The new FH Globetrotter 6x2 tag axle tractor unit, featuring a 3,000mm wheelbase, is powered by Volvo D13K producing 540hp. It is also equipped with a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission system, a single reduction drive axle and a Jost JSK37 cast iron, fixed fifth wheel.
“We’ve a very good Volvo dealer on the doorstep in South West Wales, who delivers an excellent service. However, we needed a new truck quickly. Truck and Bus Wales and West in Swansea had a new Volvo FH-540 in stock, which fitted the bill perfectly for us. It’s the first deal we’ve done with them,” notes Hywell Mason, Managing Director at Mason Bros.
Hywell adds, “We’ve also taken a three-year Volvo Gold Service Contract with the supplying dealerpoint in Swansea, where the FH-540 will go back for alternate six weekly inspections. Tag axle FH tractor units are very difficult to source in used truck stocks and that chassis configuration offers increased traction and manoeuvrability levels, which are essential in our works. We usually retain vehicles for around five years and tag axles also seem to retain higher resale values.”
Mason Bros will use the FH-540 to haul a three-axle Montracon step frame trailer, for machine movements across South Wales’ M4 corridor and further afield to plant auctions on a regular basis.
Mason Brothers’ association with Volvo trucks stretches back around 12 years and the company also operates an FH-520 tag axle tractor rated for 80-tonne operations.
“Volvo manufactures very good solid trucks. Both my brother and I own classic F16 tractor units and we also use three FMX tippers for our quarry products business. Prior to taking on our current construction equipment franchise, we enjoyed a 15-year association with Volvo Construction equipment. So it’s perhaps fair to say we’ve a good working knowledge of the products,” Hywell concludes.
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Notes for Editors :
For more information, please contact :
Martin Tomlinson, Head of Media, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland
Mobile: +44 (0) 7775 938063
E-mail: martin.tomlinson@volvo.com