In my search for a new 6-wheel dump truck with a lift axle, I encountered a challenge with the weight regulations set by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT). Specifically, I was puzzled by how a straight 6-wheel dump truck with axles rated at 10,000lbs in the front and 23,000lbs in the rear could have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 33,000lbs. According to CT regulations, a single axle truck can only support 18,000lbs per axle, leading me to question if the truck could actually only hold 28,000lbs instead of 33,000lbs. This discrepancy made me wonder if many trucks on the road are actually operating illegally and exceeding axle weight limits. Furthermore, I began to contemplate the safety implications of going over the weight limit on the axle. To achieve the full weight of a ten-wheel truck with a lift axle, would the axles need to support 18,000lbs on the steer and 18,000lbs on the drive and pusher, totaling 53,800lbs GVW. If purchasing a used truck, would one need to adjust the axle weights to align with legal regulations? Is buying a new truck the only solution to ensure correct axle weights? Furthermore, is there a risk of receiving an overweight ticket if the registered weight of 53,800lbs does not match the actual axle weight of 50,000lbs? In order for a triaxle truck to be legal in Connecticut, would it require a 22,000lbs steer axle and three 18,000lbs rear axles, totaling 74,000lbs in weight? Additionally, I am curious about the CT DOT's enforcement of weight regulations on suspension, axles, rims, and tires. Will they strictly adhere to the lowest weight capacity, such as an axle rated for 20,000lbs but with tires only able to support 16,000lbs?
When it comes to axle weights, it's important to consider the legal limits and requirements. For example, for a six-wheeler truck to be registered for 33,000 pounds, a front axle with a rating of at least 13,000 pounds is necessary. Municipal trucks often have these higher-rated front axles. In Connecticut, a tri-axle truck can weigh up to 73,000 pounds without a permit, and up to 76,500 pounds with a permit. The permit also allows for a higher weight of 44,000 pounds on the tandems. It's important to note that each axle is weighed individually, especially on dump trucks. Exceeding weight limits without a permit can result in hefty fines. If I were to customize a six-wheeler truck, I would opt for a setback axle with a 16,000-pound rating and 315/80/22.5 tires. However, it's worth considering that a heavier six-wheeler with a 10,000-pound front axle may lead to overloading issues, especially for local operations on soft soils. It's all about finding the right balance between payload capacity and operational limitations. Ultimately, ensuring compliance with axle weight regulations is key to avoiding penalties and maintaining safety on the road.
It is important to note that, regardless of your vehicle weight, law enforcement officers have ways to issue tickets. Even if you are under the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), you could still be in violation of axle weight limits, which is something DOT officers are aware of. The likelihood of being caught depends on the DOT officer and the regulations of the state. Since dump trucks do not have adjustable bodies and not every pit has a scale house to weigh each axle, it is possible to exceed axle weight limits at times.
Obtain the necessary permit, regardless of the load's location.
In 2004F550's comment, he mentioned the importance of obtaining the necessary permits regardless of where the load is located. I recently received apportioned plates for my Peterbilt tri-axle truck in New York, along with an overweight permit for 71,250 pounds. However, my apportioned plates only allow for 57,000 pounds in Connecticut. How can I increase my weight limit? My truck currently weighs 29,000 pounds. Where should I submit an application for the necessary adjustments?
I recently received my apportioned plates for my truck which is registered in New York. I have an overweight permit for New York allowing me to haul up to 71,250 pounds. However, my apportioned plates only allow me to haul up to 57,000 pounds in Connecticut, which limits the types of loads I can transport. I am now looking to obtain an overweight permit for Connecticut to increase my hauling capacity. I am curious as to why my apportioned plates do not grant me higher weight limits in other states. My truck, a 2006 Peterbilt 379 tri-axle, measures 23 feet from the steer axle to the rear drive axle. Can anyone advise on where I can apply for a Connecticut overweight permit and provide insights on how apportioned plates work in different states?
Answer: Answer: The discrepancy in weight regulations may lead to some trucks unknowingly exceeding axle weight limits in Connecticut. It is important to understand and comply with the state's regulations to avoid operating illegally.
Answer: Answer: Ensuring that axle weights align with legal regulations is crucial when purchasing a used truck in Connecticut. It is advisable to check and adjust the axle weights as needed to comply with the state's regulations.
Answer: Answer: While buying a new truck can ensure compliance with axle weight regulations in Connecticut, it is also possible to adjust and modify axle weights on existing trucks to meet legal requirements. Consulting with a professional or the CT DOT can provide guidance on this matter.
Answer: Answer: A triaxle truck in Connecticut would typically require a specific weight distribution among its axles to comply with legal requirements. This might include a certain weight for the steer axle and each of the rear axles to ensure the total weight does not exceed the specified limit.
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