I tried searching for this, but to no go ...
I'm looking into buying a dump truck and I am wondering what the drawbacks are to taking a decent (trailer) tractor and replacing the fifth-wheel with a decent dump body. What would the differences or limitations be compared with a conventional tandem dump? Are there any suspension/handling issues?
I realize it would take a lot of electrical work besides just the hydr. and dump ...
Any thoughts appreciated!
Thanks!

 

It's been done. However, I think if you have to buy the tractor and then do the conversion I would think you could buy a dump truck for less dollars.

The one I know about he already had the truck and bed. After it was done he felt it wasn't worth the effort.

kc0iv

 

Unless the tractor is heavy speced it will have a thinner frame than a regular dump therefor maybe leading to frame problems also the suspension on a tractor is not normally meant for a dump truck.

 

Converted highway tractors do not last long. The lightweight single frame, light axles, and air suspension all conspire against it. Most highway trucks have 12,000lb front and 40,000lb rears, while tandem dumps need 16,000lb to 20,000lb front and 44,000 or 46,000lb rears. The rear suspension needs to be a walking beam type- either Hendrickson or Chalmers. The common 10 speed and 13 speed transmissions do not have low enough gears. A dump would need either a 8LL or 15 speed. Check the http://www.truckpaper.com/, there are plenty of dump trucks for sale.

 

DON'T DO IT
If you do your asking for nothing but trouble :!: :!:

 

Overloaded,

You made some very good points. However, the rear suspension could be air ride if it is heavy enough. I have seen plenty of dump trucks with air ride. The rear suspension could hold up if a pusher was added also to take some of the weight off the rears and to support the frame. But, as you say, I wouldn't suggest it either.

 

This is what happens when you don't have the proper suspension.

 

Thanks! Sounds like you guys have saved me some trouble and then some!
This forum rocks! :wink:

 

I do this type of work for a living, however I operate tractor trailer dumps on a regular basis, but am quite familiar with tri-axles.

I wouldn't suggest this conversion. It will in most cases cost more than it's worth, and in the long run it will simply become a headache. I have saw it way too many times -guys trying to cut a corner or two and wind up going broke.