Tag axles are an important component of many larger vehicles, including RVs and semi-trucks.
A tag axle is an additional non-driven axle that sits behind the drive axle on a motorized vehicle. It provides extra support and stability, allowing vehicles to carry heavier loads and be built larger overall.
Understanding Tag Axles
If you’re new to the world of RVs, you may have heard the term “tag axle” thrown around and wondered what it means. Simply put, a tag axle is an auxiliary axle that is added to the rear of a heavy vehicle to help distribute weight and provide additional support.
Tag axles are commonly found on RVs, buses, and other large vehicles that need to carry a lot of weight. They are often used in conjunction with a single axle or tandem bogie to help evenly distribute the weight of the vehicle.
One of the main advantages of using a tag axle is that it allows the vehicle to carry more weight without compromising safety or performance. The additional axle helps to spread out the weight of the vehicle, which reduces the stress on the tires, brakes, and other components.
Another benefit of using a tag axle is that it can help to improve stability and handling. By providing additional support and weight distribution, tag axles can help to reduce sway and improve overall handling, especially when driving at high speeds or on uneven terrain.
It’s important to note that not all vehicles require a tag axle. In fact, many smaller vehicles, such as cars and light trucks, don’t need the additional support provided by a tag axle. However, for larger vehicles that need to carry a lot of weight, a tag axle can be an important safety feature.
Overall, tag axles are an important component of many heavy vehicles, and they play a crucial role in helping to distribute weight and improve stability. Whether you’re driving an RV, a bus, or another large vehicle, understanding the basics of tag axles can help you stay safe and get the most out of your vehicle.
Role and Function of Tag Axles
Tag axles are a common feature in motorhomes and semi-trailer trucks. They are non-powered axles that are mounted behind the driving axle and provide extra support and carrying capacity. In this section, we will discuss the role and function of tag axles, including their impact on weight distribution, stability and maneuverability, support, and carrying capacity.
Weight Distribution
One of the primary functions of a tag axle is to distribute the weight of the vehicle evenly. By adding an extra axle behind the driving axle, the weight of the vehicle is spread out over a larger area, reducing the pressure on the tires and the road surface. This, in turn, improves the vehicle’s weight balance and stability, making it easier to handle on the road.
Stability and Maneuverability
Tag axles also play a crucial role in improving the stability and maneuverability of the vehicle. By adding an extra axle, the vehicle’s wheelbase is lengthened, which reduces the risk of the vehicle tipping over during sharp turns or sudden movements. This is especially important for long motorhomes and semi-trailers, which can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
Support and Carrying Capacity
Another essential function of tag axles is to provide extra support and carrying capacity. By adding an extra axle, the vehicle’s payload capacity is increased, allowing it to carry more weight without compromising stability or safety. This is especially important for motorhomes and semi-trailers that need to carry heavy equipment or supplies.
In summary, tag axles play a critical role in improving the weight distribution, stability, maneuverability, support, and carrying capacity of motorhomes and semi-trailers. By adding an extra axle, these vehicles can carry more weight, improve their weight balance, and handle better on the road.
Types of Tag Axles
Pusher Axle
A pusher axle is a tag axle that is located in front of the drive axle. It is typically used in heavy-duty trucks and buses to help distribute the weight of the load evenly across all axles. The pusher axle is designed to provide additional support and stability to the vehicle, especially when carrying heavy loads.
One of the main benefits of using a pusher axle is that it increases the load capacity of the vehicle. This is because the additional axle helps distribute the weight of the load more evenly, reducing the strain on the other axles. Another advantage of using a pusher axle is that it can improve the vehicle’s maneuverability, especially in tight spaces, by reducing the turning radius.
Lift Axle
A lift axle is a type of tag axle that can be raised or lowered as needed. It is typically used in heavy-duty trucks and trailers to provide additional support and stability when carrying heavy loads. The lift axle is designed to be raised when the vehicle is not carrying a heavy load, thereby reducing wear and tear on the tires and improving fuel efficiency.
One of the main benefits of using a lift axle is that it can improve the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. This is because the additional axle can be raised when the vehicle is not carrying a heavy load, reducing the amount of drag and friction on the tires. Another advantage of using a lift axle is that it can improve the vehicle’s maneuverability by reducing the turning radius.
In summary, pusher axles and lift axles are two types of tag axles that can provide additional support and stability to heavy-duty trucks and buses. Pusher axles are located in front of the drive axle and can increase the load capacity and maneuverability of the vehicle. Lift axles can be raised or lowered as needed, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wear and tear on the tires.
Tag Axles in Different Vehicles
Tag axles are an auxiliary axle installed in conjunction with the rear axle(s) of a truck chassis. They are commonly used in various vehicles to add stability, improve weight distribution, and increase load capacity. In this section, we will discuss tag axles in different vehicles.
Tag Axles in RVs
Tag axles are commonly used in RVs, especially in Class A motorhomes. The addition of a third axle helps to distribute the weight more evenly, making the vehicle more stable and easier to handle. Tag axles also increase the load capacity of the RV, allowing it to carry more weight without compromising on safety.
Tag axle RVs are typically larger and heavier than other types of RVs. They are designed for long-term travel and often come equipped with all the amenities of a home. The inclusion of a tag axle in a motorhome is essential for maintaining stability and safety on the road.
Tag Axles in Dump Trucks
Dump trucks are heavy-duty vehicles used for transporting and dumping materials such as sand, gravel, and debris. Tag axles are commonly used in dump trucks to increase the load capacity and improve weight distribution.
The addition of a tag axle in a dump truck allows it to carry more weight without compromising on safety. It also helps to distribute the weight more evenly, making the vehicle more stable and easier to handle. This is especially important when driving on uneven terrain or when carrying heavy loads.
Tag Axles in Semi-Trucks
Semi-trucks are heavy-duty vehicles used for long-haul transportation of goods. Tag axles are commonly used in semi-trucks to improve weight distribution and increase load capacity. They are typically installed behind the drive axles, allowing them to take some of the weight off the rear drive axles.
The inclusion of a tag axle in a semi-truck is essential for maintaining stability and safety on the road. It helps to distribute the weight more evenly, making the vehicle more stable and easier to handle. This is especially important when driving on uneven terrain or when carrying heavy loads.
In conclusion, tag axles are essential components in various vehicles. They help to improve weight distribution, increase load capacity, and maintain stability and safety on the road. Whether you own an RV, dump truck, or semi-truck, the inclusion of a tag axle is essential for ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
Maintenance and Wear
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure that your tag axle functions properly and lasts a long time. Regular inspections and servicing can help identify any issues early on and prevent further damage.
One important aspect of maintenance is tire wear. The additional weight on the tag axle can cause uneven tire wear, so it’s important to regularly check the tire pressure and rotate the tires as needed. This can help extend the life of your tires and ensure that your tag axle is functioning properly.
Another important aspect of maintenance is the brakes. The tag axle has its own braking system, which includes air brake drums or disc brakes. Regular inspections and servicing of the brakes can help ensure that they are functioning properly and can help prevent accidents.
Wear and tear is inevitable with any vehicle component, and the tag axle is no exception. Over time, the additional weight and stress on the tag axle can cause wear and tear on the components. Regular inspections can help identify any worn or damaged parts, such as suspension components or axle bearings, and replace them as needed.
In conclusion, proper maintenance and regular inspections can help ensure that your tag axle functions properly and lasts a long time. Paying attention to tire wear, brakes, and general wear and tear can help prevent further damage and keep your vehicle safe on the road.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Fuel Efficiency
One of the advantages of a tag axle is that it can improve fuel efficiency. By distributing the weight of the RV more evenly, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the vehicle. This can result in better fuel mileage and lower fuel costs.
Turn Radius and Maneuvering
Another advantage of a tag axle is that it can improve the turning radius and maneuverability of the RV. The additional axle helps to distribute the weight of the RV more evenly, making it easier to turn and maneuver in tight spaces. This can be especially helpful when navigating through narrow roads or parking lots.
Living and Cargo Space
A tag axle can also provide more living and cargo space in an RV. By distributing the weight of the RV more evenly, it can be designed with larger living areas and more storage space. This can be especially helpful for families or those who like to travel with a lot of gear.
Shock Resistance and Off-Road Performance
A tag axle can also provide better shock resistance and off-road performance. The additional axle helps to absorb more of the bumps and shocks that come with driving on rough terrain. This can make for a smoother ride and better handling when off-roading.
Disadvantages
Despite these advantages, there are some disadvantages to having a tag axle. One of the main disadvantages is that it can be more expensive to maintain and repair. The additional axle and components can add to the cost of repairs and maintenance.
Another disadvantage is that a tag axle can make the RV less stable at high speeds. The additional weight and length of the RV can make it more difficult to control at high speeds, especially in windy conditions. This can be a safety concern for some drivers.
Overall, a tag axle can provide many benefits for RV owners, but it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
When it comes to tag axles, there are a few legal and regulatory aspects that you need to be aware of. These regulations are in place to ensure that the use of tag axles is safe and compliant with state and federal laws.
State Laws
Each state has its own laws and regulations concerning tag axles. In general, these laws dictate the maximum weight and length of your vehicle, as well as the number of axles that are allowed. For example, in California, a vehicle with a tag axle cannot exceed a length of 65 feet and a weight of 80,000 pounds. It is important to check the laws in your state before using a tag axle.
NTEA
The National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) is a trade association that represents companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell, and repair commercial trucks and truck equipment. The NTEA has established standards for the use of tag axles, which are designed to ensure that they are safe and reliable.
According to the NTEA, a tag axle is an auxiliary axle that is installed in conjunction with the rear axle(s) of a truck chassis. The purpose of a tag axle is to increase the weight-carrying capacity of the vehicle and to improve its stability and maneuverability.
The NTEA also provides guidelines for the installation and use of tag axles. These guidelines cover issues such as axle spacing, tire size, and load distribution. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure that your tag axle is safe and compliant with state and federal regulations.
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the legal and regulatory aspects of tag axles before using them. By following state laws and NTEA guidelines, you can ensure that your tag axle is safe and compliant with regulations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tag axle is an additional non-driven axle that provides extra support to heavier RVs and trucks. It allows these vehicles to carry more weight and be built bigger and heavier. The inclusion of a tag axle also helps with braking power, making it safer for rig drivers to stop their vehicles.
When deciding between a tag axle and a pusher axle, it is important to consider the type of vehicle and its duty cycle. Pusher axles are more commonly found in vocational applications like dump trucks, refuse trucks, and mixers, while tag axles are more commonly used in RVs and semis.
Tag axles are particularly useful for RVs and semis that frequent RV campgrounds, as they help prevent overloading and provide additional stability. They also allow for more frame space and reduce the scrubbing effect on tires, resulting in improved efficiency and longer tire life.
Overall, tag axles are a valuable addition to heavier vehicles and should be considered when looking to increase carrying capacity and braking power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of having a tag axle on a motorhome?
A tag axle on a motorhome increases the weight capacity and provides better stability, especially during turns. It also helps to distribute the weight more evenly, which leads to a smoother ride. Additionally, the braking system on a tag axle helps to stop the motorhome more safely.
What are the disadvantages of a tag axle on a motorhome?
The main disadvantage of having a tag axle on a motorhome is the increased cost. It also adds weight to the motorhome, which can affect fuel efficiency. Additionally, the extra wheels can make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
How does a tag axle affect the handling of a motorhome?
A tag axle on a motorhome provides better stability, especially during turns. It also helps to distribute the weight more evenly, which leads to a smoother ride. However, the extra wheels can make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
What is the difference between a tag axle and a pusher axle on a motorhome?
A tag axle is located behind the drive axle and helps to distribute the weight more evenly. A pusher axle is located in front of the drive axle and adds stability to the chassis during cornering. The decision to use either configuration is generally based on load balancing of the vehicle.
Are there any DOT regulations regarding tag axles on commercial vehicles?
Yes, there are DOT regulations regarding tag axles on commercial vehicles. The regulations vary by state, but generally, a tag axle is required on commercial vehicles that exceed a certain weight limit.
How does a tag axle on a dump truck affect its weight capacity?
A tag axle on a dump truck increases the weight capacity and provides better stability, especially during turns. It also helps to distribute the weight more evenly, which leads to a smoother ride. Additionally, the braking system on a tag axle helps to stop the dump truck more safely.
