I own a modified Trail-Eze version of a Landoll trailer that stands at a height of approximately 3 feet. Although I don't use it as often as I initially thought I would, I find it ideal for loading forklifts due to its low loading angle. The Trail-Eze design is preferable to me compared to Landoll trailers of the same era. Instead of the 5th wheel moving, the trailer pivots at the neck, which I find more efficient.
I admire your Kenworth truck with the rollback feature. There is a local hauling company that has customized their truck with a "lopro" rear axle, allowing them to transport heavy equipment like TLBs and 10k telehandler forklifts through tight spaces effortlessly. Their setup includes a massive double folding ramp system, and I am unsure if the bed even tilts given its short length – they may only require the ramps for loading and unloading.
When it comes to suspension options, are you considering an 8-bag Kenworth suspension or a 4-bag option like Hendrickson/Neway?
- 06-11-2024
- crane operator
What are the maximum height restrictions in your area? A ceiling of 14 feet may seem low compared to our usual standards.
I came across a unique lowboy trailer that caught my interest. Have you ever considered adding a drop in front of the rear axles to make it more level? I haven't seen one like that in this area before. The design of the rollback is particularly appealing to me.
As a crane operator, I own a Trail-Eze version of a Landoll trailer that stands at about 3 feet tall. While I initially thought I would use it more, I find it to be quite heavy. However, its low loading angle makes it ideal for loading forklifts. I prefer the construction of the Trail Eze compared to Landolls from the same era, as the trailer pivots at the neck rather than lifting the 5th wheel and necks with cylinders.
I admire your Kenworth with the rollback feature, especially one I've seen locally with a "lopro" rear axle that can haul heavy equipment like TLBs and telehandler forklifts. This setup can access tight spaces with ease due to its low height.
Regarding suspension options for my new project, I have a 2005 IH cutoff with Rockwell rears that will serve as the new back half of the rollback truck. While I will miss the maneuverability of the rollback, I've decided to change its configuration since I don't have dedicated contracts and the demand for its services is not high enough to justify keeping it as is. It's a shame because I really like it, but practicality is key for me now.
In terms of suspension, I'm considering either an 8 bag Kenworth suspension or a 4 bag system like Hendrickson/Neway.
Inquiring about height restrictions on roads is crucial for truck drivers, especially when encountering low underpasses common in the northeast. The federal standard in this area is 13' 6", making it necessary to obtain permits for vehicles exceeding this height. Kiwi-truckwit noted that even a height of 14' is considered low by their standards, highlighting the importance of knowing and abiding by height limitations to prevent accidents and damage.
Farmerlund commented on the unique design of the lowboy trailer, questioning the lack of a drop in front of the rear axles. He wondered if it could be made level and noted that such trailers are not common in the area. The trailer is a paver special, specifically designed for paving machines to easily roll up onto it without any hindrances. The design allows for easy transport of equipment like rollers and skid steers. Although the idea of dropping the deck level at the wheels crossed the builder's mind, they opted to maintain a 35' usable deck space, which is valuable for their work. The deck height gradually increases from 18" at the neck to 37" at the wheels, allowing for comfortable transportation of various equipment.
LowBoy mentioned that they adhere to the federal standard of 13' 6" for the height of their load. In the northeast, there are numerous low underpasses that require special permits for anything taller. Their standard height is 13'1", but they can go up to 14'8" without a permit as long as the load is considered indivisible.
There are plenty of great photos of Lowboy trucks equipped with round headlights. It's a shame that some Rollback trucks aren't used enough to justify their purpose. Often, the idea of having a similar setup is appealing, but the reality may involve the truck sitting idle most of the time. One intriguing sight was a T800 Rollback truck with a large knuckleboom crane tucked in behind the cab. As someone with a fascination for knuckleboom cranes, the combination of the two vehicles is something I've always found practical.
OneTon commented on Lowboy's collection of photos, praising the abundance of round headlight KW trucks. He lamented not being able to keep his rollback truck busy enough to justify its existence as a rollback. He expressed his desire for a truck setup with a knuckleboom crane, reminiscing about a T800 rollback he saw with a knuckleboom crane tucked behind the cab. He mused about the practicality of owning a knuckleboom crane but acknowledged that his location in a rural area limits his business opportunities.
OneTon also shared his recent experience working on a power steering conversion project for his '78 A Model tractor. He faced challenges with ordering the correct parts, noting delays in shipping and difficulties finding a specific splined yoke. Despite setbacks, he praised the assistance he received from a knowledgeable woman at a local automotive parts store.
Additionally, OneTon recounted a trip to a Peterbilt store to purchase a block heater kit, only to discover he was sold the wrong one. He mentioned waiting for the correct one to be delivered by UPS. Despite the challenges encountered during the project, he looked forward to the ease of steering the tractor once the conversion was complete.
I am excited to share with you the latest updates on my project. Only four pictures can be posted at a time, but don't worry, I have big plans to paint everything soon! I gathered used parts from various locations to create this unique piece. The power steering box and spring hanger were sourced from Strickland's Truck Parts in Cana, Virginia last year. I also salvaged the pump and reservoir from a truck I previously dismantled, and the drag link from another parts truck. The remaining components were either handmade or purchased from stores. In today's world, it is challenging to find specific parts like those from a 1978 model without receiving curious looks.
Kudos to Jill at Sanel Auto Parts in Concord, New Hampshire for her exceptional service! Just like Carol at our nearby NAPA store, Jill is dedicated and goes above and beyond to help customers. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for all your auto parts needs!
Finding used truck parts for older trucks is becoming increasingly challenging. The local truck junkyard has minimal old trucks, as they only salvage parts they think will sell and scrap the rest. As classic trucks disappear from the roads, being replaced by modern "aero" trucks, the search for quality parts becomes more intriguing. It's a relief when you're able to locate the parts you need, as good parts suppliers for older models are scarce. I recently visited a dealership to purchase parts for my 1998 Western Star, and even the manager had difficulty looking up the necessary components, stating, "it's hard to find information on those old trucks". It can be frustrating when swapping parts and not having the exact part numbers, only to be met with confusion from the counter staff.
In terms of fixing old trucks, I wonder about the future of dump trucks. Many individuals in my area have repurposed old sleeper trucks by converting them into dump trucks, as there is a high demand for such vehicles. However, there is little interest in recycling worn-out "aero" trucks. Instead, these trucks are typically stripped of their valuable components and crushed, as they are no longer useful. While over-the-road trucks may not be initially suitable for dump truck purposes due to their specifications, some resourceful individuals have found ways to make it work.
- 08-11-2024
- crane operator
I'm interested in adding a knuckle boom to my Lowboy and HVY trucks. My ultimate truck dream is a 60-70K hook lift equipped with an articulating crane positioned behind the cab - it would be incredibly useful. Lowboy, it's great to see that you're keeping busy!
The crane operator expressed satisfaction in finding the needed parts, noting the challenge of finding knowledgeable parts specialists for older equipment. He shared a humorous anecdote about going to a dealership for parts for his 1998 Western Star truck, where even the manager had difficulty searching for the parts. This reminded him of his time working at a quarry, where he defended the age of the equipment he worked with by sharing his hands-on involvement in its assembly and maintenance.
CM1995 mentioned their desire for a knuckle boom alongside a Lowboy and HVY. They envision the ultimate truck as a 60-70K hook lift with an articulating crane positioned behind the cab, describing it as convenient as a shirt pocket. It's great to see that Lowboy is keeping busy. CM expresses gratitude for the consistency over the past few years, enjoying the journey, nostalgic trucks, building new customer relationships, friendships, and overcoming the challenges of the industry.
Posting about yesterday's mission: I received a call on Friday from a man needing his 430 Caterpillar TLB transported from a used dealer in Massachusetts to Maine. After hearing excuses from several haulers, I stepped in and completed the job on Saturday. The client was thrilled with the prompt service and we plan to work together again in the future. It was a picturesque fall day for a ride to Maine with a Caterpillar backhoe in a classic KW truck. Unfortunately, I am unable to upload photos on my phone at the moment.
I encountered an issue where the "Upload a File" button was not functioning on my phone, so I had to download the file on my PC instead. On Saturday, 10-28-17, I transported a Cat 430 TLB from Phillipston, Mass. to Greene, Maine.
I stumbled upon your thread this morning, Lowboy, and it's great to see vintage trucks still in action and making a name for themselves in the digital age. That rollback truck definitely catches the eye!