2019 Freightliner weight isses

The 5th wheel would have to be behind center. And the OP likely wouldn’t be able to scale 80k this way. But if you take a truck with the 5th wheel behind center and load it it will take weight off the steer as you load the drives.

 

It would be interesting to test this method and see how much weight can really be moved by adding 1,000 to the drives with the 5th wheel all the way back.

 

W900 with 290” wheelbase with a stationary 5th wheel mounted rear of center was 10300 loaded, 11700 empty. He pulled a spread so it didn’t matter to him because he’d load the trailer heavy. A short wheelbase fleet style truck you may not move as much.

 

I think at least in my truck I can prove that with the 5th wheel in the center position (which is where I keep mine), the steer weight will increase after being loaded with a 40k load. Having the 5th wheel all the way back may change this.

 

Correct. Center or forward will add weight to the steer. Rear of center will leverage weight the other way.

 

Let me explain this a different way. If my steers are 11,800 while empty and with the 5th wheel in the center position, then my steer weight will rise (some 100-500 pounds) after being loaded.

 

I understand. It puts weight to the steer because you are centered. What I and others are talking about is weight coming off the steer when the 5th wheel is rear of center. I don’t know how else to explain it.

 

I do understand what you’re saying, which is why I was specific in saying that my observations have been with my 5th wheel in the center. As I’ve mentioned before,

 

I’m having the same problem. I did learn from this thread that my steer axel is rated 13200. Which is good. But I really don’t like having weight on my steers. I did this to a kenworth a few years back. I had the entire fifth wheel move back so the center pin on my plate was over my rear leaf spring arm. That way the only adjustments I need to make are on my trailer tandems. I’m going to call exodus diesel in Wright City Missouri tomorrow and see if they can do this.who knows I might just be stuck with my 5th wheel positioned where it is.

 

If you run 12.5 or a little more on your steers it’s gives you a little wiggle room on your drives and trailer if you’re loaded right to 80k.