removal of tag axel

[sledhead]

Just thinkin... Now that I have replaced the shocks, brakes , tires is this really needed (tag)? My coach fully loaded for a trip is 34,500 lb .I have sean a 102a2 rv with out a tag and was wondering about how much weight this would save 3000-5000 lb ? If there was that much weight savings would it change the ride ? Now I know less weight is more hp. My towed is 3400 lb and the coach drives better without it. Kind of the same weight?                        Just thinking           dave 

[lvmci]

Interesting question, lvmci...

[bevans6]

I answered on the other board, but the 102A2 was designed from the start to only have two axles, and the drive axle was moved rearward to accomodate the change in weight distribution.  Removing the tag will increase the weight on the rear axle and decrease the weight on the front axle.

Brian

[TomC]

Release the tag axle air pressure on the air bags and then chain it up off the ground. Then take it for a ride to see if you like it. Weigh it-the tag is about 1500lbs. I know on my 40ft transit bus, my brakes are larger then highway buses to compensate-14.5 x 7 in front and 14.5 x 10 in back. Good Luck, TomC

[Frank @ TX]

Hi sledhead,
The tag axel is there to support the overhung after the drive axel.
There a control issue too.  When I'm in a tight fuel station or campground I unload the tag to get shorter turns.  Sometimes I forget to hit the switch to load it again.  At slow speeds around the city getting to the interstate there seems to be no issue  BUT at highway speeds the coach seems to wander.  Then I remember to load the tags what a difference.  It is much more straight line stable with the tags loaded.  Just a thought , do you think a coach manufacturer would spend the funds to make all those parts and install them for no benefit?
Frank

[sledhead]

I have air leveling on all 4 corners and I have raised the air in the drive axle so the tags are off the ground and have not sean much differance .Now that might be because of the extra air in the drive air bags .Sure would be great to have more space and less parts to replace .                      dave 

[oldmansax]

If some drunk guy pulls out in front of you & you hit him, he or his heirs will own everything you have or ever will have. If you remove the OEM brakes without government approval you are at fault for any problems that arise. If you have the tag & forget to air it up after leaving a parking lot, you MIGHT argue negligence (involuntary manslaughter, maybe)  but taking it off completely would have to be intentional (whatever they charge you with + whatever they sue you for). Even if you win the lawsuit, the lawyers fees will kill you.

TOM