Is it possible to have fixed spread axles moved?

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by Bdog, Dec 5, 2015.

  1. Bdog

    Bdog Road Train Member

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    In my quest to find a trailer (drop deck with dovetail and ramps) most I have found have a fixed spread axle setup. I understand the pros of it and the 40k vs 34k thing and easier loading but I will be hauling my own stuff and it is less than 25k. One of my main concerns in finding a trailer is the maneuverability aspect and the tight spots I will have to get into at jobsites and from what I gather the downside to a spread is the maneuverability of it.

    I found a nice trailer that is priced right but it is a fixed spread. Is it possible to have the rear axle permanently moved up to the front one essentially creating a tandem? I know going less than 10' apart limits me to 34k and that is ok I just want as short of kingpin to axle as possible for turning into tight spots.
     
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  3. Bdog

    Bdog Road Train Member

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    This is the trailer in question.
     

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  4. Mudguppy

    Mudguppy Degenerate Immoralist

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    I don't see why it couldn't be done, but that's not saying that you should do it. I would contact the trailer mfg. and see what they say. Especially if you're moving the rear one forward, may take away from the structural integrity, and that is bad juju if you're going to be loading your machines on those ramps.
     
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  5. Bdog

    Bdog Road Train Member

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    Good point. I didn't think of that. I did think about moving the front one back would increase the span between the kingpin and axles and could overstress the frame hence thought of moving the rear one but I didn't think about loading.
     
  6. bp88

    bp88 Light Load Member

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    Just get a 45' tandem axle if you're doing jobsites. I'd also highly suggest a DOT bulkhead if you're hauling construction material.
     
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  7. Rock 'n Roll Relocater

    Rock 'n Roll Relocater Medium Load Member

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    If you can find a spread axle with a dump valve on the rear axle you have the best of both worlds.
     
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  8. Hurst

    Hurst Registered Member

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    Just put a dump valve on the rear axle.. cheaper than moving it and problem solved.


    I move a lot of equipment. Its what I mainly go after looking for loads. I see a lot of job sites. Some large.. some tight.

    The spread will survive tight spaces and will be easier to sell later down the road.

    I've been using a 2013 53' Fontaine step deck with 10'2 spread for almost 2 yrs straight and have not had any issues at job sites due to having a spread axle.

    Hurst
     
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  9. johndeere4020

    johndeere4020 Road Train Member

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    Didn't you just learn to dump your axle last week?
     
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  10. Hurst

    Hurst Registered Member

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    Something wrong with my advise?

    Learned that I did indeed have a dump axle on my trailer.. yes.
    2 - 3 weeks ago actually. Get it right if your going to chase my faults.

    And your point?

    Hurst
     
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  11. johndeere4020

    johndeere4020 Road Train Member

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    No nothing wrong with it.
     
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