When it comes to truck bodies, there are two main materials that are used: aluminum and steel. Aluminum has been around for a little while now, but steel is still the traditional choice. However, aluminum truck beds have been gaining popularity since they entered the market in the 2000s. So which one is better? After comparing all the factors the answer is not that simple, it depends! We will cover the pros and cons here to be able to guide you in your decision-making.
Aluminum vs. Steel Truck Bodies
The Weight
This one is at the top of the list for a reason. It can make or break your decision. As you may know, vehicles that carry heavy loads require to be built with stronger frames, engines, and suspensions in order to hold the load weight and not get damaged prematurely. This is why choosing a lighter vehicle body will have an impact on all of these components as well as the gas mileage, speed, and horsepower.
This factor alone usually makes aluminum a better choice, because it is much lighter than steel. Aluminum being one-third of steel weight means that your truck will carry more load while using less energy to move which will give you overall better performance and save fuel as well!
Another thing that comes with a lighter truck is the fact that it will be easier to maneuver, which can come in handy when you have a tight spot to park or want to avoid any unnecessary damages.
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The Durability
This one goes hand in hand with the weight of the material. The thicker and heavier the steel is, usually means more durability against wear and tear. This characteristic makes steel an attractive choice for truck owners.
The durability of aluminum, on the other hand, has been criticized in the past since it was a newly introduced material and there were many cases where manufacturers did not use it properly, to begin with. Some reported having dents after hitting debris while others complained about corrosion when they used non-anodized aluminum bodies.
However, it is important to know that truck manufacturers have improved a lot since then and they are now using thicker aluminum sheets which will avoid these problems. Anodizing the exterior of your truck body also helps protect against corrosion and rust while still keeping its lightness properties. The downside is that anodizing can add up to $500 to the cost of a truck body.
The Price
Overall, steel is less expensive than aluminum. However, it should be noted that this factor also depends on many other variables such as the manufacturer and quality of material used. The difference in price can vary from one company to another. So if you are comparing prices between different companies don\’t be surprised if one is cheaper than the other.
The Safety
When it comes to safety, both aluminum and steel truck bodies perform very well. They have similar characteristics in terms of strength and durability which is an important factor for a safe ride.
However, if you are involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle that has the same weight as yours or is heavier, then steel will definitely do better than aluminum. This is because aluminum has the tendency to crumple upon impact while steel will maintain its shape and protect the people inside the truck.
The Cost of Maintenance
Both materials are subject to rust and corrosion, but with proper maintenance, they can last you a long time. The good news is that aluminum costs less to maintain since it does not have to be painted or repainted as often as steel bodies do.
The downside to aluminum is that if it ever gets scratched or dented, the only solution will be to replace the entire panel. Steel can be welded and patched, which makes it a more versatile material when it comes to repairs.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Aluminum vs Steel Truck Bodies both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages. It ultimately depends on what you are looking for in a truck body and what your needs are. If you are looking for a lighter, more durable, and affordable option, aluminum is the way to go. If you are looking for a material that will last longer and can withstand more wear and tear, steel is still the best choice.
Whether you are in the market for a steel truck body, aluminum truck body, or custom for your truck. You can count on EG Manufacturers, with headquarters in Miami, Florida, and servicing clients nationwide.
