Frequently Asked Questions About the Retriever
Can Retrievers be installed on any make of truck?
We have installed Retrievers on most chassis makes. There are specific chassis requirements that yield the best overall combination. Feel free to contact us to receive a copy of the chassis specifications by Retriever model.
Why is Retriever air operated?
Air operation of the Retriever has numerous advantages over conventional hydraulic systems
Retriever’s air system utilizes the existing compressor and air dryer that is already on the truck eliminating the need for a PTO and Hydraulic Pump
The air system uses much lighter weight components reducing dead weight by approximately 2,000 lbs. on a 15T and 3,000 lbs. on a 20T increasing legal payload accordingly.
Retrievers operating system does not need to be warmed up in cold conditions
The potential for hydraulic oil spills and the associated HazMat Cleanup are eliminated
The air system makes the No Idle System possible reducing idling time from 30-45% down to 10-15% this reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and emission system maintenance while extending engine life. “500 hours of idling is equal to 64,000 miles of driving.” Cummins
When a driver arrives at a delivery site, he / she can simply turn the truck off. In normal operations there will be 80 to 90 psi air pressure remaining, enough to release the parking brake and proceed, the air system will be fully recharged after 5-6 minutes of driving.
What happens to the truck systems if a leak develops in the Retriever air system?
The Retriever’s air system is isolated from the chassis systems by a Pressure Protection Valve. This valve cuts off air to the Retriever systems if pressure drops below a preset pressure, typically 80 psi. Effectively prioritizing the chassis systems.
How much weight can be lifted by the rear deck?
Model 15T and 20T rear decks are raised and lowered using four Firestone air springs with a combined lift capacity of 40,000 lbs. at the center of the rear deck.
6T Retrievers use 2 Firestone air springs to raise and lower the rear deck providing 20,000 lbs. of lifting force at the center of the rear deck.
Why is the rear deck curved?
The rear deck is curved for several reasons
The curve helps to reduce the loading angle by allowing the rear deck to nest over the tires when lowered. This shortens the rear deck while providing a very low load angle which in turn reduces tail swing of the truck when driving.
The curve allows low clearance equipment such as scissors lifts to be driven over the deck hinge point without bottoming out.
The curve allows tracked equipment to be driven on without dangerous and destructive breakover.
What is that traction coating on the deck and how long does it last?
The traction coating is a very high solids 2-part epoxy combined with aluminum oxide grit. It is the same coating that is used on aircraft carrier decks.
In normal service the coating last 2-3 years. The coating can be easily re-applied, after proper preparation, with a roller. Re-coating kits and instructions are available.
What about that electric winch? What if I need more than 15K of line pull?
We use a 15,000 lb. rated Warn Industrial Electric winch. The Warn 15K Industrial Winch is the largest, most durable winch on the market for this application.
On the rare occasions when more than 15K of line pull is needed we offer a Snatch Block which effectively doubles the line pull to 30,000 lbs.
Can Retriever load from a loading dock?
Yes, Retriever 15T and 20T models can be equipped with an easy to use, swing down, adjustable dock stabilizer rated at 40,000 lbs. 6T legs in development.
Retriever’s rear deck will raise to approximately 54” dock height. If more height is needed the stabilizers are equipped with ball screw jacks that will provide up to 12 more inches of lift.
You claim Retriever is much more efficient than rollbacks or hydra-tail trucks, how does that work?
There are numerous Retriever features that add to its efficiency, when combined nothing else comes close.
Retriever’s rapid cycle times save time.
The low loading angle allows most equipment to simply and safely be driven on and off.
High traction surfaces speed operations without winching.
Available under-deck chain boxes put chains within easy reach for operators rather than having to dig them out of a box or from a rack.
Chain Binder Storage Racks put binders within easy reach.
Numerous key-slot tie-down points speed safe load securement.
The low deck height allows most loads to be secured from the ground.
There is no waiting for Retriever systems to warm up in cold weather.
The standard traversing mounted winch on the 15T and 20T and stationary winch on the 6T provide flexibility when narrow machines must be winched on side by side and provides an angled pull when nursing a down piece of equipment aboard.
Available 3,000-Watt Diesel APU provides instant power when loading discharged battery powered equipment on the jobsite as well as charging in transit. Diesel fuel from the truck system eliminates “out of fuel” headaches.
Retrievers lighter weight allows you to haul more and larger equipment on smaller trucks.
What if I want to haul steel track equipment on a Retriever?
We offer optional solid surface ramps with cleats for loading steel track equipment aw well as cleats on the climbing portion of the rear deck.
We recommend our Heavy Duty 2’ curb rail when transporting steel tracked machines.
Some of your rear decks are built with expanded metal overlays, what’s that about?
The expanded provides extra traction and is recommended for snow, ice and mud conditions.
You claim Retriever is safer than conventional products, why is that?
Retriever’s low loading angle reduces the possibility of equipment sliding when loading.
High traction surfaces provide better footing for equipment and operators.
The low deck height allows operators to secure most loads from the ground eliminating the need to climb on and off the truck deck.
Remote control for safety