Where do Vario UPS trucks go to die?

[bonzo2002]

I'm interested in finding a source for used Mercedes Vario parts and with the majority of Vario's on UK roads now being UPS trucks I wondered if anybody knows where they end up upon retirement?

 

[Haf-E]

At least here in the USA, UPS trucks get used until they are dead and then they pull the parts to use for repair of other UPS trucks and they dispose of the body (crushed). UPS uses their own mechanics - not outsourcing repairs like FEDEX does.

I've heard that the only people they release used UPS trucks are sold to local police or federal agencies for use in surveillance purposes... no one wonders about a UPS truck driving past multiple times and the fiberglass body (on the US models) is perfect for allowing internal antennas, etc.

 

[IdaSHO]

Far better off finding a FedEx rig

Fedex routes and rigs are privately owned and operated.

UPS rarely (if ever) allows rigs to find their way into the private sector.

 

[bonzo2002]

At least here in the USA, UPS trucks get used until they are dead and then they pull the parts to use for repair of other UPS trucks and they dispose of the body (crushed). UPS uses their own mechanics - not outsourcing repairs like FEDEX does.

I've heard that the only people they release used UPS trucks are sold to local police or federal agencies for use in surveillance purposes... no one wonders about a UPS truck driving past multiple times and the fiberglass body (on the US models) is perfect for allowing internal antennas, etc.

Thanks for the heads up Haf-E. That makes good business sense I suppose, not wasting any parts. I was after a fuel tank from one as the tank on my Vario is only 70litres and UPS Varios have much larger ones that should fit. Anyone with any ideas on a larger tank for a Vario 814DA MWB panel van would be much appreciated.

As for surveilance, I'll be checking the UPS guys out from now on

 

[bonzo2002]

Far better off finding a FedEx rig

Fedex routes and rigs are privately owned and operated.

UPS rarely (if ever) allows rigs to find their way into the private sector.

I think fedex vans in the uk are just merc sprinters unfortunately.

 

[Haf-E]

I used to go to the local UPS package sorting facility frequently for business reasons and would chat with the mechanics there occasionally - they sometimes had interesting engines they were testing out. You might drop by one and see if any of the guys might be available... who knows - I would think a gas tank might be possible to get...

 

[bonzo2002]

Somewhere there's a big pile of tanks and bits sitting in a UPS facility.. Hopefully I can track something down. Having a tank made to measure would be a costly plan B so hopefully I can track down an option that will just fit off the shelf. Thanks for your ideas.