Les Hughes shows off 'first' 44-tonne Kerax
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WHAT IS believed to be the UK's first 44-tonne GTW Renault Kerax drawbar outfit for timber haulage has gone into service with Les Hughes & Son of Newtown, Powys.
Renault Landers account for six of Hughes' 10-strong fleet. "Renault Trucks originally advised me that Lander would be the better choice," said director Tony Hughes.
However, he instead opted for a Kerax 6x4 drawbar, with Renault's 460hp 10.8-litre DXi11 engine, because it is a "tougher, simpler truck with more ground clearance".
Hughes said that the Lander's disc brakes are costly to maintain on work that involves hauling round timber out of forests for delivery to saw and pulping mills, so he prefers the Kerax's drum brakes.
He also favours the Kerax's steel suspension to the Lander's air suspension. A switch to hub-reduction drive-axles has given more ground clearance too.