Long-established construction, civil engineering, plant hire and surfacing specialist, R.K. Bell Group Ltd., of Bridgwater, have recently taken delivery of a new Volvo 13-litre FH-500 tractor unit. The new truck represents a welcome return to the Volvo brand for the company after a break of nearly fifteen years.

Supplied by Wayne Bryant, Truck Sales Executive at Truck and Bus Wales and West, the 6×2 tag axle tractor unit was carefully specified to meet the operator’s exact requirements with a 3.0-metre wheelbase, reinforced front bumper, headlamp grilles and additional guard plates. The Globetrotter cab equipped chassis also features a Jost cast 5th wheel, Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels and a stainless steel exhaust stack. A focus on safety sees additional work lights and a four-way camera system fitted. The new FH is also plated to operate at up to 60-tonnes gross vehicle weight under Special Types Regulations.

“We were particularly impressed with the attention to detail shown during the ordering process. We explained what was required and got the ideal truck for the job,” reports Company Director and Transport Manager, Wayne Salter. “Our previous tractor unit was a pusher axle and it struggled for traction and manoeuvrability on site, but the tag axle layout is perfect for our operation. The truck pulls a step frame low loader trailer moving heavy plant and equipment. Our largest machine weighs in at 35 tonnes, so the outfit has ample capacity.”

R K Bell’s last new Volvo was delivered back in 2002. “I drove that FM 6×4 tipper myself, it was a very good truck that served us well and I am pleased to be returning to the marque. The driver is over the moon with the new FH. We included leather trim, a fridge/freezer and microwave in the specification, which allows him to be self-sufficient if stuck out on a remote site.”

The company also specified Volvo’s Gold Contract Maintenance and a Dynafleet package, in order to keep the truck running at its best and monitor its operation closely. “If it continues to perform well, we will certainly consider Volvo again for our tipper fleet,” concludes Wayne Salter.