Pipe hauler based on a Mercedes-Benz Actros

A special pipe transporter based on a Mercedes-Benz Actros-4141 AK 8x8 is currently helping to close the last gaps in the few unfinished kilometres of the European Olefine Pipeline System in Northern Württemberg. The Neuenkirchen-Vörde company Finke specialises on transporting pipes for large pipeline projects as well as carrying them directly from the central pipe depot to where they are needed on-site along the pipeline route. In their own workshops and with the helping of the TÜV vehicle testing association, they converted their Mercedes-Benz Actros into a specialised truck with a platform for transporting long goods. The Actros 4141 AK 8x8 used in the construction of the Ethylene Pipeline South is one of six recently acquired Actros trucks which the Finke company has converted themselves with advice and guidance from Autohaus Anders, the Vechta Mercedes-Benz retailers.

The Actros cab was installed in a lower position in front of the tipper frame so that the unwieldy load of pipeline pipes with lengths up to 19 metres long can extend over the cab roof. In addition, the chassis also had to be lengthened to 12 metres. As part of the conversion, it was necessary to completely re-install all the cables, lengthen the cardan shaft and re-position the steering gear for the double-jointed front axles. The frame was reinforced so that the platform could be fitted. The special pipeline Actros is fitted with low-pressure 550 tyres at the front and 700/50 22,5 at the back, well-known from agricultural transport (brands Alliance and BKT).