NATDA Magazine Nov/Dec 2015 | Page 56

Missing Link Provides the Ideal Solution for Vac System Transport New product development is a never-ending cycle, and at times, a manufacturer needs to look outside its realm of expertise to find the solution. That was the case in the collaboration and creation of the FT14 I Vac trailer. A need arose for a transport unit for a manufacturer of Vacuum Excavation Unit Systems that did not have such a product in its offerings. The brand dealer contacted its Felling Trailers’ Sales Rep. to assist in filling this void, as Felling is noted in the trailer industry for its expert ability to create customized configurations for such needs. The brand manufacturer had the Vac System components but did not have a model available with the transport configuration its customers wanted. So the journey began with the brand dealer and brand manufacturer working closely with Felling Trailers’ Sales Rep. and Felling’s Engineering Department to develop the FT-14 I Vac model as its transport solution. The model was engineered to provide the necessary capacity and placement of component mounts to ensure proper load distribution. Some of the noted features include: specific cross member locations to match component foot print; steel decking with precut mounting hole locations; cross members with matching mounting hole locations; recessed tailboard and deck area for the spoils tank to clear when dumping yet maintaining; and rear bumper for under ride protection. Many of the customized modifications that were utilized in the design of the FT-14 I Vac trailer are common to Felling Trailers Generator trailer models. The design of this model has since been put into production and has received positive feedback from the brand manufacturer. As the initial units have been put into service, multiple Felling Trailers dealers that sell this manufacturer’s brand are expressing interest in this model. ABOUT FELLING TRAILERS Felling Trailers is a family owned and operated Full Line Trailer Manufacturer located in Central Minnesota. Started in 1974 by Mr. Merle J. Felling, Felling Trailers, Inc. has grown from a small shop to a factory and office complex that today covers over 250,000 square feet. Felling Trailers currently manufactures over 4,000 trailers a year ranging from a 3,000 lb utility trailer