Volvo revamps tractor range
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• Volvo is to offer air suspension as standard on the drive axle of all its 4x2 tractive units from the FL7 up. It will also uprate the front axle on its FL6 17-tonner from 6.7 to 7.1 tonnes. It is part of a revamp across all its range which, as predicted, includes cab changes on its F Series cabs, with a new dashboard and heated air suspended seat (CM 4-10 October).
All models from the FL6 up will have the following standard features: El Reversing bleeper and air horn
0 Seatbelts and head restraints
O 55Amp alternator • Brake system air dryer and silencers D Tractive units will also have a catwalk and coupling lamp.
The FL617's 6.7-tonne front axle has been uprated to 7.1 tonnes to add flexibility with diminishing loads but without adding to gross weight, says Volvo. Optional diff locks and exhaust brakes will now be available on the whole FL6 range too, including the nonHGV FL608 7.5-tonner. Volvo currently fits rear air suspension to about 15% of its 4x2 tractors from the FL7 up. Air suspension will also incorporate a manual height adjustment (+170mm to — 100mm) to allow easier trailer coupling.
Cabs from the FL7 will have an electrically operated driver's window and cab heater as standard, while all F-Series cabs will have a curved facia and document box, double bunks, suspended passenger seat and an llamp/12V converter socket for CB radio. The rear window goes, and central locking has been fitted.
On the FL6 an electrically operated passenger window has been added, along with a smaller (450rnm-diameter) steering wheel and washable seat covers for tippers. Externally, the FL6 now bears a stronger resemblance to its heavier stablemates, says Volvo, with indicators now "outboard" on the front bumper.
Plastic mudguards are fitted to each step and a step protection guard is intended to stop fouling from the vehicle's underside.