The Complete Guide to Selecting a Mechanic Truck

01.15.25

Uptime is everything. Whether you’re performing routine maintenance or emergency repairs, the objective is always to get equipment back on the job as quickly as possible. The best way to maximize efficiency is with a mechanic truck designed to fit your specific needs. That’s why Stellar offers a wide range of configuration options and upfit accessories. 

Read the Q&A below for insights on optimizing your mechanic truck for your business, and be sure to download the complete guide.

Considerations Before Choosing a Mechanic Truck

How and where will your mechanic truck be used?

In order to choose the ideal chassis, crane and body configuration, be sure to consider what type of work the vehicle will be used for so that it can be configured for your needs. Other factors include whether or not the truck will be used on rugged terrain, payload requirements and any local regulatory standards. 

As you work with your distributor or our experts, you’ll use the information above to determine whether it’s best to design your truck starting with the chassis, the crane or the body. You’ll find a complete review of these approaches when you download our guide. 

What is the best material for your needs?

Aluminum or steel? Recently, the benefits of aluminum have begun to outweigh those of steel. Aluminum provides high strength at a much lower weight, resulting in a higher payload and increased fuel efficiency. It also provides enhanced corrosion resistance, which can extend the vehicle’s service life. At Stellar, we recommend aluminum for most applications. 

What is the right crane type for your application?

A telescopic crane adds considerable versatility to a mechanic truck. Knowing the crane capacity you need is a great place to start, but it really is just the beginning. Other factors to consider include reach, the limits of the space you’ll be working in and how often the crane will be used. 

There are three primary crane categories: electric, electric-hydraulic and hydraulic. In general, electric cranes are for applications with lower duty cycles and hydraulic cranes are used for frequent, heavy-duty applications. The guide includes a detailed comparison of crane types, additional selection criteria and more. It also covers crane remote-control technology. 

What would you like to have with you at the worksite?

More storage. More functionality. When you work with a manufacturer like Stellar that offers a wide range of upfit accessories, you can truly optimize your truck:

• Streamline workflow and improve organization with a toolbox system.
• Ensure air power on demand with a reliable single-stage, two-stage or rotary screw air compressor. 
• Turn your truck into a mobile service hub with a lube skid.
• Add a hybrid power source for hours of operation on a single charge.   

Download the guide for a detailed look at accessory options and additional enhancement possibilities such as telematics and lighting. The goal is to have your truck your way for years of efficient, productive work. 

Is a mechanic truck right for my market?

In a word, yes. The ability to make repairs and handle maintenance onsite to keep equipment on the job saves time and money at construction sites, on the farm, at mining sites, for rental operations and more. The versatility of mechanic trucks also makes them ideal for tire service, fleet management, waste and recycling, utility construction, oil and gas, government and municipalities, landscape and tree care, forestry and logging, railroad and other operations. 
With a complete line of customizable TMAX™ Mechanic Trucks, Stellar is committed to helping customers get the perfect work truck. Contact our knowledgeable team or your nearby distributor to discuss your mechanic truck needs.