Van Bouwel Other models
1 model in this series
Van Bouwel VBT: EU class O4 trailer with a 40,000 kg gross weight, 8,460 mm length, six wheels and a 90 km/h design top speed for heavy-haulage transport
With a gross vehicle weight of 40,000 kg, this trailer from Van Bouwel falls into EU trailer class O4, the category of heavy trailers and low-loaders above 10 tonnes. Vehicles in this class are towed exclusively behind articulated tractor units or heavy lorries in heavy-haulage work and come fitted as standard with an air brake system.
Read on 3 more paragraphs
The VBT has an unladen weight of 8,280 kg, leaving a payload of around 31,720 kg at full gross weight. At a length of 8,460 mm and a width of 2,550 mm, it stays within the dimensions permitted on public roads without a special permit. Six wheels spread the load across several axles, and the 6,260 mm wheelbase gives the structure the stability needed for high point loads. Its design top speed of 90 km/h is lower than the usual 100 km/h, as is common for heavy axle loads.
Trailers in this weight class are used to move construction machinery, steel and other equipment in single loads of several tonnes that need to sit on a stiff, low-slung deck. The towing vehicle requires driving licence category CE, and the air brake system must act across every axle and is checked separately at each roadworthiness inspection.
When buying used, check the chassis and main beams around the axle mountings, where sustained loading leaves cracks and corrosion at welds. Brake pads, drums and the air lines of the braking system belong on the checklist alongside tyre condition and age, which wear unevenly on heavy-haulage trailers. Play in the axle bearings and the condition of the deck's lashing points reveal how the trailer has actually been used.
Sources: SpecCodex-Register: Kennwerte des Modells Van Bouwel VBT
Models
Trailer in 3D section
Turn the model, look inside and click an assembly — each one is explained.
