Supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland, the new addition is a rear-steer, tag-axle FM and is powered by a D11K engine rated at 404bhp, driving through a 12-speed I-Shift automated gearbox.
The Globetrotter-cabbed 6x2 rigid has a 6m wheelbase chassis to accommodate the four-car recovery bodywork, which is by Dave Bland Engineering, of York. To cope with various loading conditions, a nine-tonne front axle and full air suspension were also specified.
Also included within the specification is a 4,000kg spectacle lift and 48-inch rear power out ramps. A gearbox-driven PTO supplies power to a 14,000kg remotely-controlled, hydraulic winch.
“We have traditionally used crew cabs in the past, but my brother John and I decided we needed a proper sleeper cab this time, hence our choice of the FM Globetrotter,” says Andrew Cameron, joint managing director at Loch Shiel Garage.
He adds: “The FM’s driver is a Volvo man and he had input into the specification process. Inside, we opted for full leather trims, a fridge and a microwave oven as the new truck will be frequently used for long-distance jobs and it’s already receiving plenty of positive feedback. The driver is impressed with the powertrain’s smooth operation and the low in-cab noise levels.”
Loch Shiel Garage will carry out its own six-weekly inspections on the new FM, while routine maintenance will be performed at Volvo’s Inverness dealerpoint on a five-year service contract.