Globe 50-Ton Ground Bearing Trailer Cylinder Identification and Legacy Support

[MikePhua]

Quick answer
For a 1992 Globe 50-ton ground bearing detachable neck trailer, factory specifications for the main hydraulic cylinder are no longer available from the manufacturer. However, accurate replacement or repair is possible by measuring the existing cylinder and sourcing a match through surplus hydraulic suppliers or trailer rebuilders familiar with Witzco-era Globe designs.
Globe Trailers history and legacy equipment challenges
Globe Trailers, founded in the mid-1970s, became known for producing heavy-haul lowboys, detachable neck trailers, and specialized transport platforms. In the early 1990s, many of their ground bearing models were built with design and component similarities to Witzco Challenger trailers. This overlap occurred during a period of shared engineering practices and subcontracted manufacturing.
After a change in ownership in the mid-2000s, Globe’s archival records for pre-2005 trailers were lost or removed, leaving many legacy owners without access to original build sheets, cylinder specs, or hydraulic diagrams.
Ground bearing neck design and cylinder function
A ground bearing detachable neck trailer uses hydraulic cylinders to lift and lower the gooseneck onto the ground, allowing the main deck to detach for loading. Unlike non-ground bearing designs, the weight of the trailer and load is partially supported by the ground during detachment.
The main cylinder in this system:

• Is typically a single-acting hydraulic ram
  
• Operates under high pressure (2,500–3,000 PSI)
  
• Has a stroke length between 24–36 inches depending on trailer model
  
• Is mounted between the gooseneck and the front deck frame
  

Failure of this cylinder can prevent proper detachment or reattachment, especially under load or on uneven terrain.
Sourcing a replacement cylinder
Since Globe no longer provides specifications for trailers built before 2005, the best approach is to:

• Remove the existing cylinder and measure:
  • Bore diameter
    
  • Rod diameter
    
  • Stroke length
    
  • Pin-to-pin length (retracted and extended)
    
  • Mounting style (clevis, cross-tube, spherical eye)
    
• Contact surplus hydraulic suppliers such as Surplus Center or Bailey Hydraulics
  
• Cross-reference with Witzco Challenger trailer cylinder specs from the same era
  
• Consider custom fabrication if no match is found
  

Some trailer sales professionals maintain leftover inventory from the pre-2005 Globe era and may be able to match cylinders based on dimensions.
Field repair and retrofit considerations
If the cylinder is leaking or damaged but structurally intact:

• Rebuild kits may be available from hydraulic shops
  
• Chrome rod resurfacing can restore sealing surfaces
  
• New seals and wipers can extend service life
  

If the cylinder is bent or pitted internally, replacement is recommended. Always inspect the hydraulic lines and fittings for wear or contamination before installing a new unit.
Preventive maintenance and inspection tips

• Check hydraulic fluid levels before each use
  
• Inspect cylinder rod for scoring or rust
  
• Grease pivot pins regularly to prevent binding
  
• Avoid detaching on soft or uneven ground to reduce stress on the cylinder
  

One operator in Tennessee noted that his 1992 Globe trailer had performed flawlessly for decades, but a sudden cylinder failure during a cold morning loadout left him stranded. After measuring the cylinder and sourcing a match from a surplus dealer, he was back on the road within a week.
Conclusion
While factory support for older Globe 50-ton ground bearing trailers is limited, accurate cylinder replacement is achievable through careful measurement and aftermarket sourcing. With attention to mounting style, stroke, and pressure rating, operators can maintain these durable trailers for decades beyond their original service life.