A new Volvo FH 6x4 tractor unit operated by S J Archer and Sons from Llandovery in mid Wales is already showing lower operating costs.
According to the truck’s owner, Stan Archer, tyre wear on the 6x4 is better than on the 6x2 tag configuration the operator has used before. Fuel figures are also ’very acceptable’ and will further improve, he says.
Working in the demanding role of an on/off-road logging tractor, the 500hp FH utilises the Volvo automated I-Shift gearbox that features comprehensive on and off-road software packages.
While admitting that his company had been loyal to another truck supplier for the past eight or nine years, owner Stan Archer confirmed that he had heard good reports about Volvo and that the time had come ‘to give them a try’.
The Volvo FH-500 6x4 tractor is coupled to a tri-axle Dennison logging trailer equipped with an Epsilon log-loader crane.
Supplied by Truck and Bus Wales & West, the FH-500 is being serviced and maintained at their Swansea depot under a two-year contract.
In order to maximise the room available on the chassis a special dual-compartment tank capable of holding both diesel and hydraulic oil for the PTO-driven crane was supplied and installed by Truck and Bus Wales & West Ltd.
The tractor unit also features a Jost Lubetronic fifth wheel integral lubrication system and Kelsa top bar with six spot lights.
Having started the business in 1977, the family concern now employs two of Stan Archer’s sons, one of whom is a partner. The company operates four other logging trucks.
del.icio.us