Stertil-Koni introduced the Kingpin Crossbeam Adapter. Operators are relying on existing trailers to cover more loaded miles than ever before, the company says. As a result, experts agree that preventative maintenance will be key to keeping these trailers safe and profitable.
“As hubs, brakes, air lines, and suspension components age, the need for inspection and maintenance increases,” said Peter Bowers, technical sales manager, Stertil-Koni. “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 Crossbeam Adapter for Mobile Column Lifts rises to the occasion.
“This product can be essential to safely lifting trailers when independent of the tractor,” said Bowers. “And that happens all the time.”
The majority of trailers are serviced and inspected outside – detached from the cab, the company says. 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 unique structural demands.
The Stertil-Koni Kingpin Crossbeam Adapter, supported by two Mobile Column Lifts, engages directly with a trailer’s kingpin coupling, while two, rearmost Mobile Column Lifts directly raise the trailer’s wheels. The result is a safe, ergonomically sound, simple, synchronized 3-point lift of an otherwise ungainly trailer when independent of the tractor.
What’s more, Mobile Column Lifts can easily be brought directly to where the trailers are stored –typically out in the yard – increasing efficiency.
Stertil-Koni also has other crossbeams that can be used in conjunction with Mobile Column Lifts for vehicles with low ground clearance, including buses and extra heavy military vehicles.
“The Kingpin Crossbeam 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,” said Dr. Jean DellAmore, president, Stertil-Koni.
