Low-cost Van Semi-trailer From Bonallack
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ALIGHT-ALLOY van serni-traler design known as the Weightsaver• has been developed by BonaHack and Sons Ltd., Basildon, Essex, differing from other semi-trailers of this type in having a separate chassis frame, despite which lightness and low cost are two of the model's prime attributes, The body can be built on to any suitable single-axle semi-trailer, initial models being mounted on Scammell equipment. On a Scamrnell 12-ton 27-ft. semi-trailer with fifth-wheel coupling the complete weight is 2 tons 14.75 cwt. and the retail price £1,510, this figure being £1,415 if Scarnmell automatic coupling gear is specified.
Because the payload weight is taken by the semi-trailer frame, the basic body structure is adaptable and permits the incorporation of specific modifications such as side doors, a sliding roof for overhead loading, or an additional deck, with only slight addition to either weight or cost,
The Weighisaver illustrated on this page has internal length, width and height dimensions of 27 ft., 7 ft. and 8 ft. respectively, giving an effective capacity of
1,479 cu. ft The light-alloy ribbed exterior panelling and the roof sheets are riveted to light-alloy framing assemblIts, whilst the one-piece floor is of 0-75-in. resin-bonded waterproof plywood.
The maximum-width rear aperture is enclosed by a 3-ft. double-skinned loadcarrying tailboard to simplify palletloading procedures, and above the tailboard there are two double-skinned doors which can be folded back flush against the outside of the body. Alternatives to this arrangement include full-depth doors or light-alloy roller shutters, or a tailboard and shutter arrangement. A combined step and bump rail of mild-steel angle and fitted with heavy-duty rubber buffers is provided beneath the door aperture.