Tractor units are an important vehicle in the world of transportation, with their primary function being to haul large trailers to and from destinations. They serve a crucial purpose, but what is a tractor unit? In this blog, we’ll delve into the features of a tractor unit and their function.
Are you looking to buy a tractor unit? We have a wide range of used and pre-owned trucks from tractors to trailers to choose from, all in impeccable condition.
What is a Tractor Unit?
A tractor unit is a heavy-duty vehicle designed primarily for the purpose of pulling trailers. This type of truck is a separate unit that attaches to trailers. A tractor unit has a powerful engine to haul various types of trailers loaded with heavy goods. This type of unit is designed for long-haul journeys and there are different types of tractor units that are suited to different jobs.
What Types of Tractor Units Are There?
A tractor unit can have different axles that are designed to adapt to different load and function requirements. An axle is a rod or shaft designed to rotate your truck wheels and support its weight.
4×2 Tractor Units
4×2 units have two driven wheels on a single axle. These units are lighter and more fuel-efficient, making them ideal for carrying lighter loads and making local or short-distance deliveries.
6×2 Tractor Units
6×2 units have three axles, one of which is driven. This offers greater stability and weight distribution, making these tractor units ideal for long-distance hauling with heavier loads. Many of the top Scania tractor units like the Scania R500 opt for 6×2 axles as this gives an optimal middle ground for carrying heavy loads while remaining lightweight and manoeuvrable enough for long journeys.
6×4 Tractor Units
6×4 are the heaviest-duty tractor units and a type of 4-wheel drive vehicle. These trucks can carry the heaviest loads and thanks to the two driven axles, have enough traction power to transport goods in off-road terrains including to and from construction sites.
What Are the Main Components of a Tractor Unit?
The components of a tractor unit can change depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but these are generally the main components.
Engine
A high-power, high-torque engine gives tractor units the power to tow heavy goods and large trailers.
Chassis
This is the frame of the tractor unit and it is strong and reinforced to allow the truck to take the strain of heavy towing.
Cab
This is where the driver sits and operates the vehicle. Depending on the size, cabs can be day cabs or sleeper cabs which have sleeping compartments for long-haul trips.
Fifth Wheel Coupling
This is the connection point between the tractor unit and the trailer. It allows for easy attachment and detachment of different trailers.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Tractor Unit?
There is a wide range of trucks available for towing trailers and transporting goods, so what makes a tractor unit special? Here are just some of the benefits of this unit that make it a popular choice for truckers across the globe.
Versatile
One of the key advantages of tractor units is their versatility. They can haul a large variety of trailers, including flatbeds, tankers, and more. This makes them suitable for transporting a wide range of cargo.
Fuel and Emissions Efficient
Tractor units are designed to be efficient with fuel consumption to allow for long journeys whilst also reducing the emissions produced. Scania have become the leading manufacturer in the efficiency game, with their R460 tractor unit being the most fuel-efficient model on the market at 11.9 miles per gallon.
Cost-Effective
Although investing in a tractor unit can be an expensive initial cost, the long-term benefits of operational efficiency and flexibility often outweigh the purchase cost in the long run. This type of unit is also easier to maintain than integrated trucks.
The versatility of a tractor unit also means that a company can save money when purchasing new trailers. Only one tractor unit is needed to pull a range of trailers and weights, eliminating the need to purchase extra trucks.
What Is the Towing Capacity of a Tractor Unit?
The towing capacity of a typical tractor unit can vary based on the model, chosen axle and brand, but here are the general capacities:
Standard Tractor Units
The towing capacity of standard tractor units usually ranges from between 9,000 to 36,000 kilograms.
Heavy Duty Tractor Units
These units can have a towing capacity of up to 45,000 kilograms with some specialised models capable of towing even more, making them ideal for longer haul journeys.
Should I Buy a New or Used Tractor Unit?
When you’re looking to buy a tractor unit or truck, it’s easy to steer towards brand new models, but there are some downsides to buying new. For starters, not everyone has the money to purchase a vehicle fresh off the production line, and opting for a used model can save you a lot of money.
Used tractor units are often in the same brilliant condition as new units thanks to the regular and thorough inspections required with used models. At a quality truck dealer like Smith Bros, only vehicles in impeccable condition are sold you can be sure that whatever tractor unit you choose lives up to the same safety and reliability standards as a new unit.
If used sounds like the right option for you, browse our brilliant range of used tractor units for sale at Smith Bros.
Towing Made Easy with Tractor Units from Smith Bros
If you like what you’ve heard about tractor units and you’d like to invest in a truck, get in touch with us at Smith Bros to browse our range of used tractor units and find the perfect model for you.
When it comes to used tractor units at Smith Bros, we offer competitive prices on our vehicles and are dedicated to giving customers an excellent, affordable service. Whatever tractor unit you choose, you’ll receive a vehicle that’s road-ready as soon as you need it.
