Overview
When loads are heavy, platforms need to be large, and the VRC will serve multiple levels at high cycle rates, the straddle configuration provides the structural foundation to handle it all. Columns on both sides of the carriage create a balanced, symmetrical load path that distributes forces evenly — reducing deflection, extending component life, and minimizing the bracing required to support the lift structure.
The Wildeck mechanical straddle VRC supports the largest platform size available in any two-post Wildeck mechanical lift — up to 12 feet wide by 15 feet long — making it practical for full-size pallets, oversized loads, carts, and bulky equipment that smaller platforms cannot accommodate.
Specifications
- Standard capacity: up to 6,000 lbs
- High-load capacity: up to 12,000 lbs
- Speed: 28 fpm standard, higher speeds available
- Platform: up to 12 ft wide x 15 ft long, custom sizes available
- Loading patterns: C or Z
- Levels: ground plus one standard; multi-level operation available
- Pit-less flat plate carriage available on some sizes
Why Straddle
The straddle configuration solves three challenges that cantilever designs cannot match at scale.
Maximum structural stability. Columns on both sides create a balanced load path with lower stress on guide rollers, wheels, and structural members. This translates to less deflection, less component wear, and longer service intervals — especially important in high-cycle operations running the VRC continuously throughout a shift.
Largest two-post platform. The dual-column support enables platforms up to 12 feet wide by 15 feet long — nearly double the depth of the cantilever configuration. Full-size pallets, wide loads, carts, and oversized equipment fit without compromise.
Reduced bracing requirements. The symmetrical straddle design distributes loads more evenly than a cantilever, reducing the supplemental bracing needed to stabilize the lift — simplifying installation and lowering structural demands on the building.
SmartControl™ with AutoSenz® Overload Detection
Every Wildeck mechanical straddle VRC ships with SmartControl™, built around an Allen Bradley controller with an optional 4.3-inch color touch screen. The system provides audible fault alerts, records time-stamped fault history, and includes the patented AutoSenz® D-Series overload detection that continuously monitors motor current and stops the carriage immediately if an obstruction or overload is detected.
Mechanical Lifting System
The straddle VRC features a rugged lifting motor rated for continuous duty driving heavy-duty roller chains through a high-service-factor gearbox and alloy steel driveshaft. The entire drive system is engineered for durability in high-cycle, heavy-load applications. The 28 fpm standard travel speed — faster than hydraulic VRCs at 20 fpm — combined with the continuous-duty motor makes the straddle configuration suitable for operations that need sustained throughput throughout the workday.
Safety and Guarding
All Wildeck mechanical straddle VRCs meet ANSI/ASME B20.1 with safety gates and 8-foot-high guarding on all accessible sides. Gates include electrical and mechanical interlocks that prevent operation when gates are not closed and prevent gates from opening unless the carriage is at the designated level.
- CargoLok™ carriage gate — securely encloses large rolling loads
- SafeLok™ system — locks carriage at upper levels for added safety
- ArmorCar™ carriage — fully enclosed carriage for additional cargo protection
- Heavy-duty landing level gates — for high-traffic applications prone to loading impacts
- Over-speed secondary supplemental safety brake
Applications
The mechanical straddle VRC serves warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and multi-level facilities where loads are heavy, platforms need to be large, and throughput demands sustained high-cycle operation. Common installations include ground-to-mezzanine pallet transfer, multi-story manufacturing with heavy work-in-progress, distribution operations moving full pallets between pick levels, and any application where structural stability and platform size are the deciding factors.
Straddle vs. Cantilever vs. 4XLift
All three are Wildeck mechanical VRCs with SmartControl and AutoSenz. The straddle has columns on both sides for maximum stability, the largest two-post platform (12′ x 15′), and C/Z loading — but requires more floor space and does not support 90-degree loading. The cantilever has columns on one side for a smaller footprint, lower headroom, freestanding capability, and 90-degree loading — but is limited to smaller platforms (12′ x 8′). The 4XLift is a four-post design for the heaviest loads (up to 30,000 lbs) with four-sided loading. Choose the straddle when platform size, structural stability, and two-post economy are the priorities.