Used Traveling Axle Trailers For Sale in Colorado

Used traveling axle trailers are built for loading low-clearance equipment without a steep ramp angle, and that is the main reason buyers move into this category. Also called hydraulic tail trailers, slide axle trailers, or recovery trailers depending on configuration, these units are common in equipment transport, rental fleets, paving support, and heavy recovery work. In Colorado, they are especially useful for mixed-route hauling where a trailer may see city deliveries one day and mountain grades or oilfield access roads the next. The key advantage is fast, controlled loading of machines such as skid steers, compact excavators, rollers, forklifts, scissor lifts, and other wheeled or tracked equipment.

Capacity and deck layout should be the first filters. Many used traveling axle trailers on the market fall in the 40-ton class, with deck lengths often around 44 to 53 feet and legal width at 102 inches. Common setups include a wood or Apitong deck, steel main beams, closed tandem suspension, and an air ride axle group. Hydraulic tail models use a powered rear tail to lower the load angle, while slide axle designs shift the axle assembly to change deck height and loading approach. Buyers should pay close attention to loaded deck height, tail geometry, upper deck length, and kingpin setting because those details affect load placement, turning clearance, and how easily specific machines can be loaded.

A used unit should be evaluated like a working tool, not just by rated tonnage. Check hydraulic cylinders, hoses, pump function, tail hinges, slide rails, and control stations on both road side and curb side. Deck condition matters because worn wood, damaged crossmembers, and repaired outriggers can change how a machine tracks onto the trailer. Chain slots, stake pockets, winches, tool trays, tuck-away steps, traction aids, and integrated scale systems add real jobsite value if they match the way the trailer will be used. Tire size also matters more than some buyers expect. Many trailers in this class run 17.5 or low-profile 22.5 rubber to help keep deck height down while maintaining load capacity.

For Colorado buyers, suspension and braking condition deserve extra attention because terrain, weather, and elevation put more demand on the trailer than flatland operation. Air ride can improve cargo stability and reduce shock to compact equipment, but it should be checked for leaks, ride height issues, and bushing wear. Look at brake lining life, drum or rotor condition, slack adjusters, ABS function, and the condition of the light package if the trailer will be used in winter or in recovery operations. A well-spec'd traveling axle trailer can cover a wide range of work, but the best choice is the one that matches your typical machine weights, loading frequency, route profile, and securement needs.