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E RF has survived another chapter in its chequered history and
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for now its future seems secure as part of the MAN group, along with names like Star and Steyr. In fact ERF has a longer relationship with Steyr, having first taken its steel cab in the autumn of 1993. That was for the 4x2 E S6 I7-tonner, powered by Cummins and Perkins engines rated at 18c)-235hp; and for the ES8 6x4 2.6-tonner, which extended the power options through to 275hp.
ERF's current truck range was launched two years ago. Consolidation of ERF's model range makes the ES6 r8-tonner (with a litre, six-pot Cummins B-Series rated at 215 and 235hp) the lowest powered and lightest ERE model on the market. The 4x2/6x2/6x4
ES8s all use the 8.27-litre Cummins C-Series engines rated at 242, 277 and 3oohp for solo g and drawbar applications—the 6x4 tipper and cz, haulage models are only specified with the two more powerful engine options. Variants on the 6x2 theme include a rear-steer, mid-lift, rear-lift and a rear-lift chassis downplated to 23 tonnes. The ES6 comes with a choice of six and g nine-speed Eaton synchromesh transmissions; the six-wheelers come with either a heavier nine-speed synchromesh or a ninespeed range-change gearbox.
The latest ES builds on the reputation of earlier models with an uprated cab, an updated driveline and redesigned modular chassis that is narrow under the cab and wider under the body (this is claimed to P Drove stability and facilitate body mounting bout adding to the unladen weight).
2ommon engine and gearbox locations nv ERE to standardise on gearbox, clutch I other linkages while common suspenn mountings cater for a wide range of ions steel, rubber and air are all available be rear.
n line with the heavier EC specification all models now use Spicer Life Series prop shafts, which are said to be more durable with less need for maintenance. The axles have also been upgraded: the 13-tonne Mentor U177E is shared with the EC tractor range. For the rear of the ES the axle is plated at 9.5-11.5 tonnes, The larger radiator from the EC enhances engine cooling and charge-cooling capacities.
The electrical package, incorporating a 70A alternator and twin 170A batteries are more than adequate for ancillary equipment.
ERF's steel day cab, still supplied by Steyr, comes with a five-year anti-corrosion warranty. Two wide, deep steps make cab access safe and easy. External changes include a new front grille and heated rear-view mirrors.
Inside the trim is colour co-ordinated and there's more room than in previous cabs: this is emphasised by the small-diameter steering 0 wheel. An Isringhausen air suspension seat comes as standard, complete with lumbar support: a dual passenger seat is an option. The steering column is adjustable and the windows are electrically powered.
Instrumentation, incorporating an automatic two-man tachograph, benefits from variable illumination and the switchgear layout has been improved. The heating and ventilation system now demists the larger side windows as well as the windscreen (which has been made deeper to improve forward visibility). Standard equipment includes a radio-cassette, rubber floor mats and twin coat hooks.
by Bill Brock