Hydraulic Ramp Integration on the M747 Semi-Trailer

The M747 60-ton semi-trailer, long relied upon for transporting heavy tracked vehicles in the Royal Thai Army (RTA) service, has entered a new phase of operational upgrade. Originally equipped with mechanical ramps that required manual lifting and lowering by operators, the M747 now features a newly integrated hydraulic ramp system, enhancing its functionality and ease of use.

M747 Semi-Trailer Prior to Hydraulic System Integration

This upgrade draws from the success of similar hydraulic system installations on other models, such as the 25-ton semi-trailers and 40-ton SMM 100232 semi-trailers. Both models have proven that hydraulic systems drastically reduce manpower requirements, enhance operator safety, and improve overall loading and unloading efficiency. Now, the M747 joins this line of improved performance and modernized design.

M747 Semi-Trailer Post Hydraulic System Integration

Official Test Day at Fort Adisorn

To validate the hydraulic system’s performance under realistic field conditions, an official test was conducted by the Ordnance Department at Fort Adisorn, the home of the cavalry. During the event, a variety of tanks—including the Scorpion, M60, and VT-4 Tank—were used to test the M747’s newly upgraded ramp system.

Each vehicle was loaded and unloaded onto the M747, with focus on the smoothness, speed, and safety of the hydraulic ramp operation. The results were impressive: the hydraulic system performed flawlessly, allowing a single operator to raise or lower the heavy ramps with precise control, using a control box.

Results and Feedback

The testing concluded with outstanding results. The committee overseeing the trial expressed high satisfaction with the hydraulic system. The upgraded M747 semi-trailers are fully compatible with tractors currently in service with the RTA, ensuring seamless integration into ongoing logistics and transport operations.

Furthermore, the manual ramp system has been retained as a backup, ensuring continued reliability even in the unlikely event of a hydraulic system malfunction—a standard practice adopted across all our hydraulic ramp retrofits.

Moving Forward

The successful integration of the hydraulic ramp system onto the M747 marks a major improvement in operational readiness and efficiency. With faster, safer, and more streamlined vehicle loading and unloading, the RTA will benefit from accelerated deployment capabilities and reduced physical strain on personnel.

We remain committed to delivering solutions that meet the rigorous demands of military operations, ensuring our forces stay mission-ready under all conditions.