FROM SIX. TO EIGHT-WHEELERS
Page 34
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AN experiment in vehicle costing is being undertaken by E. and F. Beattie Ltd., Manchester, a member of the Stephenson Clark/Powell Duffryn group with their recent acquisition of an A.E.C. Mammoth Major eightwheeled tipper. It is being operated hauling coal from the Cresswell Colliery, Yorkshire, to an industrial consumer near Manchester. To ensure a reliable service despite the arduous journey involved over the Pennines this vehicle is fitted with double-drive rear axle and a 192 b.h.p. engine whilst an exhaust brake is also specified.
This purchase represents a reversal of policy by Beattie. Having previously disposed of eight-wheelers they have operated six-wheelers, consisting of fourwheelers with third-axle conversion. But whilst these gave an economic payload of around 13 tons, Beattie considered a more robust vehicle was required for this particular journey. Whilst it is too early to obtain useful cost comparisons, maximum utilization is being achieved by employing the vehicle five days a week on coal haulage with coke deliveries on Saturdays. A spokesman for Beattie said that in addition #9 providing reserve for winter conditions over the Pennines, the double-drive axle of the eight wheeler could also be of advantage in assisting other vehicles in difficulties.