Mechanical fasteners characterized the first Manac aluminum flatbed ten years ago, and they are even more prevalent in the new Darkwing series introduced at the Mid-America Trucking Show. It has a three-piece main beam in which the flanges are solidly riveted to the web section. Beam depth is 27" with a camber of 5". This frame is rated at 60,000 lb load concentrated in four feet.
The bolted and overlapped front sill allows for thermal expansion of the floor planks. The aluminum structural floor is bolted to the 4" extruded crossmembers. The bolted rear bumper is easier to repair, and the rugged upper bumper section houses the rear lights. The floor is rated at 16,000 lb for fork-lift loading at the dock. The floor also incorporates six rows of securement devices as well as aluminum tube side pockets, rubrail spacers, and sliding winches. Tare weight is 8,950 lb.
Manac, Canada's largest semitrailer manufacturer, operates four plants, located in Saint-Georges and Trois-Rivieres in the province of Quebec and in Oran and Kennett in the state of Missouri.
