I need help backing up a spread axle :(

Speed axle is identical to a tanker. Pivots in the back. But it’s easier because sometimes you can see over the flat. Years ago I was a spotter and trained people to back up. My advise is always never turn the steering wheel too sharp, and always look at the shadows. If there’s a trailer next to where you park you can see the perfect line of the shadow of the other trailer.

One thing specific to flats though is don’t turn sharp forward or reverse it’s really hard on the front axle and the frame. Use 3 point turns instead (back into a space to turn around instead of uturn). Or uturn on dirt or gravel instead of pavement.

 

Dump valve on the rear axle of a spread is your friend for multiple reasons.

My 48x102 spread will go in most places easier than my lowboy with closed tandems….

 

The idea to backing a spread axle is all about your setup. Don't ever back at a 90 degree angle. You need to set up at a 45 degree angle. You turn the wheel maybe one full turn, watch your wheels and adjust as necessary. The axles will tell you how you need to turn and adjust. The reason why it's important to set up at a 45 is because you'll need space on your blindside to get under it. With a tandem trailer, you will decide where it goes. With a spread axle, it's gonna tell you where it goes lol. I'll even also advise: when you go to the truck stop, be selective where you shut down and park. It isn't going to be every truck stop that will be meant for flatbed drivers.

 

“Secrets” ? GET A DUMP VALVE FOR THE REAR AXLE…… like mentioned already.

 

^^^^ Definitely…


Pulled the first 48x102 air ride spread in 1989-90. The rear axle dump ability was good for tight turns, as well as unloading train wheels / axle sets. Dump the trailer made it easier to roll them to the back of the trailer. And dumping the tractor bags made loading the wheels easier since the trailer nose was lower….

 

haha that's what they told me starting tanker, then I entered a crowded refinery and was expected to backup all kinds of weird twists and turns... hit something hazardous and go boom fun stuff. I've seen crazy flatbedder videos in New York backing up very tight construction sites and up skyscrapers.

48' not sure if equipped with dump valves, ill ask

I never thought about the shadows, that's very clever!

didn't realize the trailers had separate dump valves til i read ya'lls posts, that's genius! Basically turns the other axel into a tag-axel?

Good point, ill avoid harder spots until I get some practice.

Yeah this is great! I'm wondering if a trailer doesn't have one, could you rig a makeshift dump valve without cutting the air line to run a brass T?

makes perfect sense! Thanks for the insight.

 

This! I can walk on sideways in a doorway. But I learned when your backing and have it going in the direction you want. Put air back in, or it's gonna go way past what you desired.

 

Here is one thing everyone has not said.

Until you get used to backing a spread. Take your time. Don’t rush.
The other thing is be smooth and steady. Even if it’s slow.

 

Yes it’s a learning curve….

 

Dumping the rear axle on the trailer transfers the weight to the front axle, lets the rear axle just float without weight on it.

Saves tires plus it’s like backing a shorter trailer, just have to be careful and not over compensate on your steering…