Single Axle vs. Tandem Axle

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by zmster2033, Jul 10, 2013.

  1. zmster2033

    zmster2033 Light Load Member

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    Apr 28, 2011
    Charlotte, NC
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    Good evening,

    I am curious the benefits of a single axle trailer. Besides being able to pull less weight, are there advantages to have a single axle tractor? I would imagine maintenance would also be cheaper as there are less parts with a single axle. Are there any other advantages to one?
     
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  3. road_runner

    road_runner Road Train Member

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    Montucky
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    We use single axles for our city trucks. They are easier to maneuver due to their shorter wheel-base. One of the downsides is that we have a scale in town. They love to pull us in for DOT inspections since a single axle still counts towards their "quota" for monthly inspections.

    I personally hate them in the winter time. Give me a twin-screw any day.
     
  4. zmster2033

    zmster2033 Light Load Member

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    Apr 28, 2011
    Charlotte, NC
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    Would single axle tractors make for good OTR trucks in your opinion? Was initially thinking doing some "hotshot" work on the East Coast, but seems to be fairly limited in freight under 20,000#. I feel a tandem may be able to help provide additional opportunities that may be to heavy for a S/A.

    Also, do they get similar fuel mileage to a tandem?
     
  5. Balakov100

    Balakov100 Road Train Member

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    Temple, TX
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    You will get great Gas Mileage that way.
    It won't use any Gas, talk about saving some money.
     
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  6. zmster2033

    zmster2033 Light Load Member

    181
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    Apr 28, 2011
    Charlotte, NC
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    Good catch. Just updated.
     
  7. rodknocker

    rodknocker Road Train Member

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    Southeast
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    They say it's cheaper to use single axles even with the 3 overweight tickets I get each week. The benefits is more gross weight can be hauled with a set of doubles. Less tire maintenance. Probably gets slightly better fuel millage. Disadvantages IMO would be the squirrelly ride, the stopping power and the weight limit on the drives
     
  8. Balakov100

    Balakov100 Road Train Member

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    Temple, TX
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    Lift Axle, you could still gross out if you needed to, and if your light, even better.
     
  9. KANSAS TRANSIT

    KANSAS TRANSIT Road Train Member

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    Glasco,Ks.
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    Whether it makes sense or not ALL depends on your operation, and what you haul. For instance, if I run one of my 3 axle setups out east vs. on of my 5 axle setups, the difference on tolls and bridges alone for the trip could be as much as 300.00
     
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