Vehicle service bodies are a necessary piece of equipment for many businesses. They provide a workspace for technicians to do their work and protect the vehicle from damage. There are two main types of service bodies: fiberglass and steel. Each has its unique benefits and drawbacks. So, which one is right for your business? Let’s take a closer look.
What’s the Difference Between a Fiberglass and Steel Service Body
As any truck owner knows, a service body is essential for carrying equipment and supplies. But many truck owners don’t know that there are two main types of service bodies: fiberglass and steel.
Steel service bodies are the most common type, carbon steel or stainless steel. They are strong and durable but also heavy, impacting fuel efficiency.
Fiberglass service bodies are made from a composite of fiberglass and resin. They are lighter than steel service bodies, making them a good choice for trucks that need to conserve fuel.
The Pros and Cons
Fiberglass Service Body
Pros
Fiberglass service bodies have several advantages over other types of service bodies.
- they are extremely lightweight, putting less strain on your truck and improving fuel economy.
- they are highly durable and resistant to corrosion.
- they are easy to clean and maintain.
- they offer superior insulation against heat and cold, making them ideal for all climates.
A fiberglass service body is an excellent option if you’re looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and durable service body for your truck.
Cons
While fiberglass service bodies have many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks.
- can be significantly more expensive than steel or aluminum models, making them a difficult investment for some companies.
- fiberglass bodies can be more susceptible to damage from sharp objects or impacts.
- fiberglass service bodies require more specific knowledge to repair than other service bodies.
While small repairs can often be made on-site, more significant damage may require the body to be sent to a specialist for repairs.
Companies relying on their service bodies for daily operations can significantly inconvenience and expense.
Steel Service Body
Pros
A steel service body is a specialized truck built to withstand heavy rigors. Utility, construction, and other businesses often use steel bodies that require a tough and durable truck body. There are many advantages to using a steel service body, including the following:
- they are very strong and durable. They can withstand a lot of abuse and will not dent or scratch easily.
- they are low maintenance. You won’t have to worry about repainting or sealing them like other types of truck bodies.
Cons
Steel service bodies have numerous advantages, but there are a few potential drawbacks.
- a steel body is much heavier than other materials, making it difficult to maneuver and having higher fuel costs.
- steel truck bodies are susceptible to corrosion, so they may not be the best choice for areas that are particularly salty or humid.
- they may cost more upfront than other types of truck bodies.
Which Type of Service Body is Right for You
Budget
Fiberglass service bodies offer several advantages that make them a more cost-effective option in the long run. Fiberglass is lighter than steel, so it doesn’t negatively impact fuel economy. It’s also corrosion-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about rust. In addition, fiberglass service bodies are easier to maintain and don’t require as much upkeep. As a result, they tend to have a longer lifespan than steel service bodies. Fiberglass service bodies are often more budget-friendly when you factor in the long-term costs.
Weight
Steel service bodies are generally heavier than fiberglass service bodies. This extra weight can impact fuel efficiency and how much payload your truck can carry. In addition, a heavier service body can put additional stress on the frame and suspension of your truck, leading to premature wear.
If you are looking for a way to save on weight savings, then a fiberglass service body may be the right choice. Fiberglass service bodies are often lighter than steel, resulting in better fuel economy and less wear and tear on your truck.
When selecting a fiberglass service body, be sure to select one that is durable and designed to withstand the rigors of your job. With careful selection, fiberglass truck bodies can provide years of reliable service.
Material Durability
When choosing a service body, there are two main options: steel and fiberglass. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but fiberglass is the clear winner regarding material durability.
Fiberglass is more resistant to dents and scratches and doesn’t rust like steel. As a result, a fiberglass service body will keep its good looks longer than a steel body.
In addition, fiberglass is lighter than steel, which can be important if you use a service body on a smaller vehicle.
Ultimately, the decision of which type of service body to choose is personal, but when it comes to material durability, fiberglass is the clear winner.
Maintenance & Repair
You will want to consider a few things when deciding which service body to purchase for your work truck. One important factor is the ease of maintenance and repair.
Steel service bodies can rust over time, requiring regular sanding and painting to keep them in good condition.
On the other hand, fiberglass service bodies are more resistant to corrosion and require less upkeep.
Fuel Economy
When choosing a service body, fuel savings should be one of your main considerations.
Steel service bodies are much heavier than their fiberglass counterparts, requiring more fuel.
This increased fuel usage can quickly eat into your profits, so a fiberglass body is a way to go if saving money is a priority. Fiberglass bodies are also more aerodynamic, which further improves fuel economy.
Conclusion: SpaceKap – Your Fiberglass Service Bodies Experts
Whether you manage a large fleet or operate your own company, Spacekap fiberglass truck bodies can meet your needs. Lightweight, rust-proof, and secure, our product will increase your efficiency and help you save money.
We have models that fit any make and model of a pickup truck on the market, and they’re available in either 6′ or 8′ sizes. Plus, our fiberglass body construction means they’re lightweight, rugged, and durable enough to handle whatever you throw at them. So whether you’re a contractor looking for a way to secure tools and equipment better than a regular truck cap or need extra storage space, our service bodies are the perfect solution for reliable performance. Enjoy the benefits of our fiberglass bodies while getting the job done. Contact us today to learn more.
