Great preference
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
for six-wheelers: ERF
ERF will offer three basic chassis for operation at 38 tonnes: a 4x2, 6x4 and 6x2. Initial investigation into operators' requirements, when the thought was for a 40 tonnes limit, revealed an almost equal split between the different chassis configurations.
At 38 tonnes, however, ERF says that on existing orders the preference for a six-wheeler is 40 to one in favour of the 6x2 twin-steer unit, first shown as a prototype at NEC last year. The ratio of operators buying 4x2 units for operation at 38 tonnes is unknown.
While it is expected that demand for 4x2 tractive units will be greater at first, the 6x2 unit, giving better payload compatability and interchangeability with existing trailers used for operation at 32.5 tonnes, will grow in popularity.
Built to C-Series specification, and available with either day or sleeper cab, the three-axle twinsteer 40-tonne tractive unit is powered by either a Cummins or Rolls-Royce engines.
Both the Cummins NTE 290 and NTE 350 turbocharged engines with installed ratings of 202kW (271 bhp) and 247kW (331.8bhp) can be specified while Rolls-Royce turbocharged engines give the option of the 2901_ rated at 220kW (270bhp) or the 340L with a power output of 238kW (320bhp). A Gardner 15litre 6LYT option will be offered later in the year.
A typical unladen weight for a steeper cab 6063 NTE 290 is 7,107kg or with the smallest of the Rolls Royce engines 6,900kg.
The chassis has been designed to give maximum payload and includes the use of aluminium on items such as the fuel tank and front bumper.
Rear bogie is an ERF design incorporating Metalastic rubber suspension and compensatory traction device.
For existing 4x2 operators ERF is in the process of obtaining type approval for a 6x2 conversion which follows the same principles as the factory built model. Up to six ERF dealers are to be appointed to carry out the work.