How well do you know BIG Pushers? Socrates: It’s not what you know, it’s what you don't. The WHY Is WISDOM.
Some applications allow or are permitted in states grossing 20,000 to 22,400 lbs./axle, thus 20K-23K pushers. Wide base/super singles may work but is state dependent. 315’s can be risky on steer and or lifts. Example: one state limit 315’s on the steer to 15,600 lbs. when pulling heavy and or wide, all other state applications allow 20K. Tire patch laws can reduce even more.
Some states utilize spread axle charts for permitted heavies. 54” is common, 60” allow more. The wider spreads require a longer 5th wheel slide (72”), especially if the goal is 20K or 22K on the steer utilizing flip, extended neck, or a jeep. The kingpin to goose neck when turning, dictates 5th wheel position, along with weight dist.
Why 14.6K, 16K, or 18K steer with a large pusher? The single or small dual steering gears can’t handle the added weight off road, or with the axle raised for added traction on heavies. Ground load plus two thousand lbs. of pusher tare weight is now payload, making this condition (creep/site) worse, easily adding 5-6K+ lbs. to the steer. The largest single steering gear is the TRW TAS 85, at 18K. Some twin gears are only rated for 20K. Yes, we have a calculator. There is no FMVSS for Creep. Strong Arm steering leads to leaking and or failed gears.
CA, MO, OK, and TX require the pusher ground load to be within 10% of the drives on heavies. The ACK124 (Watson Chalin w/William’s valve) adjusts the pusher bag pressure automatically (based on the drive air bag suspension pressure) eliminating the manual regulator, CAT scale and tickets.
Turn radius was noted previously. Moving tires away from the frame results in a shorter radius. Yes 103” is a wee bit over width (1/2 inch each side). Is maneuverability important? Up to 106” is possible. A few inches reduces the radius in feet.
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