Running doubles - Question on DOT rules

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Boulevard, Jan 19, 2022.

  1. Boulevard

    Boulevard Bobtail Member

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    Jan 19, 2022
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    When running doubles the heavier trailer is in front BUT... what if the set is made for you and the lighter trailer is up front. In my scenario, there was only a 3000lb difference between the trailers so I took off with no issues. The question I have is... if a lighter trailer is in front, is there a DOT rule on the allowable maximum weight difference between the two trailers?
     
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  3. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    I don't think there is a DOT regulation on that. I would NOT be nervous about just a 3k difference between the weight of the lead and second trailer.
     
    Dennixx, Boulevard and Bean Jr. Thank this.
  4. abyliks

    abyliks Road Train Member

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    ludlow MA
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    Been a while since I hooked a set, I want to say you have a 5% window? Someone else may correct me
     
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  5. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    been since about August of 2005 since i pulled them myself. however, "in case" of an accident, and the DOT checks the weights, the possibility arises for him to be ticketed for improper set up. could even lead to legal issues if someone is hurt or killed.

    that 3,000 pound difference CAN BE the difference on snow, ice, wet roads, when that tail cracks like the whip it'll be.

    you wanna face that?

    i always read the bills, and checked the weights, and did the proper hook up. that always avoided any issues that "might arise" during the haul.

    best thing to do is, NOT BE LAZY, and break them down, and set 'em up CORRECTLY.

    then inform the dispatch, load supervisor, terminal manager, WHOMEVER that they were set up wrong.


    at least, i valued my CDL that much to have done that.

    but what do i know, after only a mere 48 years..???
     
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  6. blairandgretchen

    blairandgretchen Road Train Member

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    South west Missouri
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    7 years pulling them.

    Preferably you want the heavier up front. 3-4k lbs won't make a difference.

    So long as axles scale out , you're fine.

    Hope this helps.
     
  7. blairandgretchen

    blairandgretchen Road Train Member

    12,000
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    Dec 9, 2011
    South west Missouri
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    Yeah, you know heaps.

    Just answer the question, like you were in the situation, without it going to an armageddon situation.

    3K lbs difference in a hooked set ain't nothing to fret about - if it scales, roll.
     
  8. Allow Me.

    Allow Me. Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Rancho Mirage, Ca.
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    "Safety first" in this business, right ? 3000 should be ok heavier on rear trailer, I mean you can legally axle a 3000 difference between axle 4 and 5 on the same trailer, 17k axle 4 and 17k axle 5, or up to 20k axle 4 but only 14k axle 5 ( gross 34k 1 trailer)
     
    Trucker61016 Thanks this.
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