VOLVO UPRATES THE F86
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The Volvo F86 is being superseded by a new F87 model incorporating a number of changes such as a front axle uprated by 200kg — (gvw now 16,200kg) — and the use of fire-resistant materials for the cab trim. Improved engine insulation has enabled the in-cab noise to be reduced by three dB/A. An air suspension option for the rear axle (see CM June 4) makes the chassis eminently suitable for demountable body ,operations. A roof hatch is now standard as is an electrically heated driver's seat.
The new F87 is one of the range of Volvo heavies (F88, F89 and N-Series are others) in which a novel hydraulics system for use with power-operated equipment, e.g. skip loaders, lorry cranes etc., can be specified. The option includes a pump mounted directly on the gearbox pto and avoids the need for the usual shaft drive to remote framemounted pump.
The pump is of a special design developed by Volvo Flymotor — a company in the Volvo group — and is driven at lower engine speeds through a step-up ratio to reduce the noise level while hydraulic power is supplied. The arrangement is also claimed to reduce fuel consumption. Volvo Flymotor pumps are of the spherical plunger type with the cylinder barrel at an angle of 40 degrees to the drive shaft.
The compact pump has only 15 moving parts and this contributes to a long working life. Use of the spherical plunger — patented by Volvo — results in better sealing, reduced wear on working surfaces and less sensitivity to impurities because the large clearance between plunger head and cylinder does not trap dirt. In addition to the novel pump Volvo can also supply complete hydraulics systems with oil tanks, filters and hoses. For applications requiring greater capacity than that provided by the gearbox-mounted pump (350 bar at 72 litre/min, or 125 litre/min.) a conventional bracket-mounted pump can be supplied. Volvo can also offer package deal installations of front-mounted hydraulics pumps driven directly off the engine crankshaft.
This type of installation is usually required for municipal vehicles, sweepers, salt spreaders, and gritters and truck mixers. A new works for the hydraulics division of Volvo Flymotor has increased production by almost 50 per cent. Output in 1977 should reach 30,000 units.