Overview
When the load is heavy, the platform needs to be large, and structural stability matters more than floor space savings, the straddle configuration is the right hydraulic VRC design. Columns on both sides of the carriage distribute forces evenly across the structure, reducing the bracing needed to support the lift and lowering the stress on guide rollers, wheels, and structural components over time.
The straddle design accommodates the largest platform in the Wildeck hydraulic VRC lineup — up to 8 feet wide by 12 feet long — making it practical for full-size pallets, bulky equipment, and oversized loads that smaller platforms cannot handle. For single-level material transfer at moderate cycle rates, the straddle hydraulic VRC delivers the most capacity and structural stability available in a hydraulic lift.
Why Straddle
The straddle configuration offers three advantages over cantilever designs.
Structural stability. Columns on both sides create a balanced, symmetrical load path. Forces are shared across two column sets instead of cantilevered from one side, which reduces deflection, component wear, and the need for supplemental bracing.
Larger platform. The dual-column support enables platform sizes up to 8 feet wide by 12 feet long — double the depth capacity of a cantilever VRC. This is critical for full-size pallets, wide loads, and materials that cannot fit on a 6-foot-deep cantilever platform.
Extended service life. Lower wheel loads and reduced stress on guide components mean less wear over time. For operations running the VRC daily, the straddle configuration pays back in longer intervals between maintenance and component replacement.
Specifications
- Capacity: up to 4,000 lbs
- Lift height: up to 18 ft 6 in.
- Speed: 20 fpm
- Platform: up to 8 ft wide x 12 ft long
- Loading patterns: C or Z
- Levels: single-level (ground plus one)
Standard Safety and Hydraulic Features
The straddle VRC includes the full Wildeck hydraulic safety and control package.
- Patented AutoSenz® M-Series overload and jam protection
- Dual hydraulic rams and lifting cables for redundant safety
- Hydraulic rams pull (not push) for added strength and longer service life
- Operating pressure maintained below 1,600 psi for extended component life
- Oversized oil reservoir to reduce overheating risk
- Automatic shut-off valves for broken hydraulic hoses
- Manual lowering valve for emergency use
- High-flex IWRC lifting cable with broken cable free-fall safety cams rated for 7,000 lbs
- UL-508A labeled control panel with 24-volt safety wiring
- Pre-wired control panel and hydraulic pump ship as one assembly
- Bolt-together installation — no field welding required
- Fabricated by AWS D1.1 certified welders
Applications
The straddle hydraulic VRC serves warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and any single-level operation where loads are moderate (up to 4,000 lbs), platform size matters, and structural stability is a priority. Common installations include ground-to-mezzanine pallet transfer, stockroom replenishment from upper storage levels, manufacturing floor to upper-level staging, and archive or records storage facilities with balcony levels.
Straddle vs. Cantilever
Both use the same Wildeck hydraulic system and safety features. The straddle has columns on both sides for maximum stability and supports the largest platforms (up to 8′ x 12′) with C or Z loading. The cantilever has columns on one side only for a smaller footprint, lower overall height, and 90-degree loading capability, but is limited to 8′ x 6′ platforms. Choose the straddle when platform size and structural stability are the priority. Choose the cantilever when floor space, headroom, or side-loading dictate the design.