What car to buy for a Plumber
Nov 14th 2008, 9:44 pm
#1
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Location: Okotoks, Alberta
Posts: 678
What car to buy for a Plumber
Hi all,
I have just read that thread about if you need a 4x4. Very good reading.
Well with me, I really fancy a 4x4 truck, because I have managed to secure a apprentice job as a plumber. I will be driving quite a few miles, so will be eating the old gas a bit (budget a bit tight for a while).
Well my wife suggested I get a smaller car, good on the gas, but I'm not sure it'll look good, if i turn up on the first day in my new job, on a new site, in a little run around
I think I would feel better if I turn up in a 4x4 (Avalanche maybe), with my tools in the back and work boots on, if you know what I mean. I am really not sure what trades/labourers turn up to work in, the few I now have trucks or SUV's. I have had a bit of a search for the small box vans, like the one we have over here, but can't find any.
So what do you all think. Ohh I will be working in and around Calgary and living in Okotoks, which is about 20-25 mins from the limits.
Cheers all,
Carl
I have just read that thread about if you need a 4x4. Very good reading.
Well with me, I really fancy a 4x4 truck, because I have managed to secure a apprentice job as a plumber. I will be driving quite a few miles, so will be eating the old gas a bit (budget a bit tight for a while).
Well my wife suggested I get a smaller car, good on the gas, but I'm not sure it'll look good, if i turn up on the first day in my new job, on a new site, in a little run around
I think I would feel better if I turn up in a 4x4 (Avalanche maybe), with my tools in the back and work boots on, if you know what I mean. I am really not sure what trades/labourers turn up to work in, the few I now have trucks or SUV's. I have had a bit of a search for the small box vans, like the one we have over here, but can't find any.So what do you all think. Ohh I will be working in and around Calgary and living in Okotoks, which is about 20-25 mins from the limits.
Cheers all,
Carl
Nov 14th 2008, 9:50 pm
#2
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 15,883
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Hi all,
I have just read that thread about if you need a 4x4. Very good reading.
Well with me, I really fancy a 4x4 truck, because I have managed to secure a apprentice job as a plumber. I will be driving quite a few miles, so will be eating the old gas a bit (budget a bit tight for a while).
Well my wife suggested I get a smaller car, good on the gas, but I'm not sure it'll look good, if i turn up on the first day in my new job, on a new site, in a little run around I think I would feel better if I turn up in a 4x4 (Avalanche maybe), with my tools in the back and work boots on, if you know what I mean. I am really not sure what trades/labourers turn up to work in, the few I now have trucks or SUV's. I have had a bit of a search for the small box vans, like the one we have over here, but can't find any.
So what do you all think. Ohh I will be working in and around Calgary and living in Okotoks, which is about 20-25 mins from the limits.
Cheers all,
Carl
I have just read that thread about if you need a 4x4. Very good reading.
Well with me, I really fancy a 4x4 truck, because I have managed to secure a apprentice job as a plumber. I will be driving quite a few miles, so will be eating the old gas a bit (budget a bit tight for a while).
Well my wife suggested I get a smaller car, good on the gas, but I'm not sure it'll look good, if i turn up on the first day in my new job, on a new site, in a little run around
I think I would feel better if I turn up in a 4x4 (Avalanche maybe), with my tools in the back and work boots on, if you know what I mean. I am really not sure what trades/labourers turn up to work in, the few I now have trucks or SUV's. I have had a bit of a search for the small box vans, like the one we have over here, but can't find any.So what do you all think. Ohh I will be working in and around Calgary and living in Okotoks, which is about 20-25 mins from the limits.
Cheers all,
Carl
However if you're concerned enough perhaps you should ask your future employer if they have any expectations as to type of vehicle they might expect you to be driving.
Nov 14th 2008, 9:53 pm
#3
Pea Brain
Joined: Jun 2005
Location: TBD
Posts: 6,005
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
When I built my house, the only tradesmen that turned up in trucks were those that had company vehicles. Everyone else drove cars or station wagons. If you don't need (rather than want) a truck, don't bother. Their appetite for fuel is terrible, and if you actually enjoy driving you'll find them a POS.
Nov 14th 2008, 10:05 pm
#4
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Location: Okotoks, Alberta
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Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
My future employer doesn't really mind as long as I get to the site on time and try my best. So you think the image think is me, you are probably right.
I wont get a company van/truck until I'm a journeyman, so a couple of years yet.
What our long term plans are, we have a caravan here in UK (which we are selling), but really do fancy getting a travel trailer 12 months or so after we have settle. Then the truck would double up.
Station wagons, what sort of engine have they, size wise??
Thanks for the replies guys
I wont get a company van/truck until I'm a journeyman, so a couple of years yet.
What our long term plans are, we have a caravan here in UK (which we are selling), but really do fancy getting a travel trailer 12 months or so after we have settle. Then the truck would double up.
Station wagons, what sort of engine have they, size wise??
Thanks for the replies guys
Nov 14th 2008, 10:11 pm
#5
Pea Brain
Joined: Jun 2005
Location: TBD
Posts: 6,005
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Take your pick from 2.0 upwards, naturally aspirated or turbocharged, little choice of diesel options. There are 4, 6 or 8 cylinder choices depending on your preference/wallet.
I purchased a Subaru Forester (2.5 turbo), and it's practical, quickish and roomy. I use it far more than my truck, the gas mileage is nearly twice as good.
I purchased a Subaru Forester (2.5 turbo), and it's practical, quickish and roomy. I use it far more than my truck, the gas mileage is nearly twice as good.
Nov 14th 2008, 10:46 pm
#6
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Joined: Dec 2007
Location: Calgary
Posts: 2,092
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
To see second vehicles available in Calgary or any city go to www.kijiji.ca
You could use a variety of vehicles, from minivans, to trucks (small and large), to large vans.
If you need to work in, or from your vehicle you're probably better off with a van.
For example:
reliable 1996 Voyager
Price: $1,699.00
Ad ID: 87777399
Visits: 15
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
Good technical condition, no rust, 290k, ac/dc, radio, good like family car or for work, negotiable. (403)9685135
1999 Dodge Ram Sport
Price: $5,000.00
Ad ID: 87829487
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
1999 Dodge Ram Sport Edition
Club Cab
124,000 Kms
Only $5000
This truck is in great condition.
Street address: calgary, calgary, T3Y 2A 2 View map
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
Or:
2002 Ford F15O Lariat 4X4. Power windows, A/C, tilt, rear opening window locks' door 4x4 5' lift kit, new shocks, custom dull tail pipes. Cold air intake, heated seats, . Excellent condition. Lots of upgrades 200K, runs like new! SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY! $5,000
Or:
Street address: Okotoks, Alberta, T1S 1T4 View map
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
6.5 l Turbo Diesel; extended cab, long box. CD/stereo. Ball joint and tie rod recently done. Good work truck. $5,000
Now gather round my little ducks and listen to Uncle:
If you come here and money is tight(ish) and you need a truck, YOU DON"T HAVE TO GET THE BIGGEST SHINIEST NEWEST ONE YOU CAN SEE AT THE DEALER!
Why would you want a significant part of your monthly income going to a vehicle?
Get a "winter beater" to begin. Save your money.
No-one will even blink if you turn up at the worksite with any of these vehicles.
You could use a variety of vehicles, from minivans, to trucks (small and large), to large vans.
If you need to work in, or from your vehicle you're probably better off with a van.
For example:
reliable 1996 Voyager
Price: $1,699.00
Ad ID: 87777399
Visits: 15
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
Good technical condition, no rust, 290k, ac/dc, radio, good like family car or for work, negotiable. (403)9685135
1999 Dodge Ram Sport
Price: $5,000.00
Ad ID: 87829487
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
1999 Dodge Ram Sport Edition
Club Cab
124,000 Kms
Only $5000
This truck is in great condition.
Street address: calgary, calgary, T3Y 2A 2 View map
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
Or:
2002 Ford F15O Lariat 4X4. Power windows, A/C, tilt, rear opening window locks' door 4x4 5' lift kit, new shocks, custom dull tail pipes. Cold air intake, heated seats, . Excellent condition. Lots of upgrades 200K, runs like new! SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY! $5,000
Or:
Street address: Okotoks, Alberta, T1S 1T4 View map
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
6.5 l Turbo Diesel; extended cab, long box. CD/stereo. Ball joint and tie rod recently done. Good work truck. $5,000
Now gather round my little ducks and listen to Uncle:
If you come here and money is tight(ish) and you need a truck, YOU DON"T HAVE TO GET THE BIGGEST SHINIEST NEWEST ONE YOU CAN SEE AT THE DEALER!
Why would you want a significant part of your monthly income going to a vehicle?
Get a "winter beater" to begin. Save your money.
No-one will even blink if you turn up at the worksite with any of these vehicles.
Last edited by triumphguy; Nov 14th 2008 at 10:50 pm.
Nov 15th 2008, 1:10 am
#7
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Jul 2006
Location: Cochrane, Alberta
Posts: 7,861
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Some friends of ours bought a cheap truck - it does the job, but my god, it's got a 5.8l engine and slurps up the petrol. Ridiculous for running around in.
If I were you, I'd get an oldish station wagon or similar as your run around for work - it'll be easy enough to chuck tools in and out of and the petrol costs will be less. Not very exciting but you can get Focus or Passat estates here, or, like R I C H, we have a Subaru Forrester - or the Outback or Volvo's are around but not so cheap. The 'homegrown' models will be available everywhere.
I'd consider a minivan too.
The guy that turned up to do our bathroom had an old Chysler saloon thing - that he used to tow a trailer occasionally. Image is not an issue!
If I were you, I'd get an oldish station wagon or similar as your run around for work - it'll be easy enough to chuck tools in and out of and the petrol costs will be less. Not very exciting but you can get Focus or Passat estates here, or, like R I C H, we have a Subaru Forrester - or the Outback or Volvo's are around but not so cheap. The 'homegrown' models will be available everywhere.
I'd consider a minivan too.
The guy that turned up to do our bathroom had an old Chysler saloon thing - that he used to tow a trailer occasionally. Image is not an issue!
Nov 15th 2008, 1:53 am
#8
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Joined: Jan 2004
Location: Cascadian Autonomous Elysian Region
Posts: 5,069
Nov 15th 2008, 3:26 am
#9
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Joined: Dec 2007
Location: Calgary
Posts: 2,092
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Oldish station wagon? That position in the vehicle lineup has been taken by SUV's!
If there are any station wagons they are either newish and Japanese or Swedish etc., and therefore pricey, or oldish and American and have the same engine as a truck, without the practicability.
Cheap-cheap would be an older passenger van with all the seats taken out,. see the ad above.
A good work truck is one in which the previous buyer has taken the depreciation hit, and has replaced some of the bits that wear out.
What's the price of a new vehicle. IF you pay $5,000 for a truck you've got a lot of money left over to buy gasoline.
If there are any station wagons they are either newish and Japanese or Swedish etc., and therefore pricey, or oldish and American and have the same engine as a truck, without the practicability.
Cheap-cheap would be an older passenger van with all the seats taken out,. see the ad above.
A good work truck is one in which the previous buyer has taken the depreciation hit, and has replaced some of the bits that wear out.
What's the price of a new vehicle. IF you pay $5,000 for a truck you've got a lot of money left over to buy gasoline.
Nov 15th 2008, 7:48 am
#10
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Thread Starter
Joined: Jan 2007
Location: Okotoks, Alberta
Posts: 678
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Thanks guys (and gal), loads of good advice, that is much needed.
I'm going to have a good think about this. If I get an older car/truck and it break down, I'm not very good with fixing motors, especially big 5ltr jobs. I know they have a breakdown service, any recommendations please?
I was thinking of spending say $5000 on my vehicle and $10-12 on the wife vehicle, that will also be used as the family car. She has to travel to work, but it's about 20-25 mins from Okotoks, so she will not be eating as much gas. When I first budgeted for the vehicles we had more money from sale of house, but know that we have had to sell house for a cheaper price, I'm thinking $18-20000 all in, with insurance, vehicle licence (is that what it's called?), tyres for both vehicles (winter tyres) and anything else needed to get them on the road. What you think, there are loads of adds for cheaper vehicles, but are they goin to be reliable? Also I was going to buy from dealer/garage, because if anything does go wrong with it, I can take it back. If I buy private, I don't really know what to look for to check if it's a bummer.
Do they do vehicle checks with breakdown services, like the RAC does over here??
Thanks again folks, really appreciate the info.
regards,
Carl
I'm going to have a good think about this. If I get an older car/truck and it break down, I'm not very good with fixing motors, especially big 5ltr jobs. I know they have a breakdown service, any recommendations please?
I was thinking of spending say $5000 on my vehicle and $10-12 on the wife vehicle, that will also be used as the family car. She has to travel to work, but it's about 20-25 mins from Okotoks, so she will not be eating as much gas. When I first budgeted for the vehicles we had more money from sale of house, but know that we have had to sell house for a cheaper price, I'm thinking $18-20000 all in, with insurance, vehicle licence (is that what it's called?), tyres for both vehicles (winter tyres) and anything else needed to get them on the road. What you think, there are loads of adds for cheaper vehicles, but are they goin to be reliable? Also I was going to buy from dealer/garage, because if anything does go wrong with it, I can take it back. If I buy private, I don't really know what to look for to check if it's a bummer.
Do they do vehicle checks with breakdown services, like the RAC does over here??
Thanks again folks, really appreciate the info.
regards,
Carl
Nov 15th 2008, 2:17 pm
#11
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Joined: Dec 2007
Location: Calgary
Posts: 2,092
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Thanks guys (and gal), loads of good advice, that is much needed.
I'm going to have a good think about this. If I get an older car/truck and it break down, I'm not very good with fixing motors, especially big 5ltr jobs.
Get your wife's car first. Then check around for good trucks on sale. Take a mechanic with you to check them out (it'll cost a couple of hundred bucks).
It's cheaper to buy a truck and spend a couple of thou on it than to get one from the dealers - they really bump the prices up!
I know they have a breakdown service, any recommendations please?
Canadian Automobile Association
I was thinking of spending say $5000 on my vehicle and $10-12 on the wife vehicle, that will also be used as the family car. She has to travel to work, but it's about 20-25 mins from Okotoks, so she will not be eating as much gas. When I first budgeted for the vehicles we had more money from sale of house, but know that we have had to sell house for a cheaper price, I'm thinking $18-20000 all in, with insurance, vehicle licence (is that what it's called?), tyres for both vehicles (winter tyres) and anything else needed to get them on the road. What you think, there are loads of adds for cheaper vehicles, but are they goin to be reliable? Also I was going to buy from dealer/garage, because if anything does go wrong with it, I can take it back. If I buy private, I don't really know what to look for to check if it's a bummer.
Get her a Toyota Corolla or Camry (they are built tough and are very reliable)
Here's an ad from www.kijiji.ca
TOYOTA COROLLA CE (EXCELLENT CONDITION)
Price: $8,900.00
Ad ID: 87828500
Visits: 66
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
2004 Toyota Corolla CE. Price:. $8900. . . FWD. Engine: 1.8L 4 cyl Fuel Injection. Transmission: Automatic . 102,000KM, REBUILD STATUS, RUNS LIKE ITS BRAND NEW
WONT LAST CALL IF INTERESTED 403 923-5873
Do they do vehicle checks with breakdown services, like the RAC does over here??
Here's links to a couple of Calgary dealers.
http://canyoncreek.toyota.ca/
http://www.towerchrysler.com/en/info/promos/index.spy
Thanks again folks, really appreciate the info.
regards,
Carl
I'm going to have a good think about this. If I get an older car/truck and it break down, I'm not very good with fixing motors, especially big 5ltr jobs.
Get your wife's car first. Then check around for good trucks on sale. Take a mechanic with you to check them out (it'll cost a couple of hundred bucks).
It's cheaper to buy a truck and spend a couple of thou on it than to get one from the dealers - they really bump the prices up!
I know they have a breakdown service, any recommendations please?
Canadian Automobile Association
I was thinking of spending say $5000 on my vehicle and $10-12 on the wife vehicle, that will also be used as the family car. She has to travel to work, but it's about 20-25 mins from Okotoks, so she will not be eating as much gas. When I first budgeted for the vehicles we had more money from sale of house, but know that we have had to sell house for a cheaper price, I'm thinking $18-20000 all in, with insurance, vehicle licence (is that what it's called?), tyres for both vehicles (winter tyres) and anything else needed to get them on the road. What you think, there are loads of adds for cheaper vehicles, but are they goin to be reliable? Also I was going to buy from dealer/garage, because if anything does go wrong with it, I can take it back. If I buy private, I don't really know what to look for to check if it's a bummer.
Get her a Toyota Corolla or Camry (they are built tough and are very reliable)
Here's an ad from www.kijiji.ca
TOYOTA COROLLA CE (EXCELLENT CONDITION)
Price: $8,900.00
Ad ID: 87828500
Visits: 66
Location: Calgary
Date Listed: 14-Nov-08
2004 Toyota Corolla CE. Price:. $8900. . . FWD. Engine: 1.8L 4 cyl Fuel Injection. Transmission: Automatic . 102,000KM, REBUILD STATUS, RUNS LIKE ITS BRAND NEW
WONT LAST CALL IF INTERESTED 403 923-5873
Do they do vehicle checks with breakdown services, like the RAC does over here??
Here's links to a couple of Calgary dealers.
http://canyoncreek.toyota.ca/
http://www.towerchrysler.com/en/info/promos/index.spy
Thanks again folks, really appreciate the info.
regards,
Carl
Nov 15th 2008, 3:30 pm
#12
Forum Regular
Joined: Oct 2007
Location: Stirling, Ontario
Posts: 99
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
You'r in the wrong forum. Try here
http://contractortalk.com
But yeah I'm having the same dilema. I'm a bricklayer and so I figure if I end up working for myself then a truck it is. If I'm working for a company then Honda Civic for me.
If you go on the other forum make sure to introduce yourself first, then go to vehicle section. Unless you want flaming.
http://contractortalk.com
But yeah I'm having the same dilema. I'm a bricklayer and so I figure if I end up working for myself then a truck it is. If I'm working for a company then Honda Civic for me.
If you go on the other forum make sure to introduce yourself first, then go to vehicle section. Unless you want flaming.
Last edited by bobcaygeonjon; Nov 15th 2008 at 3:31 pm. Reason: Extra info
Nov 15th 2008, 10:35 pm
#13
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Thread Starter
Joined: Jan 2007
Location: Okotoks, Alberta
Posts: 678
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
Thanks again guys, brilliant stuff, cheers.
Just joined forum, very good info. Not that many in Canada though, but still good, thanks.
Keep them coming please
Just joined forum, very good info. Not that many in Canada though, but still good, thanks.
Keep them coming please
Nov 15th 2008, 11:11 pm
#14
Assimilated Pauper
Joined: Mar 2005
Location: Ontario
Posts: 40,018
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
The plumber we used in Toronto had a Dodge Caravan, a minivan, with shelves built into the back.
Nov 16th 2008, 12:35 am
#15
Joined: Feb 2006
Location: Red Deer, Alberta
Posts: 10,612
Re: What car to buy for a Plumber
I know someone who has an avalanche for sale - PM Ruby Murray if interested
