Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

What is a common consequence of too much weight on the steering axle?

1. Reduced braking power

2. Hard steering and tire damage

3. Increased fuel consumption

4. Exhaust issues

The correct answer is: Hard steering and tire damage

Having too much weight on the steering axle can lead to hard steering and tire damage for several reasons. When the weight on the steering axle exceeds the designed limits, it creates additional strain on the steering mechanism, making it more difficult to turn the vehicle. This can result in stiffness in the steering wheel and increased physical effort required from the driver to steer the vehicle. Additionally, excess weight can cause uneven wear on the tires. Tires on an overloaded steering axle may experience higher friction and heat buildup, which can lead to premature tire wear and potential blowouts. The added stress can also affect the overall alignment of the vehicle, exacerbating tire damage and impacting handling and safety. While other choices address different issues, they do not capture the primary consequences related specifically to steering axle weight overload as effectively as the correct answer does.