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SARGENT'S TRUCKING SERVICES
Page 48
Page 49
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imon Sarger Owner-driver Sargent's Trucking Services specialises in transport for exhibitions and musical events held all over Europe. Simon Sargent operates two Renault tractive unitsa Premium and a Magnumhauling large-volume stepframe trailers. His Magnum 4x2 480 only rarely weighs out at more than 34 tonnes, so why did he choose such a powerful vehicle?
"Being associated with the entertainment business our image is important to us.he explains. "I bought my first Magnum, powered by the 500hp Mack V8 engine, in 1991. It was so reliable and it turned out to be the most economical truck I've owned. I kept it for
over10 years and we took delivery of a 480 18 months ago as its direct replacement. For a powerful truck it's as fuel-efficient as you get. It's averaging between 9.0 and 10.0mpg loaded both ways.
"The 480 is quicker off the mark than my old 500. With a 16-1itre capacity that was a big, lazy engine but the torque (lithe 12-litre makes this one just as relaxing to drive. It's almost a tonne lighter than the previous model, which is due to several changes in the specification,including the smaller engine, lighter gearbox. singlereduction axle in place of hub-reduction and disc brakes instead of drums at the rear.
"We can be away for weeks at a time but may spend a lot of that time on site,so at around 50,000 a year, my mileage is not high.
"The cab, with its flat floor,is the best of the lot when it comes to living space.The trim is better than on the original models and will last better.'The electric blinds operate on all three sides.They can be used as visors when the sun is low as well as providing complete seclusion at night.The cab is high but you soon get used to the steps. Unlike other trucks the handles are on the outside and they do get dirty Magnum drivers learn to carry a cloth to wipe them down.
"The modern headlights are much more powerful and are brilliant. but the bulbs arc smaller, more expensive and last only about 12 months.
"One improvement would be to fit doubleglazed side windows.They would help to keep the cab warmer and make it even quieter.
"I did look at the Volvo FH, Scania Topline and the Daf XF but they didn't offer anything more than the Renault. Over the years! have established a good relationship with my local dealerAllports,which is only half an hour away at Lichfield, and that's something worth maintaining. Up until now we've only had a few minor problems, which have all been dealt with under warranty.
Continental backup
"The thermo fan locked on, but that wasn't something to prevent us getting home. My local dealer just fitted a new one. One of the heater hoses blew a hole when we were travelling across France.We took it to a local dealer who checked out the warranty on his computer and put it right while we waited. I have always found Renault's Continental backup to be very good, even when travelling as far away as Moscow.
"Because the 480 relies a lot more on electronics! may be tempted to change this Magnum after about five years while ills still reliable. Because we look after our trucks and the mileage remains relatively low for the age there are owner-drivers who are always interested in anything we have to sell." •
Chris Wright is MD of Commercial Vehicle Auctions CVA holds sales at Doncaster on two Wednesdays each month with a throughput of some 300 commercial vehicles and 140 trailers. In addition it has an auction of plant equipment about every six weeks. Wright also conducts sales around the country at customers' premises.
"We have only seen two or three Magnum 480s but they all sold so someone must like them," he says. "It's a good truck but it only appeals to a specialised market.They're good value. Prices at auction are on a par with the Volvo FI-1,Daf XF and Scania Topline but we find fewer people bidding for the Renault. The Magnum 480 stands up to the work well and is reliable.
"It's no worse on fuel consumption than any other high-powered truck.! am told that Renault's backup is not yet up to Daf standard but it is getting there." •