What effect does a larger distance between trailer tires and the kingpin have?

A larger distance between the trailer tires and the kingpin increases off-tracking. Off-tracking occurs when a tractor-trailer turns, causing the rear wheels of the trailer to follow a different path than the front wheels. The greater the distance between the trailer tires and the kingpin, the more pronounced the off-tracking effect becomes. This is because the rear of the trailer swings wider during turns, leading to a larger discrepancy between the paths taken by the front and rear wheels.

Understanding off-tracking is crucial for safe maneuvering, especially in tight spaces or when making sharp turns. If the off-tracking is increased, the rear of the trailer may encroach on adjacent lanes, creating potential hazards to other vehicles or obstacles. Therefore, managing the distance between the trailer tires and the kingpin is a key consideration in vehicle design and operation, particularly when aiming to navigate urban environments or tight loading docks effectively.