Matec Trailer Matec-Trailer

It is 16,800 mm long and 2,550 mm wide. With an unladen weight of 11,950 kg against the 38,000 kg gross weight, payload works out to 26,050 kg. This makes full use of the 2.55 m regular width the EU allows for commercial trailers.

Trailers in this class run in commercial long-distance haulage and are built for air brakes, axle-load distribution and usually ABS. Multi-axle versions spread the high gross weight over more contact points, easing the load on road surface, axles and tyres. In Germany it is subject to a roadworthiness inspection every year.

A used-trailer check should cover the brake system (pads or drums, and on air brakes also the lines, coupling heads and the ABS valve), the condition of the axles and suspension (bearing play, cracks in leaf springs or air bellows) and the frame, especially corrosion on cross members and welds. On top of that comes the load floor or body for wear and tightness, the lighting and electrical connector to the towing vehicle, and even tyre wear. The underride guard and the frame's longitudinal members should be free of rust-through, especially around the axle mounts. The tow ball coupling or drawbar eye and the drawbar itself belong in the check too, inspected for play and cracks at the attachment points. On multi-axle versions, also check that all axles sit level and inspect the steering knuckle pins and bearings.