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Media Releases for Kenworth |
Kenworth T350 Agitators drive High Quality Concrete plant
A new Coffs Harbour concreting firm has built the largest computer-controlled concrete plant in northern NSW, utilising state-of-the-art innovations. Constructed in October 2006, High Quality Concrete can produce up to 170 cubic metres of concrete an hour – almost doubles the capacity of other plants in the region, and comparable with operations in major cities. It can handle a range of projects, from small residential jobs, such as a footpath or driveway, up to large 1000-metre commercial pours for shopping centres, factories and car parks. The 4,500 square metre site incorporates world class features, including a fully computerised loading and drive-through facility as well as a sophisticated water management system that harvests, stores and recycles water on-site, rather than relying on mains supply. Manager Geoff Whitfield, who has almost 35 years industry experience, says the trucks and concrete mixers play an integral role in the plant’s efficient operation. So much so that he spent several months evaluating a number of European and American-style vehicles before deciding on Kenworth. “I have worked with a number of brands and knew they were up to the task but didn’t know if they would last. I wanted the best purpose-built vehicles, so that they could handle our business today and our growth tomorrow. Kenworth was the brand that had it all,” he said. Kenworth’s award-winning dealer Brown & Hurley Coffs Harbour supplied the plant with four T350 Agitators – two 6x4s and two 8x4s. One of Kenworth’s latest models, the T350A has set a new benchmark for the construction industry, providing a light-weight but heavy-duty, bonneted cement mixer. The 6x4 model is rated at 23.tonnes and includes a six-metre barrel. The 8x4 is rated at 28.tonnes, with an eight-metre barrel. Both models are powered by Cummins ISC engines, producing 285 hp and 800 ft/lb of torque. The trucks feature a six-speed Allison automatic transmission, Dana DS/RDH 40 rear axles with rear differential lock for improved traction as well as Kenworth Airglide 400 eight-bag suspension and a Chelsea power take-off for the agitator. The T350A is competitively priced, and provides the perfect balance of performance, light tare weight and economy. The bonneted truck has a short bumper-to-back-of-cab-measurement, making it highly maneuverable in tight construction sites and city streets, while providing a smooth ride and good visibility. It also incorporates an ergonomic cab, a robust chassis for improved durability and an advanced suspension system for roll stability and load sharing. “There’s no doubt that the T350 Agitator is the best model in its class. The trucks have proved themselves just in the short time we have used them,” Geoff said. “But I chose Kenworth for a number of reasons – from the trucks’ quality design and build to the dealer service and support – Kenworth delivers the complete package.” Geoff says there are a lot of important but overlooked advantages to buying Kenworth. “Every part, for example, is identified with each truck. So I know that if I need a part, Brown & Hurley will have it on the day or it will be shipped overnight. Many times with other brands, I have had to chase dealers only to find that the part they sent me was changed the same year the truck was manufactured. So I would have vehicles off the road for days waiting on the right part to arrive.” “That’s another advantage to buying Australian. Kenworth trucks are factory painted in the correct colour,” he said. “The finish looks great because it’s painted right the first time. “ Geoff says Kenworth’s attention to detail extends to every facet of engineering. “It’s the small things, like the way the electrical cables and hoses are separated off the chassis, so there’s less chance that they can be damaged or for potential rust and rubbish to get behind them. And it’s the large things as well, like the sheer size of their radiators. The T350 provides up to 15 per cent better cooling capacity than other models we evaluated. And, because the motor runs cooler, the trucks perform more efficiently, saving us fuel while improving productivity.” Another important component of the Kenworth package is the dealer service and support. “Brown & Hurley have been wonderful – before and after we bought. They are the only dealer in Coffs Harbour to offer a late-night service which runs until 11 pm. That enables me to service my trucks outside of business hours, with no downtime. They’ll even deliver the truck to my gate, ready for the next day’s work. It’s a true partnership –just what we need and just what we offer to our own customers.” “You’d expect to pay a lot more for a Kenworth, but you don’t,” Geoff added. “The trucks are well priced – even more so when you consider the whole-of-life cost, including the extra 10-15 per cent expected resale price.” Kenworth’s T350 Agitator is available in 6x4, and the 8x4 and recently released 10x4 twin steer models. The models are available with a range of Cummins engines up to 315 hp as well as a variety of manual or automatic transmissions and rear axle ratios. Kenworth trucks are designed and manufactured in Australia to meet the world’s toughest applications. Kenworth, a division of PACCAR Australia, is market leader in heavy duty trucks in Australia. Its trucks are also exported to Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. PACCAR Inc, a Six Sigma company, is a worldwide manufacturer of heavy and medium duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF nameplates. It also provides financial services and distributes truck parts related to its principal business. RELEASE ENDS For further information: Neil Willox Marketing Manager PACCAR Australia Tel: (03) 9721 1500
Media Contact: Neil Willox (neil.willox@paccar.com) |