6x2 vs 6x4 tractor questions

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by SteelWheelin, May 3, 2015.

  1. SteelWheelin

    SteelWheelin Bobtail Member

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    Dec 21, 2014
    Henderson, kentucky
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    In the pursuit of fuel economy, I recently read about a couple newer fuel conscious tractors with a 6x2 setup compared to the traditional 6x4 setup of two powered axles. I have a couple questions.

    1) how much better fuel economy is realistically observed?

    2) performance. Do drivers notice a difference in traction? Do they even notice they're only pulling with one axle? Do you experience any kind of axle related issues? Like overloading the single powered axle? Especially the kenworth advantage trucks that have 2.90 axle ratios.
     
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  3. double yellow

    double yellow Road Train Member

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    State of Jefferson
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    On average 2.5% http://www.todaystrucking.com/newsletters/lockwood_report_01-29-2014.html
    Yes, there is less traction. With a side-to-side locker and the ability to dump air to the tag axle, you should have enough traction for OTR duty. Do a lot of mud & snow? A 6x2 wouldn't be my first choice...
     
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  4. sshewins

    sshewins Road Train Member

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    I've been told it helps with weight. I have a friend who has a lift front axle. We pull tanks. He recently blew out the rear end. Most of my research (I was really wanting to do this for weight) indicates you'll need to step up to a 23,000 pound axle. He told me that he only gets a year out of the tires. Even though I personally think it looks cool, too many negatives. Not enough positives.
     
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  5. 315wheelbase

    315wheelbase Heavy Load Member

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    car haulers used to buy 6x2,,OK if you not run snow and stay on paved roads,,mileage will only be about 1/4mpg to maybe 1/2mpg better,,best to get a 6x4 never know what you will haul or where in the future . your driving habits will be the biggest factor in mpg
     
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  6. Pablo-UA

    Pablo-UA Road Train Member

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    Borispol, Ukraine
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    6x2 are popular in UK. They generally have pusher axle with sufisticated ECAS, that controls lift axle.

    Here, in Ukraine, 6x2 are generally imported and popular on rigid trucks and buses.
     
  7. WesternEmpire

    WesternEmpire Medium Load Member

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    Arcade, NY
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    I drove a 2014 Cascadia that was set up as a 6x2 with super singles. Got the truck brand new and put 170,000 miles on it.

    The 2 huge pluses were fuel mileage, I consistently got 7.5 miles to the gallon (figured by pen and paper, not ECM) without trying. And weight, I could scale 47,000 lbs in a reefer and have room left to play with on full tanks. And yes, it was a 70 inch condo.

    The down side? Snow. An inch of snow and a slight incline, you were screwed. Stop at a light and the roads slick? Good luck getting going. Have to back up a slight incline to bump a dock, not today. It was so bad I left the company because they wouldn't put me in a 6x4.

    If you're running axrossed I-10 on a regular basis, I say go for it. But I was running I-80 from Iowa to the east coast and back.
     
  8. Sportster2000

    Sportster2000 Road Train Member

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    We just got one at work and I am very curious of the fuel mileage advantages that it has. Chances are I will never know as they are hiring another company to drive it.
     
  9. Cowpie1

    Cowpie1 Road Train Member

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    Kellogg, IA
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    I have been keeping tabs on trucking companies near my area that have given the 6x2 configurations a try. The results are less than stellar. MPG is improved a little, and there is the weight savings, but overall it is not working out well. I gave it some consideration in the past, but am not sold on the idea for what I do. I have a normal 6x4 setup, and full lockers in both drive axles. Some of the situations I get in to, I have used the lockers. If that is that case with a 6x4, I really can't see opting for the 6x2 in my immediate future. If one's only concern is mpg, then it might be something to consider. But for those of us who actually get off the interstates and such..... each will have to determine for themselves if it is worth it.
     
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  10. Utahtrucker

    Utahtrucker Light Load Member

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    Aug 13, 2016
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    well I let you know for as i'm purchasing, a 2014 Kenworth t680, next week with the 6x2 Bendix etrac system, since having a6X4 always and living in Salt Lake City, but hearing new pros to the system makes me think twice.
     
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