DAF launches Euro 6 construction range
Paccar subsidiary DAF has revealed a Euro 6-compliant range of construction trucks covering 4×2 rigid, multi-axle and tractor applications. The vehicles feature increased ground clearance to aid cross-country mobility and will start to become available towards the end of the year.
Visually, the CF Construction and LF Construction are distinguished from their standard counterparts primarily by a black three-piece bumper in galvanised steel, Lexan guards over the headlamps, and a 3mm steel radiator bash-plate that can withstand impacts of up to four tonnes and incorporates a folding front step. Cab interiors are carried over from the standard truck.
The CF’s high-mounted front bumper allows approach angles of up to 25 degrees, and optional fog and cornering lamps can be installed if required. The straight front axles give 400 mm ground clearance.
As a 6×4 rigid chassis, the CF Construction can be supplied with an eight or nine-tonne front axle, and a 19, 21 or 26-tonne double-drive bogie. The 8×4 version, which is likely to outsell its 6×4 counterpart in the UK, has twin-steered 7.5, eight or nine tonne front axles, and a 19-, 21- or 26-tonne double-drive bogie. A 6×4 Construction tractor unit is also available, but it is uncertain as to whether this will find many customers in the UK.
Both the MX-13 and the recently-introduced MX-11 engine are offered, giving power choices ranging from 290 to 510 hp. Many tipper operators will be attracted to the 11-litre engine, given a claimed saving in fuel consumption of up to three per cent over the 13-litre and a weight saving of over 180 kg.
Another benefit of the smaller engine is two-step access, with a third external flexible step being provided as an option if required.
While manual gearshifts are standard on this chassis, a specially-developed version of the AS-Tronic automated gearbox with ‘off-road’ shifting strategies and an ultra-fast clutch action has also been developed.
Like their road-going counterparts, the Construction trucks have a Y-shaped chassis frame, and the double-drive eight-rod bogie features 270mm of articulation. There is provision for mounting a ‘DIN plate’ on the chassis front for snowploughs and similar attachments. To facilitate body fitting, the chassis can be provided with appropriate brackets and holes ex-factory.
External options include a cab-side step and handgrip to facilitate load inspections and a cyclone air filter for operation in very dusty conditions. All models have the option of a vertical exhaust, which on the 8×4 incorporates the SCR unit.
Multi-axle chassis versions of the standard CF will also be available.
The LF Construction is available for operation as a 4×2 rigid at gross weights of up to 19 tonnes (18 tonnes in the UK). Changes to the front end allow approach angles of over 25 degrees, and ground clearance is 320 mm. Power for the LF Construction is provided by the Cummins-built PX-7 engine at outputs from 220 to 310 hp. It is said to have the tightest turning circle of any truck in its class.
