primarily differ in engine powers, type of attachable load, and the number of wheels. Here are some of the most purchased kinds.
Semi-Truck Heads
Semi-truck heads are the most bought kind of truck heads. These truck heads have rear wheels to support the loads. It is essential to place the load on the rear wheels of the truck heads for firm support. However, massive loads have the required wheels for additional support. In simple words, semi-truck heads are commonly used for pulling heavy containers and tanks visible on highways.
Full Truck Head
As the name specifies, these trucks are significantly smaller and don’t support auxiliary wheels. Cargo trucks are the most common illustration. The full truck heads are ready to operate without further expense.
Also, note that they have a load-carrying container inbuilt with the units. You can detach the container for cleaning purposes. But you cannot use another one in its place, as full truck heads have model-specific cargo containers.
Things To Look for When Buying a Truck Head
Truck heads are an essential buy. Since they are expensive, you need to ensure that the bought units are workable in your use case. Here are some considerations to help you organize your checklist.
- The engine’s performance is the most crucial thing to mind. You’ll need a more powerful engine for heavier applications and long distances. Engines operating on computerized programs often ensure better truck performance than traditional truck heads.
- Truck heads are classifiable on their maximum weight capacity. Making a truck head pull more load than its capacity will readily break down the head, causing inconvenience. Ensure to buy a higher load capacity if you have larger containers to transport.
The Bottom Line
Trucks are heavy-duty vehicles, and their purchase demands a good experience in the field. However, before buying one, it is essential to note that trucks mainly have two parts a truck head and the loaded container. A truck head is the engine unit that pulls the load. Some of these allow auxiliary wheels (semi-truck heads), and others don’t (full truck heads).
Analyzing the loads and traveling distances is vital before deciding on a truck head. Truck heads with higher load capacity and powerful engines are more expensive. Therefore, selecting the appropriate model that can work in a specific industry is essential. Loading the truck with optimal weight also increases its life span and performance.
