What Is a Lowboy Trailer and Its Function?
What Is a Lowboy?
A lowboy is a specialized trailer used for transporting heavy and oversized cargo.
It has a low deck height and can carry loads up to 12 feet tall.
Lowboy trailers are towed by trucks and come with hydraulic systems and air brakes.
They are primarily used for transporting heavy equipment and machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, passenger cars, trailers, and agricultural machines.
Lowboys have magnets strategically placed on the deck to secure heavy loads without the need for straps or chains.
They are durable and designed to last for many years without needing major repairs.
However, they can be expensive upfront and require costly maintenance.
Lowboys may not be suitable for shipping electronics, home furnishing, or perishable items due to weather conditions.
Transporting big loads with lowboy trailers requires special handling and hauling skills.
Key Points:
- A lowboy is a specialized trailer for transporting heavy and oversized cargo
- It has a low deck height and can carry loads up to 12 feet tall
- Lowboy trailers are towed by trucks and have hydraulic systems and air brakes
- They are used for transporting heavy equipment and machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, cars, trailers, and agricultural machines
- Lowboys have magnets on the deck to secure heavy loads without needing straps or chains
- They are durable but can be expensive upfront and require costly maintenance
Did You Know?
1. A lowboy is a type of furniture that originated in the 18th century and was popularized by Thomas Chippendale, an English cabinet-maker.
2. The term “lowboy” is believed to have been derived from the French word “l’basse” which means “low.”
3. In some regions, a lowboy is also known as a “dressing table” or “vanity,” as it was often used for personal grooming and getting ready.
4. The design of a lowboy typically features a flat top surface, multiple drawers, and short legs, making it closer to the ground than other types of furniture.
5. While lowboys were initially designed for bedrooms, they grew in popularity and were eventually used in various rooms such as dining rooms, entryways, and living rooms, functioning as both functional and decorative pieces.
Definition And Characteristics Of Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers are specialized trailers used for the transportation of heavy and oversized cargo. They are designed differently compared to other types of trailers. The key feature of a lowboy trailer is its low deck height, which enables the transportation of tall loads up to 12 feet in height.
Not only do lowboy trailers have a low deck height, but they are also equipped with hydraulic systems and air brakes, which enhance their maneuverability and ensure smooth transportation. These trailers are usually towed by trucks and come in configurations with two to eight axles, allowing for different weight capacities.
Key features of lowboy trailers:
- Specialized for heavy and oversized cargo
- Low deck height for tall loads
- Equipped with hydraulic systems and air brakes
- Highly maneuverable
- Configurations ranging from two to eight axles for varying weight capacities
Load Capacity And Dimensions Of Lowboy Trailers
The load capacity of a lowboy trailer depends on its axle configuration. A standard 2-axle lowboy can haul up to 40,000 lbs, while increasing the number of axles can double the weight capacity to 80,000 lbs. This enhanced weight capacity is crucial for the transportation of heavy equipment and machinery.
Typical dimensions of a lowboy trailer include:
- Length: 24 to 29.6 ft
- Height: 18 in to 24 in (well) and 18 ft (from the ground)
- Freight height: 11.5 to 12 ft
- Maximum width: 8.5 ft
These dimensions ensure that the lowboy trailer can accommodate a wide range of cargo, including:
- Bulldozers
- Excavators
- Passenger cars
- Trailers
- Agricultural machines
Types Of Lowboy Trailers: FGL, Fixed Neck, And RGN
There are three different types of lowboy trailers based on their capacity and design: Fixed Gooseneck (FGL), Fixed Neck, and Removable Gooseneck (RGN). Each type caters to specific transportation needs and requirements.
Fixed Gooseneck (FGL) lowboys have adjustable goosenecks and longer decks, allowing front-loading with the help of a ramp. This design makes it easier to load and unload heavy equipment.
Fixed Neck lowboys have entirely secured necks and require fixed load ramps for equipment loading. These trailers are known for their stability during transportation and are ideal for hauling heavy cargo efficiently.
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) lowboys are the heaviest haulers, with some models capable of carrying up to 150,000 pounds. These trailers feature hydraulic cylinders that allow for easy adjustment or detachment of the gooseneck. This flexibility enables efficient loading and unloading.
Advantages And Stability Of Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers have several advantages for transporting heavy and oversized cargo. The low deck height of lowboy trailers offers greater stability when loading and unloading, as well as a lower center of gravity. These factors are crucial for the safe transportation of heavy equipment.
Moreover, lowboy trailers are equipped with magnets strategically placed on the deck. These magnets secure heavy loads without the need for straps or chains. This saves time and ensures cargo safety during the loading and unloading process.
Durability And Maintenance Of Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers are built to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty transportation. They are constructed using high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. Well-maintained lowboy trailers have the potential to last for many years without the need for major repairs.
However, it is important to note that lowboy trailers, like any other heavy-duty equipment, require regular maintenance to ensure their optimal performance. This maintenance can be costly, as it involves:
- Routine inspections
- Repairs
- Replacement of parts
It is crucial for lowboy trailer owners to prioritize regular maintenance to minimize the risk of breakdowns and prolong the lifespan of their trailers.
Considerations For Purchasing Or Renting A Lowboy Trailer
Before purchasing or renting a lowboy trailer, there are several important factors to consider. These include:
- Hauling heavy loads: It is essential to evaluate whether the lowboy trailer is capable of transporting the desired weight capacity. This will ensure safe and efficient transportation of heavy cargo and equipment.
- Available space in the vehicle fleet: Assessing the space availability within your existing vehicle fleet is crucial. This will help you determine whether you have adequate room to accommodate a lowboy trailer.
- Compatibility with trucks: Ensure that your trucks are compatible with lowboy trailers. This will guarantee a seamless connection between the truck and the trailer, minimizing any potential issues during transportation.
- Budget for equipment purchases: Evaluating your budget is important when considering whether to purchase or rent a lowboy trailer. Determine if buying a new trailer is financially viable for your organization or if renting would be a more cost-effective option.
- Renting vs. buying: Consider the benefits and drawbacks of both options. Renting a lowboy trailer can be a practical solution if you only require it for a short period or have budget constraints. Purchasing a lowboy trailer, on the other hand, provides long-term ownership and eliminates rental expenses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lowboy used for?
A lowboy trailer is a specialized type of trailer designed for the transportation of heavy equipment and machinery that cannot fit on a regular flatbed or single-drop trailer. These trailers have a lower deck height, allowing for the safe and efficient transport of taller and heavier loads. Lowboys are commonly used for hauling various types of equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and agricultural machines, as well as passenger cars, vans, and trailers. Their versatile design makes them an essential transportation solution for industries that require the movement of oversized and heavy items.
What is a lowboy truck?
A lowboy truck, also known as a low-loader or low-bed, is a unique type of semi-trailer designed with two drops in deck height. The first drop occurs right after the gooseneck, and the second drop is positioned just before the wheels. These drops enable the deck of the lowboy truck to have an exceptionally low height compared to other trailers. This specific design grants lowboy trucks the ability to transport oversized and heavy cargo that may not fit within the limitations of traditional trailers. By offering a lower deck, lowboy trucks provide a safer and more efficient transportation solution for such specialized loads.
How does a low boy work?
A lowboy works by utilizing its unique design to maximize payload height. With a front neck, deck, and rear axles, its main purpose is to sit very low to the ground. This low height allows for optimal payload space, as the deck is positioned below the height of the trailer’s tires, resulting in a second “drop” at the neck. By utilizing this design, a lowboy can efficiently transport heavy and oversized equipment or cargo while maintaining a stable and secure position on the road.
What does a lowboy look like?
A lowboy is a small and compact piece of furniture with a chest or table-like structure positioned on short legs. It is designed to fit well in rooms with limited space, offering storage solutions with its drawers. Antique lowboys exhibit exquisite craftsmanship and intricate details, displaying a range of materials such as wood, metal, and acrylic. Their compact size and elegant design make them a charming addition to any space, blending functionality and aesthetics seamlessly.