As large trucking operators grapple with how to conserve costs associated with maintaining an extensive fleet of trailers in a lackluster economy, one cleverly engineered piece of equipment from bus lift and truck lift leader Stertil-Koni has taken on new prominence: the Kingpin Cross Beam Adapter.
The stakes are high, particularly as net US trailer orders for Q2 are down 71%, highlighted by ACT Research. While the slump is expected to be temporary in an otherwise growing multi-billion dollar industry, the implications are clear; operators rely on existing trailers to cover more loaded miles than ever before.
As a result, experts agree that preventive maintenance will be key to keeping these trailers safe and profitable.
Peter Bowers, technical sales manager for Stertil-Koni, explains, “As hubs, brakes, air lines, and suspension components age, the need for inspection and maintenance increases. Trailers sitting idle due to current slower demand also need maintenance to keep them at-the-ready. Otherwise, when the economy accelerates, poor maintenance could impede competitive performance at a point of maximum opportunity.”
That’s where the Stertil-Koni Kingpin Adapter for Mobile Column Lifts rises to the occasion.
“This product,” Bowers continues, “can be essential to safely lifting trailers when independent of the tractor. And that happens all the time.”
THE KINGPIN ADAPTER
Here’s why it is so important: Techs service and inspect the majority of trailers outside—detached from the cab. Further, in contrast to the more straightforward requirement of lifting a full rig—which can be accomplished with a range of options including Mobile Column Lifts, axle engaging scissor lifts, platform lifts, or in-ground piston lifts—lifting a trailer on its own presents a number of structural demands.
The Stertil-Koni Kingpin Crossbeam supported by two Mobile Column Lifts engages directly with a trailer’s kingpin coupling. Simultaneously, two rearmost Mobile Column Lifts directly raise the trailer’s wheels. The result is a three-point lift of a trailer that is safe and ergonomically sound.
Additionally, service techs can easily bring Mobile Column Lifts where trailers are stored—typically out in the yard—increasing efficiency.
Stertil-Koni also has other crossbeams for use in conjunction with Mobile Column Lifts for vehicles with low ground clearance.
In closing, Stertil-Koni president, Dr. Jean DellAmore adds, “The Kingpin Cross Beam Adapter can be an essential accessory for trailer fleets and one that easily broadens the applications for Stertil-Koni’s award-winning Mobile Column Lifts.”
Find out more, visit www.stertil-koni.com.
