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'FORD HAVE A REAL WINNER WITH THIS JOB'
Page 35
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Ford recently brought out an impressive new package: the 1969 PSV chassis with the powerful new Ford Turbo 360 engine.
The new chassis have increased GVVVs of 23000 lb. (R1921 and 26100 lb. (R226) and can cope smoothly with the extra weight of today's luxury coaches. The ride is noticeably improved by the re-designed suspension.
A big increase in lining area gives even more effective braking. And the quietness of the new Turbo engine keeps drivers and passengers relaxed.
What impressions has this Ford package made on operators so far?
Ask Mr. Vernon Maitland, whose family runs one of Britain's most modern fleets: Excelsior European Motorways. 'We have three Turbo 360-powered Ford R226 production chassis with Plaxton bodies. One has already done about 20,000 miles without a hitch. It's powerful all right—but at the same time it has reduced our running costs, particularly on fuel. Trip time has been cut too. These vehicles suit my operation ideally,' says Mr. Maitland, not only on stop-go tours in Britain but on the long European journeys as well.'
Figures show that the Turbo 360, because of its greater efficiency, is giving Excelsior about one mile per gallon better fuel economy. Which adds up when you consider how many miles they run each month (some vehicles clock up at least 9,000). Another reason they use less fuel is that the Turbo 360 gets into top gear faster— and stays there longer.
It's on the journey to and from Russia that the Turbo 360 has really proved its reliability and toughness. The coach has to travel non-stop over a long, uninhabited stretch between Moscow and Minsk (447 miles) and then, next day, another 351 miles from Minsk to Warsaw. There are no service points, so they rely on the Turbo 360 to get everyone through safely. Which it's done every time.
Co-driver Tony Sunderland has noticed another way in which this Ford package pays off—in the chassis. 'On Russian roads, I reckon the new heavier front axles and shock absorbers help us go about eight miles an hour faster than before.'
He also appreciates the quiet running of the Turbo 360. 'It's so quiet I can sleep right by the engine while my co-driver takes over,' he says.
The peace and quiet has been appreciated by Excelsior's passengers too. And because the added power of the Turbo 360 helps cut an hour off each day's driving, they get extra time at the other end. And feel fresh enough to enjoy it.
'It's the quietest forward-engine coach available,' says Mr. Maitland. 'Ford have a real winner with this j o b.'