Difference between HGV and PSV technician

[babo456]

I have been a PHer for awhile but never joined up to the fourm so hello.

Would anyone be able to shed some light on the difference between HGV and PSV technicians?

I'm fancying a career change and Firstbus have offered me an apprenticeship as a PSV technician.

Can a PSV tech also go for jobs as a HGV tech and visa versa?

My long term goal would be to transfer over to the oil industry servicing diesel generators or other similar role, so is either better suited to this?

Thanks

Edited by babo456 on Thursday 12th June 19:06

[johnny fotze]

In a word; yes. An engine's an engine, obviously there are remarkable differences between petrol and diesel, but that's irrelevant. Big diesel lumps (as found in buses) are remarkably similar to the big diesel lumps found in HGVs, mobile cranes, tractors etc. The skills you'll learn will be transferable to any role primarily concerned with the repair and maintenance of diesel engines. It's a handy trade to have.

[Mister3man]

I've worked extensively on both HGVs and PSV's, my personal preference would be to work on trucks everyday.

The newest (euro 5/6) engines are a bit of a joke for access but they are nothing compared to buses and coaches.

Limited access, engine has to be removed for big jobs on some vehicles, dirty, working through a hole in floors and repairing everything on a shoe string as the operators want to spend as little on maintainence as possible (and then save a tenner).

Apart from that, I think both trades give a good wage.

If you are prepared to do 24hr call you can earn very good money.

As mentioned, the skills are transferable. Some of the best technicians we have are from completely different backgrounds (plant, cars, etc)

Edited by Mister3man on Thursday 12th June 21:24