Any semi drivers here?

KnowNuthin wrote:
I've been driving professionally for going on 30 years... about 18 of those were in a "city tractor" (single rear axle) with a 53' trailer...

We're looking at upgrading our current class A to a 5th wheel and I'm somewhat confused regarding tow vehicles... I had gotten my semi stuck a couple times... nothing I didn't get myself out of with a little judicious driving techniques... so I'm curious as to why most 5th wheels I see going down the road are being pulled by 4X4 pickups?

Sure, I live in Colorado, but a good many of these rigs are from out of state... even places like Texas and Arizona...

I've got nothing against 4X4's, 'cept I hear the RWD trucks ride nicer, not to mention the reduced maintenance costs...

So, any CDL (current or former) drivers out there who can shed some light on the similarities/ differences between semi's and 5th wheel pulling'?

For me, it's because 99% of the time, I'm using my truck for other stuff, including off-roading, when I'm not towing. I grew up on a farm and, as soon as I could afford it (and not have to depend on Dad to provide one for me), I got a 4wd truck. The comfort of being able to drive down the road in a driving rainstorm and, with the push of a button, have 4wd, is just great. I almost always use 4wd when on a dirt road as my truck simply rides better, especially if the road's got lots of washboards. When we boondock, I'll =tow= in 4wd, even on a dirt road, for the same reason; it just tows nicer. Also is nice to have 4 wheels helping engine brake on grades. In our usual spot, there's a couple rocky patches and having 4LO is awesome, just to be able to crawl over these places without undue stress on the tranny or rocking the FW too much. Personally, I'll never have another truck without 4wd.

Lyle