End loading a flatbed.........

[217flatbedr]

I currently have an 02 Ravens Eclipse II Classic with 15" cross members. I have a Quick Draw retractable tarping system mounted to it. For 10 years now I have been end loading the trailer. It has stood up well. It is not uncommon for my shippers to load 3k lbs via an electric forklift at one time. Naturally the wheels are quite small on the lift. I dump the air on the trailer as to avoid dock walk.

I am now looking into new flats when it comes time to update. I really like the all aluminum Fontaine Revolution. Weight is critical. However I realize going lighter doesn't always = long term durability and strength. My Ravens has taken all I can throw at it and then some! Should I opt for a wagon with cross members I wouldn't go with anything less the 15" spacing. What are you guys running? Do you do any end loading? The fully enclosed rear ends on the MAC and Reitnouer's won't work for me as I have another shipper that hooks up a portable dock via chains (safety precaution) for loading. Thanks for your take........

[Logan76]

We load probably 50% of our freight from docks and our 48' and 53' Manac's seem to hold up pretty good, they are the only trailer my company will buy.

Sorry I cant help you much on the x-member spacing, I would have to measure ours.

[SHC]

I have a 2012 Revolution and get end loaded a lot as well. I have had no problems, and to be honest, the design of the revolution is much stronger than your typical crossmember trailer. I wouldn't worry about durability with it at all.... but if you are looking for something to last 15 years, go with the heavy MAC trailer.

Not sure what you mean by a "enclosed rear"......

This was taken off the Fontaine Revolution website

Lighter and stronger.
When you first see the Fontaine Revolution, the first thing
you notice is the sleek aerodynamic design. It features unitized construction
made possible by technology borrowed from the aerospace industry. The floor is
a continuous span of 230 connected crossmembers providing superior strength,
durability and structural integrity. To match the Revolution's weight, a conventional
trailer would have to reduce the number of crossmembers to 24 (weakening the
floor substantially).

[Kansas]

My 07 Utility with composite decking looks like a washboard road. I have no idea what rolled across it that was heavy enough to do that, as it happened prior to my owning it. But, it sure is rippled lol.

Soon as I win the lottery I will get it fixed.