Moving fifth wheel plate

On a fixed plate position it with the pivot pins dead center of the tandems. If single axle put it about 4” forward of axle. This should be a good weight distribution in most applications.

 

I’m roughly a foot ahead of center and I’m 11,700 loaded. That’s with a set back axle and 250” wheelbase.

 

Its all going to depend on your wheelbase as to how much you'll need to adjust it.

 

Keep in consideration that not all kingpin depths are equal so you don’t want to put it permanently to far forward of tandem center and not be able to hook a trailer that may have a deep pin. Landing gear arn’t always back bumper friendly either so clearance may need to be made for them on some trailers. Back in the day sliding fifth wheels had more to do with being able to hook and pull different trailers with various pin depths than it did to get weight on or off the steers. Back than you wanted steers light anyway due to manual steering and no brakes.

 

@Long FLD just gave you the correct answer/setting. Scroll back a few posts.

 

If you’re hauling bulk I’d have it to where I’m about 12,500 or so on the steers when I’m loaded. Anything under 12k and you won’t be able to axle 80k gross, or whatever you’re allowed to gross where you run.