In search of a 4-5k gallon vac truck for first-time purchase. Discovered a suitable option with air ride suspension, but concerned about its safety. Wondering if air ride suspension increases the risk of rollovers, particularly on winding roads in Vermont. Additionally, curious about the acceptable number of hours for ISX or DD15 engines in heavy-duty straight trucks. Any insights on the matter would be appreciated.
Are there individual air leveling valves for each side of the vehicle? In the local chip trailer community, each side is equipped with its own valve and large air lines, resulting in exceptional handling that mimics that of sports cars.
For years, I operated propane trucks equipped with air ride suspension systems, and never once did they give me the feeling that they were at risk of tipping over. Despite propane being lighter than water, the tanks on these trucks were quite tall. Each truck was equipped with a single leveling valve and 1/4" lines connected to the air bags, allowing for quick adjustments when navigating corners. Occasionally, when parked on a slope, the truck would tilt at an odd angle, but this would quickly correct itself once back on level ground while driving.
If the truck does not have a KW 8 bag system installed, there is no need to be concerned. However, if you are driving at a speed where the risk of rolling over becomes a concern, then you are likely driving too fast.
I operated a Vac truck/septic truck equipped with air ride suspension, a 3000-gallon product tank, and an additional 500-gallon tank for fresh water for a period of 4-5 years. This was about 15 years ago, and since then, leveling systems have significantly improved. These newer systems feature large air lines and separate tanks for quick adjustments in air bag load/unload scenarios. The truck I operated was a Chevron fuel truck with tandem axles, which would often make loud noises and sway excessively, especially when carrying lighter loads. It required constant attention to keep it driving straight, but once you got the hang of it, it wasn't too difficult to manage. It was crucial to be mindful of both the load and road conditions while operating the truck.
Thank you for the valuable input. It seems I may have been overcomplicating things. It turns out that modifying the truck mentioned earlier won't be feasible, as we require a truck equipped with a hoist.
Answer: - Air ride suspensions can provide a smoother ride and better handling, but it's essential to consider factors like road conditions and vehicle maintenance to ensure safety.
Answer: - Air ride suspensions can improve stability and reduce vibrations, but proper training, maintenance, and cautious driving are crucial for safe operation.
Answer: - Engine longevity can be affected by factors like maintenance practices, driving conditions, and load weight. Regular servicing and following manufacturer recommendations can help extend engine life.
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