Brecon-based, Phil Davies Haulage Ltd has acquired its first Volvo FH Lite 6×2 tractor unit. Supplied by Darren Padfield, Transport Solutions Executive at Wales and West Truck and Bus Ltd, the new FH is powered by a 540hp engine and the powertrain assembly includes a 2.64:1 rear axle ratio to suit local operating conditions.
“Bulk transport is all about payload factors and in previous years we used a Version 3 FH with an aftermarket lightweight pusher axle conversion. However, nowadays of course, the FH 6×2 Lite tractor unit is a Volvo production model,” notes their Managing Director, Phil Davies.
“Another attraction is the Volvo Engine Brake (VEB) which works well and does exactly what is required to save brake wear. This component is vital and crucially comes with no added weight, when compared to retarders that are optional extras on other truck makes,” he adds.
Phil continues, “Darren has an in-depth knowledge of his products and he always does a very good job for us when discussing and selecting from the range of options available. The new FH Lite will be used on long distance bulk tipper work and its driver will usually be away for four nights per week. The Globetrotter Cab is ideal for those schedules, providing a comfortable environment for the driver with little impact on the vehicle’s unladen weight.”
Phil Davies Haulage Ltd also opted for a three-year Volvo Service Contract that includes six-weekly safety inspections. “Our base is around 30 miles from Volvo Trucks’ nearest official dealerpoint, but we regularly travel the M4 South Wales corridor. The close proximity of Wales and West Truck and Bus’ premises to this route is extremely useful, where we receive a high level of customer service. That said, the vast percentage of our repair and maintenance work is usually carried out in-house,” Phil notes.
The operator’s connection with Volvo products stretches back to the first truck purchased, which was a 1987 Volvo FL7. “That six-wheeler did me well for quite a few years. I’ve since come to regard Volvos’ as very reliable and strong trucks. I particularly like the I-Shift gearbox, when compared to other systems. The FH Lite tractor unit has been in service since May. Everything so far, has met our expectations, including the fuel consumption,” Phil concludes.
