U-turn on Maggies
Page 29
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
MY COMPANY bought six new refrigerated Magirus Deutz 7.9 from Wembley Commercials between November 1979 and February 1980.
Since operating these vehicles our running costs have increased dramatically. We have had to endure frequent major breakdowns such as brake, clutch and gearbox failures without any warranty claims being fulfilled from Magirus Deutz.
That apart, we have had vehicles off the road through non-availability of parts such as brake linings and drums. Out of five sets of linings on back order only one set has so far come through from Cheshire — according to Wembley Commercials "the only set in the country" — we have also had various spares made up by Motor Factors because of the shortage of supply.
We have three different axle ratings on these six vehicles, one being a 5.6 tonnes back axle (all should be 7.9 tonnes). To date we have had to replace four clutches complete, two sets of drums, one gearbox ten weeks after delivery and 9,000 miles, six throttle cables, three throttle stop mechanisms, seven window winders and other items too numerous to mention.
Magirus Deutz (GB) has rejected all warranty claims saying that operator abuse caused the faults which, to my mind, is lunatic.
I wish I had never changed from Fords.
MALCOLM J. NELSON J. Nelson Ltd Stanmore, Middlesex