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DKL Commercials Invests In Mobile Washbay Column Lifts And Mobile Brake Tester

In an industry where vehicle uptime, safety and efficiency have a direct impact on profits, DKL Commercials has made a smart move to strengthen its fleet operations for the long term. The experienced haulage specialist has invested in Totalkare’s Mobile Brake Tester and a washbay set of four mobile column lifts, bringing more maintenance and inspection work in-house while improving safety across its tipping fleet. 

With over 50 years in road haulage and specialist tipping, DKL Commercials works in a tough environment where vehicles are pushed hard every day. Stop-start driving, heavy loads and demanding site conditions all take their toll on braking systems and key components. At the same time, operators face tighter safety checks and regulations, all while trying to keep vehicles on the road. 

Totalkare’s equipment helps tackle these challenges head-on. The mobile brake tester supplied to DKL Commercials is built to be strong and reliable, with bi-directional testing and a standard axle load capacity of up to 16,000kg, upgradeable to 20,000kg. Used alongside a wheel and lifting bar, it allows accurate and repeatable brake testing on site, cutting out the need to send vehicles elsewhere and reducing downtime. 

DKL Commercials has also added a washbay set of four mobile column lifts, each capable of lifting 8,000kg. Designed specifically for washbay use, the lifts feature a hydraulic lifting system, sealed bearings and galvanised construction to protect against water and wear. The system is modular too, so it can be expanded to six or eight columns as the fleet grows. 

Jay Chauhan, Area Sales Manager at Totalkare, says the investment reflects a wider shift in the industry. “Fleet operators are under constant pressure to juggle safety, compliance and productivity. By keeping brake testing and lifting in-house, DKL Commercials has more control over its maintenance schedule, less downtime and a more efficient workshop. Our equipment is built for real working conditions and delivers reliable performance day in, day out.” 

For DKL Commercials, the benefits were clear straight away. Duncan, Company Director at DKL Commercials, explained how the new equipment has helped. “Our vehicles work hard in tough conditions, so it’s vital we know the brakes are doing exactly what they should. Having the brake tester on site saves time and gives us confidence in the results. The column lifts have been a big improvement too – they’re strong, easy to use and ideal for the washbay, making inspections and maintenance safer and quicker.” 

The biggest gains come in day-to-day use. In a busy tipping operation, sending vehicles off site for brake testing can disrupt schedules and cost money. With Totalkare’s mobile brake tester, DKL Commercials can test vehicles during routine maintenance, spot problems earlier and get trucks back to work sooner. The column lifts also make inspections and repairs easier and safer, reducing manual handling risks for technicians. 

With regulations continuing to tighten across haulage, construction and municipal fleets, being able to show consistent and reliable maintenance processes is more important than ever. DKL Commercials’ partnership with Totalkare shows a clear commitment to safety, reliability and long-term performance. 

By investing in proven, heavy-duty workshop equipment, DKL Commercials is meeting today’s challenges while setting itself up for the future. Totalkare continues to support fleet operators across the UK with practical, dependable solutions that help keep heavy vehicles moving safely and efficiently.