finding balance point when stretching a class 8

[LDB]

I am looking fairly seriously at getting into a class 8. I haven't decided if I will go new or slightly used. I've seen several Volvo's and T600's with less than or barely over 100,000 miles on them. If I go that route I will have to have the frame stretched. Is there a formula for determining the wheel position? I thought about the centerpoint between the rear axles below the centerpoint of the box but didn't know if that would work out or not.

I'm also still considering a truck like the one on www.sst100.com and later adding a tag axle but I think I'd rather have the tandems. I think it would be more stable and also a more comfortable ride. I know Toes has experience in this and hopefully will add his input and I appreciate any and all comments.

Leo
truck 4958

Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.

 

[tazman]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

If you provide some specifics ( like GVWR , WB , CA and GAWR ) I may be able to run the configuration through the calculator program I have access to ....

This will give you the new CA and BL (body length).....

Generally 60% to 70% of the body should be forward of the center of the rear axles...(rule of thumb)....

Hope this helps...

Frank in Pa.


"The Beast in the East"

 

[LDB]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

>If you provide some specifics ( like GVWR , WB , CA and GAWR)
>
>Frank in Pa.
>
>"The Beast in the East"

Well, here's a chance to look dumb but I don't know what CA is. I'm looking at either a Volvo 780, KW T600, or KW T800, any of which would be 52k GVWR. Whichever I choose would have 12,000 front and dual 20,000 rear axles which I presume is GAWR although I may learn I know less than I think I do. The CA part I'll have to not guesstimate until I learn what that is and the wheelbase is the variable I'm trying to figure out to know how long to tell them to make it once I choose a platform. Thanks for any hints you can provide.

Leo
truck 4958

Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.

 

[tazman]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

CA means Cab to Axle length

CE means Cab to End of frame...

Most trucks use a CA to determine the load balance...and the body length.....

Hope this helps

Frank


"The Beast in the East"

 

[LDB]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

If/when I find a truck that I'm serious about I'll get and post actual numbers.

Leo
truck 4958

Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.

 

[jaminjim]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

But are you limited to 34k on twin screws?

 

[LDB]

RE: finding balance point when stretching a class

It would be a 52k gvw truck. The limiting factor would be box length I believe except perhaps in rare circumstances.

Leo
truck 4958

Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.