Input on dump bodies?

[dirtcurt]

I am evaluating dump bodies for my T370 project. Considerations are weight, price and quality without sacrificing good durability. I want a smooth side crossmember-less box 15'. I currently have a Bibeau BFL-S on another truck that I like the best of the 5 dumps I have.

Here is what I have come up with so far.

Rowe: Hardox 450 construction, Best communication, quickest response, best price (by far), weight 2nd lightest. Factory direct.

Bibeau: AR450/AR500 construction, lightest, second best price, waiting to hear on shipping, closest dealer.

Henderson: AR400 construction, Most expensive, a bit heavier, but uses a thicker material, lower grade.

Crysteel: AR400 construction, 2nd most expensive, Heaviest by weight.

Beau-roc: The dealer really didn't seem too interested in selling me a box, gave me an aprox price, said call if I want one, he needs to order a semi load at a time.

OX: Never returned my phone call.

How much consideration/difference should be given to the AR400, AR450, AR500?? I believe AR450 and Hardox 450 are the same? or am I wrong?

I'm thinking at this point it is between the Rowe and the Bibeau. Any input would be appreciated. Especially on the Rowe crossmember-less smooth side, anyone running one of these?

 

[Longhood]

I am evaluating dump bodies for my T370 project. Considerations are weight, price and quality without sacrificing good durability. I want a smooth side crossmember-less box 15'. I currently have a Bibeau BFL-S on another truck that I like the best of the 5 dumps I have.

Here is what I have come up with so far.

Rowe: Hardox 450 construction, Best communication, quickest response, best price (by far), weight 2nd lightest. Factory direct.

Bibeau: AR450/AR500 construction, lightest, second best price, waiting to hear on shipping, closest dealer.

Henderson: AR400 construction, Most expensive, a bit heavier, but uses a thicker material, lower grade.

Crysteel: AR400 construction, 2nd most expensive, Heaviest by weight.

Beau-roc: The dealer really didn't seem too interested in selling me a box, gave me an aprox price, said call if I want one, he needs to order a semi load at a time.

OX: Never returned my phone call.

How much consideration/difference should be given to the AR400, AR450, AR500?? I believe AR450 and Hardox 450 are the same? or am I wrong?

I'm thinking at this point it is between the Rowe and the Bibeau. Any input would be appreciated. Especially on the Rowe crossmember-less smooth side, anyone running one of these?

I have heard that the hard ox plate is only a surface treatment, where as some AR (Abrasive resistant) have the properties through out the plate, Don't take this as fact, Call a couple of steel suppliers to confirm. If both types of plate are surface treatments, then consider QT plate which is uniform hardness throughout.
Some manufacturers just want to sell product, not caring about customer satisfaction.

 

[dirtcurt]

 

[dirtcurt]

Thought I'd post a few pics of the build on the T370 Dump. Above picture is after we switched the transmission and moved the axles forward.

 

[dirtcurt]

Dump box mounted, ready to head to paint shop. Ended up going with Rowe. Best price, decent customer service. They could improve weld appearance a little bit, but in reality we are after function right. Box kit was very complete, and I was able to order a $65.00 harness that made all lights plug and play, that was nice. This pic was when it was headed to the paint shop.

 

[dirtcurt]

First day on the job

 

[dirtcurt]

oops lets try this one

 

[dirtcurt]

A few things left, but tis the season, need side boards and chrome front bumper is on order.

Next battle was fighting emission BS. Lessons learned, the dealer even though way more expensive, really doesn't know any more than a good mechanic. We didn't end up deleting it yet, but next time I'd do it right away, would have been alot cheaper than letting the Kenworth dealer throw parts at it. I could have done that.

 

[Steve Frazier]

Any plans for a cab protector? They're a common feature around here, in fact I don't think I've ever seen a dump without one.