After positive experience with three previous second-hand plant bodies from Andover, Harlex decided to opt for a new truck.
The latest body, mounted to a new 32-tonne Volvo FM460 8x2 rear-steer rigid chassis, has several bespoke elements, including Andover’s fold-forward ramps, which help to save fuel by streamlining the vehicle.
The truck also features an electric Superwinch EN rated to 6 tonnes line pull, removable working-at-height barriers that can be stowed away when not in use and a durbar plate at the rear of the deck to protect from any potential damage from dipper arms.
Richard Gagg, director at Harlex Haulage Services, explains: “We bought our first second-hand Andover plant body back in 2003 and have owned two more since – we’ve never been disappointed, and their strength and durability has kept us coming back.
“When we decided the time was right to invest in a new truck, there was never any question that we’d be specifying Andover to build the body. We hope to see it stay in the fleet for a good six to seven years.”
Harlex’s latest addition will be in operation five days per week, clocking up 90,000km a year delivering plant and construction machinery across London and the South East.
The vehicle joins a fleet of two sweepers and 21 tippers.