Chassis

What is a custom Chassis?

A custom chassis is a vehicle frame or undercarriage that is built to specific specifications or customized for a particular purpose. Custom chassis can be used in a variety of applications. Contract Leasing Corporation clients are in the Semi-Trailer industry. Chassis' may be built using a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, and composites. Custom chassis often feature unique suspension and steering systems, as well as custom braking and drive-train components.

How much does a custom chassis cost?

The cost of a custom chassis can vary greatly depending on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the level of customization desired. A basic custom steel chassis can start around $10,000-$15,000. But if the chassis is made with high-end materials such as titanium or carbon fiber, or if it includes advanced features such as active suspension or drive-by-wire systems, the cost increases with complexity. Additionally, the cost of labor to build the chassis and any additional components such as suspension and brakes will also add to the overall cost.

What is a Heavy Duty Semi Trailer Chassis

A heavy duty semi-trailer chassis is a type of custom chassis specifically designed for use with semi-trailers, which are trailers that are designed to be towed by a tractor unit. Heavy duty semi-trailer chassis are built to withstand the rigors of hauling heavy loads over long distances and are typically constructed from high-strength steel. They are typically equipped with several axles and can be either single or multi-wheeled. These chassis are made to withstand the high stress and loads of hauling freight, and are often built to meet certain weight and size regulations. The cost of a heavy duty semi-trailer chassis can vary greatly depending on the size, materials, and features. However, in general it can be more expensive in the range of $25,000 - $50,000.

What is a Radial Tire Chassis

Radial tire chassis refers to a type of custom chassis that uses radial tires as opposed to bias-ply tires. Radial tires have a construction where the cord plies are arranged at a 90 degree angle to the direction of travel, and bias-ply tires have cord plies that are diagonally arranged at a 30-40 degree angle to the direction of travel. Radial tire chassis are commonly used in vehicles such as trucks, buses, and trailers, as well as some high-performance vehicles. Radial tires have several advantages over bias-ply tires such as longer tread life, better fuel efficiency, improved handling and stability, and a more comfortable ride. Radial tire chassis can be custom-built for a variety of applications, and can be designed to meet specific weight, size, and load requirements. The cost of a radial tire chassis will depend on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the level of customization desired, but it will be similar to the cost of a heavy duty semi-trailer chassis.

What is a Spring Ride Suspension Chassis

A spring ride suspension chassis is a type of custom chassis that uses spring suspension systems to provide a comfortable and stable ride. The spring ride suspension is typically made up of leaf springs, which are long, flat steel bars that are mounted transversely to the frame of the chassis. The leaf springs absorb shocks and vibrations from the road, providing a smooth ride for the vehicle and its passengers or cargo. Spring ride suspension chassis are commonly used in heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and trailers. They are a cost-effective solution for heavy loads and are very durable. The spring ride suspension is a traditional suspension system used in most commercial vehicles, and it is known for its durability and reliability. Spring ride suspension chassis can be custom-built for a variety of applications, and can be designed to meet specific weight, size, and load requirements. The cost of a spring ride suspension chassis will depend on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the level of customization desired.

What is a Gooseneck Chassis

A gooseneck chassis is a type of custom chassis that is specifically designed to tow gooseneck trailers. Gooseneck trailers are trailers that have a hitch mechanism located at the front of the trailer, rather than at the rear, as with traditional trailers. This hitch mechanism is known as a "gooseneck" and allows the trailer to be connected to the chassis at a higher point, providing more stability and control while towing. Gooseneck chassis are commonly used in heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and trailers. They are designed to provide a stable and secure connection between the towing vehicle and the gooseneck trailer, and often include features such as reinforced frames and heavy-duty hitch mechanisms. Gooseneck chassis can be custom-built for a variety of applications, and can be designed to meet specific weight, size, and load requirements. It may be more expensive than traditional chassis because of the need for additional reinforcement and the special hitch mechanism.

What is a City Combo Chassis

A City Combo chassis is a type of custom chassis that is specifically designed for use in urban delivery applications. It is typically used to transport small, lightweight loads in and around the city. City Combo chassis are usually smaller in size than traditional heavy-duty vehicles and are designed to navigate tight city streets and navigate through heavy traffic. They are also typically equipped with features such as a shorter wheelbase, a higher ground clearance, and a tighter turning radius, to better suit the needs of urban delivery. City Combo chassis can be custom-built to accommodate a variety of different body types, such as a box truck, flatbed, or refrigerated trailer, and can be powered by either gasoline or diesel engines. They can be designed to meet specific weight, size, and load requirements and are often equipped with safety features such as backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and collision avoidance systems.

What is a Widespread Tandem Combo Chassis

A widespread tandem combo chassis is a type of custom chassis that uses a tandem-axle configuration, which is a set of two or more axles that are arranged one behind the other. This type of chassis is typically used in heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and trailers, and allows for the carrying of heavy loads over long distances. The widespread tandem combo chassis is designed to provide a more stable and level ride than traditional single-axle chassis, and allows for more weight to be distributed over a greater number of wheels, which in turn results in less stress on individual wheels and tires. The widespread tandem combo chassis is often used in combination with different types of trailers such as dry van, refrigerated, or flatbed, and can be designed to meet specific weight, size, and load requirements. The cost of a widespread tandem combo chassis will depend on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the level of customization desired. It will usually be more expensive than a single-axle chassis, because of the need for additional components and the weight capacity.

What is a Tri Axel Combo Chassis

A tri-axle combo chassis is a type of custom chassis that uses a tri-axle configuration, which is a set of three or more axles that are arranged one behind the other. This type of chassis is typically used in heavy-duty Semi Trailers. The tri-axle combo chassis is designed to provide a more stable and level ride than traditional single-axle or tandem-axle chassis, and allows for more weight to be distributed over a greater number of wheels, which in turn results in less stress on individual wheels and tires.

Benefits of Leasing a Chassis for your Trailer

Leasing a chassis for your trailer can have several benefits: Cost savings: Leasing a chassis can be more cost-effective than purchasing one outright, as it eliminates the need for a large up-front investment. Additionally, leasing can also help to reduce maintenance and repair costs, as the lessor is typically responsible for these expenses. Flexibility: Leasing a chassis allows you to change or upgrade the chassis as your business needs change, without the need to sell or dispose of the previous chassis. Predictable expenses: With a lease, you can budget for a fixed monthly or quarterly payment, which can help to better manage your cash flow and expenses. Tax benefits: Depending on the type of lease, you may be able to take advantage of certain tax benefits, such as deducting lease payments as a business expense. Access to newer technologies: Leasing a chassis can give you access to newer technologies, such as fuel-efficient engines, advanced safety features, and electronic logging devices, which can help to improve the efficiency and safety of your operations. Easier maintenance: Leasing a chassis can also make it easier to schedule and perform regular maintenance, as the lessor will take care of it. It's important to note that leasing a chassis is not suitable for everyone, and it's best to carefully consider the terms of the lease, the costs, and how it fits with your business needs before making a decision.

Reasons to own a Custom Chassis for a Semi-Trailer

There are several reasons why a business may choose to own a custom chassis for a semi-trailer: Control over operations: Owning a custom chassis for a semi-trailer allows a business to have more control over their operations. They can choose the type of chassis that best suits their needs and make modifications as needed. Long-term cost savings: Over time, owning a custom chassis can be more cost-effective than leasing or renting. The business can take advantage of the cost savings of owning the asset, and can also make modifications to the chassis as needed without having to worry about additional costs. Customization: A custom chassis allows a business to tailor the chassis to their specific needs, such as weight, size, and load requirements. Branding: Owning a custom chassis allows a business to brand the chassis with their company name and logo, which can be beneficial for marketing and branding purposes. Increased efficiency: A custom chassis can be designed to improve the efficiency of the operations, such as the use of new technologies, better fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. Resale value: A custom chassis can retain its value over time, which can be beneficial for a business if they decide to sell it later. Reliability: A custom chassis that is designed and built by a reputable manufacturer will have a higher level of reliability compared to a generic chassis, which can reduce the chances of breakdowns and unexpected repairs. It's important to note that owning a custom chassis for a semi-trailer requires a significant initial investment and it's best to carefully consider the costs, the terms of warranty and the benefits before making a decision.