tag or no tag???

clnhse · 02-03-2007, 04:16 AM

what if the big difference with a tag. I know it will be longer. will it drive much better???

clnhse · 02-03-2007, 04:16 AM

what if the big difference with a tag. I know it will be longer. will it drive much better???

footdoc · 02-03-2007, 04:26 AM

TAG..I feel it gives a more stable ride..both on uneven turns and straight line..better braking and more weight capacity

GaryKD · 02-03-2007, 04:38 AM

I do not have a tag, wish I did. Stability and weight carrying capability are the big +s, for me.

Lug_Nut · 02-03-2007, 05:11 AM

As mentioned the extra weight capacity is certainly a great feature of the tag as is some additional braking. As far as driving stability I don't know. Perhap only in high winds, but a well balanced single rear axle should match it otherwise in my opinion. There is however far better stability in the case of a rear tire blowout as two remaining tires will handle the overload far better than one. The tag also has a much longer drive shaft which substantially reduces the u-joint angles during heavy suspension deflections and for moving at full aired down position.
But..... One of the BIGGEST benefits....... It Looks Cool!

Peter

JavaJelly · 02-03-2007, 05:21 AM

I went through this same analysis last fall as I was moving out a non-tag coach. I got great input from this forum. Overwhelming feedback is:

tracks better down the highway
better stability
better ride
obviously you get the option of larger floor plans and more carrying capacity.

Also, one thing that came across loud & clear, once you go tag you never go back. My father in law has a single axle too. Drove mine once and now is looking at Tags. After having owned mine for a few months and 5,000 miles, I would agree.

However, there is an obvious cost difference and many single axle coaches drive great. It may not be worth it to you. I have never driven a single axle Newmar or any Spartan chassis product. It may suit you fine as my choice was primarily based on a larger floor plan for my family.

JavaJelly · 02-03-2007, 05:34 AM

Peter is correct. There is a definite cool factor.

Dav5942 · 02-03-2007, 07:54 AM

With a ME you don't need a tag as the weight is balanced properly. Almost like driving a sports car. Do notice a little front end movement which does not appear to becoming from the "tail wagging the dog'.

Lug_Nut · 02-03-2007, 08:11 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">With a ME you don't need a tag as the weight is balanced properly. Almost like driving a sports car. Do notice a little front end movement which does not appear to becoming from the "tail wagging the dog'. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

In theory, that makes sense. In reality the center of gravity is nearly the same. On the ME models the manufacturers have to move the weight back even more to that of a DP. Basically both end up with about 90% of front axle capacity used, with the identical axle.
However, the handling may be better as there is far less weight aft of the rear axle where leverage multiples the load.

Peter

cwg · 02-03-2007, 12:24 PM

One of the considerations with a tag axle not mentioned specifically yet is the tag assembly will generally take 2 1/2 feet of storage space from the coach, generally one storage bay.

While most rigs which are longer have tags, manufacturers like Country Coach have produced models under 40 ft. due to the greater carrying capacity... the rig can have more amenities as marble or granite flooring.

Having said that, this is the first tag axle I have had, and I doubt I would ever return to a single rear axle setup. The turning radius concerns I had are not a consideration, and as Peter said, the coolness factor is an intangible, but noteworthy aspect.

JerryKelly · 02-03-2007, 02:35 PM

With IFS, my 43' Spartan Mountain Master GT tag turns tighter and is easier to back in than my former 40' single axle Freightliner chassis. Never have to worry about carrying too much, just need to be careful where you load. I am always close to the maximum load on my front axle. By the way, no more white knuckles when a semi goes flying by. Steady as she goes.

Dav5942 · 02-03-2007, 04:18 PM

Quote Lug Nut wrote:
In theory, that makes sense. In reality the center of gravity is nearly the same. On the ME models the manufacturers have to move the weight back even more to that of a DP.

Sorry don't agree-with a 42-43' DP without a tag there is a big difference of the rear weight distribution relative to the position of the rear axle vs a ME-which makes the tag more necessary for ride, etc on a DP.

Lug_Nut · 02-03-2007, 04:28 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Sorry don't agree-with a 42-43' DP without a tag there is a big difference of the rear weight distribution relative to the position of the rear axle vs a ME-which makes the tag more necessary for ride, etc on a DP. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I don't know too many 42/43 footers that don't have a tag, in fact I can't think of one. Longest rig I know of is 41'. Which unit are you referring to?