Abstract: A trailer assembly is provided with means to lower the trailer platform to the ground where the gooseneck may be detached from the platform to facilitate loading. A rotatable detachable connection of the gooseneck to the platform is provided by interlocking hooks on the gooseneck frame and the platform. Raising and lowering of the platform is accomplished by hydraulic rams located in the gooseneck which, through a force amplifying linkage apply force to an arm, pivotally connected to the gooseneck, and bearing on the platform at a location remotely to the rear of the forward connection. A force couple is created about the interlocking hooks resulting in relative rotation of the platform and gooseneck and raising or lowering of the platform. The position of the gooseneck and platform is maintained for travelling by compression blocks which bear against the gooseneck frame and the arm isolating the raising and lowering mechanism from loads.

Abstract: An industrial trailer having a collapsible gooseneck which forms a ramp over which equipment may be loaded onto the trailer is disclosed. Hydraulic cylinders contained within the bed of the trailer control the raising and lowering of the gooseneck. A method is also disclosed whereby operation of the gooseneck while attached to the tractor can be used to facilitate changing of the tires on both the tractor and the trailer itself.