Balancing a load

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Palazon, Jun 26, 2009.

  1. Palazon

    Palazon Road Train Member

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    Feb 5, 2009
    Tacoma, WA
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    Ok, let me start by saying I can make a load legal. I drive for Swift in the Heavy division. Is there a way to balance the load over the various axles that makes it more efficient to run? I don't have anything specific in mind (traction, fuel consumption, power), just trying to learn from the guys more experienced.

    Normaly, I drive a 4 axle frieghtliner, with either a 3 axle adjustable trailer (reefer) or a 3 axle non adjustable with a tag (dry).
     
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  3. txmoorej

    txmoorej Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2009
    Dallas, TX
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    Yes, there is.
     
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  4. Yatista

    Yatista Medium Load Member

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    Jan 25, 2009
    Upstate New York
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    The weight on your heaviest axle or set of axles makes it the hardest to pull. Not real news to anyone but can have an extreme effect on ride, fuel economy, and ability to climb grades. It is best, within bridge laws, to adjust axle sets to as close to equal as reasonable with the drives being slightly heavier that the trailer set.
     
    Palazon Thanks this.
  5. txmoorej

    txmoorej Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2009
    Dallas, TX
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    I agree, Yatista.
     
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