The first hi-rail vehicle was delivered for Christmas 2018, with the second and third vehicles delivered in early-January 2019.

Each truck is installed with Manco Rail hi-rail modules featuring our vertical actuating front stanchions and our over center deploying rear rail module.

The front rail module features independent hydraulic wheel motors acting on each rail wheel, while the braking is undertaken by spring applied, hydraulic release disc brakes.  The brakes are interlocked with the drive function of the wheel motors, releasing when drive is initiated and applying once fluid power pressure drops.  This ensures that the brakes are a true fail-safe system.

The rear module has been upgraded from previous Manco offerings, with increased ground clearance whilst stowed as a key design consideration.  Additional upgrades include a pivoting axle beam with coil spring suspension for track twist negotiation.  Hydraulic chocking cylinders mounted to the support structure lock out the axle beam whenever an elevating platform, mounted to the vehicle deck, is in operation.  Spring applied, pneumatic release wheel-tread brakes are installed and take care of braking duties.  For the safety of the crew and other work site personnel, the brakes are interlocked with the vehicle speed and will automatically apply.

The hi-rail vehicle highlighted here has been supplied to FHJH JV Rail complete with a Palfinger PK18002-C vehicle loading crane, 20’ ISO twistlocks, 6.30m steel deck, and integrated hydraulics and software for the fitment and operation of a Manco EWP5500 elevated work platform.  On-rail payload is over 6,000kg

The hi-rail vehicle has a top on-rail speed of 25km/h, restricted to 5km/h when the elevated platform is in use.  The operating system is electronically controlled via Parker IQAN components with numerous built-in safety interlocks for the safe operation of vehicle and crew.