RUCK LIFTS OFF
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THE materals handling division of Eaton Ltd chose the National Farmers Union's 5,574 sq m (60,000 sq ft) Bingley Hall near Stafford to launch its new range of three diesel-powered Yale fork-lift trucks.
These trucks have designated capacities of 2,000kg, 2,500kg and 3,000kg (4,000, 5,000 and 6,0001b) and are powered by the Perkins Aeroflow four-cylinder 203 diesel engine developing 45kW (60bhp) at 2,400 rpm, which provides good acceleration, gradeability and lifting speeds. The biggest improvement over previous models is the introduction of a full powershift automatic transmission, which Eaton produces in Japan, with just one forward and one reverse control but includes an "inching" device for slow but accurate manoeuvres.
Use of the triplex mast produces a low overall height and makes the truck particularly suitable for application where headroom is restricted, such as the inside of containers.
Steering linkage to the rear wheels is minimised with the use of a single hydraulic double-acting cylinder which results in a competitive narrow aisle manoeuvrability of • only 3.77m (12ft 2in) for the 2,000kg (4,000lb) model.
The new range complies with most European safety standards but is intended for the UK and Ireland initially where Eaton expects to meet demands for over 4,000 units this year.
No price is yet confirmed, but is expected to be competitive with other leading manufacturers when it becomes available on April 4.