The company has a long-term relationship with Andover and, says HE Services director Pam Durey: “our decision was based on the fact that Andover continues to offer exactly what we need for our specialist operation with no compromises.”
And he adds: “The team also consistently delivers a high-strength, low-weight product which allows for maximum ease of use.”
The 12 trailers include a mix of 48-tonne and 56-tonne three-axle, and 67-tonne four-axle step frame trailers.
All have a low profile neck, SAF axles with disc brakes, a steel channel in the centre of the frame over the bogie to accommodate excavators’ dipper arms, steel underlay to the hardwood floor and a chain tray in the main bed.
They also have fold forward radio controlled ramps, and hydraulic steady legs for loading/unloading.
Both the 56-tonne and 67-tonne trailers have slide-out side extensions to transport larger machinery and run on uprated 265/70 R 19.5 tyres. The 56-tonner also has a rear steering axle which automatically locks when reversing.
Purpose-built to transport 22m-long reach excavators, the 67-tonne trailers ride on four axles of which the rear two are steering, plus the front axle has lifting capability.
All equipment has been built to meet Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) standards and feature multiple lashing points, reverse beepers and cameras, plus strobes both on and between the ramps for optimum visibility.
Meanwhile, the five plant bodied trucks (LPPB32) have been added to the fleet to enable machine delivery to the most inaccessible sites.
Each DAF rigid was specified with an Andover Trailers plant body with single crank beavertail and fold forward power toe ramps.