Spreads or Tandems

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by Gears, Sep 16, 2009.

  1. Gears

    Gears Trucker Forum STAFF - Gone, But Not Forgotten.

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    I posted this on another thread, but see where the previous poster asked a question quite some time ago and there was never a response. So I'm posting here as I need to pull the trigger on a trailer, sooner than later.

    I'm looking at a 53' reefer with spread sliders. I've pulled a 48 with a fixed spread previously and really liked the ride. It wasn't hard to back but I can see where tire scrub played an issue when making tight turn backs.

    I'm intrigued by this dump valve that was mentioned for the forward or rear wheel sets in order to minimize tire scrub. Is this something that has to be added or is it a factory installed standard system?

    One final question, 53' Spread and 53' tandem reefers. The spread has Thermo-King and tandem a Carrier. Same year. The tandem is $1,500 less than the tandem. Worth it to move up to the sliding tandem (it also has aluminums and new recaps)?

    Thanks in advance for your replies...:biggrin_25517:
     
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  3. HaulnHorses

    HaulnHorses Light Load Member

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    The dump valves can be added later at any time. I run spread axle trailers and have in cab switches to control each axle individually on the fly.
     
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  4. Pete_379X

    Pete_379X Super Chrome

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    I've never pulled a reefer but my skate had a dump on the rear axle and had it wired to a factory in dash switch. Made backing a breeze empty but I never liked to dump it much when loaded. Just had to watch the tail swing with the rear axle lifted. Recaps FTL...
     
  5. MedicineMan

    MedicineMan Road Train Member

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    the reefer i'm trying to buy has both axles set up as lift axles. A dump dumps the air taking the pressure off the axle s it will scrub easier allowing you to choose which axle to pivot off of. the lift actually lifts it in the air
     
  6. 550hpW900L

    550hpW900L Road Train Member

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    It's got dumps to al and u don't wanna lift it when making turns or backing.
     
  7. MedicineMan

    MedicineMan Road Train Member

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    I know that.. shut up. I'm showing off here!
     
  8. MedicineMan

    MedicineMan Road Train Member

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    you mean I can't put 150 pounds of air in the tiers, lift one axle loaded and roll across the empty lane at the scales???? man, what good is it then?
     
  9. Winchester Magnum

    Winchester Magnum Road Train Member

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    I personaly would pay the extra $1500 to get the spread. I hate the recaps, but whatever.

    As for the independent dumps on each axle, you can not get that feature from the factory, however I know there are dealers that will install it for you. Perhaps not every dealer though. Independent dumps swithes from the cab is the shizz
     
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  10. MedicineMan

    MedicineMan Road Train Member

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    they void warranty which is why you won't find them from the factory
     
  11. Winchester Magnum

    Winchester Magnum Road Train Member

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    Yes, that is the reason. Plus that set-up is illegal, like we really GAF....(grin)
     
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