A driver is operating a five-axle tractor-semitrailer on an interstate highway. Scale readings at an official weigh station show the following axle weights:
• Steer axle: 11,800 lbs
• Drive tandem axle: 35,400 lbs
• Trailer tandem axle: 32,200 lbs
The vehicle has a manufacturer Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 80,000 lbs. Based on federal weight limits and commercial vehicle rating definitions, which statement accurately evaluates this vehicle's weight status?
- The vehicle is overloaded on the drive tandem axle by 1,400 lbs, even though its total gross weight of 79,400 lbs is within federal gross and GCWR limits.Answer
- BThe vehicle is operating legally because individual axle groups are allowed to exceed statutory limits as long as the total gross weight remains under the GCWR.
- CThe combination is in violation because the total weight cannot exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the power unit alone.
- DThe vehicle is overloaded overall because Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) represents only the empty tare weight of the tractor and trailer combined.
Answer
The vehicle is overloaded on the drive tandem axle by 1,400 lbs, even though its total gross weight of 79,400 lbs is within federal gross and GCWR limits.
Federal bridge formula and standard interstate regulations set the maximum legal limit for a tandem axle group at 34,000 lbs and gross combination weight at 80,000 lbs. The vehicle's total weight is 79,400 lbs (11,800 + 35,400 + 32,200), which complies with the 80,000-lb gross and GCWR limit. However, the drive tandem scale weight of 35,400 lbs exceeds the 34,000-lb tandem limit by 1,400 lbs, making the vehicle overloaded on that axle set.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Evaluation of Federal Axle Weight Limits (Single/Tandem) and Gross Combination Weight Ratings (GCWR)
Estimated Time:1m 15s