Safety Angus gets Allison auto option
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AUTOMATIC transmission is now available as an optional extra on the HCB-Angus crew safety vehicle (CSV) fire appliance. It makes the appliance a much more flexible vehicle for city and town use, as I found during a brief drive with the CSV in and around Totton, Hampshire where it is built, writes Steve Gray.
The automatic model uses the same Bedford 500 diesel engine as the manual version, but has an Allison 540 gearbox. This allows completely automatic operation, though it can also be used manually through the gears.
Scarcely any acceleration has been lost by fitting the automatic — only a couple of seconds are added to the 040mph time. Driving the CSV is effortless, as the auto box allows the driver to concentrate on steering and controlling the vehicle.
My test CSV was loaded to a gross of 9.6 tonnes (9.45 tonnes) but nevertheless produced a good turn of speed. It was very easy to find oneself travelling faster than expected as upward gear changes were almost imperceptible.
Another major change to the CSV is the use of timber framing and plywood panelling for the rear bodywork. As well as trimming 36kg (3001b) from the CSV's weight, timber is a more suitable material as it is easier to attach equipment to it. Externally the rear body is now finished in stucco aluminium sheeting.
The crew section of the CSV remains virtually unaltered, and retaining all its crew safety features, including strong roll-over and front impact resistance.
However HCB Angus has made a couple of minor changes. The front wings have been re-designed at the ldwer edge in an effort to cut down spray reaching the mirrors and side windows. Door check straps are now of the more positive type, made of steel, but they don't retain the doors in the open position.
My short drive in the CSV auto confirmed my liking for