Eight-legger set for UK
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• A lighter, and more power Hino eight-legger is ex3ected to make an appearance n the UK by the end of November.
While the current Japanesebuilt FY275KA 8x4 rigid chassis, powered by the naturallyaspirated 13.27-litre, sixcylinder 181kW (243hp) EK100 engine, has gained a reputation for its rugged construction, most operators consider it far too heavy for tipper work.
Harris UK, however, is now planning to offer the FY275KA chassis with the same 8.8-litre, charge-cooled EP100 engine which is fitted in the Hino SK283KA tractive unit launched in this country earlier in the year and which we tested (CM 14-20 January).
The air-to-air, charge-cooled EP100 block has a maximum power rating of 207kW (278hp), and a peak torque of 961km (709 lbft). It would not only offer more power but also reduce the kerbweight of the four-axle Hino chassis by some 250kg. It will, however, be offered as an option to the existing EK100 power unit, rather than as a straight replacement.
The current Fuller RT11609 nine-speed gearbox fitted in the FY275KA will be carried over on to EP100-engined models, although Commercial Motor understands that the more advanced Twin Splitter gearbox, which is already offered as an option to the nine-speed box, is likely to become the standard fitment.
While only three Hino models currently hold UK type approval, the 4x2 SH287KA artic; the 8x4 FY275KA; and the three-axle FS271 (which uses the same basic driveline as the eight-wheeler) Harris UK is planning to bring a number of new models into the UK during 1988/89. These include a new, lightweight six-wheeler, a 17-tonner, using the same engine and driveline as the lightweight 6 x4 chassis, and a 7.5-tonner.
Hino already has EEC type approval on its 11, 12 and 13tonne rigids sold on the Continent. These could also appear on the British market.