Tractor Unit - Axle Configuration

Axle Configuration

A tractor unit can have many axles depending on axle load legislation. The most common varieties are those of 4x2, 6x2 and 6x4 types. However, some manufacturers offer 6x6, 8x6, 8x8, 10x8, and 10x10 axle configurations. A 6x4 has three axles, with two of the axles driven. 6x4 units are more common in long distance haulage in larger countries such as the USA and Australia. In Europe, the 4x2 and 6x2 variants are more commonplace. Those with three axles or more can have more than one steering axle, which can also be driven. Most 6x2 units allow the undriven rear axle to be raised when lightly loaded, or running without a trailer, to save tyre wear, and increase traction. The 6x6 units have three axles, all driven, and 8x6 units have four axles, with the rear three usually driven and the front axle for steering. The 8x8 units also have four axles, but with all of them driven, and 10x8 units have five axles with the rear four usually driven and the front axle for steering. All five axles of 10x10 units are driven. The front two axles are usually both steer axles. The axle configurations are usually based on axle load legislation, and maximum gross vehicle weight ratings (BDM). Heavier versions of tractor units, such as those used in heavy haulage and road trains, tend to have four or more axles, with more than two axles driven. In certain countries (such as Switzerland), a certain amount of weight must be spread over driven axles, which lead to heavier varieties having six-wheel drive, otherwise another tractor unit would have to be used. The heavy haulage variants of tractor-units are often turned into a ballast tractor by fitting temporary ballast, because their chassis allows a high BDM which may go beyond the legal limit, hence requiring special permits.