Counting The Trailer Tandem Holes

I have had two instructors tell me two different things.

1. Count the holes after the stop bar( the holes that are usable)

2. Count all holes, even those in front of the stop bar

So, who's right. Usable holes, total holes?

I have had two instructors tell me two different things.

1. Count the holes after the stop bar( the holes that are usable)

2. Count all holes, even those in front of the stop bar

So, who's right. Usable holes, total holes?

Since you are driving for Prime, as memory serves me correctly, it is from the front of the slide rail where the holes are. Even if they are plugged, you count the hole as a legal hole to use to get the count correct. I also recall that the proper instructions are printed right on the label on the side of the trailer for your reference on all the trailers. Check it out and see if I am correct or not.

Ernie

I have had two instructors tell me two different things.

1. Count the holes after the stop bar( the holes that are usable)

2. Count all holes, even those in front of the stop bar

So, who's right. Usable holes, total holes?

All holes, including those welded over.

If you aren't sure...measure, because the DoT will.

Tracy

I recommend you completely stop listening to the instructor who suggested #1. This is basic and he should know this. I don't mean to be a jerk, but if he's this far into his career and he's an instructor than he's probably a dumb dumb. I would disregard everything he tells you.

In fact, it even says on the trailer to count all holes. Take a look at that sticker above the push pin near the tandems. Which makes that instructor sound even more like a dumb dumb.

I always count all the holes even the stop rail bar

What is so important about the way you count the holes? As long as you count the same way consistently so you can calculate the amount you need to move the trailer then it should all be fine right?

Or is this something to do with Prime that I would not know about?

What is so important about the way you count the holes? As long as you count the same way consistently so you can calculate the amount you need to move the trailer then it should all be fine right?

Or is this something to do with Prime that I would not know about?

I'll give you this example to explain.

Say you get a load to CA, the maximum kingpin setting isin the 6th hole (40ft from center of rear axle to kingpin). Prime does it by holes instead of feet because it's easier to understand.

So if I only count the holes that aren't blocked I'll figure that the maximum setting is in the 8th hole. Since hole 2 and 4 were blocked.

That makes me illegal in CA. I'll get stopped at the first weigh station and get bent backwards for a giant ticket and probably an inspection will follow.

Yes, a simple mistake like this is can be devastating. Counting your holes wrong is a violation waiting to happen.

Ok I see now.

Do prime trailers not have the sticker that points to where the CA setting is? Seems a whole lot easier especially for a training company that way.

Ok I see now.

Do prime trailers not have the sticker that points to where the CA setting is? Seems a whole lot easier especially for a training company that way.

No they don't have the actual sticker with the arrow marking the 40' mark. They expect their drivers to be able to count to 6.

What is so important about the way you count the holes? As long as you count the same way consistently so you can calculate the amount you need to move the trailer then it should all be fine right?

Or is this something to do with Prime that I would not know about?

Prime has taken the time to do all the measuring for you so all you need to do is count holes. Several states have different requirements so again, all you need to do is look at the sticker on the side of the trailer and count holes to ensure you have it set correctly.

Another example is flatbed. There are several states that have different requirements when you are pulling a 53' stepdeck trailer with one slide axle. The one odd ball in this whole thing is Maryland, instead of having to close the spread axle you have to have it open or you will get a ticket.

So you see, knowing the proper way to do something can and will help you to keep out of trouble.

Ernie