Rail
6 metre Road / Rail Flat Trailer
Chieftains Road Rail Flatbed Trailer is a very versatile trailer whereby not only can it be used on Road and Rail but it can transport general plant and with IS...
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Road-Rail Trailers by Chieftain Trailers
Chieftain Trailers manufacture road-rail trailers that operate on both public roads and railway track, providing versatile transport solutions for rail contractors and infrastructure companies. The 6-metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer combines road and rail capability with general plant transport and container handling, all in a single unit. Designed and built at Chieftain's Dungannon factory.
Road-Rail Trailers by Chieftain Trailers
Chieftain's road-rail trailer is designed for the dual demands of road and rail transport, eliminating the need for separate trailers for each environment. The trailer is equipped with both road and rail axle systems, allowing it to travel on public highways to reach worksites and then transition to rail track for the final leg to the work area.
The 6-metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer features a flat body with a steel floor, providing a versatile platform for a wide range of loads. Rail axles consist of 2 x 12-tonne 8-stud full beam axles with 550mm P1/10 profile rail wheels. For road use, the trailer is fitted with 310mm x 190mm commercial axles on parabolic spring suspension with 235/75 R17.5 road wheels. Air or hydraulic brakes are available to suit the towing vehicle.
A key feature is the inclusion of 4 x ISO twistlocks on the deck, enabling the trailer to transport standard shipping containers. This makes the road-rail trailer exceptionally versatile: it can move containers from one job to another, transport general plant and equipment, or carry materials and supplies to rail worksites, all using a single trailer that operates on both road and rail.
Additional standard features include a 50mm or 57.5mm towing eye, 2-speed jack leg at the front, tying points on the deck, full LED road lighting, and comprehensive safety labelling. The trailer is shot-blasted and finished in two-pack primer and paint for long-term durability.
Dedicated rail-only trailers for track operations? See our Rail Trailers. Road-only transport for heavy rail plant? See our Semi Low Loaders. Road transport solutions for rail contractors? See our Commercial Drawbars.
Why Choose Chieftain?
Road-rail capability in a single trailer reduces fleet costs and simplifies logistics for rail contractors. Chieftain's road-rail trailer handles the transition between road and rail without compromise, carrying full commercial axle and braking specification for road use alongside railway-rated axles and wheels for track operation. Built to order at Dungannon with options for specific project requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a road-rail trailer?
A road-rail trailer can operate on both public roads and railway tracks. It is towed on the road like a conventional trailer and then converted for rail use at a track access point. This dual capability allows materials and equipment to be transported from depots to railway worksites without separate road and rail vehicles.
How does a road-rail conversion work?
A road-rail conversion involves fitting a trailer with rail wheels that can be deployed when the trailer is placed on the track. The road wheels are lifted clear of the rails, and the trailer runs on its rail wheels. Chieftain offer road-rail conversions on a range of trailer types, including flat trailers and tipping trailers.
What types of trailer can Chieftain convert for road-rail use?
Chieftain offer road-rail conversions for flat trailers, tipping trailers, and specialist configurations. The conversion is designed to add rail capability without compromising the trailer's road performance. Both the 6 metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer and various tipping rail trailers are available in road-rail configuration.
Are road-rail trailers legal for use on public roads?
Yes. The road-going component of a Chieftain road-rail trailer is designed and equipped to meet road transport regulations, with appropriate lighting, braking, and suspension. When operating on the railway, the trailer must comply with the relevant rail authority's safety requirements. Chieftain ensure both modes of operation meet the applicable standards.
What are the benefits of a road-rail trailer over separate road and rail vehicles?
A road-rail trailer eliminates the need to transfer loads between road and rail vehicles at track access points. This saves time, reduces handling, and lowers the risk of damage to materials and equipment. A single trailer completes the entire journey from depot to trackside, improving efficiency on railway maintenance projects.
How long does it take to convert a road-rail trailer between modes?
The conversion between road and rail mode on a Chieftain road-rail trailer is designed to be completed quickly at a track access point. The rail wheels are deployed or retracted using the trailer's built-in conversion system, allowing the changeover to be performed by the operating crew without specialist equipment or prolonged downtime.
Can Chieftain build a custom road-rail trailer for a specific project?
Yes. Chieftain's engineering team regularly works with rail contractors to design road-rail trailers for specific project requirements. Custom specifications can include particular deck configurations, load capacities, tipping mechanisms, and conversion systems tailored to the rail network and site conditions where the trailer will operate.