Gritters are an invaluable part of winter service duties and finding a truck that you can rely on to deliver in the harshest conditions is key.
Used gritters are an important addition to your winter fleet so it is important to make sure you do your homework before you buy.
There’s lots of choice when it comes to buying a second-hand salt spreader and some deals can look better than others but make sure you follow our tips to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.
Do your research
What size gritter or salt trailer to buy should be researched to ensure that when the conditions are consistently bad, you’re not let down because your truck or trailer isn’t up to the job or too small for the task in hand. Don’t compromise on functionality because the price looks more attractive. There are many options on the market with different size bodies to choose from. Do you need a snow plough attachment or not? Are you wanting a trailer gritter to tow from your vehicle? If you are towing with a tractor, check you can use its hydraulic power so that you don’t have the expense of an auxiliary engine which can be more unreliable.
Gritter chassis
Choosing a gritter which has a quality chassis is important. These vehicles should be able to perform in ice, snow and sleet. 4×4 capabilities are desirable and for vehicles operating in areas where Euro emissions apply, checking the truck’s Euro emissions meets the band criteria for operation shouldn’t be forgotten.
Some gritters are demountable meaning the vehicle is a flexible addition to the fleet. When it’s not carrying out winter service, it can be fitted with a hotbox, tipper or gully emptier without compromising on performance. This is great for companies who carry out all year-round road highways maintenance.
Quality body
A used gritter will have seen some wear and tear and therefore buying a quality engineered salt spreader will be worth the perceived additional cost. In certain regions and during some winters, gritters can be working 24/7. A robust gritter known for its quality is therefore a good starting point.
Salt is corrosive, so the gritter paintwork should be able to stand up to attack. Checking the truck’s salt damage will ensure there are no big paint jobs further down the line. Vehicles that have been coated with an anti-corrosive paint, regularly maintained and touched up should have good bodywork and be able to stand the test of time.
Body configuration
Gritters come in many different shapes and sizes. It’s worth identifying what you need your salt spreader to do. Do you need a dry or pre-wet gritter or does it need to be able to carry out both operations? Does it need to have a snow plough which can be taken on and off?
There are so many different used options on the market to choose from so make sure you choose one that fits the job it’s required to do.
Gritter technology
Driving in the elements when vision is often difficult due to the conditions means any additional in cab technology is of significant benefit. Driver safety is enhanced by control systems which allow drivers to adjust the flow rate and spread of salt or brine. Technology that allows for the setting of pre-route spreading programs is a key driver safety feature.
Can British gritters be exported to Europe?
British gritters are ideally suited to being exported to Europe. British salt spreaders are engineered to last, can withstand Eastern Europe’s harsh winters and have an excellent life span, especially if they have been adequately serviced and maintained.
Do you want more information on used gritters for sale?
If you’re looking for a used gritter then check out some gritter truckers for sale here