Guide to the Four Brands of Propane Truck Chassis We Use
Choosing the right propane truck is a huge responsibility and a big investment.
Green-LP offers four exceptional brands: the Ford F-750, the Peterbilt 537, the Kenworth T380, and the Freightliner M2 106 Plus. We’ll walk you through each truck and chassis, helping you make an informed decision on your next fleet.
Ford F-750
The Ford F-750 offers a robust and reliable platform for propane delivery. With a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 25,999 pounds for the Regular Cab configuration, the F-750 falls in the Class 6 truck category.
Chassis for a Ford F-750
The Regular Cab is the mainstay with the 158-inch wheelbase. This configuration balances maneuverability and load capacity, making it suitable for navigating tight spaces.
Features of the Ford F-750
The Ford F-750 is powered by a 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine, delivering impressive performance and fuel efficiency. The engine generates 330 horsepower and a staggering 725 lb-ft of torque, ensuring the F-750 can handle demanding tasks associated with propane delivery. The diesel engine is paired with a Ford TorqShift HD 6-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and precise gear changes for optimal performance.
Regarding safety features, the Ford F-750 has various technologies designed to enhance driver confidence and protect the vehicle and its occupants. This truck offers auto-high beam headlights, traction control, forward collision warning, lane-keeping alert, and standard safety features.
Propane companies can benefit significantly from the Ford F-750's efficient design and powerful engine. The vehicle's durability and versatility provide a dependable solution for businesses in the industry.
Peterbilt 537
The Peterbilt 537 is known for its durability, versatility, and performance. Catering to the specific needs of propane companies, the Peterbilt 537 offers a range of chassis configurations, each tailored to different operational requirements within the industry. With a GVWR of 33,000 pounds for the Day Cab, the Peterbilt 537 is a Class 7 truck.
Chassis for Peterbilt 537
The chassis for a Peterbilt 537 is the Day Cab with a 159-inch wheelbase. This configuration balances maneuverability and cargo capacity, making it well-suited for environments where navigating tight spaces with a lot of weight is crucial.
Features of the Peterbilt 537
The PACCAR PX-9 engine, a robust 8.9-liter inline-6 diesel, typically powers the Peterbilt 537. The PACCAR PX-9 engine generates up to 350 horsepower and 1,150 lb-ft of torque.
The PACCAR TX-8 automatic transmission in this model has a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio, and you can enjoy up to 5% fuel savings compared to competitors.
The Peterbilt 537 includes technology designed with safety in mind. These features include a 7-inch digital display, collision mitigation, stability control, and side object detection.
Safety features on the Peterbilt 537 include antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and collision mitigation systems.
Drawback of the Peterbilt 537
Peterbilt's premium brand positioning might translate to higher maintenance costs, impacting the overall cost of ownership for propane companies with budget constraints.
Kenworth T380
With a robust build and powerful performance, the Kenworth T380 is another excellent choice for propane delivery. The GVWR of the Kenworth T380 also comes in at 33,000 pounds for the Regular Cab as a Class 7 truck.
The Kenworth T380 Regular Cab option comes with a 148-inch wheelbase. This allows it to handle substantial propane loads while complying with standard commercial truck regulations.
This configuration of the Kenworth T380 is designed to deliver the power and torque necessary for towing heavy loads efficiently, providing propane companies with a solution for long-distance transport.
Features of the Kenworth T380
The Kenworth T380 features a PACCAR PX-9, a robust 8.9-liter inline-6 diesel engine. The PACCAR PX-9 engine generates up to 350 horsepower and 1,150 lb-ft of torque, similar to the Peterbilt 537. It’s got automatic or manual transmission options.
Standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and collision mitigation systems.
Drawbacks of the Kenworth T380
Cabin ergonomics: While the T380 boasts a comfortable cabin, some users may find the interior features and layout less intuitive than competitors, potentially affecting driver satisfaction.
Freightliner M2 106 Plus
The Freightliner M2 106 Plus is known for its efficiency, durability, and customizable options.
Chassis for the Freightliner M2 106 Plus
We recommend the Freightliner M2 106 Plus is the Regular Cab with a 144-inch wheelbase. This configuration emphasizes maneuverability and agility, making it well-suited for navigating congested areas.
The Class 6 Regular Cab has a GVWR of 26,000 pounds. It’s a bit lighter than competitors but still gives your fleet a smaller option for shorter routes.
Features of the Freightliner M2 106 Plus
The Freightliner M2 106 Plus features a Cummins B6.7, a powerful and efficient 6.7-liter inline-6 diesel engine. The Cummins B6.7 engine generates up to 300 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque, providing power to handle demanding tasks.
This has standard safety features, including antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and collision mitigation systems. Along with this, a steel-reinforced aluminum cab, 2,500-square-inch windshield, and sloped hood keep drivers safe and increase visibility on the road.
Drawbacks of the Freightliner M2 106 Plus
Like any significant purchase, considering the upfront cost of the Freightliner M2 106 Plus is necessary for propane companies with budget constraints.
Cabin aesthetics: While functional, the interior design of the M2 106 Plus may be perceived as less aesthetically appealing compared to some competitors, potentially impacting driver comfort.
Limited advanced safety features: While equipped with standard safety features, the M2 106 Plus may lack some advanced driver-assistance systems in newer models, affecting.
Get Started on a New Bobtail Truck
Green LP can customize a bobtail propane truck to your specifications based on your chosen chassis. If you have questions about propane bobtail trucks, call us at 417-831-0789, fill out our customization form, or contact us online.