So. I'm a self employed Chippy who has worked along side my dad for the past 20 years or so. ( not full time ). We have always had a van which we have " shared " when possible , however the truck comes into play now and again.
My dad is retiring next year , but knowing him he will still do small work as and when he pleases so I plan to leave him the van and his tools so he can escape from my mum when he needs !!!
I have been offered a contract that will run from Jan to April , however this is in Kent so a lot of travelling on the lovely M25 during rush hour. Not something I think the old Ram would cope well with. No head restraints ,not brilliant brakes etc are factors a bit worrying against modern vehicles during busy road conditions.
Wifey has a little Polo to run her and the kids about so I have been thinking instead of another van ( my budget will be about 5k) perhaps something that could lug my tools about and the family at weekends etc.
I also can't go any longer than 17' I have been looking at Rams etc but they seem slightly beyond budget. Also Lincoln Navigators. Caddy Escalades etc.
what do you reckon ?
If I go this way my bike and truck will have to go to fund it. Not something I want to do but needs must blah blah.
Perhaps I should just get a van and be miserable daily doing long hours with a diesel rattle in my ear as I dream of my lost truck ?
Or , upgrade the truck somehow ? Although the hours would be long and it being winter with no garage , repairs would be hard.
HELP !!!
