Supplied by dealer Truck and Bus Wales and West, the Gwent-based operator’s new FH-540 6x2 tractor units come in steered pusher axle format and feature Globetrotter XL cabs with gold painted front grilles and Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels.
Brian Chilton, founder and owner, says the Volvo’s 13-litre FH series is an extremely good all-round truck: “The engine rated at 540hp [533bhp] pulls well, the Dual Clutch transmission is superb and the drivers really like this powertrain.”
He adds: “We are definitely sold on the new gearbox and will be specifying it in the future, wherever possible.”
He also rates Volvo’s Dynamic Steering system, saying: “It takes a few days for the drivers to get used to it, but after that the drivers wouldn’t be without it. Feedback indicates that it is fantastic when reversing in a tight spot and excellent out on the road at higher speed.”
The drivers also like the optional steering system on the pusher axle, as Chilton confirms: “The truck goes exactly where you point it, even in the wet, and I expect it will reduce tyre wear in the long run as well.”
Brian Chilton’s association with Volvo Trucks goes back to the F86 and F88 models of the 1960s and 70s. The current fleet includes used and new purchases, with new vehicles maintained by Truck and Bus Wales and West on Volvo Gold R&M contracts.