Me.Paul.101:
Maybe a dim question but I’ve often wondered why there is so much space between the 5th wheel and the back of the cab on a lot of these yanks. It can’t be weight distribution can it?. Or is it that the driver wants to be as far away from the load as possible?. Like I say it may be a dim question. Any idea’s?..
Its due to low axle weights, especially front axles (steer)12000lb less than 6 tonne. There is whats known as a bridge formula which allows certain distances between sets of axles to obtain max GVW(80000lb 36 tonne). Max trailer length is 53ft, no overall length limit with trailer hooked.
Can get confusing, most trailers have sliding tandem axles to adjust weight on fifth wheel and all axles. King pin to centre of trailer tandem is 41 ft, 40 for California max.