More axles, tires will scuff up the roads

Another monstrosity got pushed through the Iowa Legislature, which will allow heavier multi-axle trucks on secondary roads. Most Iowa citizens would have opposed this thing but big money/big business always wins in the Iowa Legislature. I thank the Iowa Motor Truck Association for having the good common sense and judgment to oppose it, but they were out-lobbied by the Farm Bureau and owner-operator departments.

We're supposed to believe this increased allowed weight from 80,000 to 96,000 pounds will be good. Have all roads and bridges suddenly been strengthened to withstand the extra weight?

Ask the truck manufacturers if they believe adding more axles and brakes to any truck is a safe thing. Is the truck master hydrovac or air system big enough to supply more brake units in more axles? They were not in some trucks that I remember from years back, even though they were technically legal.

With more axles and tires, there's a scuffing effect on the roads when turning. It's bad enough with just two rear axles. I could see its effect on gravel roads where we turned a lot. The truck would rather go straight ahead, It puts more stress on the front steering system, too.

Herman Lenz

Sumner