Why do garbage trucks have 2 steering wheels?
It’s a smart and technical design choice that makes waste collection a breeze. Have you ever wondered why garbage trucks have two steering wheels?
Discover the reasons behind this unique feature. It increases the functionality and safety of waste collection vehicles.
In this blog, I will explain to you a detailed answer to this question. You will be able to know the practical side of these dual-steering garbage trucks.
Let’s dive into waste management and explore why two steering wheels are better than one.
Garbage trucks have two steering wheels, a key feature known as dual steering. This design allows drivers to switch between the right and left side.
It’s a smart solution to optimize visibility in narrow spaces. It makes navigating streets to pick up trash easier.
Reasons of garbage trucks have 2 steering wheels:
The presence of two steering wheels in garbage trucks plays a crucial role in serving practical purposes. contributing to the efficiency in the safety of waste collection operations:
| Reasons for Dual steering in Garbage trucks | Description |
| Enhanced Maneuverability | Allow for efficient navigation through tight spaces and narrow streets by switching between left and right side steering. |
| Distribution of load | Help distribute the load evenly on both sides preventing excessive stress on axle joints and reducing the risk of wear, tear, and damage. |
| Efficient waste collection | Contributes to the overall efficiency of waste collection by adapting to specific conditions in different locations and streamlining the process. |
| Easy dumpster handing | Facilities a safer and more convenient process for picking up dumpsters, reducing driver fatigue and minimizing stoppages during collection. |
| Increased safety | Enhances control and stability during driving particularly valuable for side-loading trucks engaged in collecting debris from different points. |
| Time savings | Saves time by allowing the driver to perform tasks seamlessly with a simple change in sitting position reducing the need for frequent stops. |
| Capacity for heavy loads | Enables the trucks to carry heavier loads without compromising stability, ensuring smooth operation and preventing issues with vehicle components. |
| Increased visibility | Improves visibility on the road. Especially at turning points making it easier and safer to maneuver the larger vehicle through urban areas. |
| Control of automatic arm | Allows efficient control of the automatic arm for debris collection facilitating precise movements into the hoppers without spillage |
| Enhanced productivity | Contributes to increased productivity and efficiency for waste collection companies by saving fuel costs and reducing the need for multiple trips. |
How do you drive a garbage truck with two steering wheels?
Driving a garbage truck with two steering wheels is quite responsive and like a controlling superpower.
Here is a complete guide on how to drive a garbage truck with two steering wheels:
- Take a seat
Firstly get the driver seat and check the steering wheel. The two sterling must be new things in your driving career.
- Pick aside
Pick the right side for you to drive. decide whether you sit on the right or left side. Make sure the side you choose gives you the best view.
- Start it up
Turn on the engine and start it up Make sure everything is okay.
- Squeeze through
In the tight spots use the double steering wheel to wiggle through them. Easily swap between left and right to make it easier.
- Balance the load
Easily distribute the trash in the truck. The two steering wheels help to balance the load.
- Adapt to places
Adjust our steering wheel according to the different places. It makes it easy to collect the
trash.
- Handle dumpster
With two steering wheels, you can easily handle the dumpster. The driver is not required to stop the vehicle. It’s much safer and easier.
- Turn like a pro
A double steering wheel allows the driver to turn like a pro. Thanks to steering magic it makes driving smoother.
Also Read:
Why Are Semi-Truck Wheels Shaped Differently? 5 Reasons
Why Do Heavy Vehicles Have A Large Steering Wheel? Complete Guide In 2024
Do all garbage trucks have two steering wheels?
No, not all garbage trucks have two sterling wheels. Often garbage trucks have two steering wheels but they are specific.
The presence of a dual steering wheel is a specific feature, particularly found in the design to enhance efficiency and maneuverability. it helps during waste collection.
Two steering wheels depend on the design and model of the garbage trucks.
What Are the Sticks Behind the Steering Wheel Called?
The stick behind the steering wheel is called paddle shifters and shift paddles. This feature is commonly found in automatic and semi-automatic vehicles.
They allow drivers to change the gear manually without needing a clutch pedal. The paddle shifter is usually located on the steering column or directly on the steering wheel.
The pedal shifter allows drivers the convenience of taking control of changing gears.
How Many Axles Does a Garbage Truck Have?
A garbage truck has mostly two axles. The number of axles varies on the specific design and size of the garbage truck.
Smaller garbage trucks have a single rear axle and a front axle. On the other hand, large models have additional axles. Especially those designed for heavy duty collecting heavy waste.
The dual axle configuration is common in garbage trucks. they make sure to handle the substantial weight of collected waste efficiently.
How does a front-load trash truck work?
These trucks are mainly used in business and urban areas. It provides a quick and automated method for collecting substantial amounts of waste from residential and business areas.
A front-load trash truck uses the hydraulic arm to lift and empty a large dumpster into its storage compartment.
Once the truck is fully loaded the vehicle transports the compacted waste to disposable facilities. It contributes to the organized and effective management of urban waste.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Where Are Garbage Trucks Made?
Garbage trucks are made worldwide by various companies. Some notable companies include Heil and Mack Trucks in the USA. the manufacturer of Volvo trucks with global manufacturing plants and Peterbilt primarily located in the United States.
2. How many wheels does a garbage truck have?
Garbage trucks usually have six wheels. Two wheels are present on the front axle and four wheels on the rear axle.
3. What is called a garbage truck?
A truck that is large and manufactured for the collection of waste is called a garbage truck.
4. What is the most common type of garbage truck?
The most common type of garbage truck is the rear-load garbage truck.
5. What is the capacity of a garbage truck?
A garbage truck’s capacity depends on its size. mostly the range comes between 5 to 40 cubic yards. it depends on the type and size of the truck.
Conclusion:
The two steering wheels help to collect the waste from urban and business areas. The garbage truck is the unsung hero it is a tool to clean our environment and residential areas.
The two steering wheels help for better control making the process effective and smoother.
There are several reasons for two steering wheels in garbage trucks. it helps drivers to easily navigate the areas and much more I have discussed in the blog.
Most garbage trucks have two steering wheels, it depends on the truck manufacturer’s type and size.
