Commissioners approve transmission replacement for county truck No. 36, not to exceed $8,558.57

McPHERSON — The county approved replacing the transmission on semi truck No. 36 after public works staff told commissioners the vehicle’s engine was overhauled earlier this year and the transmission is likely original to the 1998 International unit.

Mike (last name not given), who presented the request, said the engine overhaul earlier in the year cost approximately $16,000 and that the lowest transmission quote was roughly $7,900 from Bruckner’s. For $658 more, the vendor offered a three‑year, no‑questions‑asked warranty instead of a two‑year warranty.

Commissioners asked about annual use (about 20,000–25,000 miles per year) and whether buying a used truck might be preferable. Staff said used trucks that meet county requirements (including wet kits) can cost substantially more when purchased with the necessary equipment; converting or adding wet kits can add roughly $14,000.

After discussion the board approved a motion to replace the transmission for truck No. 36 with a not‑to‑exceed cap of $8,558.57, which includes the extended warranty option. The motion passed by voice vote.