Two Volvo FMX-410 8x4s have entered service with Frank O’Gara & Sons, one of North-West England and Manchester’s best known tipper operators. The trucks were supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials at Trafford Park.
The N3G class, off-road specification FMXs, which feature X-High chassis, B-Ride High drive-axle suspension and straight front axles for optimum ground clearance, are the first Volvos to join the Frank O’Gara & Sons fleet for ten years. The main activities of the Manchester-based family-owned haulage company, are Demolition, Excavation and Remediation services to the construction industry.
The new Volvo FMX eight-wheelers, which join a 30-strong fleet of tipper trucks, are engaged on removal of material from, or supply of materials to, Demolition, Remediation and Construction sites in North-West England. The trucks also supply material to the company’s recycling facility.
Frank O’Gara & Sons Managing Director John O’Gara cites the excellent residual values of Volvo construction trucks like the high spec FMXs now in use by his company as one of the main reasons for their purchase.
“Our strategy, going forward, is to renew the fleet every five years. Volvo’s residuals have always been very good and the latest FMX tippers were highly recommended by other operators in the industry. Availability of the two trucks we ordered was good too. With the two-year preventive maintenance programme offered by Volvo and Thomas Hardie, we think it’s a good package for our type of work, which requires a tough and reliable truck.”
In addition to the D11K410 11-litre engine rated at 410hp, the specification of the 5100mm wheelbase FMXs also includes I-Shift automated transmission, Volvo Engine Brake (VEB), Drive Package interior and reversing camera. The double skinned bodywork is by Boweld. Signwriting is by Martin Walker Signs.
