I J Webb and Sons’ top tipper also transports plant

Aggregate recyclers, I J Webb and Sons has taken delivery of their first-ever Volvo truck - a bespoke FM-440 8x4 tipper with reinforced sub frame chassis, air suspension and a VBG coupling to enable the utilisation of a trailer.

Managing Director, Ian Webb, who at present operates a mixed fleet of six vehicles, commented, “Instead of transporting aggregates and plant to site with two separate vehicles, we wanted one vehicle that could complete the task in a single, cost-effective, movement. In addition, the vehicle had to have tipping capabilities and enough strength to carry up to 19.5 tons of plant equipment.”

To enable the tipper to act as a multi-purpose vehicle, leading tipper body manufacturer Thompsons, reinforced the cab’s chassis with a strengthened sub-frame along with Wheelbase Engineering fitting an air-actuated VBG coupling to enable easy connection to the trailer.

“A number of manufactures were approached to supply the vehicle, but it was Volvo that was my marque of choice”. Ian added, “As my specification was bespoke, knowledge and support from Volvo and our local dealership Thomas Hardie Commericals was paramount in the decision-making process. After an initial consultation I knew I was in safe hands.”

Ian concluded, “The vehicle is perfect for my requirements on the road and meets the demands of the job off-road.”

The vehicle will be serviced and maintained by I J Webb and Sons’ in-house engineer. It can be seen across the North-west transporting a variety of aggregates from grit to various sizes of crushed stone and road planing to a multitude of construction plant.

The company now plans to pilot the new Volvo over the forthcoming months before taking the decision to make further Volvo additions.