[Red Clay Rambler]

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)

[Kranky]

Sounds too heavy for OTR.

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

[GMAN]

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

[marylandkw]

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.

[Red Clay Rambler]

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.

[special k]

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.

[Part Time Dweller]

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.