A Truck with a Different Look...

I simply had to turn around today on my way home from work. This truck was parked at a neighboring business and it caught my eye. While I was taking the picture, the driver came out, was very sociable, and tried to explain the set-up to me. He said the truck was customized... and something about not having to raise the trailer as high with this set-up as would have to be done with the conventional fifth-wheel. I'm trying to recall exactly how he explained it, but with only a very basic understanding of tractor-trailers, it pretty much went over my head. I think he said something about "mechanical" coupling or something... instead of pneumatics?

Would someone here like to try once again to explain this to me. It's kind of intriguing. Do you see very many rigs set up this way?

Thanks!

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Thanks, Brickman! I don't know much about tractor-trailer configurations, but I wasn't understanding his explanation... and I wish I would have asked more questions. The guy seemed very straightforward and down-to-earth which led me to believe this was done for a purpose other than "cool". Oh, the truck belonged to a small company with about a half-dozen drivers, I think he said at one point.

The fifth wheel slides because he mentioned having it slid all the way back. Plus, he was saying that he liked the COE because he sometimes hauls construction materials in 60' lengths and, while he gets his permit, he does not need an escort? So I assume the fifth wheel can be slid forward to the more typical location directly behind the cab.

I wish I would have gotten a picture of the fifth wheel area. I think that's critical to his explanation since he said that the advantage of this set-up is that he doesn't have to raise the trailer as high to hook it. But height has nothing to do with where the fifth wheel is... so there must be something different there.

I didn't even think about it then, but you're right -- his gas mileage has to be pretty rugged. By the way, he's pulling a flatbed. It had framework affixed to the sides for the tarp... which just makes it look like a van in the photo.

Dang, I wish I would have gotten some better pictures!

 

I do have another picture, but it's taken facing the extended fifth wheel area... and the trees in the background at that angle interfere with the overall view. Plus, what I assume are his company's identifying numbers are clearly visible on the one tank... so I was reluctant to post that one.

I'm always somewhat shy about taking pictures of people's property. This guy was nice and said it was okay. Do most truckers mind if you take pics of their rigs?

 

You're good, Brickman! I didn't notice it 'til I saw the logo of the tarp manufacturer on the side while standing right there. DUH! LOL