question for the professional driver!

[JasonBourne]

So you hook up to a trailer that the previos driver said he "scaled it out" and the tandems were in the right position. Should you re-scale or would the tandem position be correct for your tractor as well? IMHO I said re-weigh,because the position of their fifth wheel could be different than what you have.

Appreciate all answers
JasonBourne

[RickyRicardo]

The gross weight would be the same with an identical tractor if the fuel level is the same.
The fifth wheel setting will make a difference also. But unless you are real close to the limit, there shouldn't be a notable difference if they are at close to the same setting.
Once you do this for a while you will be able to judge it easier without weighing all the time. Especially when you get familiar with hauling certain loads all the time.
For the time being, You should probably weigh if you are in doubt. That way you are covered.

[River17]

RickyRicardo gave you a pretty good answer there.
When in doubt scale it, because otherwise it is your ticket. You can't say your dog ate your homework.

[pro1driver]

Originally Posted by JasonBourne

So you hook up to a trailer that the previos driver said he "scaled it out" and the tandems were in the right position. Should you re-scale or would the tandem position be correct for your tractor as well? IMHO I said re-weigh,because the position of their fifth wheel could be different than what you have.

Appreciate all answers
JasonBourne

this has happened to me a few times. if the trucks are identical, i leave things alone. however, there have been times i was "told" the other driver scaled it out, and he didn't.........

i feel that it should not be assumed the other driver actually scaled the load, unless he shows you the ticket as proof.

[Gonfercoffee]

also depends on the position of your fuel tank
compared to the other tractor
if the tank forward you will be heavier on the steers
tank is back heavier on the drives

[Trucker_18a]

Ahh, to know the differences.

Let's pretend I'm a D.O.T. Officer (I'm actually a Public Service Instructor) and I looked upon your Rig with great dissatisfactions and much contemplations.

I absolutely know I'm Dealing with a Greenhorn here, and I can have my way, eh eh eh.

So, "How's the road, Driver?" (I love to make them feel good).

Looking at the tires, I see the D.O.T. Rub Ring is almost touching the ground.

"Running Empty, eh?" (As I motion him to my Portable Scale)

"Lessee here, Front Axle, 29,481 pounds. OK, next Axle"
"Drive Axle, 51,679 pounds, OK, Next Please"
"Tandem Axle, 50, 020 pounds. OK, Let's do the trailer."

"Front Axle, 59,481 pounds. Not Bad there Driver, OK, last axle"
"Back Axle, 61,325 pounds."

"OK there Driver, you're Legal, Have a Good Day, and
Be Safe"...