Tractor Trailer Match 3 axle rgn

Too many variables to answer. 20k steer, state laws, wheelbase..........

You can definitely get by with a three axle tractor but won't be able to permit a 55 ton load in most states.

 

80k load? Your empty weight will probably be around 45k, so 125k gross. I believe you will be able to permit that in many states, but weight distribution may be a challenge. Some states have 20k max per axle. In those states you will only be able to go 100k plus your steer, and getting the weight balanced will be tough.

 

You'd do better with a 4 axle...... as @Oxbow says you'd be 45-50k empty. I know a few states east that only allow 20-22 per axle one your drive.....

Weight distribution will be your biggest hurdle. If your set on a 3 axle tractor then just get a 35-45 ton RGN....

 

well after re reading.....that 55 ton have a place for a 4th axle?

 

I’ve got an Xl stretch, with flip third, and a heavy haul double frame three axle Pete. I’m almost 50k unlaiden. I can put 59 on thr tridem, 46 on the drives an 20 on the steers according to my permit. It’s easier said than done. I’ve got a flip neck extension that helps

 

unless you are running only a limited area - you cannot bank on 46k on a tandem group. Many states restrict axles to 20k per axle - so only 40k on a tandem. Plus you can only go 20k on the steer if it is rated for it. If you are using a general freight truck it is much more likely a 12k or 13.3k steer.
Next if you stay with a 35 or 40 ton trailer your empty weight will be lower and you likely will be able to get a longer well. A 55 ton is going to have 24’or 26’ for the most part. A 35 ton tandem with a flip or 40 ton tandem with a flip will likely have 29’ well. Some even have wells as long as 33’(but they must be permitted in some states for length or are non compliant in California)


Having said all this - you are not going scale 80k payload as a 6 axle except in very limited states like perhaps Ohio or Michigan.

bottom line is you can’t haul big loads without big equipment - there I said it. And the OP has stated he doesn’t really know heavy hauling. So, the answer is if you are going to jump in - perhaps you should start as a 5 axle or 6 axle set up and learn your way.

the tickets will be cheaper as 5 axle than try tong to be a 7 axle.

 

There are a lot of options for trailers. 40 or 50 ton trailers can have tridems, or tandem with a detachable 3rd axle. A 55 ton trailer is qoing to be heavy for hauling 40 ton loads, whereas hauling the same load with a lighter trailer will make permits less expensive. Also, you will be able to haul heavier legal loads.

It really depends on what you intend to haul.