It's no secret that Biglorryblog likes a 'heavy hitter' And what better than this splendid 200-tonne GCW 8x4 FH16.660 which has just joined the fleet of Dudley-based, international heavy-haulage operator TDR Transport Services.
The big Swede was bought as an additional vehicle to cope with growing demand for the family-owned business’s specialist heavy-haulage services and joins a 15-strong fleet. Richard Rollinson, joint Managing Director TDR Transport Services tells BLB: "We broke with tradition and went for our first Volvo 8x4 heavy-hauler. It’s got tremendous low-speed torque and the driver loves it. The Volvo Geartronic automatic gearbox is also great as he can concentrate on the driving and manoeuvring safely, and it has already proven itself pulling loads up to 150 tonnes gross out of quarries with ease. Overall the truck is performing well without a second thought. The 8x4 configuration is also ideal as it reduces the chance of axle overloads.”
He adds, “As it’s plated at 200 tonnes, it enables us to stay well inside of the gross design weight, thus giving us greater operational flexibility. When we order more tractor units, we will be looking very favourably at Volvo.”
The tractor unit usually operates at a maximum of 150 tonnes GCW with a Nooteboom 5 axle low loader with a two axle inter-dolly although it has the potential to operate at 200 tonnes GCW. Operating in the UK and internationally in Germany, Ireland and Holland, the FH16-660 hauls construction plant, earthmoving equipment, piling rigs, recycling machines and associated plant. Heavy man...!
Shame I saw this Volvo and a 5 axel nooteboom trailer for sale in CM magazine.