So what's all the fuss Biglorryblog? It's just another Western Star heavy haulage tractor from down-under belonging to Smithbridge...where's the fire? Well take a look at this next picture and you'll see this big beam carrier has a rather clever sting in the tail....
No the Western Star hasn't just driven over a large car...in fact it's a Kenworth dolly which together with the 'jeep' dolly (the set of wheels at the very end) takes the weight and helps the whole shebang get around tight corners....As you'd expect, if it's a big truck and in New Zealand the picture must have come from my favourite Kiwi Rod Simmonds, who is no doubt smarting after the All-Blacks got knocked out the Rugby World Cup...(though perhaps not as much as Iveco? Hey! Cheap shot BLB walk away from that one....)
Anyway perhaps Rod can tell us a bit more about the Kenworth dolly, like what kind of engine has it got and how it all works in the combination by posting a comment. Over to you Rod?
Comments (1)
The system employed is, in North America anyway, refered to as a "steer car". This rear dolly arrangement incorporates a small driving compartment of sorts from whence a very brave individual can steer the back end of the beam. Bear in mind that the steer car has no engine or brakes, just a steering wheel, windscreen wiper and two-way radio contact with the driver at the sharp end. This system not only affords improved road positioning in tight spots - including reversing on site - but allows the beams to be hauled at normal highway speeds on the open road.
I have seen steer cars employed in the USA and South Africa but was not aware they are used in New Zealand too. And the example photographed by Rod looks to be a far more sophisticated set up than others I have seen. Nice one Rod and BLB of course.
Posted by Anonymous | October 10, 2007 5:57 PM
Posted on October 10, 2007 17:57