On occasion of the BAUMA 2001 the innovative 4-axle recovery vehicle BKF 35-4 (Bergekranfahrzeug) has been internationally launched for the first time. Naturally, this unit being specifically complying with the requirements of military and public organisations, remains to be available for same.

In close cooperation with our customers within the private recovery business, means under utmost consideration of the daily "Live" operation, 2 further variations were developed called BKF 40-4 and BKF 40-4 L.

With a BKF, the owners take advantage of running a 40 t Mobile Crane as well as same time a flexible Recovery Vehicle in their fleet.

Subsequently, with the technical design allowing to fulfil multiple job applications, the company's results are positively boosted.

Some features of the BKF 40-4 respectively BKF 40-4L:

• Alternatively, a 4 section boom with either 22,5 m or 28,5 m (L) is available.
• A space saving, straight extending telescopic outrigger system replaced the previous with the swinging-aside rear beams. Truly advantageous in case of narrow sites. Above, various settings allow utmost flexibility, which are within the chassis width, half and full outrigger spread on both or just on one side.
• The 315 kW (428 hp) 6 cylinder Mercedes Benz engine and the 16 gear ZF AS-Tronic transmission combine the power for above 80 % gradeability.
• 8 x 6 or 8 x 8 drive in line with the customer's specification.
• The liftable 3rd axle allows the so-called crab gear.
• The innovative FAUN steering system guarantees optimal turning radii even in tight round-abouts with the 4th axle being electronically steered, automatically switched-off above 25 km/h.
• In addition to the main winch providing 55 kN (1st layer) and the 20 t recovery winch a further 10 t auxiliary winch might be fitted.
• Substantially increased optional items are available. The BKF is designed as 'All-rounder' - means in order to suite the specific requirements of all of our customers. Above the options being in general available, see brochure, individual technical specifications will be complied with.
• All in all, a BKF is always 'tailor-made' - one by one a unique version.

Advantages in detail

One of the most important features to be mentioned is that the axle loads remain within
12 t, when towing or recovering loads up to of 8,5 t.

This even allows ‚Heavy Weights' to be moved with no problem at all. The towing attachment consists of a so-called ‚Underlift' system with a tilting cylinder, vertical beam and 2-fold telescopic lifting arm to pick-up the load.

Even with the Lifting Cradle installed, the lifting arm is extendible and retractable under load. A further plus - the optimal distance between the BKF and the to be recovered unit might be set after the pick-up.

Also big busses or ‚fully-loaded ' trucks might be towed without speed reduction up to the max. permitted 80 km/h.

Due to the design of the lifting cradle, the handling of the ‚Underlift' system is more than easy. No supportive measures like putting p. ex. wood underneath the wheels or axles do become a necessity.

The hydro pneumatic suspension with levelling device adjusts any longitudinal torsion towards the to be recovered unit allowing the lifting cradle to be positioned straight on the surface at any time.

The exchange of the various adapters for the different axle types, trailer clutches or wheels is a real ‚one-man-job'. The permitted towing load is max. 42 t with the brake system of the towed vehicle is functioning respectively 30 t if not.

Simultaneous use of the main and recovery winch An other special is the recovery operation using the main winch and the carrier fitted recovery winch providing a max. line pull of 20 t, simultaneously. With the base boom section erected, 7,5 t might be towed.

In line with the requirements, this function is used during the recovery of trucks. Whilst pulling with 2 winches, the operation is supported via the boom by keeping the towed vehicle in a stable position same time. Subsequently, the horizontal traction forces are reduced avoiding that the vehicle is digging itself in.

The superstructure cab allows an all around panoramic view, enabling the operator to perform a precise and safe job at any time.

BKF's are already "on duty" for several recovery companies, Fire Brigades and Army Divisions within Germany and the surrounding European neighbour countries.