Field service is a special breed. I love it. Hot, cold I'll take whatever. The worst day in the field is better than the best day in the shop. Need my freedom lol.
Diesel mechanic for over 24 years and I'd still be doing it if cancer hadn't forced me to retire. I loved it and miss it. Yes, there's sucky times and some long hours, but I made a great wage. I easily brought 6 figures a year home consistently working for a place where I was the only engine guy for CAT and Cummins, and I did most of the electrical diagnostics. I built glider trucks and we purpose built most of our trucks. We could have to work on equipment from a weed trimmer to an excavator and everything in between. I would occasionally have to do field work and travel the country to our different job sites. Having my CDL was another big thing too. Not a day goes by that I don't wish I could still be working, but my body just can't deal with it anymore.
Cat field service tech here, I can verify that theres nothing like working on a machine when its -10 in a mine with 2ft of snow on the ground and it's just got to be done. Landfills, logging jobs, paving jobs. For us it's not just about the engines, its hydraulics, electrical, pneumatic systems, welding repairs, ect. Gotta be able to do it all.
In diesel trucks, there's a huge difference from independent to dealer shop. At a dealer, you will be well paid, but you will almost 100% work night shift for several years. Also, you will be compartmentalized. You will start as oil change guy, then brake guy, then clutch guy, then after many years you might get to rebuild engines or transmissions. At an independent shop, you will do much of everything, but most of your work will be routine service work. The pay will be lower, but you will work day shift and see a variety of trucks and engines. The amount of service information that is made available at independent shops is ridiculous compared to working on cars. There's no Alldata. Most shops can't afford to subscribe to all of the Paccar, Volvo/Mack, Navistar, Freightliner/DD, Cummins, Cat, Isuzu, etc factory service databases and buy all the scan tool software.
Most places in my area have two shifts, Day shift will start at 6 or 7 AM and work to 2:30 or 3:30. Night shift run to 11 PM or midnight. Working 2nd shift wouldn't be too bad. Working 3rd shift would suck, so most places here don't even try. If your spouse works day shift, and you work night shift, you might not see him or her at all during the week. Same with your children. Maybe for a few minutes. It would be rough for a young family.
I've been working as a mechanic for a year and half. Got hired, trained on the job as a medium duty diesel mechanic on school buses. I love it, learn new stuff everyday. I would't change anything. It's dirty and greasy and noisy but that doesn't bother me. Good hourly pay. Thank you for the videos.
I went from being a medium duty diesel tech to heavy equipment it was definitely a perfect move for me I would say the hardest part is the overlap of jobs because of ordering parts diesel parts are expensive they're not always in stock
I was a county fleet tech for 15 years. I was ASE master certified. I worked on the transit bus fleet, but occasionally went out on service calls to the landfill. The worst call was, working on the trash compactor when it broke down in the trash. I wished I could write " my own checks "! After I left the county, diesel tech jobs in western Colorado are hard to find. What you said about driving trucks & not buying tools is spot on. Been driving trucks over the road 4 years now.
Javier 2.01 I’m just worried for can it be a career for atleast 30 years I plan to retire or atleast live cheaply in my late 30s to 40s with dividends Switching careers mid way is a big wrench And idk what’s gonna happen to diesel mechanics if everything’s electric Will companies pay us to go to school and learn electrical or will we just get fired, who knows
Worked at a Mack dealer before. I would cut holes in the plastic seat covers for my head and arms so most of the trash juice and maggots would just fall on plastic. Nothing like scraping off 1” of trash to replace a Mack rear diff
Work on big rigs and buses. I’ve made great money. Using your head is the key to working effectively. What I love about diesel is, you write you’re own checks. The more I learn the more I earn $$$$$ And to me it’s not work
DAMON BRAMEL Hi sir. Im a new tech and am currently in auto. Im considering going into diesel. Is diesel really that hard on the body compared to auto? Because i would love to last a very long time in this great industry.
@@rogeliollerenas8255 10 years ago I'd say so. If you get on with a good company they will make sure you are safe and have every tool you need to keep from hurting yourself.
ive gotta say I love being in the diesel industry. They pay is really good and Ive worked on everything from back hoes, to semi's to tug boats. One thing I will add about the diesel industry, in comparison to the auto industry is we need everything from a 1/8 allen head to a 2 inch impact socket and everything in between. The tooling is very expensive. My 3/4 torque wrench alone was about $1500. The tooling is expensive but the pay is great and I love it
I went from automotive to diesel in shop, and am now a road tech. Sometimes I work in the shop. Having things mix up everyday is nice. Wouldn't go back to working exclusively on cars and light duty stuff. Overtime is nice, and storm calls are double time. You can make WAY more as a diesel tech than an auto tech if you put the work in and learn your trade. Fleets do not say NO to repairs. You will ALWAYS be busy if you work for the right company.
Thanks FRM. I am an ex auto mechanic, who has been working as a diesel mechanic (sorry. the word tech is not in my vocabulary) since 1997. I will say from my experience FRM nailed it. As far as working on garbage trucks, and road calls go, there are ways to get around it. I myself do shop, and road calls on a daily basis. Overtime? Forget about it. If you have the stamina, you can really elevate your tax bracket, but it is rough on the body, the family, etc. Consider this video an accurate portrayal of the diesel industry. Many different vocations out there, and flat rate also exists there, but is very uncommon. Thanks FRM👍
There is another side to it. I do heavy equipment. Dozees, excavators, motorgraders. You have to know tracks, hydraulics. Hydrostatics, the electrical systems are getting very complicated. Nice video
The diesel shop at my tech school is right next door to us so I’m always admiring what they’re working on. Big rigs, heavy equipment, sometimes they bring in earth movers that are literally as tall as a house. The diesel guys definitely work on some cool stuff but I think you summed up all the reasons I wouldn’t want to be one! I’d love to see a video on the automotive mechanical service industry vs. collision repair; but there don’t seem to be many people out there with enough experience in both fields to really compare the two.
We do both....autobody pays worse unless you're the frame guy and autobody can always be better. At least with mechanical you generally know when you're done.
I’m a diesel tech for one of the mega carriers in MT. Last Saturday got sent out on a service call for a cam over on a trailer brake. -27 degrees with a constant 20 MPH wind blowing up my back. Easy $400 for an hours work lmao.
I can definitely agree with companies shelling out money. Doing an oil pan and gasket on the big isx Cummins was a big dollar job and they shelled out money like you wouldn’t believe.
I work for a commercial fleet and a slow week is 48 hours. Average is 54. The problem with finding new techs is they come out of tech school with no experience whatsoever expecting $20/hr. to do entry level stuff like change oil and tires. They don't want to ever work past 5 or Saturdays.
I work at a caterpillar dealership and having worked on both I would say that I enjoy heavy equipment (dozers, excavators, traders etc.) much more than trucks. also working at a dealership is key in this field considering how proprietary the service software and tooling is
This video nails it. Trucks are truly a whole different world, been working on them about a year and a half now including some garbage trucks unfortunately. Definitely good money to be made, all depends on your tolerance to the down sides of working on them. Working on garbage trucks can actually be not that bad if you're fortunate to work for a company that properly cleans them regularly. Privately owned garbage companies are kept far nicer than municipal trucks in my experience. Garbage truck companies are regularly practically begging for help, as nasty as it can be it's a great way to transition into the truck world if that what you really want to do because they need people. Me personally, I'm ready to go back to automotive when the right opportunity comes along. 155 lb me doesn't do well with lifting stuff that weighs as much as I do.
25 years fixing trash trucks. Out of 50 years twisting a wrench. Still working at the most recession proof job around. It's always a challenge, always different.
@@dangerboy1111 what's challenging? The job abuses the trucks and some drivers abuse the trucks. A well designed residential side loader route is 1200 to 1800 stops a day. Stomp on the throttle, stomp on the brakes and beat the crap out of the truck with the arm dumping the can and repeat. Brakes, hydraulics, engine and transmission are all abused 1800 times a day and they don't get the best drivers in the world.
Everything in this video is still 100% spot on. I'm in the midwest and I've worked on garabge trucks for 3.5 years and now I'm working at a Kenworth dealership working on semi tractors. I've worked in landfills and transfer stations on broken trucks while it was snowing it can be highly rewarding pay wise if you can tough the long hours and grime. I own and pay for lots and lots of tools (small and large), make a lot more money than most automotive technicians I know, when I was working on garage trucks I was doing 20-30 hours of overtime per week, I enjoy diag work especially electrical, and the dealership will pay for training. Really cool with a similar experience.
I left auto after 3 years and I’ve been doing diesel for the past year. I love road calls, our fleet is 99% box trucks so I don’t have to deal with garbage truck issues. I enjoy being at a shop but idk something about fixing shit on the side of the road is fun af to me, doing stuff with minimal tools at time and getting the job done is just what I like. I do work in a shop most of the time and definitely the heavy aspect can get to ya. I lost 80 lbs from just how more physical the job is this year. Love it never touching the auto industry again
I've been an auto mechanic for past 10 years, I just picked up a gig working for a local city government working on their fleet vehicles, really good pay, hours and benefits. Turns out they really needed a medium/heavy duty mechanic and they hired me despite telling them I have no experience in med/heavy duty and air brakes in the interview. They are going to pay for me to get my class A CDL, so far I love this job, I won't work for another dealership, independent shop or chain store ever again.
This is a great topic. I started out in the automotive industry and switched to heavy duty 15 years ago. I'm currently in the same position as you at the shop I work at in the heart of the Canadian oil and gas industry in Alberta Canada. Our shop is very diversified in the heavy duty industry. We service heavy equipment and what you call class A truck and trailers. I very much appreciate your videos because they're fit both Industries although the heavy duty realm doesn't pay flat rate but is treated the same as far as management. Keep up the great videos and thank you for the interesting topics.
Being a diesel mechanic is not just truck's. I'm a diesel mechanic at a bus company and it's great. Lot's of over time and we have all the OEM scan tools. Used to work in a automotive shop and couldn't be happier I left.
I used to work at a GM dealer, then Ag equipment, now I'm a heavy equipment field service tech. We work on anything and everything from compact equipment to earth movers. This video is spot on. Transfer stations are nasty places to work. But as others have said it pays the bills well. There is definitely gravy days where your hookin a laptop and diaging emissions issues and then theres days crawling under loaders at trash dumps. But it never fails when its terrible conditions someone is broke down somewhere, and even if you just got home, you're going. Sometimes i miss the luxuries i didnt know i had working in the auto industry, But i don't miss the pay.
Heavy truck mechanic for the last 4 or 5 years and all of this is right. Worked on trash trucks and he’s right about that stuff too. Worked for Cummins and Volvo it’s a lot of fun but it’s difficult work too and the pay is nice.
That’s the reason I became a truck driver, because 25 years ago everybody wanted to be a mechanic, and The pay sucked. Make way more money now, and all my tools are at home so I can pick the hours when I want to work on somebody’s car.
I worked on trucks when I was around 20 for a couple years. Alot of work is gravy, brakes and service work. Then you have to change a cab shock on something,and you spend 3 hours swearing at 2 bolts you can't get a torch to. Little different in Canada to, we don't need a truck license to work on them, with a service order you can drive one with a regular license.
Master Auto/Diesel/ Paint tech here, currently working at a school district fixing School buses 🚌, true everything is heavy but I find them easier to work on then cars, one thing I will say electrical problems aren’t so fun on a bigger vehicle
Good Video mike pretty much bang on I worked on large mining equipment for a lot of years , some of the stuff is so big we use 100 or 200 ton cranes for some of the jobs. The truck fleet has a payload of 200 to 240 tons of rock per load The shop is well equipped with tools and overhead cranes. All you need for tools is a basic hand set most everything else is supplied. It’s a day and night operations 7 days a week equipment in the field at -30 degrees in the middle of the night ( it’s a 2 day and 2 night work schedule) followed by 4 days off. Long hours though (12 hrs per shift) Challenging but good money
You keep standing in front of that Matco Toolbox with your reviews I'm going to chase down the Matco tool truck guy to get one just like it. It looks just right in every way.
Up here in Canada a CDL exemption is written in to the truck & heavy coach technician certificate... your diesel tech licence gives you the legal exemption to ‘test drive’ what you work on.
I found it over worked, under paid, and overly underappreciated. I do work with guys that love it and work 7 days a week and 12 hrs a day and more power to them.
Huge respect for the diesel industry. I liked doing diesel work because it pays, BUT (as you say it Mike) these guys are earning those big bucks...there is a reason you get paid well, you're going to be putting in more time and will be physically challenged. Getting information from multiple sources and manufacturers is very frustrating, so I agree about that 110%! My preference is Automotive. Technology is light years ahead and it challenges me more mentally...not knocking you diesel techs doing diag, but it is true...just saying. Although your Schematics are often a God awful mess, so my heart goes out to you guys. Great video Mike, love these videos you do, very good topics!
When I was 6 - 14 years old I wanted to become a avtomotive mechanic, But for 2 years now I want to become a diesel mechanic, I want to work on ( construction equipment, logging equipment, farming equipment, trucks and pickup trucks) in the machanic garage and in the field. Warren from ( western truck and tractor repair). Well, he inspired me to do work like that. Good video Mate 👍🤝
I worked in an ag equipment shop learned quickly a pointed shovel was the most important tool to have when them damn copperheads started falling off the equipment and making their rounds around the shop
Talk about access - 🤣🤣 I swapped out rear end gears on a Kenworth W900, the very top nut on the rear pumpkin I could get 1 click on my wrench at a time, socket couldn't reach. All the guys in the shop said "see you after lunch" knowing full well I was going to be there a while!!
I went the opposite direction as you, up here in Canada I started out in car and apprenticed at a Dodge dealer until I got my 310S license. I got tired of watching hourly apprentices doing all the gravy work and the vehicle being passed onto us licensed flat rate guys for warranty and recall work, so I made the switch to 310T Truck and Coach and never looked back. I now work at an International dealer and although it can be a lot heavier we have lifting devices made up from everything to drums and clutches to air compressors. I think it all depends on where you work, is being a dealer we have all the specialty tools to do just about anything on an International.
Hey man, I know this is an old comment but Id still like to shoot my shot. I’m 18 and I live in Ontario and my local college has a truck and coach apprenticeship where I can get certified in 2 years and I make money while going to college. Really considering it. My immediate family is an immigrant family so they obviously want me to go to university but I don’t think Im a university kind of guy: I would love to have some insight on how the work is and if I would truly like it. Im a big car guy and have been working on gas cars and trucks for almost 2 years and learned a lot and Im also going to be getting a Co-Op through my school next semester at a local mechanic shop. Would love to hear from you.
I worked on a fleet of 18 wheelers for Atlas Van Lines in St Louis. 60 hour weeks, low pay, and ass hole drivers for the most part. Loved the actual job.
I've been an auto tech for about 11 years and am burnt out. I've got an interview with the state of Alaska DOT in 2 hours for a heavy duty field mechanic job at one of their shops about 3-4 hours away from home. 7 on 7 off, 80+ hour work weeks. Starting wage is more than I've ever made in my life. I say, BRING IT ON!!
@@tehboxkat ended up taking a contracting job on our local military base. The state DOT job ended up not paying what I thought, plus I didn't want to be away from my kiddo. So I did the contract job for a year, it ended, and now I'm working at a local shop as a diesel tech. Hopefully another contracting job pops up one of these days. We shall see!
I was a transit bus technician for the city. I had exactly the same hours that you described, even worked holidays . I got paid extremely well. On the Gillig busses they had a large can network that was called multiplex That was sophisticated and a challenge to properly diagnose. Enjoyed working with the multiplex because it's a challenge. As you know the engine was in the rear of bus under the back seat. It was hard to access many engine components. I was not able to pass my cdl medical, so I was forced to leave. Now I am fixing cars again 😁
I loved working on gillig buses! Was your transit company using io controls for the multiplex? We had 2nd and 3rd gen io controls, and it was great to work with.
Fellow garbage truck mechanic here. Its my first job in a shop and I've been here a year and a half, and so far I really like it. Most people can't even stand to listen to some of the stories I have to tell, and its certainly not for everyone, but for some reason it just works for me. I could never picture myself working on cars. Not gonna be working on garbage trucks forever, but for now its what I know best. Side note: we got some portable lifts a while back, and they are life savers. Just doing transmission filters on the ground is enough to feel like I'm gonna break my neck, let alone replacing a PTO or hydraulic pump. Those jobs are a breeze now.
i quit working on cars to work on heavy/medium duty trucks and equipment i got sick of the low pay and some customers and changing tires haha it is hard work but easier paying bills! very different but similar as well! Cheers!
I have been a HD mechanic for 44years and you are right it is heavy and nasty but I have made a good living I am citified in all Cummins Engines and I have been a the same dealership for 32 years we have 6 overhead cranes in the shop
I love this subject, I have been automotive, heavy equipment and trucks. Another pro of trucks is that they are more motivated to approve repairs because of the DOT laws, and drivers have the right to refuse to drive a truck if something is going to cause them to get a ticket. So they want it back on the road making money, IMO as far as heavy equipment vs trucks things are shipped far more than they are built, in 2008 it was hard to find a job in heavy equipment at least in my area, also I bet you would be surprised how many truck techs don’t have CDL (which is annoying to the rest of us) every company I’ve worked for will pay for them though
Awesome video best part of many great parts is where dude says the smell of welding on a garbage truck with maggots falling on your face is an experience and smell that will be emblazoned into ones head for eternity that is effing funny af ! Awesome video dude from a random dude looking for an apprenticeship program to earn while I learn and Loves Truck stop has one so I'm checking out diesel mechanic work here. Keep up the good work. Texas passing through up in here
I started as automotive tech. Then got a job with the state now I work anything from cars all the way up to heavy duty diesels. I enjoy working on trucks more than cars and they money is ten times better.
Ha was tractor trailer driver for 8 years. The. I started working on trailers. Last year switched to tractor shop. I work at a Freightliner dealer and love it! Started at $20 hr in Indiana. One of the cheapest areas in the country to live in. Obviously I do have a class A cdl. Which did help me get my foot in the door. Also you are very right about the different manufacturers for engine, trans, body. It can be a real pain.
Great video thanks brother. I like the garbage truck example. I think you left out the slime dripping on you while underneath the trucks tasty. This is a great video thanks. Keep up the great work see you in the next video thanks again brother
What’s it like being a diesel mechanic? I’m thinking about going to the marines and being just that. Do you recommend this job, What’s your favorite thing about the job
@@1Nathanc This is a fantastic question. And I do recommend, highly, that anyone who wishes to work in a trade skill enlist in the military, Army or otherwise, if you can't afford to go to UTI or something off the bat. But you gotta prepare yourself mentally and physically for it. Its a hard job, and will absolutely wreck your body if you're not careful. You don't have to do 10 years, but just long enough to set yourself up to pay for trade school properly with zero debt. Military also looks fantastic on a resume, especially with an honorable discharge. As for my favorite part of the job? I work on truckers trucks. And they have some really great stories to tell. But when I was in the service my favorite part was seeing just how bad someone can break something, and how badly you can roast them for doing so. On top of that, all of my buddies and I have this ongoing game where we try to one up each other with the worst repair we have to make. Hope that answers your question.
the jobs i hated most on garbage trucks were replacing packer cylinders or doing tail gate seals , we would call maggots, "moving rice" that was the least of the worries
Dennis eagle /mercedes bin truck (garbage) mechanic in the uk. Heavy, nasty, smelly, but our team is the best , the banter and everyone helps each other to get the jobs done. The whole workshop is a big family and its like working with my best mates. Took me 20years to find a team like this and i highly recommend fleet work
@@bigaproduxions117x6 Our Ford Diesel Tech at the dealership I work at brings in around $180k a year. He makes about $90 an hour, and is the highest paid person in the shop. He's only in his 30s-40s.
Here in MN and all this cold weather being a diesel service technician is a big pain and I’m getting sick of it ive had to go on 5 service calls when it felt -50 degrees and it sucks
Been a diesel tech for 9 years. Transmissions are a bitch but you get use to it. Was working in California as a diesel truck mechanic and was able to travel across the country to MO and found a job within a month. So job security is pretty good no matter where you go.
@@ethankelley1887 Not necessarily a master tech certification but they will send you to factory training to get certified on the different platforms of engines. The more certifications you get the better.
Getting a job is easy finding anyone to hire is another, demographically speaking of course, diesel techs especially good ones, well trained ones that’s another. Just like drivers can’t find them either. Remember this, doesn’t matter what you are “if your worth a shit your employed” good wisdom in this video from a guy with years in the work force not just a good mechanic.
Watched a couple of your vids in the past,interesting to find out you have a history in the diesel world.Im a diesel tech myself and I agree Adept Ape has an interesting channel,if you're into CAT at least. 👍🏻 BIG TRUCKS BIG BUCKS!!
I couldn't agree more, I am myself a new diesel mechanic (about a year now), it ain't for the sensible heart,i'm working for a dumptruck company. sometime I can work more than 60h a week, service call can be hard, especially on the landfill site, but the money's there and there is some much to learn about these truck. great video, keep up the good work
@@FiestaS280 I'm making over 20$ an hour, but it mostly depends on what you are working on, dealers tend to pay more but more pressure, if you are working in a trailer shop you'll likely make less, but you should expect between 15 to 19 starting out
Been doing it for 23 years. Never thought at 49. I would still be on the floor. Been promised 3 times Foreman over 17 years. Gave up that dream when I landed my current shop. I used to make fun the 60 plus guys who mumbled and hobbled around the shop. Know I know why. At least my current shop. They told me there is no path to management since I am the master of my work. They don’t want to loose my skills. They treat me like management. I get a lot of perks and get to pick and choose as I wish. I was recruited at the end of Covid. They pay for my kids college. Don’t join this Diesel mechanic field if you expect to become Management.
With diesel you also gotta think about equipment, which is a whole different ball game. Sometimes your right on the highway others your 20miles back in the woods with no cell service. Plus you got engines, electrical, and hydraulics. Plus I’m at Deere we have our Oem engines in a few different things so that’s another challenge.
I did it for 32 years. just retired in 2019. Trained many young people for this job. The one thing I always told them, you can go anywhere in the world and earn a living. Did I like the job???? Well my mom used to whip me for they paid me to do!!!!!
If you work in a proper diesel shop, you will have overhead cranes, wheel and brake pullers, engine and transmission lifts, and floors with an underground walkway cut in them so you can work under the truck. Wear your respirator when welding and you won't smell shit.
Excellent video. You hit on all the major points. You have to learn a lot of manufacturers languages to stay relevant. OT is great, until it's your life. 65 hrs becomes regular time and you feel like it's almost a part time job.
I own a biz as a mobile service for big trucks and have to say it sucks in the winter out there working on a air dryer or air lines on the side of the road.Also working on garage trucks really suck.But at the end of the day it's good money.
And you will need a 3/4" drive set in your box... But, getting into diesel today is a little less costly than it was a few years ago. When I worked for the Mack garage some of the guys had the Snap-On (Nexiq) Pro Link, at $16,000 a pop. Worst part is, it was a rip off. The guys would find bunches of incorrect error codes and were always finding gaps in stuff that just was not supported for all manufacturers, even after the "latest" $3,000 software upgrade. Today with the subscription PC based tools, like OEM Cummins Insite and the generic tools like the TEXA, JPro and Pocket Fleet, you can have a USEFUL scan tool for around $5,000. As recently as five years ago, Snappy had us by the short'n curly's with the only third-party scan tool that "kinda-worked". Not anymore.
@@SleepingWolfGaming We subscribe to the OEM PC=based diagnostic tools, like Mack's PTT and Peterbilt Diagnostics from Noregon. In the past few years these have pretty much become the standards for large shops. The subscriptions aren't cheap, but compared to what Snap=On was charging for a half-assed system that worked less than half the time, it's worth it.
In some (most? all?) states you can keep your CDL even if you don't get a physical. In Pennsylvania, you just have to swear on a form you won't drive interstate (i.e. you're just going to remain in Pennsylvania) you only need the DOT physical for interstate driving. If you decide later you want to drive interstate, you can get a physical at that point. It's nice to keep my CDL going... you never know : )
Field service is a special breed. I love it. Hot, cold I'll take whatever. The worst day in the field is better than the best day in the shop. Need my freedom lol.
Im a electrician and id like to be a remote service guy too
Truth brother, I would lose my mind having to be in a shop again
Today I had an oil peanut pump line explode and cover me during a sandstorm and really thought about it today
I dont know I enjoy my climate controled shop. But I live in GA and its humid and I have done my time outside and it makes thing easier in the ac
Cons: “it’s dirty nasty stuff”
Me: “hell yeah!”
Everything is heeaavvyy. Heavy, heavy, heavy stuffs.
yessir I'm not the only one that hate the heavy stuff !!!
Just did a 50 lb fan clutch yesterday 😋
Diesel mechanic for over 24 years and I'd still be doing it if cancer hadn't forced me to retire. I loved it and miss it. Yes, there's sucky times and some long hours, but I made a great wage. I easily brought 6 figures a year home consistently working for a place where I was the only engine guy for CAT and Cummins, and I did most of the electrical diagnostics. I built glider trucks and we purpose built most of our trucks. We could have to work on equipment from a weed trimmer to an excavator and everything in between. I would occasionally have to do field work and travel the country to our different job sites. Having my CDL was another big thing too.
Not a day goes by that I don't wish I could still be working, but my body just can't deal with it anymore.
Ted Mattingly old comment I kno but from one doing the same thank you fella, best thing you could do is help the you g fellas
Hope you're doing well bog boss, thanks for the years you have the industry and your input 💯🤘🏾
Cat field service tech here, I can verify that theres nothing like working on a machine when its -10 in a mine with 2ft of snow on the ground and it's just got to be done. Landfills, logging jobs, paving jobs. For us it's not just about the engines, its hydraulics, electrical, pneumatic systems, welding repairs, ect. Gotta be able to do it all.
Hello there… it’s been 4 years but are you still UA-cam active? I have a question. Thank you sir.
In diesel trucks, there's a huge difference from independent to dealer shop. At a dealer, you will be well paid, but you will almost 100% work night shift for several years. Also, you will be compartmentalized. You will start as oil change guy, then brake guy, then clutch guy, then after many years you might get to rebuild engines or transmissions. At an independent shop, you will do much of everything, but most of your work will be routine service work. The pay will be lower, but you will work day shift and see a variety of trucks and engines. The amount of service information that is made available at independent shops is ridiculous compared to working on cars. There's no Alldata. Most shops can't afford to subscribe to all of the Paccar, Volvo/Mack, Navistar, Freightliner/DD, Cummins, Cat, Isuzu, etc factory service databases and buy all the scan tool software.
Everywhere I look companies are begging for night shift guys. On top of the shortage alot of people must refuse to do it.
Most places in my area have two shifts, Day shift will start at 6 or 7 AM and work to 2:30 or 3:30. Night shift run to 11 PM or midnight. Working 2nd shift wouldn't be too bad. Working 3rd shift would suck, so most places here don't even try. If your spouse works day shift, and you work night shift, you might not see him or her at all during the week. Same with your children. Maybe for a few minutes. It would be rough for a young family.
Not true
Not true I work for two dealer who low pay their mechanics. I got paid more at a fleet shop then a dealership. I wouldn't work for a dealership
I've been working as a mechanic for a year and half. Got hired, trained on the job as a medium duty diesel mechanic on school buses. I love it, learn new stuff everyday. I would't change anything. It's dirty and greasy and noisy but that doesn't bother me. Good hourly pay. Thank you for the videos.
Two years later, how you doin man? Still enjoying it or have you moved along?
Adam jackson how u feel after 2 years
I went from being a medium duty diesel tech to heavy equipment it was definitely a perfect move for me I would say the hardest part is the overlap of jobs because of ordering parts diesel parts are expensive they're not always in stock
I was a county fleet tech for 15 years. I was ASE master certified. I worked on the transit bus fleet, but occasionally went out on service calls to the landfill.
The worst call was, working on the trash compactor when it broke down in the trash.
I wished I could write " my own checks "! After I left the county, diesel tech jobs in western Colorado are hard to find.
What you said about driving trucks & not buying tools is spot on.
Been driving trucks over the road 4 years now.
I’ve been a diesel tech for 30 years, your 100% correct in everything you said!!!
is the pay good?
Mitak amanuael hope he answers my job in aviation (dream I’m 17) is shot down
Plan B is diesel
Misty Diablo lol I also thinking about study diesel mechanic
Javier 2.01 I’m just worried for can it be a career for atleast 30 years
I plan to retire or atleast live cheaply in my late 30s to 40s with dividends
Switching careers mid way is a big wrench
And idk what’s gonna happen to diesel mechanics if everything’s electric
Will companies pay us to go to school and learn electrical or will we just get fired, who knows
Misty Diablo diesel technology will never go away, diesel fuel is too powerful and efficient. If trucks go, ships will stay.
Worked at a Mack dealer before. I would cut holes in the plastic seat covers for my head and arms so most of the trash juice and maggots would just fall on plastic.
Nothing like scraping off 1” of trash to replace a Mack rear diff
Work on big rigs and buses. I’ve made great money. Using your head is the key to working effectively. What I love about diesel is, you write you’re own checks. The more I learn the more I earn $$$$$ And to me it’s not work
Wright?
100%
Caterpillar F/S Heavy Equipment Technician!!! All day love it
Hell ya. I work at the ktber yellow dealer.... JD field service
On highway field tech for the local caterpillar dealer. Love everyday
Your wildmen I been a truck mechanic for 21 years I liked it for about 8. Now I just can't leave the money
DAMON BRAMEL Hi sir. Im a new tech and am currently in auto. Im considering going into diesel. Is diesel really that hard on the body compared to auto? Because i would love to last a very long time in this great industry.
@@rogeliollerenas8255 10 years ago I'd say so. If you get on with a good company they will make sure you are safe and have every tool you need to keep from hurting yourself.
I'm a tractor trailer driver and you guys are lifesavers to say the least you make a bad day halfway decent
ive gotta say I love being in the diesel industry. They pay is really good and Ive worked on everything from back hoes, to semi's to tug boats. One thing I will add about the diesel industry, in comparison to the auto industry is we need everything from a 1/8 allen head to a 2 inch impact socket and everything in between. The tooling is very expensive. My 3/4 torque wrench alone was about $1500. The tooling is expensive but the pay is great and I love it
you pay for it yourself?
I work at an agriculture dealership in Illinois, I love it! Working on Rogators Terra gators tractors! fun work!
I went from automotive to diesel in shop, and am now a road tech. Sometimes I work in the shop. Having things mix up everyday is nice. Wouldn't go back to working exclusively on cars and light duty stuff. Overtime is nice, and storm calls are double time. You can make WAY more as a diesel tech than an auto tech if you put the work in and learn your trade.
Fleets do not say NO to repairs. You will ALWAYS be busy if you work for the right company.
You forgot Differentials and hydraulic systems with their own software/interfaces running on the CAN system too now.
Thanks FRM. I am an ex auto mechanic, who has been working as a diesel mechanic (sorry. the word tech is not in my vocabulary) since 1997. I will say from my experience FRM nailed it. As far as working on garbage trucks, and road calls go, there are ways to get around it. I myself do shop, and road calls on a daily basis. Overtime? Forget about it. If you have the stamina, you can really elevate your tax bracket, but it is rough on the body, the family, etc. Consider this video an accurate portrayal of the diesel industry. Many different vocations out there, and flat rate also exists there, but is very uncommon. Thanks FRM👍
-40 blowing snow , doesnt matter I keep a insulated tarp and a diesel heater in my service truck
There is another side to it. I do heavy equipment. Dozees, excavators, motorgraders. You have to know tracks, hydraulics. Hydrostatics, the electrical systems are getting very complicated. Nice video
In Europe if your a technician you are also a diesel tech, there is no difference if your a tech you need to fix everything.
Talking big trucks here Dan
I’m happy where I’m at in automotive, my back is already feeling the pain, so I could only imagine on the trucks.
19 and feel like im 40 sometimes
Bent over a car would kill my back
The diesel shop at my tech school is right next door to us so I’m always admiring what they’re working on. Big rigs, heavy equipment, sometimes they bring in earth movers that are literally as tall as a house. The diesel guys definitely work on some cool stuff but I think you summed up all the reasons I wouldn’t want to be one!
I’d love to see a video on the automotive mechanical service industry vs. collision repair; but there don’t seem to be many people out there with enough experience in both fields to really compare the two.
We do both....autobody pays worse unless you're the frame guy and autobody can always be better. At least with mechanical you generally know when you're done.
I’m a diesel tech for one of the mega carriers in MT. Last Saturday got sent out on a service call for a cam over on a trailer brake. -27 degrees with a constant 20 MPH wind blowing up my back. Easy $400 for an hours work lmao.
I can definitely agree with companies shelling out money. Doing an oil pan and gasket on the big isx Cummins was a big dollar job and they shelled out money like you wouldn’t believe.
Got paid three hours for one. Maybe took an hour.
I work for a commercial fleet and a slow week is 48 hours. Average is 54.
The problem with finding new techs is they come out of tech school with no experience whatsoever expecting $20/hr. to do entry level stuff like change oil and tires. They don't want to ever work past 5 or Saturdays.
20hr is incredible low coming out of school, better off working at Amazon lol
I work at a caterpillar dealership and having worked on both I would say that I enjoy heavy equipment (dozers, excavators, traders etc.) much more than trucks. also working at a dealership is key in this field considering how proprietary the service software and tooling is
This video nails it. Trucks are truly a whole different world, been working on them about a year and a half now including some garbage trucks unfortunately. Definitely good money to be made, all depends on your tolerance to the down sides of working on them. Working on garbage trucks can actually be not that bad if you're fortunate to work for a company that properly cleans them regularly. Privately owned garbage companies are kept far nicer than municipal trucks in my experience. Garbage truck companies are regularly practically begging for help, as nasty as it can be it's a great way to transition into the truck world if that what you really want to do because they need people. Me personally, I'm ready to go back to automotive when the right opportunity comes along. 155 lb me doesn't do well with lifting stuff that weighs as much as I do.
Nah don't give because of your weight or anything else. I weight 160 and make 46 an hour. It's alright
Just passed your shop and saw you hard at work!! Keep it up brother!
25 years fixing trash trucks. Out of 50 years twisting a wrench. Still working at the most recession proof job around. It's always a challenge, always different.
Whats challenging can y me more
@@dangerboy1111 what's challenging? The job abuses the trucks and some drivers abuse the trucks. A well designed residential side loader route is 1200 to 1800 stops a day. Stomp on the throttle, stomp on the brakes and beat the crap out of the truck with the arm dumping the can and repeat. Brakes, hydraulics, engine and transmission are all abused 1800 times a day and they don't get the best drivers in the world.
Everything in this video is still 100% spot on. I'm in the midwest and I've worked on garabge trucks for 3.5 years and now I'm working at a Kenworth dealership working on semi tractors. I've worked in landfills and transfer stations on broken trucks while it was snowing it can be highly rewarding pay wise if you can tough the long hours and grime. I own and pay for lots and lots of tools (small and large), make a lot more money than most automotive technicians I know, when I was working on garage trucks I was doing 20-30 hours of overtime per week, I enjoy diag work especially electrical, and the dealership will pay for training. Really cool with a similar experience.
I left auto after 3 years and I’ve been doing diesel for the past year. I love road calls, our fleet is 99% box trucks so I don’t have to deal with garbage truck issues. I enjoy being at a shop but idk something about fixing shit on the side of the road is fun af to me, doing stuff with minimal tools at time and getting the job done is just what I like. I do work in a shop most of the time and definitely the heavy aspect can get to ya. I lost 80 lbs from just how more physical the job is this year. Love it never touching the auto industry again
I've been an auto mechanic for past 10 years, I just picked up a gig working for a local city government working on their fleet vehicles, really good pay, hours and benefits.
Turns out they really needed a medium/heavy duty mechanic and they hired me despite telling them I have no experience in med/heavy duty and air brakes in the interview.
They are going to pay for me to get my class A CDL, so far I love this job, I won't work for another dealership, independent shop or chain store ever again.
Thank you for recording and posting this educational video. I wish the young men and women well in all their endeavors.
This is a great topic. I started out in the automotive industry and switched to heavy duty 15 years ago. I'm currently in the same position as you at the shop I work at in the heart of the Canadian oil and gas industry in Alberta Canada. Our shop is very diversified in the heavy duty industry. We service heavy equipment and what you call class A truck and trailers. I very much appreciate your videos because they're fit both Industries although the heavy duty realm doesn't pay flat rate but is treated the same as far as management. Keep up the great videos and thank you for the interesting topics.
Being a diesel mechanic is not just truck's. I'm a diesel mechanic at a bus company and it's great. Lot's of over time and we have all the OEM scan tools. Used to work in a automotive shop and couldn't be happier I left.
what company?
I can't seem to get past a day without watching your videos by the way keep them coming.
I used to work at a GM dealer, then Ag equipment, now I'm a heavy equipment field service tech. We work on anything and everything from compact equipment to earth movers. This video is spot on. Transfer stations are nasty places to work. But as others have said it pays the bills well. There is definitely gravy days where your hookin a laptop and diaging emissions issues and then theres days crawling under loaders at trash dumps. But it never fails when its terrible conditions someone is broke down somewhere, and even if you just got home, you're going. Sometimes i miss the luxuries i didnt know i had working in the auto industry, But i don't miss the pay.
Heavy truck mechanic for the last 4 or 5 years and all of this is right. Worked on trash trucks and he’s right about that stuff too. Worked for Cummins and Volvo it’s a lot of fun but it’s difficult work too and the pay is nice.
That’s the reason I became a truck driver, because 25 years ago everybody wanted to be a mechanic, and The pay sucked. Make way more money now, and all my tools are at home so I can pick the hours when I want to work on somebody’s car.
I'm a Diesel tech and love it. Never worked auto. But all the cons you listed about working in a Diesel shop are very true.
I worked on trucks when I was around 20 for a couple years.
Alot of work is gravy, brakes and service work.
Then you have to change a cab shock on something,and you spend 3 hours swearing at 2 bolts you can't get a torch to.
Little different in Canada to, we don't need a truck license to work on them, with a service order you can drive one with a regular license.
Cab shocks ain't too bad,now I've had the occasional cussing fit on some stuck ass cab mount bushings
Fellow garbage truck mechanic here.
I will say the deceased animal service pickup trucks have a stranger stank.
Damn Skippy !!
You work for a city or something lol? Sounds like you've had some similar experiences as me
@betatalk357 it probably does cost a lot for the public sector, but I work in the private sector so I have no idea
Grease rendering. Or live stock trailers especially chickens
Ummm.. Garage trucks. Hell no!!!! That is right up there with ports potty emptying guy. Lol
really not that bad. i started on trash trucks. they actually pressure washed them every few weeks.
Master Auto/Diesel/ Paint tech here, currently working at a school district fixing School buses 🚌, true everything is heavy but I find them easier to work on then cars, one thing I will say electrical problems aren’t so fun on a bigger vehicle
Oh another pro is if you do side work on tractors. Say like for owner ops. You can make as much in two evenings as you do all week on a good week.
Thats the best inframe. 3500 for medium duty. 4500 for big bore. Labor only.
Good Video mike pretty much bang on
I worked on large mining equipment for a lot of years , some of the stuff is so big we use 100 or 200 ton cranes for some of the jobs. The truck fleet has a payload of 200 to 240 tons of rock per load
The shop is well equipped with tools and overhead cranes. All you need for tools is a basic hand set most everything else is supplied. It’s a day and night operations 7 days a week
equipment in the field at -30 degrees in the middle of the night
( it’s a 2 day and 2 night work schedule) followed by 4 days off. Long hours though (12 hrs per shift)
Challenging but good money
You keep standing in front of that Matco Toolbox with your reviews I'm going to chase down the Matco tool truck guy to get one just like it. It looks just right in every way.
Up here in Canada a CDL exemption is written in to the truck & heavy coach technician certificate... your diesel tech licence gives you the legal exemption to ‘test drive’ what you work on.
I found it over worked, under paid, and overly underappreciated. I do work with guys that love it and work 7 days a week and 12 hrs a day and more power to them.
Huge respect for the diesel industry. I liked doing diesel work because it pays, BUT (as you say it Mike) these guys are earning those big bucks...there is a reason you get paid well, you're going to be putting in more time and will be physically challenged.
Getting information from multiple sources and manufacturers is very frustrating, so I agree about that 110%!
My preference is Automotive. Technology is light years ahead and it challenges me more mentally...not knocking you diesel techs doing diag, but it is true...just saying. Although your Schematics are often a God awful mess, so my heart goes out to you guys.
Great video Mike, love these videos you do, very good topics!
Me too I will stick to Automotive ;)
When I was 6 - 14 years old I wanted to become a avtomotive mechanic, But for 2 years now I want to become a diesel mechanic, I want to work on ( construction equipment, logging equipment, farming equipment, trucks and pickup trucks) in the machanic garage and in the field. Warren from ( western truck and tractor repair). Well, he inspired me to do work like that. Good video Mate 👍🤝
But one more very important cons - Health.
It's hard to buy, do not forget
I worked in an ag equipment shop learned quickly a pointed shovel was the most important tool to have when them damn copperheads started falling off the equipment and making their rounds around the shop
Talk about access - 🤣🤣 I swapped out rear end gears on a Kenworth W900, the very top nut on the rear pumpkin I could get 1 click on my wrench at a time, socket couldn't reach. All the guys in the shop said "see you after lunch" knowing full well I was going to be there a while!!
I went the opposite direction as you, up here in Canada I started out in car and apprenticed at a Dodge dealer until I got my 310S license. I got tired of watching hourly apprentices doing all the gravy work and the vehicle being passed onto us licensed flat rate guys for warranty and recall work, so I made the switch to 310T Truck and Coach and never looked back. I now work at an International dealer and although it can be a lot heavier we have lifting devices made up from everything to drums and clutches to air compressors. I think it all depends on where you work, is being a dealer we have all the specialty tools to do just about anything on an International.
Hey man, I know this is an old comment but Id still like to shoot my shot. I’m 18 and I live in Ontario and my local college has a truck and coach apprenticeship where I can get certified in 2 years and I make money while going to college. Really considering it. My immediate family is an immigrant family so they obviously want me to go to university but I don’t think Im a university kind of guy: I would love to have some insight on how the work is and if I would truly like it. Im a big car guy and have been working on gas cars and trucks for almost 2 years and learned a lot and Im also going to be getting a Co-Op through my school next semester at a local mechanic shop. Would love to hear from you.
I worked on a fleet of 18 wheelers for Atlas Van Lines in St Louis. 60 hour weeks, low pay, and ass hole drivers for the most part. Loved the actual job.
I've been an auto tech for about 11 years and am burnt out.
I've got an interview with the state of Alaska DOT in 2 hours for a heavy duty field mechanic job at one of their shops about 3-4 hours away from home. 7 on 7 off, 80+ hour work weeks.
Starting wage is more than I've ever made in my life. I say, BRING IT ON!!
Good luck man, hope it works out!
@@rustyjeep2469 was a 4 hour interview!! Holy shit!! Lol. I need a drink!
@@ridingwiththereids did you get the job?
@@tehboxkat ended up taking a contracting job on our local military base. The state DOT job ended up not paying what I thought, plus I didn't want to be away from my kiddo. So I did the contract job for a year, it ended, and now I'm working at a local shop as a diesel tech. Hopefully another contracting job pops up one of these days. We shall see!
@The Reid's why did you got burned out as a Auto tech? If I mind asking
I was a transit bus technician for the city. I had exactly the same hours that you described, even worked holidays . I got paid extremely well. On the Gillig busses they had a large can network that was called multiplex
That was sophisticated and a challenge to properly diagnose. Enjoyed working with the multiplex because it's a challenge. As you know the engine was in the rear of bus under the back seat. It was hard to access many engine components. I was not able to pass my cdl medical, so I was forced to leave. Now I am fixing cars again 😁
I loved working on gillig buses! Was your transit company using io controls for the multiplex? We had 2nd and 3rd gen io controls, and it was great to work with.
Things I learned form this video. Never work on garbage trucks, I won't like service calls. Pay is great
Fellow garbage truck mechanic here. Its my first job in a shop and I've been here a year and a half, and so far I really like it. Most people can't even stand to listen to some of the stories I have to tell, and its certainly not for everyone, but for some reason it just works for me. I could never picture myself working on cars. Not gonna be working on garbage trucks forever, but for now its what I know best.
Side note: we got some portable lifts a while back, and they are life savers. Just doing transmission filters on the ground is enough to feel like I'm gonna break my neck, let alone replacing a PTO or hydraulic pump. Those jobs are a breeze now.
i quit working on cars to work on heavy/medium duty trucks and equipment i got sick of the low pay and some customers and changing tires haha it is hard work but easier paying bills! very different but similar as well! Cheers!
You, my friend, deserve a medal!
I have been a HD mechanic for 44years and you are right it is heavy and nasty but I have made a good living I am citified in all Cummins Engines and I have been a the same dealership for 32 years we have 6 overhead cranes in the shop
Mining equipment is where it's at! I'm an underground beat mechanic and I love it.
No bugs and no snow underground
might look into it
Great video and commentary! Ag tech here
I love this subject, I have been automotive, heavy equipment and trucks. Another pro of trucks is that they are more motivated to approve repairs because of the DOT laws, and drivers have the right to refuse to drive a truck if something is going to cause them to get a ticket. So they want it back on the road making money, IMO as far as heavy equipment vs trucks things are shipped far more than they are built, in 2008 it was hard to find a job in heavy equipment at least in my area, also I bet you would be surprised how many truck techs don’t have CDL (which is annoying to the rest of us) every company I’ve worked for will pay for them though
Hahah great video so far, still watching the cons part and that was enough for me to decide been keeping just working with cars.
Awesome video best part of many great parts is where dude says the smell of welding on a garbage truck with maggots falling on your face is an experience and smell that will be emblazoned into ones head for eternity that is effing funny af ! Awesome video dude from a random dude looking for an apprenticeship program to earn while I learn and Loves Truck stop has one so I'm checking out diesel mechanic work here. Keep up the good work. Texas passing through up in here
I started as automotive tech. Then got a job with the state now I work anything from cars all the way up to heavy duty diesels. I enjoy working on trucks more than cars and they money is ten times better.
Ha was tractor trailer driver for 8 years. The. I started working on trailers. Last year switched to tractor shop. I work at a Freightliner dealer and love it! Started at $20 hr in Indiana. One of the cheapest areas in the country to live in. Obviously I do have a class A cdl. Which did help me get my foot in the door. Also you are very right about the different manufacturers for engine, trans, body. It can be a real pain.
Big Trucks can be good money put a CDL on top of it and some good usable experience and there's lot of opportunity. Very Good video FRM!
Great video thanks brother. I like the garbage truck example. I think you left out the slime dripping on you while underneath the trucks tasty. This is a great video thanks. Keep up the great work see you in the next video thanks again brother
Been a Diesel tech in the Army for 7 years and I'm out in 30 days. Honestly doesn't sound much different in the civilian world, which is fantastic.
What’s it like being a diesel mechanic? I’m thinking about going to the marines and being just that. Do you recommend this job, What’s your favorite thing about the job
@@1Nathanc This is a fantastic question. And I do recommend, highly, that anyone who wishes to work in a trade skill enlist in the military, Army or otherwise, if you can't afford to go to UTI or something off the bat. But you gotta prepare yourself mentally and physically for it. Its a hard job, and will absolutely wreck your body if you're not careful. You don't have to do 10 years, but just long enough to set yourself up to pay for trade school properly with zero debt. Military also looks fantastic on a resume, especially with an honorable discharge.
As for my favorite part of the job? I work on truckers trucks. And they have some really great stories to tell. But when I was in the service my favorite part was seeing just how bad someone can break something, and how badly you can roast them for doing so. On top of that, all of my buddies and I have this ongoing game where we try to one up each other with the worst repair we have to make.
Hope that answers your question.
the jobs i hated most on garbage trucks were replacing packer cylinders or doing tail gate seals , we would call maggots, "moving rice" that was the least of the worries
Dennis eagle /mercedes bin truck (garbage) mechanic in the uk. Heavy, nasty, smelly, but our team is the best , the banter and everyone helps each other to get the jobs done. The whole workshop is a big family and its like working with my best mates. Took me 20years to find a team like this and i highly recommend fleet work
Diesel techs can make up to $40 hr with new greenhorns starting $23 hr... not flat rate or commission but hourly pay rate with OT at time + 1/2...
If you're young and you're very good at what you do I seen diesel techs at Dodge make 175k a year
Keith Kapusinsky nice Im about to get into tech school . Let’s see how it goes!
Where is there a diesel mechanic making 175k
@@st3v3nb915 are you still doing diesel tech if yeah, how is it going for you?
@@bigaproduxions117x6 Our Ford Diesel Tech at the dealership I work at brings in around $180k a year. He makes about $90 an hour, and is the highest paid person in the shop. He's only in his 30s-40s.
Here in MN and all this cold weather being a diesel service technician is a big pain and I’m getting sick of it ive had to go on 5 service calls when it felt -50 degrees and it sucks
Andrew William worst thing ever a no start and it’s cold is hell. Please don’t let it be a fuel issue.
Been a diesel tech for 9 years. Transmissions are a bitch but you get use to it. Was working in California as a diesel truck mechanic and was able to travel across the country to MO and found a job within a month. So job security is pretty good no matter where you go.
Nothing beats being under a truck blocked up with wood blocks and hearing the boards crackling.
I am a Diesel Technician at Cummins and absolutely love it!
Does Cummins offer a "master Cummins tech" certification? What's the top position that you can get?
@@ethankelley1887 Not necessarily a master tech certification but they will send you to factory training to get certified on the different platforms of engines. The more certifications you get the better.
Getting a job is easy finding anyone to hire is another, demographically speaking of course, diesel techs especially good ones, well trained ones that’s another. Just like drivers can’t find them either. Remember this, doesn’t matter what you are “if your worth a shit your employed” good wisdom in this video from a guy with years in the work force not just a good mechanic.
Flat Rate Master stopped having contact with the Caterpillar service tech since he got married :D
Lol
Watched a couple of your vids in the past,interesting to find out you have a history in the diesel world.Im a diesel tech myself and I agree Adept Ape has an interesting channel,if you're into CAT at least. 👍🏻 BIG TRUCKS BIG BUCKS!!
I couldn't agree more, I am myself a new diesel mechanic (about a year now), it ain't for the sensible heart,i'm working for a dumptruck company. sometime I can work more than 60h a week, service call can be hard, especially on the landfill site, but the money's there and there is some much to learn about these truck. great video, keep up the good work
etiboy48 I’m going to school this fall to be a diesel tech, I’m in automotive now but how good is the pay in diesel starting out?
@@FiestaS280 I'm making over 20$ an hour, but it mostly depends on what you are working on, dealers tend to pay more but more pressure, if you are working in a trailer shop you'll likely make less, but you should expect between 15 to 19 starting out
Working in a trash company shop with 6 guys and I'm the only one with a class A. It does make just a little easier to get a job.
Been doing it for 23 years. Never thought at 49. I would still be on the floor. Been promised 3 times Foreman over 17 years. Gave up that dream when I landed my current shop. I used to make fun the 60 plus guys who mumbled and hobbled around the shop. Know I know why. At least my current shop. They told me there is no path to management since I am the master of my work. They don’t want to loose my skills. They treat me like management. I get a lot of perks and get to pick and choose as I wish. I was recruited at the end of Covid. They pay for my kids college. Don’t join this Diesel mechanic field if you expect to become Management.
With diesel you also gotta think about equipment, which is a whole different ball game. Sometimes your right on the highway others your 20miles back in the woods with no cell service. Plus you got engines, electrical, and hydraulics. Plus I’m at Deere we have our Oem engines in a few different things so that’s another challenge.
Work for a garbage company in the Chicagoland area. Agree with what you said about the work.
I did it for 32 years. just retired in 2019. Trained many young people for this job. The one thing I always told them, you can go anywhere in the world and earn a living. Did I like the job???? Well my mom used to whip me for they paid me to do!!!!!
Diesel Tech hourly make 90 bands a year.
A_rod DmV who do you work for?
@4RM So he works 23hrs/day everyday? I'm lost.
@@zach6367 Zach, 7am to 9pm is 14 hours...
@@soota6083 He also said 700 hrs per month.
@@zach6367 He probably means billed hours. Like if a job takes 3 hours but he does it in 1 hour, he bills 3 hours.
Lmao I’m a garbage truck tech too man, you nailed it all!
Awesome Video!🎥
Started a course last night in a career program for it
If you work in a proper diesel shop, you will have overhead cranes, wheel and brake pullers, engine and transmission lifts, and floors with an underground walkway cut in them so you can work under the truck. Wear your respirator when welding and you won't smell shit.
you made some very good points, I help my inlaws work on school buses some times that can be some heavy work if your an older guy
Excellent video. You hit on all the major points. You have to learn a lot of manufacturers languages to stay relevant.
OT is great, until it's your life. 65 hrs becomes regular time and you feel like it's almost a part time job.
Thanks Chris
I own a biz as a mobile service for big trucks and have to say it sucks in the winter out there working on a air dryer or air lines on the side of the road.Also working on garage trucks really suck.But at the end of the day it's good money.
And you will need a 3/4" drive set in your box... But, getting into diesel today is a little less costly than it was a few years ago. When I worked for the Mack garage some of the guys had the Snap-On (Nexiq) Pro Link, at $16,000 a pop. Worst part is, it was a rip off. The guys would find bunches of incorrect error codes and were always finding gaps in stuff that just was not supported for all manufacturers, even after the "latest" $3,000 software upgrade. Today with the subscription PC based tools, like OEM Cummins Insite and the generic tools like the TEXA, JPro and Pocket Fleet, you can have a USEFUL scan tool for around $5,000. As recently as five years ago, Snappy had us by the short'n curly's with the only third-party scan tool that "kinda-worked". Not anymore.
Which diagnostic tool do you use?
@@SleepingWolfGaming We subscribe to the OEM PC=based diagnostic tools, like Mack's PTT and Peterbilt Diagnostics from Noregon. In the past few years these have pretty much become the standards for large shops. The subscriptions aren't cheap, but compared to what Snap=On was charging for a half-assed system that worked less than half the time, it's worth it.
In some (most? all?) states you can keep your CDL even if you don't get a physical. In Pennsylvania, you just have to swear on a form you won't drive interstate (i.e. you're just going to remain in Pennsylvania) you only need the DOT physical for interstate driving. If you decide later you want to drive interstate, you can get a physical at that point. It's nice to keep my CDL going... you never know : )