In article ,
Stephen Sprunk wrote:
On 30-Jan-12 17:37, Robert Bonomi wrote:
*HOWEVER*, tanks are *heavy* -- substantially surpassing the legal load
limits on most highways. An "M1A1", alone, NOT INCLUDING the weight of
the transporter vehicle, is close to double the legal weight limit on most
highways.

Load limits are specified per axle or tandem, and tank transporters have
_lots_ of axles to spread the tank's weight out.

Some are, some are *not*.

'More axles' doesn't make any difference to a bridge span. grin.

(The current tank transporters are only rated for 45mph, ironically
slower than modern tanks can move on their own.)


Yup.

... and the standard traffic lane is exactly twelve feet wide. However,
the transporter is _not_ that wide; a tank hangs off both sides,
possibly over one shoulder or the other if the transporter is not
perfectly centered in the lane.

Oh my. We're having an agreement. grin

Tanks are "oversize", and "overweight" loads, and, under 'non warfare'
conditions, aren't moved on public roads without special permits, markings,
and escort vehicles. The transporters are built to be 'street legal'
when unloaded, so that they -can- use the highways without all that hoorah.

Eight ft tall -- not including any antennas -- _before_ considering the
height of the transporter. (a flat- bed type trailer will have a bed
level that is approximately 5' above ground.)

Isn't the standard minimum bridge height 14ft6in? Hint: that's just
slightly taller than a tank or APC on a transporter.

In the U.S., placarded if less than 13' 6", I believe. Max legal height
for vehicles w/o requiring 'oversize vehicle' permits and routing approval.

'Roofline' height for a, say, M1A1, on a transporter would be a bit over 13'.
Aux. 'fixtures', can add another 1+ ft. Yup. right close to Defense highway
clearance requirements.