Step frame trailer takes specialist haulage to new level 01 August 2012

Abnormal loads specialist WMB Heavy Haulage has taken delivery of its first new bespoke specification Andover Trailers step frame trailer, after years of dealing with the company for the supply of Goldhofer trailers from Germany.

The trailer, built at Andover's factory in Hampshire, will be used by the Dumfries-based operator to transport heavyweight plant and machinery, including forestry machines, ranging from harvesters to forwarders, for delivery into some of the largest forests in the UK.

Unlike the majority of tri-axle step frame trailers, this 13.5m SFCL48 was specified by WMB to operate on 19.5 inch tyres.

Jon Smail, WMB's transport manager, expects this specification to ensure greater ground clearance for forestry work in comparison with the standard 17.5 inch fitments.
"The SAF air-suspension features a raise and lower valve, for loading, and also a dual-height valve that effectively gives us a choice of running heights," states Smail.

"When we're not in the forest we can lower the trailer down to a height comparable with a typical step frame operating on 17.5 inch tyres. It gives us the best of both worlds – and is testament to Andover's ability to build each trailer to the customer's requirements," he adds.

The new step frame replaces an older King step frame trailer at WMB, and was also specified with a low-profile neck, beavertail, SAF drum brake axles and a self-steering rear axle, with under-floor stowage to accommodate side extension timbers.
Manual steady legs ensure a stable loading platform, with loading and unloading carried out via a new system of ramp operation, which has been fitted to this trailer for the first time.

A pair of 3m long and 1m wide hydraulic fold-forward ramps, each with a hydraulic sideways function allowing movement both in and out, enable the ramps to be adjusted to accommodate machines with different track widths or wheel spacing.

Controls have been fitted to both sides of the trailer, ensuring easy operation in confined areas. Also, five pairs of lashing points have been fitted, with slide-out side extensions and timbers for wide machines, stowage under the bed for the timbers and LED flood lights, along the side of the trailer, to assist with loading in forests.

Author
Brian Tinham

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