3.5 ton truck to buy?

TrailerBob

Just looking for opinions. Need to buy a truck for use with a drama group. Know my way around an engine, and know what we need.
Must be 3.5 ton - B license
Must have 14ft box body
preferably with tail lift
Looking at the 02 - 03 age bracket

Only trucks commonly available in that category are Mitsubishi Canter, Isuzu NPR and Iveco 35c series. Are there any vehicle specific issues with these to look out for?

Thanks, Bob

TrailerBob

Bumpy.....


Nobody got experience with these??

Slidey

Avoid the Iveco IMO.

Just to note, anything this size with a box body will be banging on the door of 3t if not over so you legal payload will be quite low

EDIT: actually with a tail lift you are looking at a payload of about 100kg.

Transit with a luton body is about the lightest thing you will find. Maybe the extra long wheel base Sprinter might suit you if its high enough inside

volvoman480

I agree with Slidey here, avoid the Iveco at all costs. She'll be more time off the road than on it. The Mitsubishi and the Isuzu are more or less the same thing as each other. Again, as Slidey says, something with that sized body and a tail lift, even an aluminium one, is going to have a very small payload. If a curtainsider would do, you could increase your carrying capacity a little. Probably be better off with a Luton bodied Transit.

TrailerBob

Cheers lads. The 14ft box is essential for carrying stage sets. Don't think Transit Luton is any more than 12ft. Payload is fine as its all fairly light. Used the Mitsubishis from vanrentals in murphys in Dublin last year and was ideal. Will avoid the Iveco so.