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CDL · Pulling Doubles and Triples

Where should the heaviest trailer be placed in a doubles combination?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Directly behind the tractor (the first trailer position)

  1. A Directly behind the tractor (the first trailer position)
  2. B At the rear
  3. C Always with the second trailer
  4. D It does not matter

Why this is the answer

The heaviest trailer should always be placed in the front trailer position (directly behind the tractor). This arrangement gives the tractor the most authority over the heavier trailer through the fifth wheel, while the lighter trailer follows on the converter dolly. Putting a heavy trailer in the rear position creates a 'tail-wagging-the-dog' situation where the rear trailer's momentum can overpower the tractor's steering and braking. Many state and carrier rules prohibit a heavier rear trailer in doubles combinations. When loads are nearly equal, place them either way; when significantly different, heavier in front is mandatory.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 7.1.2 Trailer Order

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About this topic: Pulling Doubles and Triples

Pulling doubles and triples means managing the most unstable combination on the road: the rear trailer whips, rolls and jackknifes more easily, following distance must grow, and the sequence of air-line and brake checks is longer. These questions cover the handling rules specific to multiple trailers. This is one of 29 Doubles and Triples questions on pulling doubles and triples, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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