Vic Hungerford writes to me with another of his 'travels with my tanker stories': "Hi Brian," says Vic. "I was driving out of one of the wineries yesterday after unloading a B-train full of 27,000 litres of NZ's finest Sauvignon Blanc, when I saw this magnificent example of Australian manufacturing coming the other way. The driver was watering the driveway to keep the dust down, and he pulled over to let me pass and stopped when I said I would like a photo. Much as I like old restored trucks and appreciate the huge amount of work that has been put into them, I think it is possibly even even more exciting to see an old one in original condition still doing a normal day's work." I can see where you're coming from on that Vic--but I do like to see them restored to a 'As new as the day it started work' condition. But what about other Biglorryblog readers think? Bob T--what's the view from the classic fraternity?
Vic continues: "Leader trucks were an Australian-designed and built truck, with a cab similar to a Mack but made from fibreglass and a huge choice of engines and transmissions. They were a very good truck in spite of being Australian, were very popular here in NZ and the ones here were usually fitted with various Caterpillar engines and Fuller Roadranger transmissions. There are not too many left on the road now and I hadn't seen this particular one for a while so I was pleased to see that it was still working for a living." Abnd if you want to see more on Leader trucks BLB has posted quite a few stories on them so use the search facility and see what comes up...Now click through here for more....
And you can clearly see the Mack 'DNA' in this close up of the cab. Thanks Vic. Meanwhile the old wine hauler says:" P.S. for AtkiPete. Yes thanks, Pete, I would like to have that Leader book you mentioned!" I don't know...it's what I said before Biglorryblog is now the official chat-room for the Aussies and Kiwis...Gawd Bless 'em!
Vic,
Give Rob Laurent a call on +61 7 4696 6108 or visit his website http://www.leadertrucks.com.au - the Leader book is the top book on the website!
Joe
It possibly sounded in my letter to Brian that I was slightly denigrating the work of people who restore old trucks back to their original "as new" condition; I would like to assure them that that wasn't the intention at all although it possibly gave that impression. If it did, I sincerely apologise; I am as thrilled as anyone to see a beautifully restored truck.
I also, however, think it is great to see a truck such as this Leader, in slightly worn but basically very sound condition, still able and willing to do the work for which it was intended after all these years.
Great photos Vic, That looks like the set back axle version, you have there. What was it called again.
Nice find Vic! And as you say, it's great to see these old girls still going about their daily tasks, despite the miles. Keep it up!
Pete,
That set-back axle version was what Leader called the Forward Cab!
Joe