truck stretching

[dpea9]

I have seen some of you talk about taking a class 8 truck and stretching it to put a 22 ft box on it. Is there a minimum wheelbase length you have to have before you can stretch it to fit a 22ft box. Are the rear axles actually moved back or are the frame rails just lengthened behind the rear axles.

 

[davekc]

It is a hard question to answer. Some will depend on the type of truck as well as what the existing dimensions are already. In most cases the frame is stretched in the center and the driveline extended. But there are exceptions. Once you have your information, then I would call a good frame shop and see what your options are.






Davekc
owner
22 years
PantherII
EO moderator

 

[gandrew]

We stretched our Volvo 770 to carry a 22 ft box and here is what we learned: Be careful not to exceed 40 ft. over all length. The stretch is done by cutting the frame behind the cab and welding new frame rails of the calculated length. The driveshaft and carrier bearings are also modified. Here is what is tricky: where to figure the rear axles end up. Mine ended up too far to the rear and we are overweight on the front axle by more than 1000 lbs. when empty. We are on our third set of steers in 18 months, this last set I went up a weight range but still over the axle rating. Tandem axles are far superior in ride quality and traction on slippery surfaces, but you do pay more for some tolls. I do not mind.

 

[Jayman]

A friend of mine provided a contact for a place called "Frame and Spring" in Columbus OH. 1.800.422.0031 They stretch class 8's. I think they are right next door to FYDA.