Set Forward Axles and Shallow King Pins

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by ProfessionalNoticer, Oct 23, 2021.

  1. ProfessionalNoticer

    ProfessionalNoticer Road Train Member

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    What's the advantages/disadvantages of a 48' flat that has the axles moved forward 3' and a 16" kinda setting?

    I was thinking moving the axles forward 3' would help bridge laws essentially making it a 45' but still have the extra 3' of deck space of a 48'. However, the shallow 16" kingpin has me perplexed.
     
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  3. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    The king pin setting is definitely important on shorter wheel base trucks. Before I picked up my new trailer, my rental had a 30" king pin, and I couldn't push anything more than 6" over the nose.

    New trailer is 24", and has allowed me to haul loa ds that Before would have hit my headache rack
     
  4. ProfessionalNoticer

    ProfessionalNoticer Road Train Member

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    I'm used to 30". Wouldn't mind a 24 but it seems like 16" setback is too far. I know I'm probably missing something here.
     
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  5. Tug Toy

    Tug Toy Road Train Member

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    When I had my 5th wheel replaced on my 48 I had it moved from 30 down to 18. Gave me more front overhang.
    My new 53 has a 36” kingpin To be Tennasee compliant. ( not my choice but I bought it from TN and that’s the only way they order them). My truck is stretched now so I have plenty of room for 60 or 65’ stuff.
     
  6. special-k

    special-k Road Train Member

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    Easier to move weight onto your steer. Slide your 5th wheel ahead without worrying about hitting bunk with corner of the trailer. My experience has been with concentrated loads like steel but l wouldn't have a deep pin setting if l had a choice. The axles slid ahead will make it more manoeuvrable but make them carry more weight. Shouldn't be a real issue with a 10'1" spread. Plus if you run your 5th wheel way ahead and have a heavy front axle it'll pull weight off the drives too. A lot of multi axle trucks do that. Especially in Mi were multi axle trucks are only allowed 32000lbs on the drives.
     
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  7. ProfessionalNoticer

    ProfessionalNoticer Road Train Member

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    So how does it fit in with a 48' spread that has the axles moved forward 3'?
     
  8. special-k

    special-k Road Train Member

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    It's in the answer if you read it. The rear spread will be easier to load heavier because it's further up and the steer will be easier to get weight on because of the shallow kingpin And it'll be easier to get around with because it's shorter. Basically a 45 foot trailer.
     
  9. MACK E-6

    MACK E-6 Moderator Staff Member

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    What law is there in Tennessee regarding kingpin setback?
     
  10. ProfessionalNoticer

    ProfessionalNoticer Road Train Member

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    Thanks. I did read it but that part just didn't stick for some reason. Maybe I should have my coffee before reading these replies!
     
  11. kwswan

    kwswan Road Train Member

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    Kingpin to axle group spacing. I think it's 41 ft from Kingpin to center of front axle.
     
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