After six years of successful operation with used DAF multi-axle vehicles, owner-driver Gareth A. Leese has taken delivery of his first new DAF CF 450 FAD Mixer 8×4. Supplied by DAF Dealer Imperial Commercials, the lightweight CF eight-wheel mixer chassis is equipped with a Putzmeister 8.0 cubic metre capacity drum and equipment, although Leese ordinarily carries 7.5 cubic metres to enable a comfortable weight tolerance; even with the sleeper cab and extras such as Kelsa light bars.
The Stoke-on-Trent based operator works exclusively for nationwide construction materials supplier, Breedon.
Leese’s CF Mixer specification includes a Sleeper Cab, the top-rated, 450bhp MX-11 engine and an optional 16-speed manual gearbox. Further specification includes four-way CCTV recording and side-scanning to provide enhanced safety for vulnerable road users. Kelsa light bars were supplied and fitted by Autostart in Stoke-on-Trent.
Capable of an 8.0 cubic metre drum capacity for 32-tonne GVW operation, DAF Trucks’ dedicated CF Mixer chassis boasts a weight-saving specification including lightweight single-reduction tandem axles, disc brakes all-round and a new, single-circuit steering system.
“I am over-the-moon with the new CF Mixer,” said Gareth Leese, “it’s just a joy to drive; effortlessly smooth, super comfy in the cab. I’m really pleased with my decision to opt for the manual box, too. It’s great on the motorway, where I do a fair bit of work, but around town it just gives me that total control, that bit more flexibility.”
The owner-driver had for six years acquired used DAF vehicles, but, following a highly successful previous 12-months, found that a new acquisition would offer even greater productivity, particularly with respect to aftersales support.
“I have always had a fantastic relationship with Imperial Commercials, and especially the sales executive, Matt Durose,” added Leese, “I see them as a business partner rather than truck dealer. In six years, the only real reliability issue I suffered was with a broken crank-shaft, but Imperial dealt with it brilliantly – I really felt supported. My new truck comes with excellent R&M and Warranty back-up which will given me peace-of-mind for many years to come.”
Inaugural wedding-day job is the most important!
Despite the fulsome praise, Leese’s new DAF CF Mixer isn’t quite the greatest love in his life, but it must be a close run thing! For its very first job, the new CF Mixer was polished-up and adorned with ribbons to act as the ‘carriage’ for his recent wedding to Francesca.
