Switching from a 48 to 53'

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by playamwj12, May 26, 2016.

  1. mc8541ss

    mc8541ss Road Train Member

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    I have a 53' fixed spread. The axles are set just like a 48' fixed spread. The only problem I have when loading is with loaders who want to load the load in the center of the trailer. Putting too much weight to the rear. Have to tell them every time to load it like a 48' and ignore that last 5'. Have been thinking of putting a sticker on saying center load here. I haul a lot of long loads, both flat plate, pipe and sheet piling, so it comes in very handy for me.
    Handles about the same as a 48' and it's easy to get used to the tail swing. Only other issue is having to watch the downward tail swing. Have scraped my bumper a couple of times and another o/o actually broke his off. Hope I never catch mine that hard but if mine ever gets torn off when it goes back on it will be 6" shorter.
     
    kylefitzy and MJ1657 Thank this.
  2. daf105paccar

    daf105paccar Road Train Member

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    You need a button to raise the airsuspension in the cab.
     
  3. mc8541ss

    mc8541ss Road Train Member

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    I can raise my front axle but not from inside the cab.
     
  4. daf105paccar

    daf105paccar Road Train Member

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    I mean raising the ride height off the trailer so you have more clearance to pass obstacles.