8 Truck Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Sean Bennett's decades of hands-on experience with commercial vehicles come alive in this detailed manual tailored for medium- and heavy-duty truck servicing. You’ll explore essential systems like electricity, powertrains, brakes, and suspension with clear chapters that include over 1800 photos and illustrations to clarify complex concepts. The book also dives into the latest industry standards and technologies, such as autonomous truck levels and updated diagnostics tools, making it a solid resource for anyone aiming to master truck mechanics. Whether you're studying for ASE certifications or seeking practical knowledge for real-world maintenance, this book lays out the core competencies without fluff, perfect for building a reliable foundation in truck systems.

When Sean Bennett noticed a gap in thorough, up-to-date resources on commercial truck engines and their electronic management, he drew on his extensive experience as a program coordinator and corporate trainer to create this detailed guide. You’ll learn about everything from light- to heavy-duty diesel engines, including the latest computerized management systems that are critical for modern trucks. Specific chapters on natural gas fuel systems and hybrid drives add depth, making it relevant whether you’re a student just starting or a seasoned technician looking to refresh your knowledge. This book suits those aiming to master the technical aspects of truck engines and fuel systems in a rapidly evolving industry.

This personalized book explores the intricate world of truck systems, navigation, and business with a focus on your interests and goals. It covers the key mechanical components of trucks, advanced navigation techniques, and the essentials of running a successful trucking business. By matching your background and skill level, it examines topics such as powertrain functions, route planning, regulatory compliance, and fleet management in a way that connects expert knowledge directly to your needs. This tailored approach reveals the practical aspects of trucking alongside deeper insights, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding without unnecessary complexity.

Unlike most truck performance books that skim the surface, David Vizard dives deep into the intricacies of Chevy big-block engines, drawing on decades of hands-on experience and GM collaborations. You'll learn precise methods to overcome the engine's inherent valve design limitations, optimize cam timing, and strengthen the rotating assembly for up to 850 horsepower on pump gas. Vizard’s detailed discussion of piston ports, ring setups, and advanced tuning techniques makes this a solid manual for anyone aiming to build high-output big-block engines without overspending. This book is tailored for enthusiasts who want to push their Chevy big-blocks to the limit, whether for street driving or track performance.

Drawing from over 150 years of expertise in navigation and mapping, Rand McNally has crafted this Motor Carriers' Road Atlas specifically for professional truck drivers. You’ll find detailed state and national designated routes, low clearance warnings, and weigh station locations that help you navigate safely and efficiently. The atlas also includes a 22-page mileage directory with over 40,000 truck-route-specific distances, alongside updates on hazardous materials regulations and permit agency contacts. If you’re involved in long-haul trucking or route planning, this atlas provides the precise, trucking-focused information you need to stay compliant and save time on the road.

Larry Edsall, a seasoned automotive journalist, teamed up with Alan Batey, former GM North America president, to chronicle Chevrolet’s truck legacy across a century. You’ll explore detailed narratives of landmark models from the 1917 Series 490 to the modern Silverado and Colorado, enriched by hundreds of archival photos and insider interviews. The book offers you insights into how Chevy trucks evolved from basic workhorses to cultural icons, reflecting shifts in technology, design, and consumer lifestyles. If your passion lies in automotive history or engineering, this book immerses you in the development, branding, and impact of Chevrolet trucks worldwide.

This tailored book explores practical engine and maintenance improvements specifically for trucks, designed to match your background and goals. It reveals detailed steps for tuning up engines and upgrading systems over a 30-day plan, focusing on key areas like performance enhancements, fuel efficiency, and reliability. The personalized content ensures you learn exactly what applies to your truck type and skill level, making complex technical concepts accessible and actionable. By concentrating on your interests, it bridges expert knowledge with a custom learning experience, helping you achieve peak performance through targeted engine and system upgrades.

After years on the road, A.J. Ford developed this guidebook to fill a practical gap for truckers and travelers seeking reliable stops across North America. You gain access to detailed information on truck stops, rest areas, and travel centers spanning major highways, helping you plan routes efficiently and find essential services quickly. Chapters map out locations clearly, catering to professional drivers and road trip enthusiasts alike. This book suits anyone needing a trustworthy companion for long-haul journeys rather than casual readers looking for travel narratives.

Richard Myrick draws on his extensive experience as editor-in-chief of Mobile Cuisine Magazine to demystify the food truck business in this guide. You’ll learn how to identify your unique food niche, navigate health and safety regulations, and outfit your truck for efficient cooking on the go. Chapters cover everything from crafting a solid business plan to leveraging social media for customer engagement, with practical insights on avoiding common pitfalls and scaling up operations. Whether you’re launching your first mobile kitchen or aiming to expand, this book offers concrete strategies grounded in current industry trends and regulations.

After exploring children's literature and nonfiction, Wil Mara crafted this engaging volume to introduce young readers to the fascinating world of trucks. The book mixes vivid images with simple, level 1 text that captures the excitement of massive mining trucks and everyday vehicles, making technical details accessible to early learners. Through chapters featuring trucks with wheels "twice as tall as your dad" and a $3 million mining truck described as "like driving a house," you gain an appreciation for truck scale and function. This is ideal for young enthusiasts beginning to read and eager to understand the machines that shape our world.