It seems the word on the value of fitting smaller 'trainer wheels' to a 6x2 tractor is spreading far and wide. Which probably explains why Cheshire-based NWF Agriculture has had them fitted on its latest Volvo FH three-axle artic. And why go for the smaller mid-lift pusher axle? Well for a start packaging of chassis components is much easier (especially on a tipper or tanker with hydraulic or blower kit). Then there's the fact that you get maximum flexibility by still be able to run at 44-tonnes whilst still avoiding drive axle overloads. But the real bonus is the fact that you get a decent reduction in tare weight too....and that goes straight to your bottom line. Indeed, Carl Jones, NWF's traffic manager tells Biglorryblog: "We specified the Esteppe push axle as it allows us to gain a 350 kgs weight save giving us a maximum possible payload." However, there's more good news as you can see if you click through here...
Smart looking rig too---and they haven't tried to hide the smaller wheels with a side valance either---I always think that defeats the object of the whole weight-saving exercise don't you?
Carl goes on to tell me: "Prior to purchase we operated a demonstration vehicle from Thomas Hardie Commercials and were extremely surprised by the 8.3mpg the vehicle was achieving as it was 1mpg better than we are achieving with the rest of our fleet. As, in the first year the vehicle will be expected to travel 120,000 kms, this will save us around £4,750 per year."
The 6x2 Volvo has been specified with a 480bhp D13 engine,Globetrotter cab, I-Shift auto box, and the aforementioned Esteppe Push Axle and was purchased from Thomas Hardie Commercials at Middlewich. It will run with a lightweight Fruehauf dangler on the back.
When BLB asked him why Volvo, Carl replied: "The service provided by Thomas Hardie Commercials at Middlewich far exceeds any we have experienced from other dealers. It's not very often they can't get something done the same day. Our driver's opinion is also very important to us and they are extremely happy with the drive of the Volvo. They can spend up to four nights away at any given time, which is why we specified a fridge and TV prep in this vehicle." And for all you fact freaks NWF Agriculture supply the large majority of dairy farmers in the
My old mate at Volvo--Ray Cattley has kindly sent this to me to explain what you gain with trainer wheels!
Brian
The smaller wheels, tyres, axle and lifting system means that we can save around 302kg compared to the normal 22.5 tyre bigger sister. Ray.
All that goes to the bottom line too--BLB!