Trailer tech is getting ever more sophisticated especially in the suspension department. Having been fitting running gear with the option of air-bags for a number of years, Richard Western is now offering hydraulic suspension. Supplied by German firm BPW, the system uses rams to separate the chassis and axles with leaf-springs in a cantilever arrangement locating each wheel much like a trailing arm set-up. Gas accumulators in the oil circuits provide damping making for a rig that is as stable as any rocking beam arrangement, according to the Suffolk-based firm. Ride height adjustment is possible on the move and auto body-levelling is an option. This new offering is part of a package of high-spec features that Western is pushing on its top-end load-luggers which also includes a fast-drop single tip ram and forced rear axle steering. Price premium for hydraulic suspension is £6,000 over and above standard springs in comparison to air bags which add approximately £4,500.