It’s important for builders to have what it takes to get the job done. It’s time to recognize the industry leading vehicles that help them get there.
By Evan Lancaster
Professional builders and contractors need the tools to get their jobs done right. They know that reliability is not just a one-time deal, but that it’s built from a long-standing dedication to doing things right the first time. We’re making sure we recognize the commercial vehicles that get builders to the job on time and continue to deliver the dependability builders and contractors rely on.

For generations, the Ford Motor Company has stood by builders of all types from professional engineers, to small business residential contractors. Ford Motors knows what it takes to provide dependable commercial grade trucks that are manufactured with high expectations in mind. For all things construction, the Ford F-650/F-750 are the industry’s go-to vehicle. The 2011 F-650/F-750 were designed to serve as a builder’s lifeline in the field. With precision engineering, Ford has created a top-of-theline work truck, which has set the industry standard. By offering the only class 6 truck with a four-door SuperCab, builders have the convenience of easy access and a rear 60/40 flip-up cushion seats, designed perfectly for storing cargo, jackets, and first aid supplies. For contractors and builders who need to take their project to the next level, taking advantage of upfitter switches on the F-605/F-750 can be a convenient problem solver for sourcing electricity, running auxiliary lighting, or powering a generator. Ford designed the upfitter switches to be integrated into the trucks electrical system, eliminating the need to access additional electricity through its primary. By providing two 30-amp and two 10-amp circuits the four-switch bank will give builders the power and the ability to get the job done. It’s what’s under the hood that counts, that’s why the 2011 Ford F-650 / F-750 models are equipped with a standard B20-capable Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. In order to ensure builders get what they need, Ford has made it possible for this Cummins ISB6.7L Turbo Diesel engine available in a 10-tier set of power ratings 200 horsepower/520 lb.-ft. and up to 360 horsepower/800 lb.-ft of torque and also can be equipped with a turbocharger. Cummins Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) features a durable sliding-nozzle design and electric actuation for infinite adjustment with quick response. An integrated exhaust brake is available that contributes to slowing and stopping power.

According to Brian Rathsburg, Super Duty Marketing manager at Ford Motors, by integrating new technology, and paying close attention to what builders are calling for, Ford has taken the 2011 F-650 / F-750 off the design board and placed it into the industry and builders have responded. “For more workers, Ford Super Duty is the most important tool they depend on to get the rest of their tools to the job site. There’s no other truck out there accomplishing as much in working conditions as F-Series Super Duty is,” said Rathsburg, Super Duty Marketing manager. “Super Duty trucks are well known for their proven toughness and capability, and that’s why they are such a leading force in all sorts of industries. They have it all — durability, reliability, performance and fuel economy.”

Other top ranked industry vehicles include, the Dodge Ram 3500 which also comes equipped with a Cummins ISB6.7L Turbo Diesel engine equipped with a 3500 Max Tow package with 22,750-pound maximum towing capacity. Dodge Ram has also stepped up the interior technology package in the Ram 3500. By partnering with Alpine Electronics, SiriusXM satellite radio and Uconnect Web mobile WiFi the Dodge Ram 3500 has the capabilities of a small office, letting builders determine when work the is done. Ram also speaks to builder that called for the convenience of RamBox Cargo Management System. A waterproof, drainable storage unit perfect for utilizing tool storage. Load the cargo box with sheetrock and the RamBox remains accessible. Both sides fit up to 240 cans of your favorite beverage in a 5’7 bed or 280 cans in a 6’4 bed configuration.

For lighter builds, some builders favor Toyota Trucks for their long-lasting dependability and industry leading safety features. The 2011 Toyota Tundra has been redesigned with building professionals in mind. Equipped with two different engine options, a 4.0-liter V6 and Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence technology has increased power and performance. For hauling needs the 310 horsepower 4.6-liter, 381 horsepower 5.7-liter V8 continues to impress Toyota fans and expand the Tundra line. Knowing what you need to get done is the first step to beginning any project, large or small. Getting to the job site is the number one priority between builders and these trucks have been chosen to represent the industry by the professionals who choose to work side by side these machines day in and day out.

Evan Lancatser is an assistant editor at Residential Contractor. He may be contacted atelancaster@penpubinc.com.