Selectboard discusses truck specs, urges heavy‑duty bodies for hill work

The Tunbridge Selectboard heard an extended report from road staff on specifications for a replacement truck and body, including whether to buy a 10‑wheeler or smaller chassis and which bodies will reliably handle sticky sand on local hills. Road foreman (staff member) said crews prefer bodies with stronger tilt and wider chains to prevent bridging and recommended heavier engines for hilly work, noting warranty options and lifecycle costs.

The staff member described the operational tradeoffs: smaller engines use more fuel and some factory bodies have weak hinges that lead to failures, while better‑spec’d trucks cost more up front but can reduce downtime. “We’re starting Monday morning on this, Whitney Hill project,” the road foreman said while framing the procurement discussion as an opportunity to match equipment to local terrain. Board members asked for a written package comparing 6‑, 8‑ and 10‑wheel options, warranty terms and estimated life‑cycle costs so the board can make a purchase decision at a future meeting.

The discussion did not result in a formal motion; members agreed to return with vendor quotes and a spec spreadsheet. The board instructed staff to include expected service patterns (hill grade, sanding frequency) and to confirm whether any available trucks come with bodies that meet the applicant’s preferred tilt and chain specifications.