Finding a level surface with plenty of room to load a trailer on congested job sites is challenging. Operators in construction have found traveling axle trailers provide the ideal combination of features to help alleviate site conditions. By matching traveling axle trailer specs and available features with their operational needs, fleets can achieve a safer, more durable hauling solution that will also provide a better return on investment. Here are features to consider for optimal loading efficiency in any condition.
- Capacity. Required capacity is the starting point of any trailer purchase. Generally, traveling axle manufacturers offer models with 40- and 55-ton capacity, making them ideal for transporting a variety of equipment. If the intended load is mostly larger equipment, like excavators or pavers, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s 10-ft. capacity rating. For mixed loads of small and mid-sized equipment, the overall capacity will give a better indication of how many pieces of equipment can be safely transported.
- Loaded deck height. Another spec operators should keep in mind to limit permit costs and maximize productivity is loaded deck height. Within the U.S., legal load height is 13 feet, 6 inches, but operators will often encounter overhead obstacles that are lower. In these situations, a single inch can mean a difference of hours when it comes to getting from point A to point B. A traveling axle trailer with 36-in. loaded deck height provides optimal flexibility for transporting taller equipment.
- Load angle. Generally speaking, the lower the load angle, the easier loading will be. A low load angle allows operators to simply drive or, in the case of dead or immobile equipment, winch loads onto the deck. It’s also necessary for transporting machines with low ground clearance.
- Construction. For loading in difficult conditions, such as muddy or uneven terrain, operators should look for a trailer with an equally rugged design. A rig’s piggyback cylinder provides power and traction for moving axles. While a 4-in. cylinder is common on most traveling axle trailers, models with a 5-in. cylinder provide 56 percent more push force to maximize axle operation.
Additionally, consider a four-beam frame design that uses 4-in. I-beam crossmembers to increase longevity and versatility with mixed loads of smaller equipment. This design offers better deflection across the entire deck and a more even weight distribution compared to the commonly used perimeter frame, which concentrates weight on only two outside beams.
- Winch. For loading dead equipment, containers or other immobile objects, a trailer with a 20,000-lb., direct-drive planetary winch with six-function remote system offers up to twice the loading speed of a more traditional worm gear model. A remote with a range of 150 feet increases the viable working area, allowing operators to choose the safest vantage point for loading and unloading. Additionally, a USB-chargeable remote offers added convenience over battery powered options.
- Additional features. Consider any extras such as the number and size of toolboxes. Having easy access to all the necessary tools is important for getting the job done safely and efficiently. Some manufacturers offer traveling axle trailers with an additional curbside toolbox and chain rack for safe, convenient access away from oncoming traffic. And for construction and rental houses looking for a safe option for side-by-side loading of smaller equipment, some trailers feature double keyhole tie-down slots on top of the outside beams and recessed in the center of the main deck.
There’s a lot riding on a trailer decision. Selecting a traveling axle unit that maximizes safety and loading efficiency can be a complicated process. Working with reputable dealers and manufacturers can help determine which features will best meet an operation’s hauling goals.
Troy Geisler is the vice president of Sales and Marketing for Talbert Manufacturing, Rensselaer, Ind., 800/348-5232, www.talbertmfg.com. He has 20-plus years in trailer sales, more than half with Talbert.
CLEARANCE CONSIDERATIONS
