NYC Tow Truck Endorsement Practice Exam

What is a Pusher Axle?

1. The first axle in a quad-axle configuration

2. The rear drive axle in a tandem axle setup

3. An additional axle for improving fuel efficiency

4. Another term for a front-mounted axle

The correct answer is: The rear drive axle in a tandem axle setup

In the context of heavy towing vehicles, a pusher axle is defined as an additional axle that is mounted in front of the drive axles. The primary purpose of a pusher axle is to enhance the truck's load-bearing capacity and improve traction, as it distributes the weight more evenly across multiple wheels. In a tandem axle configuration, the pusher axle, located in front of the main rear drive axles, contributes significantly to the vehicle's stability and handling capabilities, especially when carrying heavy loads. This setup allows for better weight distribution, which can also impact fuel efficiency indirectly by preventing overloading on specific axles. Other answers may reference alternative configurations or functions of axles, but the key aspect of a pusher axle is its placement and role in enhancing a truck's operational performance, particularly in towing scenarios.