Tank Transporter Semi-Trailer
Built by Alan Wenbourne in January 2025
I am modelling the US military Oshkosh M1070 HETS tractor and semi-trailer (M1000). The trailer features 40 wheels on 10 bogies each of which allow wheel rotation, steering, oscillation, suspension and jacking to allow lowering of the deck for ease of loading. However, the leading axle № 1 (2 bogies) do not steer, bogies at axles 2 to 5 steer at progressively increased angles to track a curve centered on the turning circle. The bogies also satisfy Ackerman steering geometry. The intention is to control trailer steering by sensing the articulation of tractor to trailer.
See also the bogies for this semi-trailer.
The gooseneck is hinged and powered to balance the loading between the tractor 5th wheel and trailer bogies. The deck raise/lower control is also powered via worm and pinion drives to all ten bogie axes.
Other features are:
- Weight compensated loading ramps.
- Mini crane for loading/unloading the spare wheels.
- 5th wheel king pin.
- Winch cable guides.
- Screw jacks for supporting the front end when disconnected from the tractor.
- Rear flashing beacons.
- Multiple tie-down points.