Trucking: Heavy pick-up trucks, motor carrier regulations, wheel camper

Question
I was recently told If the truck has a factory made body and a working tailgate with a bumper mounted hitch not a 5th wheel that 60% of the door tag weight could be carried reguardless of the gvw of the trailer for example if I was to build a truck ie. single axle tractor with the 5th wheel removed and replaced with a manufactured pick up body, towing a 12 ton tag-along. what are the regulations?

Answer
If you pulling a camper you may not need a CDL. Question 3 and 9 are from the guidance portion of the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations book. You may operate a large RV or pull a camper with a large truck without CDLs. Federal regulation does not require it, but your home state could require it.

Question 3: Does part 383 apply to drivers of recreational vehicles?

Guidance: No, if the vehicle is used strictly for non-business purposes.

Question 9: May a State require persons operating recreational vehicles or other CMVs used by family members for non-business purposes to have a CDL?

Guidance: Yes. States may extend the CDL requirements to recreational vehicles.

I have never heard of what you said in the question. You can pull a 5th wheel camper with a tandem axle Peterbuilt if you want, as long as it's for personal use. Check with your states motor carrier compliance division to be sure there is not a state law. I don't think the drivers license division can give a dependable answer.

I hope I answered your question. If I need to clarify anything let me know.