Minimum steer axle weight

Placing heavy loads beyond the drive axles removes weight from the steer axle. It takes a decent ground load on the steer axle to keep the vehicle safe for maneuvering and to preserve ride quality.

In class we use a 'rule of thumb' of 7,000 lbs. minimum when hauling a Moffett, or if there is a trailer to allow for the tongue weight.  The Wrecker folks (these are guys who encounter this situation on a daily basis) use 50% to 60% of the steer axle "as-built" weight. As-built, or curb weight, should not to be confused with the nominal capacity of the component itself.  A steer axle rated at 12,000 lbs. may have a curb weight of around 9,000 lbs. before the vehicle is put into service.

Example:  If your chassis steer axle curb weight (no Moffett or trailer attached) is 10,000 lbs., then the minimum scaled weight for the steer axle, once the equipment is connected, would be from 5000 - 6000 lbs. Recall that the center of the rear axle group acts as a fulcrum.

We've seen a few trucks and tractors where this wasn't taken into consideration. A 1-ton steel bumper would be a creative solution, but.....NO.  All solutions will result in decreased payload. Payload is how the money is made.