Found a used tractor I'm interested in that advertises a 48000# rear axle. Not sure yet exactly what I want to haul, still doing research, but likely will be flats. Price, mileage, engine, rear ratio, appearance/condition are all to my liking.

Question-Are there any particular advantages or drawbacks to a 48000# rear axle?

Thanks 8)

 

Sounds too heavy for OTR.

You don't need a 48k rear setup unless you're gonna do heavy haul.

 

You don't need that heavy an axle unless you are planning on doing heavy haul.

 

It will weigh alot more and your ride will suffer as a result. Repairs might be slightly higher as well.

Now I don't know if this is gospel truth or not but from my understanding most heavy rears have full lockers, as in Diff lockers and an Interaxle lock and that is a benefit in slippery situations. I seem to recall not being able to get diff lockers in a 34K rear once.

 

I figured it might weigh more. Most tractors I see advertised have 40,000# rear axles, I suppose this is considered "standard"?

Thanks for the replies.

 

The axle rating is no big deal it will be a little heavier and more expensive to repair but it'll be a lot stronger. The big issue might be the suspension and 5th wheel height. Most Petes with 46 rear axles use the H/D air trac and that puts your 5th wheel at 51". Not good for pulling vans Freightliner offers a 46 rear suspension that has a lower 5th wheel height so you could still pull vans. You will probably lose some ride quality but the suspension should last longer.

 

Most likely that truck also would have a heavier frame, and possibly a 16 -18k front axle. While this setup would be virtually indestructible in normal OTR work, you will pay the price in tare weight.