Flooring

Extending the frame of a flatbed by 24" has been done by many companies over the years. As you may recall in the 70's and early 80's flatbed trailer lengths were 40' and 42'. Over the years we've seen lengths migrate to 45' for a while then 48' and now 53'. Based on the use of the trailer and the length of their equipment, companies have taken it upon themselves to retrofit trailers lengthening them by two feet. As any retrofit, there are numerous ways this can be accomplished. Prior to extending a trailer, I highly recommend the person or organization doing the work has complete understanding this change will have on the performance of the trailer. Trailers are designed to absorb and distribute the forces they are subjected to and a change could negatively affect the intended design. Keep in mind trailers can be designed differently bases on the original specifications of the end user purchasing the trailer.

The best way to extend a trailer is to contact the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and review the proposed change. Many OEMs will have a recommended procedure that they may choose to share and will probably recommend you have the work done be a qualified repair facility.

Another option would be to higher a structural design engineer who can provide the required changes.

The worst case scenario would be to go it alone and have a failure and possible accident. Any changes to original equipment should be approved by the OEM and/or the company doing the work.

I hope this helps. Good luck with your project

Best regards,


W.R. "Bill" Schaffer
Vice President OHC