DAF tackle Devon hills

Devon-based haulage operators DJB have taken delivery of a new DAF FAD CF85 eight-wheel tipper to deliver materials from local quarries and collect waste created by road planing during resurfacing of the region’s motorways.

At 510hp, the truck has ample power to tackle the local hilly terrain with a power-to-weight ratio of almost 16hp per tonne. The FAD CF85 is powered by a 12.9-litre MX engine that produces 2,500Nm of torque between 1,000 and 1,950 rev/min.

A hub-reduction rear bogie with cross-axle and differential locks, say DAF, helps the tipper to cope comfortably with the most difficult off-road conditions. A 16-speed gearbox also helps drivers to gain optimum performance from the truck whatever the load or road conditions.

Derek Brooking, managing director of DJB, believes his latest truck acquisition will deliver good fuel returns for the company. ‘The level of power means that the truck will always be working comfortably within its limits, which should lead to good fuel economy, bearing in mind the current high cost of fuel,’ he explained.

In addition, the FAD CF85 has been fitted with a ZF intarder, which reduces the need to use the service brakes on downhill descents. ‘Experience with the ZF intarder in an earlier DAF has confirmed our belief that this is an essential device for our type of operation,’ continued Mr Brooking. ‘The first DAF truck we had fitted with one has done almost 400,000 miles and we haven’t yet had to change the brake linings.’

The new DAF tipper has a 16m3 body that has been manufactured with Fora 400 steel on the floor and tailgate, offering high resistance to abrasive wear and giving a low body weight that allows a payload in excess of 19 tonnes.

Importantly, the truck is fitted with an array of safety devices, including the obligatory roof-mounted flashing beacons and a reversing camera to help connect with planing machines.

DAF Trucks UK, Eastern Bypass, Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 3FB; tel: (01844) 261111; fax: (01844) 217111