AL-KO Kober and Wilson Trailer recently introduced a dedicated rubber torsion triple axle system.
Wilson Trailer, a livestock trailer manufacturer established in 1890, needed a rubber torsion triple-axle configuration to meet specialized needs, but was advised by its axle manufacturer not to use the axles in that configuration. That's why Wilson joined forces with AL-KO, a full-line trailer axle manufacturer based in Elkhart IN, to develop this system.
“Taking a regular axle system and putting it into a triple-axle configuration is not ideal. Mechanically speaking, safety and performance can only be properly addressed when the axles are pre-designed to work together as a single unit,” said Tim Kuppler, AL-KO president. “Not only that, but we have to consider the live cargo involved. The rebound with rubber torsion is controlled and transfers minimal road shock to the animals, making it easier on their knees, which is extremely important to the consumer. There was no specifically designed system that addressed all these concerns, so we put our heads together with Wilson Trailer and invented it ourselves.”
The triple-axle configuration features improved side-load capability and empty-load ride enhancement, touting a combined 21,000-lb load capacity. This patent-pending product is an addition to the new AL-KO Advanced Design program, which strengthens key components so less material is required while still providing the same or even increased power.
Through testing at Bosch Automotive Proving Grounds, the triple-axle system was shown to stand up to the toughest conditions. The entire system and its components were tested and measured for impact, load variations, stress, and endurance. It was monitored and inspected throughout the testing process, with a professional film crew on site to capture the dynamic responses.
For more information, visit www.AL-KOusa.com.