How a TrailMax tilt deck works
Why a tilt deck loads without ramps, and what controls the deck on the way up and down.
No ramps to set, carry, or store
A tilt deck trailer tilts its deck down to the ground so equipment drives straight on. There are no ramps to pull out, lift, or forget at the job site.
On a TrailMax, a cushion cylinder with internal metered flow controls the deck as it tilts. It meters the movement in both directions, so the deck settles instead of slamming, which is easier on the operator and on the equipment.
Once the load is on and the deck is back down on the frame, an over-center deck latch with tension adjustment and a safety pin holds it for the road.
Full tilt or stationary deck
A full tilt deck tilts along its whole length. Stationary deck models, such as the 4+16 or 5+24, keep a fixed section up front level while the deck behind it tilts.
Cushion cylinders and deck latches by model
| Model | Cushion cylinder | Deck latch |
|---|---|---|
| T-12-UT | 3" x 8" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| T-16-UT | 3" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| T-20-UT | 3" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| T-16-T | 3" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| TD-40-T | 5" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| TD-42-T | 5" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment and safety pin |
| TRD-54-T | 5" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment, lever and safety pin on driver side for ease of operation |
| FWTRD-70-T | 5" x 12" | Over-center type with tension adjustment, lever and safety pin on driver side for ease of operation |
The FWTRD-70-T runs without powered hydraulics or a wet kit on the truck.
Frequently asked questions
Do TrailMax tilt trailers need a wet kit?
The FWTRD-70-T runs without powered hydraulics or a wet kit on your truck. The deck movement on every model is controlled by a cushion cylinder with internal metered flow.
What is a load angle?
The angle between the tilted deck and the ground. A lower angle is easier on low-clearance equipment. The FWTRD-70-T has a 12 degree load angle, and the T-16-T has the lowest load angle in its class.
How is the deck held in place for transport?
An over-center deck latch with tension adjustment and a safety pin. On the heavier models, the lever and safety pin are on the driver side for ease of operation.