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Top ZF 16S Transmission Tool Kits Compared: OEM vs Aftermarket The ZF 16S transmission is widely used in commercial trucks for its durability and efficiency. However, maintaining or overhauling this gearbox requires specialized tools to ensure precision and safety. Whether you’re an independent workshop or a fleet service provider, choosing the right tool kit—OEM or aftermarket—can make a major difference in cost, performance, and longevity. Why You Need a Specialized Tool Kit for ZF 16S Servicing the ZF 16S gearbox involves complex disassembly and reassembly processes such as aligning shafts, removing planetary gears, and installing bearings. Each step demands dedicated tools like: Input/output shaft extractors Planetary gear hangers Centering plates Snap ring installers Bearing mandrels (various diameters) Using improper tools may lead to alignment errors, internal damage, or safety risks. OEM vs Aftermarket: What’s the Difference? OEM kits, typically provided by ZF or authorized distributors, are known for top-tier quality but often come with higher prices and limited availability. In contrast, high-quality aftermarket tool kits offer excellent value and meet or exceed OEM standards—often at a more accessible price point. Kit Comparison Overview Brand Included Tools OEM Compatibility Price Range Oni Tools 16+ tools incl. shaft installer, bearing mandrels DAF, HINO, MAN, PACCAR ~$1,399 USD Ferrum Tools Full disassembly kit, 3 bearing installers ZF OEM Part Number Matched ~$1,989 USD NBDN Tools Planetary gear support, centering ring, extractors ZF 16S Series, full compatibility Competitive pricing – ask for quote NBDN Tools: Trusted Manufacturer for Heavy-Duty Repair Solutions As a leading manufacturer specializing in truck repair tools, NBDN Tools brings over a decade of experience in serving OEMs and aftermarket professionals worldwide. Our ZF 16S Transmission Tool Kit is designed for precision, safety, and long-term workshop use. Crafted from high-strength steel, each component is engineered to match OEM tolerances, ensuring reliable performance at every stage of transmission service. We proudly support technicians working with brands like Sinotruk, FAW, Dongfeng, and international fleets. Our kits are trusted in over 30 countries and fully supported by step-by-step documentation and responsive technical assistance. ➡ View NBDN ZF 16S Tool Kit Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Kit If your workshop frequently services heavy-duty gearboxes, investing in a reliable tool kit is essential. While OEM kits deliver guaranteed performance, aftermarket kits—especially from reputable manufacturers like NBDN Tools—provide the same functionality at a more affordable cost. Before purchasing, consider your workload, supported truck brands, and whether step-by-step instructions or after-sales support are important for your team. About NBDN Tools: NBDN Tools is a professional manufacturer of commercial vehicle service tools. We focus on R&D, production, and customization of engine, transmission, clutch, and axle tools for medium- to heavy-duty trucks. Explore our full range at www.nbdntools.com

Introduction: Why the Right Axle Tool Matters Whether you're a professional mechanic or a passionate DIYer, choosing the right axle tool can mean the difference between a smooth repair and a costly mistake. Axle components—whether in CV joints, hub assemblies, or bicycle axles—require precision tools designed to handle specific torque, force, and fitment challenges. At DN Tools, we’ve spent over a decade engineering high-performance axle tools trusted by truck fleets, repair shops, and distributors around the world. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to pick the ideal axle tool for your needs—and why DN is the brand you can rely on. Types of Axle Tools: Know What You Need 1. CV Axle Puller Tools Best for: Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles Slide Hammer Kits – Controlled impact to dislodge stuck CV axles Fork Adapters – Fit between the CV joint and transaxle Axle Poppers / Wedges – Quick separation tools DN CV Axle Puller Kit is engineered with forged steel and extended adapters for easy removal of stubborn axles—especially in heavy-duty vehicles. 2. Axle Nut Wrenches & Hex Sockets Best for: Removing or tightening axle nuts on cars, trucks, and motorcycles Fixed Size Wrenches – Ideal for BMX and motorcycles Multi-size Hex Socket Tools – Great for heavy trucks Torque-Sensitive Sockets – Prevent damage to threads  NBDN Axle Hex Socket Set covers 12mm–36mm in heavy-duty chrome-vanadium, compatible with most truck and trailer models. 3. Axle Multi-Tools (for Bicycles & Motorcycles) Best for: Riders and cyclists who need compact, trail-ready repair kits Portable Wrench/Hex Sets Leverage Handles for Tight Axles Axle Handle Multi-Functions NBDN Mini Axle Multi-Tool is compact and trail-ready, built for high-torque situations. Key Factors in Choosing an Axle Tool Factor What to Consider Vehicle Compatibility Ensure the tool fits your specific axle size & model Material Quality Look for hardened steel or alloy construction Usage Frequency Consider durability for shop vs DIY use Tool Type Select from pullers, hex sockets, or multi-tools Safety Features Anti-slip grips, torque control, and rust resistance Why Choose NBDN Tools? Founded in 2011, Ningbo Baiyu Tools Co., Ltd. (NBDN Tools) specializes in manufacturing high-quality truck repair tools, including a full range of axle service kits and accessories. We proudly serve: OEM truck factories and global distributors Heavy-duty axle puller and socket tools ISO-certified workshops with quality guarantees Custom tool development and after-sales support Learn more about NBDN Tools Conclusion Choosing the right axle tool depends on your vehicle, task type, and tool quality. With NBDN Tools, you're guaranteed high durability, fitment precision, and professional-grade performance. Ready to upgrade your toolset? 👉 Contact us today for product inquiries and pricing.

Being a professional truck driver in 2025 means more than just hitting the road — it’s about being prepared for anything. At NBDN Tools, we’re committed to providing reliable, innovative truck tools for heavy-duty applications. Here's our curated list of the Top 10 Must-Have Tools for truckers today. 1. Heavy-Duty Multi-Tool Set Every trucker should carry a multifunctional toolkit with essentials like pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers. NBDN’s OEM-grade tools offer anti-slip handles and anti-rust coatings for long-term use. 2. AI-Enabled Dash Cam System Modern dash cams detect fatigue, capture high-res incidents, and include GPS logging. A vital safety and legal tool in 2025's fleet landscape. 3. Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Headset Long-haul drivers rely on clear communication. Choose headsets like BlueParrott with active noise-cancellation and DOT-compliant operation. 4. Smart GPS Navigation Truck-specific GPS units offer height restrictions, weigh station alerts, and optimized freight routes. It’s more than a map — it’s logistics tech. 5. Portable Power Inverter Run appliances or charge tools with a 2000W–3000W inverter. Look for pure sine wave output, surge protection, and multiple ports. 6. Hydraulic Jack or Air Jack Flat tires happen. NBDN’s 16-ton hydraulic jacks offer wide base stability and corrosion-resistant cylinders, perfect for roadside lifts. 7. Digital Tire Pressure Gauge Digital gauges with auto shutoff, backlit displays, and PSI/KPA modes help keep your tires in top shape and your fuel economy in check. 8. Refrigerated Food Storage / Truck Oven Fuel your route with healthy food. Use a portable fridge or 12V oven to store and cook on the go — skip the greasy diners. 9. LED Flashlight / Magnetic Work Light From engine checks to trailer hookups, lighting is critical. Choose USB-rechargeable, waterproof lights with a 360° magnet base. 10. First Aid & Emergency Safety Kit From small cuts to breakdowns, this kit is your lifeline. Stock flares, gauze, an extinguisher, and a mylar blanket at all times. Why Trust NBDN Tools? With decades of experience serving professional fleets across Europe, Asia, and South America, NBDN Tools manufactures gearbox tools, axle service kits, and OEM repair instruments for Fast Gear, ZF, and Allison transmissions. 🔧 Explore our range: About NBDN Tools

How ZF Gearbox Repair Works: Step-by-Step Guide ZF gearboxes are widely used in commercial trucks, heavy-duty vehicles, marine equipment, and construction machinery due to their reliability and advanced mechatronic systems. However, like all mechanical systems, they require periodic repair or overhaul to ensure continued performance and safety. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a detailed ZF gearbox repair process, from inspection to final testing — while also introducing how NBDN Tools, a leading manufacturer of truck repair tools, empowers workshops and professionals with the right tools and technical knowledge for successful gearbox repairs. 1. Initial Diagnosis and Problem Detection Use OBD scanners to extract transmission fault codes. Inspect transmission fluid — check for contamination, burnt smell, or metal shavings. Road test the vehicle to identify shift delays, slipping, or abnormal sounds. 2. Disassembly and Inspection Drain the transmission and clean all external surfaces. Use NBDN’s gearbox disassembly tool sets for safe removal of the transmission unit. Systematically disassemble: remove oil pan, valve body, solenoids, torque converter, and clutch assemblies. Inspect gears, bearings, pump, and clutch plates for wear or scoring. 3. Component Testing & Cleaning Test solenoids for correct resistance values and response. Hydraulically test the torque converter and oil pump using test benches. Clean all reusable components with non-abrasive methods (ultrasonic preferred). 4. Replacement & Reassembly Replace worn clutch packs, gaskets, seals, and faulty electronic units with OEM-grade parts. Use torque specifications and alignment tools to reassemble internal components. Reinstall valve body, filter, and transmission pan using precision torque tools from NBDN. 5. Final Testing and Calibration Refill fluid with ZF-recommended ATF. Perform static and dynamic pressure testing. Use diagnostic software to reset adaptations and calibrate the mechatronic unit. Conduct road tests under various loads to validate shifting performance. 6. Why Choose NBDN Tools for ZF Gearbox Repair? At NBDN Tools, we specialize in professional-grade repair tools for heavy-duty truck systems, including ZF, Allison, and Fast Gear transmissions. Our R&D team focuses on the needs of commercial repair shops, offering: Custom ZF transmission disassembly/rebuild toolkits Pressure testing adapters and solenoid test tools Clutch adjustment tools and torque converter locking systems Fast delivery, OEM compatibility, and engineering support With our tools, technicians can perform accurate and efficient gearbox repairs, reduce labor time, and ensure long-term system reliability. 7. Conclusion ZF gearbox repair is a complex but manageable task when supported by the right tools and expertise. Whether you run a repair shop or manage a fleet, understanding the process and using reliable tools from NBDN Tools ensures quality outcomes and customer satisfaction. For tool inquiries or to explore our full product catalog, get in touch with us today.

Why You Need Special Tools for the ZF 16S Gearbox The ZF 16S gearbox features complex internal components, including a heavy planetary gear set, tapered roller bearings, and precision-aligned shafts. Using improper tools during disassembly or reinstallation may cause misalignment, component damage, or even unsafe operation post-repair. That's why using specialized tools — such as shaft extractors, centering plates, and gear support hangers — is critical for safe and efficient maintenance. Core Tools in the Assembly/Disassembly Set Planetary Gear Hanging Device: Supports the heavy gear assembly during installation/removal to prevent damage and misalignment. Centering Plate & Spacers: Ensures the planetary gear ring aligns perfectly within the housing. Input Shaft Extractor: Used to safely remove the shaft without damaging seals or bearings. Rear Divider Finger & Bearing Pullers: Tools designed for safely disassembling rear housing and internal supports. Mandrels & Snap Ring Installers: For inserting and positioning roller bearings, rings, and spacers with controlled force. Step-by-Step Assembly Guide (Planetary Gear) Preheat the ring gear to 60–120°C to allow thermal expansion. Align the planetary carrier with the ring using the centering plate. Install the roller bearings and spacer rings using mandrels. Use the planetary hanging device to safely lower and secure the gear into the housing. Check axial play (recommended: 0.0–0.1mm) before securing snap rings. Each step ensures a precision fit and prevents bearing misalignment, which is a common cause of premature gearbox failure. NBDN Tools – Your Reliable Partner in Transmission Servicing At NBDN Tools, we specialize in manufacturing professional-grade repair and assembly tools for heavy-duty truck transmissions — including ZF, Fast Gear, and Allison. Our ZF 16S gearbox tool set is engineered for precision, durability, and compatibility with OEM specifications. ✔ Over 10 years of industry expertise ✔ Trusted by workshops and fleets in over 40 countries ✔ Custom solutions available for transmission-specific needs We don't just offer tools — we deliver reliable productivity for mechanics, OEMs, and aftermarket professionals. Conclusion Whether you're performing a routine gearbox overhaul or a full rebuild, having the right tools makes all the difference. The ZF 16S planetary gear system is a precision assembly that deserves precision handling. With NBDN Tools, you gain access to purpose-built equipment that ensures safety, speed, and success on every job. 👉 Need a quote or catalog? Visit www.nbdntools.com or contact our technical sales team today.

Why You Need the Right Tools for ZF Transmission Repairs ZF transmissions require high-precision tools to ensure safe and efficient repairs. From passenger cars to heavy-duty trucks, using the correct tools preserves the integrity and performance of the gearbox. What Makes ZF Transmissions Unique ZF 8HP automatic (BMW, Jeep, Audi) ZF 6HP automatic ZF 16S & 8S Ecosplit for trucks and buses These systems require precise alignment, advanced diagnostics, and well-crafted service tools. Must-Have Tools for ZF Transmission Repair Alignment & Centering Tools Essential for clutch and flywheel installation. Tools like the SACHS clutch centering kit ensure vibration-free operation. Support Plates & Pilot Pins Used during reassembly of gear sets or planetary carriers. Ensures correct positioning without damaging components. Mandrels, Extractors & Installers Used in heavy-duty transmissions like the ZF 16S, these tools allow safe removal and installation of gears and shafts. Fluid Filling Tools & Adapters Necessary for accurate filling of ZF LifeGuard fluids. Includes pumps, adapters, and temp sensors. ZF Testman Diagnostic Interface Enables reading fault codes, resetting adaptations, and live data diagnostics for electronic transmissions. Trusted Tool Providers ZF Aftermarket – Official tool kits Oni Tools – Affordable heavy-duty kits DNT Tools – Customized ZF repair solutions About DNT Tools DNT Tools is a professional manufacturer of engine and transmission repair tools. We offer: Complete ZF transmission kits Custom tool development ISO-certified manufacturing 🔗 Visit: https://www.nbdntools.com/aboutus.htm Why Choose DNT Tools Feature Benefit Precision CNC Tooling Matches OEM tolerances Extensive Product Line Covers 6HP, 8HP, 16S, 8S Global Shipping 50+ countries Custom Branding OEM/ODM options available Recommended Kit Our ZF 16S/8S truck transmission tool kit includes: Centering plate Support base Output shaft puller Gear synchronizer mandrel Bearing installer 📩 Contact: info@nbdntools.com Conclusion ZF transmission servicing demands precision tools. Whether you're a repair center, fleet workshop, or distributor, DNT Tools provides the reliability and quality you need.

With more and more truck models, engines are becoming more and more "sophisticated", which requires truck drivers to strengthen daily maintenance, extend the life of the engine, and reduce use failures. This issue of DNT editor brings you the precautions for the maintenance of Sinotruk D10B diesel engines.Operation precautions:For the safety and comfort of driving, be sure to perform daily inspections on each component of the diesel engine before use. If any abnormality is found, you can go to the maintenance service station for repair.Before starting the diesel engine, check whether the oil level, coolant level, etc. meet the requirements to ensure safety.When starting the diesel engine, if it fails to start within 5 seconds, it should be restarted after 15 seconds. After starting the diesel engine, it should run at idle speed for 2 to 3 minutes, and the oil pressure should be higher than 100kPa. When the coolant temperature is not higher than 60℃, do not suddenly run at high speed and high load, otherwise it will affect the reliability of the diesel engine. Before stopping a loaded diesel engine, the engine must be deloaded and slowed down, and the idling time must be no less than 5 minutes. During the running-in period (3000km), the diesel engine should only be operated under medium load.

Carbon steel is often used as the material for large vehicle maintenance tools, mainly because it has many advantages in terms of performance, cost, and processability, and is particularly suitable for heavy-duty maintenance scenarios that bear large loads and large torques. The following are the specific reasons:1. High strength and good rigidity Carbon steel has good mechanical strength and rigidity, and can withstand the impact force and high-strength torque commonly seen in large vehicle maintenance, preventing deformation or breakage. 2. Strong wear resistance During the maintenance process, tools often come into contact and rub against metal parts. Carbon steel, especially medium carbon steel and high carbon steel, have strong wear resistance after heat treatment (such as quenching and tempering), which prolongs the life of the tool. 3. Easy to process and shape Carbon steel has good machinability and is easy to carry out: Forging (such as wrenches and sockets) Turning and milling (such as maintenance tools) Heat treatment and surface treatment (such as chrome plating, blackening, etc.) 4. Excellent heat treatment performance Carbon steel can obtain the required hardness and toughness after quenching and tempering, and adapt to different working conditions. 5. Low cost and easy to obtain Compared with alloy steel, stainless steel and other materials, carbon steel is cheaper and more widely available, which is conducive to controlling manufacturing costs, and is particularly suitable for low-end or mass production. 6. Various surface treatments are available Although carbon steel itself has average corrosion resistance, it can be treated with nickel plating, chrome plating, blackening, phosphating and other surface treatments to improve its appearance and rust resistance, taking into account both function and aesthetics.

Nowadays, the weather is cold and windy in winter. If people don't take good care of their bodies, they will have problems. Not to mention the car outside in the wind, sun and cold weather, oil leakage is also very common. The following editor will share with you the reasons for the crankshaft rear oil seal leakage. Let's take a look~① The crankshaft oil seal did not use non-petroleum-based lubricants during the press-fitting process, which caused the oil seal to loosen or even fall off after the engine was used for a period of time (for example, some engine manufacturers use engine oil instead of relatively expensive non-petroleum-based lubricants to reduce manufacturing costs).② The parallelism of the rear oil seal press-fitting surface to the rear oil seal seat mounting surface did not meet the technical requirements of the assembly drawing, causing the rear oil seal lip to be unevenly stressed and deformed. After the engine was used for a period of time, the oil seal lip was deformed or even the entire oil seal was twisted, causing the oil seal to be damaged and leak oil.③ The engine has been in use for a long time, and the rear oil seal has naturally aged and cracks have occurred at the lip, causing oil leakage.Although the oil seal is small, it has a great responsibility. Once the oil leaks, the engine may lack oil and wear, and the leaking oil may also have certain hidden dangers, so check it frequently. How to install the crankshaft oil seal?①First, use 2 M12*1.5*40mm hexagon socket bolts to fix the guide shaft to the front section of the engine crankshaft, and tighten it with a hexagon socket wrench;②Then install the crankshaft front oil seal on the guide shaft, and the guide shaft plays a guiding role;③Install the pressure plate on the guide shaft, and use a movable wrench to turn the nut so that the pressure plate presses the oil seal into place;④Remove the special maintenance tool, and the crankshaft front oil seal is installed.If you are interested in this aspect, you can contact us at any time

Operate and use the transmission correctly and reasonably, and perform regular maintenance. DNT editor has extracted some maintenance methods from the Fast transmission repair tool manual for your reference:1. Check the oil level position. The oil level should be flush with the lower edge of the oil level observation hole and should not be 5mm lower than the lower edge of the oil level observation hole. Too much oil filling will cause the transmission temperature to rise and oil leakage; too little oil filling will cause poor lubrication of parts, and in severe cases, a burning accident will occur.2. Oil change cycle. The lubricant must be replaced when the new transmission travels 2000~5000km. The oil level and leakage of the lubricant should be checked every 10000km, and it should be replenished at any time. The lubricant should be replaced every 50000~80000km.3. Working temperature. The temperature of the transmission during continuous operation shall not exceed 120℃, and the temperature shall not be lower than -40℃. When the working temperature exceeds 120℃, the lubricant will decompose and shorten the life of the transmission.4. Working inclination angle When the working inclination angle of the transmission exceeds 12°, the lubrication may not be sufficient. A lubricating oil pump or cooling device can be installed to ensure good lubrication.In case of a failure, don't try any treatment to save some money, which may easily cause more serious failures. It is better to find a regular service station or repair shop, because there are special repair tools for gearbox repair. Take our Fast gearbox special repair tools as an example: Fast gearbox repair tools This set of Fast gearbox is specially designed and produced for Fast. It is made of international standard steel and processed with humanized design concepts. It has high strength and can be used twice as many times as ordinary steel without damage. This is the advantage of materials.At present, there are many repair shops equipped with this set of Fast gearbox repair tools, and they are exported to other countries. If you are also interested in DNT's special repair tools for large vehicles, please contact us.

How to install the crankshaft oil sealEngine oil leakage is a common automobile fault. Generally, when it comes to oil leakage, car owners will think that there is a problem with the seal, mostly the oil seal is broken. Here is how to install the crankshaft oil seal①First, use 3 M14*1.5*90mm hexagon socket bolts to fix the guide shaft to the front section of the engine crankshaft, and tighten it with a hexagon socket wrench;②Then install the crankshaft rear oil seal on the guide shaft, and the guide shaft plays a guiding role;③Install the pressure plate on the guide shaft, and use a movable wrench to turn the nut so that the pressure plate presses the oil seal into place;④Remove the special maintenance tool, and the crankshaft rear oil seal is installed.If you are interested in this aspect, you can contact us at any time.

Engine oil leakage will cause great waste. In severe cases, it may cause the crankshaft to lock, which will pose a great safety hazard to the life and property of the vehicle and the driver. Therefore, we would like to remind the maintenance masters that when the engine oil leakage is found, they must use the DNT oil seal installation tool to repair it in time. It can also be solved by themselves.The DNT oil seal installation tool is used to install the engine oil seal. It is composed of a support seat, a guide rod, a positioning pin and a press-fit sleeve. It is suitable for the maintenance of various models of engines. The Tanaka oil seal installation tool refuses to affect the life of the engine due to oil leakage of the oil seal. Using the Tanaka oil seal installation tool can help the majority of maintenance masters solve the oil leakage problem caused by the improper installation of the oil seal.Instructions for quick installation of the DNT oil seal installation tool:1) Use the plastic guide pin of the new oil seal to position the oil seal on the front end of the crankshaft and lubricate the outer diameter of the oil seal to prevent tearing during installation.2) Install the oil seal into the front gear chamber. This tool is installed above the oil seal. Use a plastic hammer to evenly hit the tool at 90-degree intervals. When it is flush with the end face of the flywheel housing, until the oil seal is fully inserted, the oil seal can be installed to the appropriate depth.The DNT oil seal installation tool has a simple structure and is easy to use. It will not damage the accessories during the installation of the oil seal. At the same time, it greatly shortens the working hours and improves efficiency. If you are interested in the above oil seal installation tools or have any questions, please contact us on the official website

Fast Gearbox Repair Tool Manual - Common Faults and Troubleshooting: Overheating of the Transmission.The long-term operating temperature of the transmission should not exceed 120°C. If this temperature is exceeded, the lubricating oil will deteriorate and the life of the transmission will be affected.Due to the friction of the moving parts, the transmission will generate a certain amount of heat. The normal operating temperature is about 38°C higher than the ambient temperature. The heat is dissipated through the transmission housing. If the heat dissipation is not normal, it will cause overheating.Before looking for the cause of overheating, the oil temperature gauge and oil temperature sensor must be checked to ensure that the reading of the oil temperature gauge is correct.Generally, overheating is caused by the following reasons:1) Improper lubrication. The oil level is too low or too high, the oil grade is wrong, or the transmission working angle exceeds 12°.2) The driving speed is usually below 32Km/h.3) The engine speed is too high;4) The airflow around the transmission is blocked because the transmission is surrounded by the frame, floor, fuel tank and installed between the large bumper assembly;5) The engine exhaust system is too close to the transmission;6) The ambient temperature is too high;7) Overloading and speeding.

Because of commercial vehicle gross-weight and axle-weight regulations, drivers will occasionally need to reposition the 5th wheel or the trailer axles for proper weight distribution. This video explains how to slide the 5th wheel and the trailer axles safely and without damaging the equipment. After taking on a load, especially a heavy load, it’s advisable to axle-weigh the truck if possible before beginning the trip. Overweight fines are expensive and go against the fleet’s safety record. If, after axle-weighing the truck, you discover the drive axles are 800 pounds overweight, but the steer axle is still below its legal limit, you will need to shift that weight forward to the steer axle by sliding the 5th wheel forward. Generally, weight will transfer at about 100 pounds per inch. In this example, you will have to slide the fifth wheel forward about eight inches. If, after axle-weighing the truck, you discover the drive axles are 800 pounds overweight, but the steer axle is still below its legal limit, you will need to shift that weight forward to the steer axle by sliding the 5th wheel forward. Generally, weight will transfer at about 100 pounds per inch. In this example, you will have to slide the fifth wheel forward about eight inches.Where to lower the landing gearTo ease the strain on the driveline, you’ll need to lower the trailer landing gear to support the weight. Look for solid even ground upon which to lower the landing gear, then place wheel chocks around the trailer wheels. Crank the landing gear down to about two inches from the ground, then climb into the cab and deflate the tractor air suspension. The landing gear will settle to the ground, taking the weight off the tractor frame. As the suspension deflates, unlock the 5th wheel slider lock, then exit the cab to verify the locks have released, and to ensure the tractor is not dangling from the trailer king pin. With the weight off the 5th wheel, it should slide easily.It will help if you mark two spots on the ground as a reference for how far the 5th wheel needs to move. In this case, we placed a pair of gloves on the ground beside the tires as guides. Back in the cab, place the transmission in reverse, as in this case you’ll be sliding the 5th wheel forward. Release the tractor parking brakes and gently apply some throttle. After sliding the appropriate distance, set the tractor brake and exit the cab to verify the 5th wheel is now in the correct position. If the move was successful, re-enter the cab and re-engage the 5th wheel slide locking mechanism. Release the parking brakes and place the transmission in drive or reverse. Gently rock the truck back and forth to seat the slider locks.Verify the slider locks have engaged, then re-inflate the tractor suspension.As the suspension is inflating, set the tractor parking brakes. Exit the cab and crank up the landing gear and fetch the wheel chocks from the trailer. Before releasing the trailer parking brakes, do one more tug test to ensure the slider locks are fully engaged.How to slide a trailer bogeyNext, we’ll look at sliding the trailer bogeys.As with the 5th wheel, repositioning the trailer axles can help with weight distribution. If the trailer axles are overweight, sliding them back can transfer weight to the drive axles. Conversely, if the drive axles are overweight and the weight cannot be transferred to the steer axle, sliding the trailer bogeys forward can take some weight off the drive axles.Unfortunately, there’s no way to take the weight off the trailer axles before sliding them, as we could with the 5th wheel by lowering the landing gear. It’s advisable to check before loading the trailer that the trailer axles are in the proper position — that is, no more than 41 feet or 12.5 meters behind the trailer king pin — and that the trailer-axle slider locks are working and the axles can slideMost trailers have an air-activated release for the locking mechanism, and usually, the trailer parking brake must be set for the locks to disengage. Also, the trailer air suspension may deflate when the parking brakes are set. When the trailer is loaded, the locking pins usually will not disengage when you flip the switch. To disengage the pins, you may have to rock the tractor back and forth with the trailer brakes set.As with the 5th wheel slider, make the current position of the locking pins with tape, chalk, or a sticky note. Also mark the position you what to slide the axles to. Release the locking pins, and deflate the trailer air suspension.In the cab, release the tractor parking brakes, place the transmission in the direction you want to slide the trailer axles, and gently apply throttle. Be aware the slider locks may break free suddenly, so be ready to release the throttle pedal immediately. Set the tractor parking brakes, exit the cab, and verify the trailer axles are now in the position you want them to be. Since the locking holes are usually spaced four or six inches apart, you will shift about 250 pounds per hole for four-inch spacing, and 400 pounds for six-inch spacing.With the trailer axles successfully repositioned, re-engage the locking mechanism. The pins may not be perfectly centered on the holes, so you may need to rock the tractor back and forth to get the pins to engage. Do not venture out onto the road until the locks are engaged. If you have difficulty engaging the locks, driving slowly around and applying the trailer brakes can help. So does driving around on uneven ground. Gather up the wheel chocks, check for lock-pin engagement, and be sure the trailer suspension is re-inflated before driving to the scale to reweigh the truck.