Ca legal step deck?

No permit needed. In Florida the tandem axle weight is 44k. Drives or trailer doesnt matter. Many states have different max weight limits, the feds don't put a maximum limit, they only set the minimum limit of 34k for states to follow but they can allow more if they choose.

 

He is correct. No permit, no questions asked...44k on the trailer in Florida.

 

Does anyone know what is the manufacturer's weight capacity for the rear axles (spread and joined)?

 

That's gonna vary by what axles and suspension the original owner specced.

 

I would think spread and tandem rating would be the same. The spread is just to spread the weight out over road or bridge.

 

Sooo. IN THEORY.......... If I'm looking at worst case (tandem rear with 34k and 34k on drives), 80,000 gross weight. I need to find the exact place to center the weight to be legal.
I know when empty, the front and rear will not be equal (truck +trailer and trailer + overhang in back).
How can I have the best shot at finding the "spot"?

 

Basic math. I think it is the distance between the kingpin and the center of the axle group. I only got one trailer now, when i got it i goggled the formula, measured it out and marked it with a paint pen. Sorry i can't be more help other than to suggest you google the formula.

 

What key words did you use?

 

It is c/l of kingpin to c/l of axle group. So, if you might have a 53 with a movable rear axle you would have the "spot" for the close coupled axles and 5' behind that would be the "spot" for the spread.

 

The thing is... the empty weight is not equal between each group of axles. Then, balancing the load on center would not balance the load between the axle groups.