48' vs. 53'stepdeck..

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by negativecold13, Jan 29, 2024.

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  1. negativecold13

    negativecold13 Medium Load Member

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    I have pulled both, mostly 48', but seem to come up short on deck space, which costs some good loads. I see a lot of 48', but seems to me that 53' would always be better, or am I missing something. Thanks
     
    negativecold13, Jan 29, 2024
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  2. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    If you come to Commiefornia with a 53’, remember to keep the tandem close or forward due to the king pin/bridge law.
     
    Diesel Dave, Jan 29, 2024
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  3. beastr123

    beastr123 Road Train Member

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    The KPRA rules do not apply to 48' and below in most if not all states.
    Most overall length laws in (mostly) eastern states also do not apply to 48' trailers.
    The tables in the front of your Motor Carrier Atlas are 97% accurate concerning sizing and bridge rules (I say 97% because there is a possibility of a state rule change after publication).
    Some states may still enforce a no overhang rule on any trailer over 48'.
     
    Last edited: Jan 29, 2024
    beastr123, Jan 29, 2024
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  4. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    I never mentioned a 48’. I posted about a 53’ and for CALIFORNIA.
     
    Diesel Dave, Jan 29, 2024
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  5. beastr123

    beastr123 Road Train Member

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    True
    I apologize
    I was responding to @negativecold13 and tagged your post by mistake.
     
    beastr123, Jan 30, 2024
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  6. sbaumann14

    sbaumann14 Road Train Member

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    I’ve got a Great Dane combo 51’. Works perfect. 10’ on the upper, 41’ lower with can locks at 20’ and 40’ so I have space to put on a can or two and not hit the step. DO NOT go into Conn with the spread open. $750 fine and you will close it.
     
    sbaumann14, Feb 4, 2024
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  7. negativecold13

    negativecold13 Medium Load Member

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    Well looks like I will be getting a retanuoir 53' fixed spread axle.
     
    negativecold13, Feb 9, 2024
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  8. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    How long is the bridge ?
     
    Diesel Dave, Feb 9, 2024
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  9. negativecold13

    negativecold13 Medium Load Member

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    I believe 10'. Not sure, will measure it tommorrow and get a picture
     
    negativecold13, Feb 11, 2024
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  10. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    Bridge is from king pin to center of rear axle.
     
    Diesel Dave, Feb 12, 2024
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