Coke payload up 30pc
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PAYLOAD capacity of semitrailers run by Coca-Cola has improved by 30 per cent since it revised its palletisation and moved up to 38-tonne operation.
Since 1983, 30 of its 11.3m (37ft) tandem axled semitrailer trunking fleet have been modified with a third steel suspended axle and chassis extension to give a full 12.2m (40ft) internal platform length and maximum payload potential.
A refurbishment contract for a further 26 Crane Fruehauf curtainsided semi-trailer — purchased since 1979 — has been awarded to neighbouring firms of Coca-Cola's Heathfield depot at Newton Abbot, 1)evon.
West of England Commercials, which makes the mechanical alterations, splice in a 1,300rnm (4ft 3m) chassis section and remove the existing tandem axle bogie. After refurbishment of seals, hearings and brakes etc, the bogie is relocated behind a new Stemfast axle. Maxarct anti-lock braking and a Hubometer are included in the revised assembly. The welded pin: is replaced and the bearing plate is uprated from 6 to 8mm.
GLS Bodies extends the bodywork adding a new wood floor, aluminium roof section, pelmets both sides and new rear doors, where required. Internal load restraint remains unaltered but new sign written curtains are made to order by Tarpolin Services of Exeter.
All steel surfaces are shot blasted before painting with Masons QDP (quick drying polyurethane).
Large single I5R 22.5 Bridgestone tyres replace twin tyres. Other additions include sideguards, Clear Pass mudflaps, an under valence and a Hope Safe-T-bar under run bumper at the rear.
The total refurbishment cost for 26 vehicles at around .U90,000 compares well with the list price for new trailers at £15,000 each. This has to be balanced against the large discount that Coca-Cola's 80strong fleet could demand, and the possibly inadequate residual value for vehicles normally written down over 10 years.
However, it is the tax allowance which tips the scales. Only 50 per cent of capital investment on new vehicles is allowable against tax, while 100 per cent is allowed for refurbishment.