Owning partner at C & K Marr Ltd, Callum Marr, opted for Volvo's flat roof ‘Sleeper' cab option on the new FH, which provides comfortable overnight accommodation, in addition to an interior height of 162 centimetres above the engine cover. The 3,200mm wheelbase rear steer, tag axle chassis is powered by Volvo's D13K Euro-6 engine rated at 540hp. The straight six unit's maximum power output is delivered between 1450 and 1800rpm, whilst a top torque figure of 2,600Nm is available from 1,000 to 1,450rpm. Behind this is a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission system.
"The I-Shift gearbox was a big attraction when I looked at Volvo trucks. I am also very impressed with the smooth, accurate cornering delivered by the rear steer tag axle's performance both on forest and public roads. The FH just glides through roundabouts and junctions, with less attendant tyre wear," Callum declares.
Supplied by Richard Cochrane, Transport Solutions Executive at Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North and Scotland in Aberdeen, the FH is covered by a three year Volvo Gold Service Contract.
Requiring a roomy cab for day-shift operations, with a minimal roof height that would not be prone to excessive tree branch damage when working in the forests, Callum continues, "The FH Sleeper option has certainly ticked those boxes. I do the occasionally overnight stay in the cab and the single bunk package is ideal."
Finished with eye catching orange paintwork, which is contrasted superbly by chrome effect graphic lettering, supplied by Driver Signs, the truck also carries Kelsa light bars and air horns. "The new FH will work predominately in the north of Scotland and my annual mileage is around 100,000 kilometres per year," Callum adds.
For minimum damage to forest roads, Callum also opted for a Tireboss Central Tyre Inflation System (CTI) supplied and fitted by James Munro General Engineering Service in Rafford. The truck will haul a crane-equipped Dennison timber trailer on a full-time basis. "It's early days yet, but I am pleased with the Volvo FH's performance so far. The truck offers a 24,500kg payload and its 540hp engine is well on top of operations at the maximum 44-tonnes gross vehicle weight,"Callum concludes.
Founded in September 2016 by Callum Marr and Katie Law, the company now operates two artic vehicles on round timber transports for leading saw millers, James Jones & Sons Ltd. Owning partner Katie provides full time management of the office and administration roles, whilst Callum drives the latest Volvo FH.