Hi,
I have been approached with a request to build a trailer that will carry an 8 wheel Argocat fitted with tracks. This takes the overall dimensions of the vehicle to 72" wide and 3.2m long. The owner requires the trailer to transport the argocat to site and then be able to tow the trailer behind the argocat off-road over rough terrain, woodland areas etc.
The first problem I have is the suspension setup. Obviously for towing on the road the trailer will require to have some sort of suspension. I have ruled out indespension type units as they will be no use off road as the trailer will not be carrying a heavy load and it would be too bouncy! Leaf springs again are too limited off road. I am leaning towards using a tandem "floating" axle design which will give good movement on road to cushion out and bumps, potholes etc and provide excellent off-road characteristics.
The argocat weighs 540Kg so I have 210Kg left to play with to keep the trailer as unbraked.
The other problem is the width of the trailer. Max width allowed in the UK for trailers is 2.55m which is 8'4", so that leaves me with 1' either side of the argocat.
Any ideas greatly appreciated! I plan to chart the progress of the build on here once the final design is given the go ahead!
I have been approached with a request to build a trailer that will carry an 8 wheel Argocat fitted with tracks. This takes the overall dimensions of the vehicle to 72" wide and 3.2m long. The owner requires the trailer to transport the argocat to site and then be able to tow the trailer behind the argocat off-road over rough terrain, woodland areas etc.
The first problem I have is the suspension setup. Obviously for towing on the road the trailer will require to have some sort of suspension. I have ruled out indespension type units as they will be no use off road as the trailer will not be carrying a heavy load and it would be too bouncy! Leaf springs again are too limited off road. I am leaning towards using a tandem "floating" axle design which will give good movement on road to cushion out and bumps, potholes etc and provide excellent off-road characteristics.
The argocat weighs 540Kg so I have 210Kg left to play with to keep the trailer as unbraked.
The other problem is the width of the trailer. Max width allowed in the UK for trailers is 2.55m which is 8'4", so that leaves me with 1' either side of the argocat.
Any ideas greatly appreciated! I plan to chart the progress of the build on here once the final design is given the go ahead!