What Truckers Need to Know About Long Wheelbase Trucks

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 20 июл 2024
  • What Truckers Need to Know About Long Wheelbase Trucks. In this video, you'll learn a bit of history about the long vs short wheelbase trucks, and the advantages and downsides of a long wheelbase configuration in a semi truck.
    LOVE SMART TRUCKING AND WANT MORE CONTENT?
    HERE'S HOW!
    → SUBSCRIBE TO SMART TRUCKING RUclips!
    Get loads of truck driver tips!
    / @smarttrucking
    → BECOME A MEMBER!
    ♥ Access special perks and cool stuff on our Channel.
    ♥ Get content that you won’t get anywhere else!
    JUST CLICK THE JOIN BUTTON UNDER ANY OF OUR VIDEOS!
    OR
    CLICK HERE!
    / @smarttrucking
    • What Truckers Need to ...
    LET’S CONNECT!
    ♥www.Smart-Trucking.com (WEBSITE)
    ♥ / smarttrucking
    ♥ / smarttrucking
    ♥ / smart_trucking
    ♥ www.instagram/smartttrucking
    All Business Inquiries: info@smart-trucking.com
    → OUR MUSIC IS ALL SOURCED FROM RUclips
    Music: From RUclips Library
    Song: Atlanta
    Song: Not For Nothing, Otis McDonald
    #trucking #cdl #trucker
  • РазвлеченияРазвлечения

Комментарии • 1,2 тыс.

  • @DMSparky
    @DMSparky 3 года назад +511

    I’m not a trucker, I’m just a curious mind. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your knowledge and stories with us!

  • @timothycook2917
    @timothycook2917 4 года назад +1608

    My favorite Schneider joke when I was with Schneider (stop me if you've heard this one before!): Man sitting in his truck at the truck stop watches a Schneider come in and attempt to back into a parking space. After about 4 or 5 minutes trying, the Schneider driver sets the brakes and jumps out and comes over to this other driver and asks if he could back his truck for him. The guy says sure, and jumps in the Schneider truck and backs it in in one shot. As he's climbing out, the Schneider driver comes up to him and offers a $20 bill. The guy says 'What's this for?' Schneider drivers says its a thank you for backing my truck. The guy says 'I can't take your money.' Schneider drivers says 'why not?' The guys says 'it just wouldn't be right. I mean, it'd be a whole different story if you were hooked to a trailer'

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  4 года назад +200

      Man, funny! I had not heard that one! Made my day, thank you!

  • @lorenrasmussen338
    @lorenrasmussen338 4 года назад +80

    I was a yard jockey for a while....stuffing 30-40 trailers into docks or parking places every night. It really spoils you....short WB and lots of windows. Was tough to get into long WB Pete and drive into Chicago again.

  • @harriettedaisy2233
    @harriettedaisy2233 4 года назад +653

    Gimme 40 acres and I'll turn this thing around.

  • @joesosa123
    @joesosa123 3 года назад +35

    I am a truck driver and just happened to randomly come across this video. At one point he is mentioning his friend basically blind side backings his Peterbilt at a pilot in Michigan off exit 104. I just happened to be parked here at the pilot off exit 104 in my Pete. Wow crazy

  • @chrisagnew5727
    @chrisagnew5727 4 года назад +319

    As a city driver with about 5 years experience hauling a variety of trailer sizes including trains I feel embarrassed for how little I know about trucking. It's nice to have an old timer whos not afraid to share such great tips. Its a great industry to forever learn in.
    Thank you

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  4 года назад +45

      Appreciate you saying so! I've always been fascinated with trucks and this industry and there's old timers out there that still know lots more than me!

    • @asapslide3036
      @asapslide3036 4 года назад +10

      @@SmartTrucking yes but going with Chris' comment, not many of them will open up to the world. I understand the concept of passing knowledge to ''those who will use it'' properly but it is also nice to share to everybody that has interest in trucking. I dont own a truck and dont drive them because stupid drug tests but I do enjoy them and i like to learn about them too!!

    • @BleepBloopDragons
      @BleepBloopDragons 4 года назад +40

      Right. Same here, on my first year i had to report a break down to penske, the guy on the line asked me if it was a single or double axle? I said i didn't know. Stunned he asked HOW DO YOU NOT KNOW? I yelled back to him" HEY MAN, IM A DRIVER NOT A MECHANIC"......... PAUSE.....
      DOES IT HAVE 4 OR 8 WHEELS ON THE BACK?
      I WILL FOREVER LAUGH AT THIS.

  • @shogunofsorrow787
    @shogunofsorrow787 3 года назад +63

    I'm not a trucker but this was suggested to me. It was like hearing my grandpa tell me a story. I'm glad I clicked it

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +11

      Thank you for watching, glad you enjoyed it!

  • @deathscythehell7937
    @deathscythehell7937 4 года назад +140

    I've drove for 32 years, I've retired at 50. I'm 53 now I run my own small company six trucks. When I started the wheelbase was 255 inches. Then I went to 280" when I started my company I was rolling 300" with a big sleeper. For the last 18 yrs of my career I was running 325" wheelbase with a 155" sleeper. Since I ran electronics all my career weight wasn't an issue. Truck stops wasn't a big issue either, running the northeast was. Tiny streets, a...hole drivers and small warehouse lots were, so I haven't ran the northeast since the late 90s. All of my trucks are spect out the same 325wb 155 sleepers, 08 Westernstars, I mainly run the southeast to California that's it.(no automatics either, 18 double over manuals) My drivers are very skilled, picked them myself, they haven't had any issues, plus it saves them money and time. They buy and make their own food and don't have to pay for showers. That's the benefits of having long wheelbases and sleepers.

  • @Miniaturehorseexpress
    @Miniaturehorseexpress 4 года назад +59

    Done everything, and been everywhere I've ever done with a 300" and 325" wheelbase trucks. Looks beautiful n rides like a dream just takes a little common sense planning

  • @zide8679
    @zide8679 3 года назад +8

    I been driving 17 years. I still look at your videos from time to time to get knowledge on stuff and great stories.

  • @tiny-hj3xo
    @tiny-hj3xo 3 года назад +57

    'Curb sniffer' Lol I love that statement

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +17

      Thanks! Wish I could say I coined that phrase but I didn't and I can't even remember now where I first heard it.

    • @jaredkennedy6576
      @jaredkennedy6576 3 года назад +2

      Whenever I hear that term, the first thing that pops into my mind is the late 80s T600/T800 tractors. Long, low, down turned snout on those.

    • @colinwallace5286
      @colinwallace5286 3 года назад +4

      Extremely long trucks are simply an illustration of “You CAN, but that doesn’t mean you SHOULD.”🤣

  • @rayburnett3253
    @rayburnett3253 3 года назад +2

    I am a retired truck driver myself. But , I sure do miss it.

  • @MikeBrown-ii3pt
    @MikeBrown-ii3pt 4 года назад +11

    I spec'd my Classic XL back in 2005 (2006 model) with an 84" condo on a 280 wb. To this day, it's still the perfect balance for what I want and what I need. I also remember riding with my dad in a Pete 352 cabover (later, a GMC General conventional), in the 70s/early 80s. Back then, if you had a 45' or 48' trailer, you were big time! Dad always loved his Petes but he was stylin and profilin in that Jimmy-8v92ta Detroit power, 15 speed and 40k Rockwell 3.73 rears. It was the first tractor he ever owned with air ride and air conditioning. However, his favorite thing about it was the ELECTRIC windshield wipers! All things that we take for granted today. His last tractor was a fully loaded Pete 379 and by God he deserved that fancy girl after all his years and miles on the road! R.I.P. dad! Dandy Dancer was his handle.

  • @Cp-jv6mf
    @Cp-jv6mf 4 года назад +22

    I have a long Peterbilt 379 and when this guy was telling the story about using the back side window I knew what he was talking about I’ve done that move many times and surprised a lot of drivers when u blind side like that lol

  • @billarroo1
    @billarroo1 4 года назад +2

    About 30 years ago there used to be a yearly truck show at the Pomona Fairgrounds, near Los Angeles, called "The Worlds Greatest Working Truck Show", tow trucks, land dolls, low boys, mixers, double trailers, other specialty trucks would attend for competition, I was parked waiting for them to call for tow truck competition, when this day cab Pete with doubles flatbed hay haulers, pulled up across the front of my truck, then pulled about 40 feet away rolled that rear trailer in almost 70* degrees right next to me, then corrected forward then backed in the front trailer corrected then backed the whole thing in straight as an arrow, when the driver got out it was about a 20 years old young girl !!! She was there for the doubles backing competition !!! I didn't see her in competition but when she backed in next to me around 70 degrees turn in 3 moves I bet she took that trophy!!! 😆😆😆

  • @jessesager9460
    @jessesager9460 4 года назад +41

    Gotta love when you take advantage of that back window with no one noticing!

  • @drink15
    @drink15 3 года назад +25

    I work in IT. I have no reason to be here, but I watched the whole thing. I might be hooked to this channel.

  • @ministryinsong
    @ministryinsong 3 года назад +17

    Really cool story. Enjoyed your whole video. I left school at 16 in the UK on the Friday and started with a local steel hauler as a steersman on the Monday. We took loads up to 100 feet (old money) all over the UK. My job was to steer the back of the trailer around corners we couldn’t fit. It was a big steel workers strike that closed the company three years later but it will always be the best job of my life.

  • @wisco-lad
    @wisco-lad 3 года назад +2

    Man what I wouldn't give to take a trip across country with this guy. Just once. Im thinking about becoming a o/o and I know I could learn so much more from this guy... I can read and watch videos all day and won't learn shit.... hand on is the only way

  • @mackdog3270
    @mackdog3270 4 года назад +8

    When I first started driving, I drove a forty foot container pulled by a Freightliner. I was at southern wine and spirits in Denver delivering wine from Napa. The place was tight and I was having trouble. I think it took me about a half hour to get in the space. Along comes this guy with a California king chassis and a fifty three foot trailer and did it in two minutes. Nowadays, I'd have no trouble with it, but I was new. After I yelled at him and he finished laughing he told me what to do and I learned something. Hell of a nice guy. I saw pretty much the same thing at Ralph's in Compton. The most miserable place to deliver I've ever been. The line of paint on the wall says everything you need to know. Classy drivers those two.

  • @phillipburroughs146
    @phillipburroughs146 3 года назад +15

    I’m ashamed to say this. Whereas you were the first show I started watching when I got back into driving, I’ve kind of gone to other shows and missed so many of yours. Every now and then something will pop up from you and I will watch it. Not as regimented on this as I should be. This show in particular is the meat and potatoes of what we truckers need to know. I thank you for taking the time to explain these things that a truck driver so need know.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +5

      Glad you enjoyed it Phillip! These are the type of trucks I like to talk about but we try to do something for everybody.

  • @gipper3985
    @gipper3985 3 года назад +4

    Im a new driver at the age of 48 but i remember the cabover i loveed em. First truck i remember i was fascinated by em. I loved the movie convoy. And finally at age 48 i got the nerve the give it a go. And I love what im doing. All thanks to God above

    • @tm3fan
      @tm3fan 3 года назад

      You loved watching them...or driving them ?...you like the way they ride ?...just curious...

  • @Lejmej
    @Lejmej 4 года назад +26

    This is correct as long as the truck has tandem drive axles... If there’s a single drive axle on a boggie truck, the wheel base is measured from Center front axle to center drive axle!

  • @valuedhumanoid6574
    @valuedhumanoid6574 4 года назад +15

    I love this channel. I am not even a trucker, but I find any history fascinating and this is no different. And learning about other areas in life make you a well rounded person. At parties I can talk about trucking, women’s fashion or the space shuttle.

  • @toddwhitley1545
    @toddwhitley1545 4 года назад +13

    I use the window in my sleeper all the time in a “blindside” situation.. I keep the curtain rolled up all the time for this reason.
    Good video

  • @russianoleg
    @russianoleg 4 года назад +14

    not a trucker but enjoyed watching this video, thank you.

  • @SmartTrucking
    @SmartTrucking  4 года назад +99

    Good day, Big Strappers. Many of you have been asking a lot of questions about wheelbase, so we created this video to address as many of those questions as we could What are your feelings about a long wheelbase truck? Love to hear from you as always. (FYI, that beautiful long hood green + gray hood in the vid and on the thumbnail is the LETTUCE KING'S latest creation!)

    • @TheRoadhammer379
      @TheRoadhammer379 4 года назад +2

      You are the only person who I have ever seen measure wb like this. Is this Canadian procedure, I have bought several trucks in the last 10 years and Fitzgerald always measures from center of steer axle to center of first drive axle, and the same goes for Peterbilt when I bought a new truck from them. Not saying that you are wrong, just curious.

    • @RodeoJoe1981
      @RodeoJoe1981 4 года назад +1

      @@TheRoadhammer379 that's how canada anyways rules and regs measure it

    • @RodeoJoe1981
      @RodeoJoe1981 4 года назад

      We spec long wheelbase tractors to length with our livebottoms to get maximum payload. You need to get overall base length to get 63,500kg on 5 axle wagon or 55,000kg on 3 loggers. 72" spreads and 16-20,000lbs front ends

    • @michaelmarburger1003
      @michaelmarburger1003 4 года назад +2

      Smart Trucking when I first saw thumbnail for this video, my first thought was of going from my first ride (cab over Pete) to my second truck 1984 extended hood Pete 285 inch wheel base. Really like going from driving a Pinto to driving a Cadillac. So much of a better ride and Cat power to boot

    • @kstevenson186
      @kstevenson186 4 года назад +2

      What 4 mfs dissliked this video????why?

  • @John_R_Jackson_III
    @John_R_Jackson_III 2 года назад +5

    I really enjoy listening to the older guys give us a brief history lesson on the industry we are working in. Thank you sir

  • @sonboogie
    @sonboogie 3 года назад +6

    I always enjoy your vids and stories. Been nicking gears since '01. Pulled beef, hauled steel, yanked tanks, O/O, LTL. You're the only real hand putting out real material. I always feel like I'm taking shop with you when watching, so your content is a treat. Certainly keep it coming driver. We appreciate ya. 10-10.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +2

      Thank you Don! I didn't think I'd enjoy doing videos but I was wrong, I do enjoy it. Something my wife talked me into. It helps keep me connected to truckers of my generation who are scattered all over North America and if I can help the new drivers I will, just as the old guys helped us. You're right, it's almost like chewing the fat or talking shop with your friends! Thanks for watching and for your comment! Appreciate it!

    • @sonboogie
      @sonboogie 3 года назад

      @@SmartTrucking Certainly, you're doing the industry a great service in providing guidance for the new blood. We all know how ill prepared many are unfortunately. So once again, many thanks.

  • @greyjay9202
    @greyjay9202 3 года назад +4

    Great story about your friend Richard. He sounds like a real pro. I've never driven a big rig, but after years of driving pickups, vans, and small dump trucks, I rarely look back through the rear window, when driving my cars. I just use the mirrors, because I'm so used to it. Anyone who can reliably maneuver a big rig -- what our Brit cousins call an articulated lorry -- has my respect. It really is a combination of art and science.

  • @arminius3808
    @arminius3808 3 года назад +2

    Love hearing the stories, I've driven horse transport around Australia, didn't spend much time at truck stops, usually sleep at motels or on farms, I'd talk on the radio and the stories all truckers have is amazing. I'm now driving a k108 with drop deck and have started spending up to 15 days OTR. It's so rewarding meeting the different ppl, the communities. Love your vids, I'm wanting to buy my own truck one day and have gotten some great ideas from them
    Love your

  • @Caje-zf8md
    @Caje-zf8md 4 года назад +3

    Although truck-driving is not my livelihood, I've always been fascinated by big trucks, even drawing them when I was small. I also have several hardcover books on big trucks from the 50's. Some of the photos showed trucks from California with long wheelbases and I've always wondered what the advantage was. Your patient explanation made it clear. Thanks for the tutorial!

  • @onebadapple83
    @onebadapple83 4 года назад +6

    Glad to see the first thing mentioned was HOW TO MEASURE the wheelbase! The biggest deal killer when trying to buy a used truck is when the poster claims something other than what it actually is! This includes the “TRUCK PAPER”

  • @davejohnson5479
    @davejohnson5479 4 года назад +5

    Great video Dave. Some of your viewers may remember when on the New York Thruway pulling tandem 48' trailers, it was required that we had cabovers. Good times!

  • @higherfordkid1625
    @higherfordkid1625 4 года назад +39

    Interesting and informative talk from a guy who knows his stuff. I remember taking my truck test here in England many years ago and I was driving a unit and flat bed trailer. I was quite confident when it came to the reversing part because the tractor had a rear view window, no sleeper cabs then. Then the examiner said " no rear window, use your mirrors". I got a sweat on but succeeded.
    Wouldn't like to be driving today with our congested roads here in England. But I would love to get my hands on the wheel of one of your American beauties.

  • @mpccenturion
    @mpccenturion 4 года назад +1

    kraft pulp was heavy as heck. I never had a CDL, but I spent a few days running with a 30yr driver. He was a wealth of info. We were beside Maine. Ivan told me, that if I was driving and had lights up behind us, to hit the trailer brakes - reverse and ease it back, when I got stopped. The truck was 2 inches shorter than legal. The trailer pin made enough for a ticket. Thank you. Cheers

  • @kevinlesch9656
    @kevinlesch9656 4 года назад +6

    It's been a number of years but when I hauled grain, most feed mills I went to had 50' scales. Most guys had to split weight. I don't remember my wheelbase but I know with 36' hopper, I could fit in 50' scales with less than inches to spare. 36' hopper I could gross 80,000. It was perfect set up

  • @StandngOnBusiness
    @StandngOnBusiness 4 года назад +13

    Love your videos man I been driving 3-4 years now and learn something new every video I watch keep sharing that OG knowledge!

  • @maniac2425
    @maniac2425 4 года назад +9

    My old Pete has 280" wheel base. I to find it to be just right pulling a flatbed. Makes scaling out lumber and steel much easier. Especially with a 53' spread axle. Some of these little loves truck stops can get a little tight backing in sometimes.

  • @yeahok115sure
    @yeahok115sure 4 года назад +7

    Pretty cool! Just learned some neat stuff! I’m the lead driver of a big heavy haul trucking company. All our trucks are 300inch. We spec our truck this long for spreading the weight out evenly. We run 46k drives, 20k pusher, 20k steers. Our tractors weight 24k. But we run on non-reducible permits everywhere. Even empty

    • @clydeacor1911
      @clydeacor1911 4 года назад

      Who do you haul for? I'm in Idaho as well.

  • @captainflatbed.7927
    @captainflatbed.7927 4 года назад +12

    High stepping in the ❄️ I do miss my stretched double framed 379!! it’s in a class of its own on ride comfort and shine pride !!

  • @duanemondragonjr3845
    @duanemondragonjr3845 3 года назад +9

    Thanks for sharing some knowledge and a great story. 12 years under my belt and still learning new things from my elders. Thanks again sir and God Bless.

  • @Gump-tion
    @Gump-tion 2 года назад

    I saw the movine Convoy as a young kid in the early 80's and love semi's ever since. To this day I get so excited when I see a stretch Pete on the highway. Such beautiful machines. Thanks for the insights in this video. I've learned a lot.

  • @pattyjay9999
    @pattyjay9999 4 года назад +24

    Get that long wheel base put the seat on the floor get that smooth ride just glad on down the highway🤙🏾

  • @MurphyTheBandChild
    @MurphyTheBandChild 4 года назад +220

    WHAT?!?! The federal government making a logical decision in regards to regulation? Surely you jest, sir!

    • @grejsancoprative
      @grejsancoprative 4 года назад +15

      All the while they could've gone full Europe...

    • @wheelman1235
      @wheelman1235 4 года назад +30

      @@grejsancoprative European regulations too strick. Short wheelbases and doghouse cabs. The digital tachograph highly advanced. The cabs for cavemen.

    • @tunapuna7890
      @tunapuna7890 4 года назад +5

      Surely you jest, Sire!

    • @wheelman1235
      @wheelman1235 4 года назад +2

      @@tunapuna7890 I drive in them mate. I should know.

    • @MikeBrown-ii3pt
      @MikeBrown-ii3pt 4 года назад +10

      The LAST time that the government made a rational/logical decision!

  • @powerhouse_customs_ar4889
    @powerhouse_customs_ar4889 4 года назад +5

    I've been driving for 30 years now and I've heard so many ways to measure wheelbase...but this is the way I always measured it

  • @TheNefastor
    @TheNefastor 2 года назад +2

    "Curb sniffer"... I like that image; it's so apt :-D

  • @ChiBluez
    @ChiBluez 4 года назад +7

    Thank you! Trudging through snow for your viewers! That’s true dedication. Love your channel and all the wisdom you share!

  • @krisbryant7100
    @krisbryant7100 4 года назад +5

    I can listen to your good stories all day long!!!

  • @spartan0738
    @spartan0738 4 года назад +6

    Haha loved the story! I've even parked in exactly those handful of spots your mentioned at that x104 Pilot. Always love listening to someone thats been out here awhile, always learning. Thanks for sharing

    • @georgetoma7139
      @georgetoma7139 4 года назад

      hello. been there. before the pilot is. when. tei kie. had the nice chrome and light s. garage. hello truck driver. lol

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  4 года назад +1

      Thank you Ryan!

  • @stevewilson2745
    @stevewilson2745 4 года назад

    not a professional driver by any sense, but i did work at a junkyard where we had a 312" wheelbase rig that was converted to a day cab flatbed, for hauling crushed cars and stuff around the lot. really makes you pay attention to what you are doing, and i now have a newfound respect for any truck driver on the highway. give at least a few car lengths infront and behind, never stay beside a truck on the highway (avoiding blindspots) and so on. i even honk once or twice as i pass a truck, just to make sure they are aware of my intentions, to avoid any confusion, as they have enough to concentrate on. Got yourself a new subscriber here! Cheers from Southeast Texas!

  • @ronclaman156
    @ronclaman156 3 года назад +2

    As owner operator for over 30 years all my rigs have been 286 300 320 peterbilt and w900's heavy haul oversized and step deck spead axles never had any problems getting in and out of places all it takes is common sense!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • @brucejones597
    @brucejones597 4 года назад +18

    I love the stories and the knowledge he shares

  • @danielaguirre2516
    @danielaguirre2516 4 года назад +16

    I remember one guy got upset at me when I questioned why do drivers make their trucks so long and how it’ll make the truck difficult to drive/turn around corners and so on.

  • @teddyrivas1082
    @teddyrivas1082 3 года назад +1

    In all my driving yrs, didn't really put much attention to that, except that if your going to drive a long wheel base truck, you'd better have enough room for manuabilty for it! But it's good to hear from a professional driver with experience, show you and teach you the difference when wanting to ordering or buying a truck. Depending for what you are hauling! Will keep on watching for your knowledge of trucking situations, was most helpful!

  • @vegasfordguy
    @vegasfordguy 3 года назад +1

    You are my favorite trucking channel. EXCELLENT information and great stories! I live in Fernley, NV and remember your story about staying the night in Fernley and rolling into California with your 53 foot trailer and bluffing the guy at the truck inspection.

  • @justotorres8970
    @justotorres8970 3 года назад +3

    Man I admire these heavy equipment hauler guys here in Dallas Fort worth area . They drive those long ass lowboy rigs like sports cars through big city traffic .

    • @topixfromthetropix1674
      @topixfromthetropix1674 3 года назад

      I've pulled 135' long heavy haul loads. Except for learning how much room it takes to turn, it is pretty much like pulling 5 axle traffic, and you have your Pilot car( escort) to cover blind spots and block for you when changing lanes.

  • @marshallbaldwin395
    @marshallbaldwin395 4 года назад +3

    Our last tractor was 300 inch wheelbase 120 inch sleeper with a 48 foot rgn combo worked real good for us aith the 4th axle

  • @AmanBenyamin
    @AmanBenyamin 3 года назад

    One of the most respected truck drivers on the web...my opinion! Loved the video..very informative. Thanks!

  • @ianhumphry1
    @ianhumphry1 4 года назад +2

    Great channel brother, I'm a retired trucker working as an instructor at a CDL school, times have changed my friend.

  • @acewings221
    @acewings221 4 года назад +5

    Very informative! Thanks!
    I saw one yesterday at my receiver and i thought it looked cool, but it looked like a huge pain to bump a dock

  • @midwest7693
    @midwest7693 3 года назад +26

    I'm considering adding a second story to my sleeper,but I'm concerned that going under bridges may be problematic.

    • @richardsavaglio661
      @richardsavaglio661 3 года назад +20

      Oh it’s no problem driver! Dump your air, downshift 2 gears and put the throttle to the floor and everything will be just fine! Trust me, I’m a mechanic! Lol

  • @chriscarson1493
    @chriscarson1493 4 года назад

    Love the channel.Im not a trucker but I really enjoy the information and its given me much greater appreciation for this industry.

  • @9ZERO6
    @9ZERO6 Год назад +1

    I have no idea how I ended up at your channel, but I love it. I am not a trucker, but dang I am interested in the profession because I respect the fact that truckers and thier support staff keep this world going.

  • @TheIcyWizard705
    @TheIcyWizard705 4 года назад +5

    I am about as far away from a long wheel base as you can get, I drive a little Freightliner M2 106 so it can both turn very sharply and look absolutely silly pulling any trailer longer than about 27 feet. Going across all the Portland, OR bridges makes for a very bumpy ride

  • @the.porter.productions
    @the.porter.productions 4 года назад +6

    APPEAL: Some drivers love the looks of a stretched frame, no matter if it’s a cabover or conventional...Bigger is Better!? Maybe they just want to show off their frame! Hehehe. It sure changes how you back one in. I like what you said about matching the length to the application. I’m not sure many people do that anymore. I remember when many people would “Pre Order” their trucks. It was hard for me as a kid to grasp that concept, but I soon understood it. RIDE: I know that a longer truck can make a big difference in the way they ride, even in a cabover. I’m not sure about the double framed rigs...that, to me, adds a different element altogether. I’ve driven a little cabover C800 Ford and felt like I was bounced the entire time, but loved the maneuverability. I could get into a cabover Marmon and immediately feel the smoother ride. I mostly pulled pups or 45-48 foot trailers. You’re right...there is a balance in how long a rig should be. There are some trucks that when you stretch it out, that’s when it totally changes it to a new level...that AWE factor is there! I’m thinking of a CL9000 being stretched to 270 inches and connected to a stainless steel trailer. Does it lose its functionality then? Well, I think they both enhance the features of each other. But I’m not sure if I would work it then. Good subject! Thanks! Oh, as always, Cabovers rule! Hehehe

  • @lesflynn4455
    @lesflynn4455 3 года назад

    What a great video. I learned something. I'm not a trucker, just an Aussie who's interested in stuff and always liked big rigs. I went down a rabbit hole today, amazed at the huge cabs on some semis in the USA. We don't see them here, I guess local regs prevent it. I guess those huge cabs don't deliver to supermarket docks. 😂

  • @SOU6900
    @SOU6900 3 года назад +2

    You mentioned the carrier Reliable and my first thought was Reliable Tank Lines in Winston-Salem that my dad worked for when he first got into the industry back in 2000/2001.

  • @davevann2925
    @davevann2925 4 года назад +18

    LMAO, great story! I had the nick name " one shot willy " then I was moved from the short wheel base Volvo ( almost a "0" turn) to a long wheel base 18 speed Freightliner for heavy haul , was like starting over. By the end of the construction season I had gotten the hang of it.

  • @davidhindes7735
    @davidhindes7735 4 года назад +44

    I run Denver to Los Angeles every week with a 307” w9 and a 53’ sliding spread

  • @georgeisaak5321
    @georgeisaak5321 4 года назад

    Yet another awesome trucking video ! For truck enthusiasts like myself it was a very interesting tutorial in order to understand why some trucks are so much longer than other ! Thanks man !

  • @triptriplett4285
    @triptriplett4285 4 года назад +2

    I recently bought a International Lonestar with a 250 WB.
    LOVE IT

  • @cliffp.8396
    @cliffp.8396 4 года назад +9

    I enjoy the education that comes from experience most of all, thanks for sharing this with us.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  4 года назад +4

      My pleasure, thank you for saying so!

    • @cliffp.8396
      @cliffp.8396 4 года назад +1

      @@SmartTrucking Your welcome sir

  • @paulb7365
    @paulb7365 4 года назад +6

    Thanks Dave, you and Cat keep up the great work. Much appreciated!!

  • @topixfromthetropix1674
    @topixfromthetropix1674 3 года назад +1

    I remember Missouri held on to that 55' overall law after everybody else went to longer lengths. And, if you went in the scale with the tractor too close to the landing legs, they would call you around back to see if you were going to destroy your landing legs. I'm a retired heavy hauler. My last truck was 134' long with 50 wheels on 13 axles and a 85 ton deck, empty weight 96,000. The Arkansas scale just west of Memphis had the best scale for oversize and although CAT scales got longer, very few of them have perfectly flat exits so when I weigh the 7 axles in front of the deck for my first weight, I would have to pull forward to weigh the rear 6 axles and it if wasn't perfectly level, the weight was not close. Florida used to require specific wheelbase and axle spacing data every trip that exceeded the permit requirements any other state I ran. On a trip from Gary, IN to Miami, FL, Indiana made me have 2 DOT cop cars, 2 State cops, and 2 private pilot cars for my escorts. For every bridge between Gary and Louisville the cops stopped I-65 traffic and I crossed the bridge alone at 5 mph. It was shortly after that I-35 bridge fell in Minnesota and Indiana was freaking out. Regardz!

  • @kdoe5071
    @kdoe5071 4 года назад +1

    Always loved the window trick. Used it many times. No window now. Brought back some memories. Thanks

  • @misconceptionindustries2968
    @misconceptionindustries2968 4 года назад +6

    Even the wooden truck is a Longhood Pete!!! Perfect!

  • @thomaskirkpatrick4031
    @thomaskirkpatrick4031 3 года назад +3

    I love your stories about the "old days".

  • @b34rdy
    @b34rdy 4 года назад +2

    I used to spend months away at a time with a euro cabover and 45ft trailer about 10 years ago, you guys have it lucky, imagine being in an 8x6 box for that long, thats how much space we have including the sleeping area and where you drive

  • @rodneypattonsr3179
    @rodneypattonsr3179 4 года назад +1

    LOL way to go Richard!!!!! It was a Richard who taught me to drive as well. From the mid-70's. Richard Patton Sr. My Dad. RIP Midnight Cowboy. Who was a real Cowboy. Who could ride and rope as well as split, shift (5X4) and go-get! Thank you for that story.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  4 года назад

      My pleasure Rodney and thanks for watching!

  • @burntchickennugget191
    @burntchickennugget191 3 года назад +23

    You would think that by now they would install back up and side veiw cameras onto the trailers to help with this kind of stuff. I guess not.

    • @garyhost354
      @garyhost354 3 года назад +2

      They do. It’s just they are hung up on their Classic trucks.

    • @cameronmcpherson6364
      @cameronmcpherson6364 3 года назад +1

      They can't legally install backup cameras on trailers because the Feds say its illegal to have 'broadcast' video in the cab of a semi truck. Backup cameras would be considered broadcast.

    • @johnathanshakewellesquirei8615
      @johnathanshakewellesquirei8615 3 года назад

      @@cameronmcpherson6364 what are dash cams then?

    • @pauldelmonte2196
      @pauldelmonte2196 3 года назад +1

      Sorry but if you need cameras to back in.....then this is not the industry for you

    • @pauldelmonte2196
      @pauldelmonte2196 3 года назад

      @@cameronmcpherson6364 then why do many company's have dash cams?🤣 a dash cam is in the cab of a truck

  • @johncox3926
    @johncox3926 4 года назад +3

    The long wheel base is also helpful when hauling over length items if the weight is not to much for steer axle .

  • @sorenkees1003
    @sorenkees1003 Год назад

    I’ve been driving long wheelbase trucks the whole time I’ve been driving. I learned that little trick not long after I started. Definitely comes in handy

  • @christopherrasmussen8718
    @christopherrasmussen8718 4 года назад +2

    I used to fix the electrical issues in RVs. We get the super sleepers in and it was like half a house.

  • @xXDannySilvaXx
    @xXDannySilvaXx 4 года назад +3

    You are professional and knowledgeable in your career. Very informative.

  • @wheelman1235
    @wheelman1235 4 года назад +11

    3:40 Awesome unit !! Very eye pleasing that wheelbase on the red 389. European cabs pale in comparison to these.

  • @flyifri
    @flyifri 4 года назад

    You just got another big thumbs up for caring to share this update. Thank you very much...!

  • @stephenhammer7357
    @stephenhammer7357 3 года назад

    The best thing about this site is learn something new, no matter how old you are, always room for more info ,thanks to all

  • @zacharyconrad2469
    @zacharyconrad2469 3 года назад +10

    There's the other side of the coin with the parking story you told. When someone with one of these trucks is parked and you want to park next to it, it's exponentially harder because truck stops aren't made for them. You hang out as long if not longer than people who nose dive into spots.

  • @dechoppa
    @dechoppa 4 года назад +5

    Good story! I really miss learning something from other truckers, instead of hearing them complaining all the time.

    • @Gonz.0
      @Gonz.0 4 года назад +1

      Love stories like this from old timers. My father inlaws dad used to drive and i found out he actually won CATs first scale give away truck

  • @jpierce1987
    @jpierce1987 4 года назад +1

    It does make a heck of a difference in ride quality!! As a company driver I mostly drove day cab trucks. The first truck I bought was a short wheelbase day cab Columbia. That truck sure did beat you up all day!! Traded that in for a long wheelbase Cascadia sleeper. Such a smooth ride! And a much better and nicer truck overall. Feels like luxury compared to that Columbia!! LOL. Pretty darn reliable, too, now that I've fixed all the wiring on the DEF garbage. Snip, strip, solder, shrink, repeat.....

  • @jdlech
    @jdlech 4 года назад +2

    I talked to a couple who had what was basically a trailer attached to their home. Their sleeper was about as long as most trucks. They worked for a moving company. They said there was less than two dozen places they could pick up and deliver - every one of them were company terminals.

  • @jcdahippie
    @jcdahippie 4 года назад +3

    I remember once hanging 35 feet off the back of my flatbed and 37 feet off the front. Corners were a bit tricky.

  • @matrix6241
    @matrix6241 4 года назад +7

    My regular truck is a 277" I pull grain b's. I love it. Boss bought it blind and then had serious concerns about getting in to to yards. I had zero issues, after a couple weeks he stopped asking if I could make it happen or not. lol

  • @breeze979truckin3
    @breeze979truckin3 4 года назад +1

    Richard is a REAL driver unlike most out there today I have a 325 wheelbase myself

  • @djsparkyy
    @djsparkyy 4 года назад +1

    Great, simple explanation of concepts and history!
    I have nothing to do with trucking but I enjoy good information that's well presented!

  • @Nat-fj2bf
    @Nat-fj2bf 3 года назад +3

    Them bunk windows are a god send when doing a blindside reverse.

  • @plumbingstuffinoregon2471
    @plumbingstuffinoregon2471 4 года назад +5

    Something I don't quite understand that I see every so often is long wheel base cab overs. I guess that would give you a ton of room on the frame to do what you want with, but you also sit directly over the front axle, so I can't imagine it affecting the ride quality too much.

  • @lordenki9429
    @lordenki9429 4 года назад +1

    Battle Creek used to be a regular stop for me, so much so that it became a gf location out on the road. My second company I worked for was Burlington Motor Freight, and all we did was Toronto to Chicago. Sure don’t miss those cabover condos

  • @davidp.6812
    @davidp.6812 3 года назад

    Keep these videos coming. New trucker here! Could use all the help I can get! Thanks a million!