Used Sterling Trucks For Sale
Used Sterling trucks for sale, from Acterra to A- and L-Line models with CAT, Cummins or MBE engines, plus Eaton Fuller or Allison transmissions.
Learn more
Showing 13 to 24 of 32 results
Have used sterling truck to sell? List it here to reach thousands of buyers.
About Used Sterling Trucks
Powertrain choices are broad. You will see Caterpillar C7, C9, C13 and C15, Cummins ISB, ISC, ISL, ISM and ISX, plus Mercedes-Benz MBE4000 in many A- and L-Line tractors and vocational units. Transmissions commonly include Eaton Fuller 8LL, 10-, 13- and 18-speed manuals for jobsite control and highway gearing, along with Allison 3000 and 4000 Series automatics in pickup-and-delivery, utility and municipal builds. Pre-2007 units avoid DPF systems. Late-2007 to 2009 trucks may have DPFs but no DEF. Axle ratios from mid 3s to low 5s drive either highway efficiency or off-road tractive effort, so match ratio to route and tire size.
Chassis options vary by application. Hendrickson HaulMaax or Chalmers excels under dump and mixer bodies. Neway or Freightliner AirLiner air ride suits day cab linehaul and sensitive freight. Many dumps were ordered with double-frame or reinforcement liners, 18k to 20k steer axles and 40k to 46k rears with full locking differentials. A set-back axle A-Line tightens turning radius on urban jobs, while set-forward axles help with bridge law and axle weight distribution. Acterra medium-duty trucks share parts lineage with Freightliner Business Class, making them popular box trucks, bucket trucks and service rigs. The short BBC and sloped hood help with visibility at crowded sites.
Ownership considerations are straightforward if you focus on components. Although the Sterling brand sunset in 2009, parts support is solid because cabs, chassis hardware and driveline pieces overlap with Freightliner and Western Star, and aftermarket body parts are widely available. Inspect for frame and crossmember corrosion in rust-belt units, cab corner and door-bottom rust, wiring harness chafing near the firewall, and cooling stack condition. For engines, know the service history on MBE EGR components and CAT ACERT injector and turbo work. Verify PTO provisions, pump mounting space and RBM if you plan to add vocational equipment. In emissions-restricted regions like California, confirm model year compliance before purchase. The right spec delivers a reliable, low-cost workhorse with simple electronics and easy-to-source parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Sterling trucks still supported for parts and service?
Yes. Although Sterling ceased production in 2009, most service items and many body parts are shared with Freightliner and Western Star, and the major engines, transmissions and axles are supported by their OEM networks. Aftermarket sheet metal and lighting are widely available, and vocational components like PTOs, pumps and hoists use standard interfaces.
Which Sterling model is best for a dump or mixer application?
Look for A- or L-Line conventionals with double-frame or reinforcement liners, 18k to 20k steer axles, 40k to 46k drive axles with interaxle and axle diff locks, an 8LL or Allison 4000, and vocational suspensions like Hendrickson HaulMaax or Chalmers. A set-forward axle can help with bridge law, while a set-back axle improves maneuverability on tight sites.
What engines and transmissions are common in used Sterling trucks?
Common engines include Caterpillar C7 through C15, Cummins ISB, ISC, ISL, ISM and ISX, and Mercedes-Benz MBE4000 in many heavy-duty units. Transmissions range from Eaton Fuller 8LL, 10-, 13- and 18-speed manuals to Allison 3000 and 4000 Series automatics. Match the engine’s torque curve and rear axle ratio to your route profile and tire size to balance pull and fuel economy.
What should I check on a used Sterling day cab for regional haul?
Confirm rear axle ratio and transmission gearing suit your cruise speed and grade profile. Inspect fifth wheel height, slider condition and kingpin setting compatibility with your trailers. Check front end wear items, air ride components, air dryer service, wiring at the bulkhead, and the cooling stack. A 13-speed with a mid 3s ratio and air ride suspension is a common, efficient regional spec.
Do Sterling trucks meet current emissions rules in California?
Compliance depends on engine year and emissions equipment. Pre-2007 engines generally do not meet on-road CARB deadlines without approved retrofits. Late-2007 to 2009 units may have DPFs but no DEF. Always verify the engine family nameplate, emissions label and any retrofit documentation against current CARB regulations before purchase or registration.