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

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by 217flatbedr, Jul 15, 2012.

  1. Jul 15, 2012 #1
    217flatbedr

    217flatbedr Light Load Member

    107
    58
    Jan 20, 2012
    0
    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........
     
    217flatbedr, Jul 15, 2012
    217flatbedr, Jul 15, 2012
    #1
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  3. Jul 16, 2012 #2
    Logan76

    Logan76 Crusty In Training

    4,528
    17,698
    Jul 12, 2009
    kittanning, PA
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    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.
     
    Logan76, Jul 16, 2012
    Logan76, Jul 16, 2012
    #2
  4. Jul 16, 2012 #3
    SHC

    SHC Spoiled Rotten Brat O/O

    8,484
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    Feb 26, 2011
    Westville, IN
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    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).
     
    Last edited: Jul 16, 2012
    SHC, Jul 16, 2012
    SHC, Jul 16, 2012
    #3
  5. Jul 16, 2012 #4
    Kansas

    Kansas Road Train Member

    2,541
    2,585
    Apr 14, 2009
    aircap, Ks.
    0
    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.
     
    Kansas, Jul 16, 2012
    Kansas, Jul 16, 2012
    #4
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