Volvo 780 5th wheel position for flatbed

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by Stringb8n, Sep 13, 2022.

  1. Stringb8n

    Stringb8n Road Train Member

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    Sep 27, 2015
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    I just got this truck a few weeks ago. I realize the ride height valve may be bad. Sometimes takes forever to fill or exhaust air. Dumping from 12psi to 0 took what felt like a long long while. Noticed the front airbags looked like they leaned forward a little. So I slid the 5th wheel forward and it seems like it straightend the airbags up some. I only moved it a couple notches, so it's a little forward of dead center of drive axles. Closer to forward axle now. The leveling valve looked like it wasn't at a 90 degree angle. Maybe 85-87. Where would you all put the 5th wheel? The trailer is a 53 foot flatbed. The 780 has the 13,200 lb steer axle rating. Thank you in advance.
     
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  3. loudtom

    loudtom Road Train Member

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    I use 24.5 tires on the same axle, and it's getting really hard to source 16-ply steer tires in order to take advantage of the 13,200 lb axles. If you can keep it under 12,500 lbs, then it will be easier to source tires on short notice or while over the road.
     
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  4. Jacoooooooo

    Jacoooooooo Heavy Load Member

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    Oct 20, 2013
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    Well, that depends how long is your frame and what slider you have for the fifth wheel. Also, what is the kingpin offset on the trailer. It is impossible to tell, you will have to take it to a scale and weigh. Be as close to 12k as possible on empty.
     
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