Axle Archives - A1 Emergency Roadside Service

August 25, 2022

How Much Can a Semi Truck Really Haul?

When it comes to how much weight a semi truck can haul, there are two main factors to consider: the truck itself and the road conditions where it’s driving. The first factor comes down to the truck’s size. The longer and heavier a semi truck is, the less weight it will be able to haul – or, at least, the slower it will be able to haul that weight.

What Is the Cargo Capacity of a Typical Semi Truck?

A typical semi truck is allowed to carry at least 45,000 pounds on its trailer. The total weight on the trailer includes both the weight of the trailer and cargo, as well as the weight of any other outside forces acting on it such as wind or passing trucks. A typical semi truck’s cargo capacity is highly dependent on many factors like size of the load and driving conditions. Drivers are required by federal law to follow strict guidelines for loading an over-dimensional load that has an extended wheelbase.

Are There Different Types of Cargo Capacity Weights?

There are three types of cargo capacity weights for semi trucks: gross weight, axle weight and tandem axle weight. The gross vehicle weight is the total weight of the truck, including the load. The axle weight is the total load applied to that specific axle. Tandem axles have a set limit to how much they can carry on both axles combined. If one axle has a carrying limit of 10,000 lbs., then this means that the other axle must also be able to support 10,000 lbs. If one axle is only capable of supporting 5,000 lbs., then you’ll need to take off some weight from the other side before it’s balanced with your driving needs and safety requirements

What Is The Greatest Weight A Semi Truck Has Ever Pulled?

The heaviest load ever pulled was 4,800 tons by a Saudi Arabian logistics company using a tractor-trailer truck with 172 axles.

The number of axles has a lot to do with the amount of weight that can be carried. The standard semi truck has four axles with each one able to carry around 40,000 pounds. Between all of the axles semi trucks have the capacity to hold hundreds of thousands of pounds. Trucks have these high capacities because they distribute weight evenly through axles.

General Tips For Driving With A Heavy Load Capacity

Driving on highways can pose some challenges for semi trucks carrying heavy loads. It is recommended to use extra caution while driving in hilly areas, on bumpy roads and drive at reduced speeds. Drivers should also make sure that they do not stop abruptly and do not idle in neutral gear with brakes set as these actions will put more pressure on the transmission and cause the engine to work harder. Most importantly, drivers should make sure to follow their truck’s owner manual which provides them with specific instructions regarding braking system maintenance, loading of cargo, torque limits and other relevant information that affects how much weight the truck can carry.

Need Semi Axle Repair? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of semi truck axle repair or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

Axle

July 24, 2022

Everything You Need to Know About Semi Truck Axle Repair

Do you have a semi truck with axle problems? If so, you’re not alone, as semi truck axle repair is one of the most common issues truckers face in their industry today. Whether your problem stems from an age-related defect, an accident that occurred at some point in the past, or something else entirely, you will want to take steps to fix the problem ASAP. Here’s everything you need to know about semi truck axle repair, including some common causes and what to do if it happens to you.

When Do Semi Truck Axles Fail?

There are a few different reasons why semi truck axles might fail. Some of the most common reasons are due to improperly adjusted wheel bearings, oil seal failures and excessive heat from improperly adjusted brakes. Friction from the wheels turning causes the metal to slowly break down over time and eventually wear out. Semi truck axles can also wear out from hitting bumps or potholes in the road. The weight of the truck itself putting strain on the axle could be an additional cause, also if the truck is overloaded. Axles can fail due to normal wear and tear or corrosion and from driving in salt or other harsh conditions.

Can A Broken Semi Truck Axle Be Repaired?

Yes, a broken semi truck axle can be repaired, but it will likely require a professional. The first step is to assess the damage. If the axle is bent, it will need to be replaced. However, if the axle is simply cracked, it can be welded back together. There are three main types of welding that can be used for this repair: oxy-acetylene welding, arc welding, and mig welding. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consult with a professional before deciding which one is right for your needs.

When Should You Worry About Axles?

Many people don’t think about their truck’s axle until something goes wrong. But if you know the signs of trouble, you can head off problems before they start. Here are five things to watch for:

Uneven tire wear. If your truck’s tires are wearing down unevenly, it could be a sign that the axle is out of alignment.
Vibrations while driving. If you feel vibrations coming from the axle, it could be a sign that the bearings or U-joints are worn out.
Loud noises while driving. If you hear grinding or crunching noises coming from the axle, it could be a sign that the gears are stripped or damaged.
Difficulty steering.
Oil on the front or the back side of hubs.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix A Semi Truck Axle?

On average, it can cost anywhere from $200 and up to fix a semi truck axle. This price can increase or decrease depending on the severity of the damage and the type of axle that needs to be repaired. If you need to replace an axle, the cost will be on the higher end. In some cases, only one part is damaged so replacing just one part would lower the cost significantly. For example, if only one hub was damaged, but not both hubs, then repairing just one hub could save you up to 50% off the total repair bill.

How To Prevent Axles From Breaking Down

While some axle issues are unavoidable, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them. First, make sure your truck is properly aligned. This will ensure that your tires are wearing evenly. Second, keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure. This will help reduce wear and tear on the axle itself. Check the hubs for oil leaks as that could be a sign of an oil seal failure. Finally, have your truck regularly serviced and inspected by a qualified mechanic. By catching problems early, you can avoid major repairs down the road.

Need Help With Semi Truck Axle Repair? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need semi truck axle repair or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.