Fruehauf M17
Built: 1942-1942 · Series: Other models
More machines from model year 1942
Fruehauf – other models: the collective page of trailers and semi-trailers from the inventor of the semi-trailer, 1914, outside the named ranges, gross weight up to 45,000 kg, lengths up to 14,320 mm
This page gathers trailers and semi-trailers of the Fruehauf brand that the register could not assign to a named range. August Fruehauf is regarded as the inventor of the semi-trailer: in 1914 he built the first trailer in Detroit that transfers its load onto the tractor unit via a fifth wheel instead of carrying it entirely itself – the principle that still defines the articulated lorry today. In Europe the brand long operated as an independent manufacturer with French production, recognisable from type codes such as ONCR, ONCZ or DF and from special bodies such as dollies and the BDF swap-body system.
Read on 3 more paragraphs
The register lists here 139 versions with gross weights up to 45,000 kg, lengths from 4,940 to 14,320 mm and widths from 1,980 to 3,340 mm.
Fruehauf thus stands for the founding era of semi-trailer building, whose basic principle has been adopted by practically every manufacturer today – from Krone through Schmitz Cargobull to Kögel.
When buying used, what counts is the condition of the frame and fifth-wheel plate (wear, cracks), the axles and braking system, the condition of the curtain or box bodies, the operation of the landing legs and, on dollies, the tow eye and coupling; on older model years, additionally complete inspection records and the parts supply, which varies greatly by year and prior owner.
Technical data
Dimensions and weights
| Width | 2,400 mmcorrect |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 1,020 mmcorrect |
| Unladen weight | 1,950 kgcorrect |
| Gross vehicle weight | 3,500 kgcorrect |
Drivetrain and chassis
| Top speed | 100 km/hcorrect |
|---|
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Fruehauf M17 weigh?
The unladen weight is 1,950 kg.
What is the gross vehicle weight of the Fruehauf M17?
3,500 kg.
Up to what speed is the Fruehauf M17 approved?
Approved up to 100 km/h.
When was the Fruehauf M17 built?
Production years: 1942.
What to check before buying
- Search the frame and welds at the axle mounts — that is where cracks start.
- Check the brakes and the last inspection in the papers.
- Work the gross weight against the towing vehicle before buying.
- Compare the chassis number with the papers.
- Look at the floor, cover or body from the inside — rust does not show from outside.
A general list for this type of machine — no substitute for an inspection or an appraiser.
We do not sell machines. We ask the dealers who carry this model and come back with price and lead time.
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This page carries 7 individual figures for this model. They come from 1 recorded source; every figure can be traced there. What we cannot document is not here — we leave gaps open rather than estimate them.
The technical data on this page comes from official vehicle registration records (RDW/Traficom), not from the manufacturer.
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Other models in this series
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02
040FHFSC245L158
0NCR 39-327 A
0NCR 45-330A
0NCR39 324
0NCRK 22-110A
0NCRS-32-220 A
0NCZ 30-218 A
0NCZ 39-327 A
0NCZS 32-220 A
1 1/2 TON M105 A1
Sources: [1]
Trailer in 3D section
Turn the model, look inside and click an assembly — each one is explained.