Continuing a 20 year relationship, Andover Trailers has provided FM Conway with four custom-built step frame trailers, featuring specifications similar to their previous 73-tonne, 15.1m four axle Andover builds, four of which remain in service. Two of the new trailers are 1.2m shorter to deal with less accessible sites.
“We started with two Andover four-axle step frames around 10 years ago and now we have eight, which speaks to their build quality and longevity,” said FM Conway’s senior transport manager, Steve James. What sets Andover apart is their willingness to tailor their work to our needs, as they did by shortening two of the trailers this time. They still offer the same strength and specs, but with enhanced manoeuvrability.”
The step frames incorporate a robust, four-member design with slide-out side extensions for ultimate load stability. They also feature 1m wide power toe ramps with sliding width adjustment and knife edge toes to facilitate loading and unloading of FM Conway’s 40-tonne road planers.
With features accommodating a variety of plant types, including heavy rollers, pavers, and excavators, the trailers are equipped with hydraulic steady legs at the rear, steel underplating on the main deck’s outer bays, the beavertail and ramps. The deck also has 20 pairs of D-ring and eight screw-in lashing points for secure loading, built-in chain storage, and a robust six-tonne electric winch.
For safe operation, the trailers have a full working at height system with a removable walkway, LED strobe lights, work lights, and extra flashing beacons. The SAF axles, fitted with 285/70 R 19.5 tyres, have disc brakes and a rear-steer feature operable from the tractor unit or the trailer.
James added, “While these trailers will eventually replace some of our older Andover builds, they’re still performing well and will stay in service for now. With our trailers, we’ve found no reason to look beyond Andover.”
The step frames, which will be on the road from Monday to Friday, will transport plant to highway and infrastructure projects across Southern England, logging around 180,000km per year.
