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148 
AN launches eight-leg F90
Page 14
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1. Two years after the UK launch of the MAN F90 series with the 17.332FTS 4x2 tractive unit, it is now available with an eight-wheel chassis.
The lowest power option, up by 15kW (20hp) for the 30.262, is likely to be the most popular model for the UK, using the five-cylinder, in-line, 10-litre, charge-cooled engine incorporating wet-type cylinder liners and individual cylinder heads. The installed power rating is 191kW(256hp) at 1,800 to 2,200rpm.
For more powerful engine options at 221, 246 and 270kW(291,331 and 362hp) the clutch diameter has been in creased by 10mm (0.4in) to 430mm (16.9in).
Both the Fuller RT011613 range change and ZF I6S 150 Ecosplit transmission can be specified for the three most powerful models, while the ZF 16S 109 Ecomid gearbox is offered for the 30.262.
Parabolic springs replace the multileaf pack at the front end while the chassis frame is both thicker and deeper than before. Existing wheelbase dimensions are extended by 25mm to 6.325mm and 6.525au-n (20.7ft and 21.4ft) for tipper application while a third at 7.225mm (23.7ft) can be specified for general haulage. All are avail
able with day or sleeper cabs.
UK models use a straight front axle beam, rated at 6.3 tonnes, while hub reduction axles at the rear maximise ground clearance.
A radiator guard, driver's head restraint, heated mirrors, kerb mirror, electrically operated passenger window, foglamp wiring and under bumper air dam, all options on the F8, become standard on the F90.
In Holland, the local MAN concessionaire has already sold 63 of the new vehicles in the first quarter of 1989 and, despite a 15% premium over some of the competition, the dealer expects to sell around 150 chassis by year-end.
Although the terrain in Holland is very flat, operation is arduous. The eight wheeler is limited to 33 tonnes GVW but by local custom and practice is loaded up to 40 tonnes.
The Dutch specification, which includes a Large 21m3 body, stout tipping gear and the strong axles, reflects this situation with the larger engine options.
Our 33.332 test vehicle, loaded locally, accelerated strongly away from rest using just a few of the available gears, moving from 2nd to 4th high followed by 6th low and 7th high before reaching top gear. Even here we managed to find a few hills where advantage could be made of the split ratios. In top gear, the vehicle purred along at a very economical 1,500rpm at 80km/h, well in the middle of the solid green band extending from 1,300 to 1,60Orpm.
The slightly dished binnacle in front of the steering wheel contains all of the instrumentation and switches except for heating and ventilation. Progressive power steering gives a good feel of directional control and at low speed a warning lamp indicates a low level of assistance.
Braking is both effective when loaded and smooth when empty.
For off-road performance, we ventured into a sand quarry, normally the reserve of 6x6and 8x8-wheel-drive vehicles. It was a dry day but caution dictated that we kept to the well-tracked path which proved soft enough but with difflocks engaged we came through without grief.
Last year MAN sold 236 four-oded rigids in the UK, claiming about 6% of the market. Information on price and unladen weight has not been released for the new range at the moment.