Sliding fifth wheel question

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Still undecided, Aug 31, 2022.

  1. Still undecided

    Still undecided Heavy Load Member

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    I got a different truck at work this week and it's got a sliding fifth wheel that's all the way forward. The truck is a Cascadia daycab on a frame long enough to be a sleeper, and it takes even more room to maneuver than the T680 sleeper I had before it. Two of the other drivers have given me different advice on the position of the fifth wheel, one said it's in the position that makes it hardest to maneuver and the other said it's in the spot that makes it the easiest to maneuver. Where should it be to make it maneuver the easiest?
     
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  3. Another Canadian driver

    Another Canadian driver Road Train Member

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    1-2 inches behind the middle of the tandem.
    1 hole behind.
    Depending on the distance between holes.
     
  4. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    If weight is no issue, furthest forward would maneuver easiest. Like ACD mentioned above if your loading max
     
  5. W923

    W923 Road Train Member

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    Further forward is better going forward but can mess with you going backwards…as you start the trailer heading one way it will actually go the other way briefly. It’s not really a big deal unless you’re trying to back down a narrow lane or something and make a small correction then you will notice it. I am also talking about having the fifth wheel close to 3 feet in front of the center of the tandem.
     
  6. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    The shorter your over all length. The easier to turn.

    Mine is quite a bit north of center. But that's how it's setup.
     
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  7. T2012

    T2012 Bobtail Member

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    I've always set mine all the way back as soon as I get a tractor, and that's where it stays as long as I'm in it.
    If you get used to and comfortable with a certain setting, I'd say leave it there and forget about it.
    The setting that's best for you is the one you're used to, the one you've made 1000 turns and backs with.
    But if you have it all the way forward, don't try any real tight u-turns in a drop lot.

    ....................
     
  8. shmelk

    shmelk Bobtail Member

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    Is there an advantage to having it all the way back?
     
  9. silverspur

    silverspur Road Train Member

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    If it's all the way back you are less likely to crunch your fairings on a tight turn.
     
  10. mustang190

    mustang190 Road Train Member

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    I always keep mine all the way back.
    Makes for a better ride.
     
  11. mustang190

    mustang190 Road Train Member

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    Makes a better ride, looks good and if you need to move some weight off your drives, slide your seat forward a couple of notches. :salute:
     
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