Knowing your combination height

UK PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS FORUMS THE UK PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS FORUM (INTERACTIVE)
1

Hi all, another basic question from me, but maybe one that holds different answers and will inspire various responses…

So, on the majority of trailers there is written a phrase similar to “14’3” based on 1.25 metre fifth wheel height" or some variation thereof. I’m new to the C+E world, so is there somewhere you can find the exact height of the fifth wheel written down or recorded in some way? Is 1.25 m. the UK standard height for fifth wheels when level drive position is set? Do you measure it on a new truck?

Interested in hearing your replies!

2

:unamused: Buy a tape measure! Start your engine, build the air to correct pressure, release hand brake to level cab and reset then get on the catwalk and measure the distance from top of 5th wheel to the floor (make sure it is level ground and not pot holed). Then, get back in cab and drop your mid lift axle (if you have one obviously) then repeat above procedure. Height variations can differ with axle lowered!

That way you have the TRUE height of your fifth wheel and not the expected one. The same can be done to measure a trailer if unsure. Although Health and Safety may be an issue depending on which way you measure it :wink:

3

dri-diddly-iver:
:roll: Buy a tape measure! Start your engine, build the air to correct pressure, release hand brake to level cab and reset then get on the catwalk and measure the distance from top of 5th wheel to the floor (make sure it is level ground and not pot holed). Then, get back in cab and drop your mid lift axle (if you have one obviously) then repeat above procedure. Height variations can differ with axle lowered!

That way you have the TRUE height of your fifth wheel and not the expected one. The same can be done to measure a trailer if unsure. Although Health and Safety may be an issue depending on which way you measure it :wink:

Sweet.