Q Our firm operates a Leyland Terrier FR750 with an unladen
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weight of 2 tons 14 cwt. Would it be possible to use this for drawbar operation? If so, could you inform me of the legal gcw, and of the necessary modifications I would have to make?
ADepending on the specification of your Terrier, you may run at a gcw of 8 or 9 tons. The vehicle is suitable for 8-ton gcw if it has the 3.8-litre engine and a four-speed gearbox and a 5.125 or 5.86 to 1 rear axle. Also the tyres must be 7.50 x 16 or 7.00 x 20 12-ply tyres. To run at 9-ton gcw the vehicle needs the 3.8-litre engine with a five-speed gearbox or the 5.1-litre engine with a fouror five-speed gearbox. Axle ratio and tyres would be the same as for 8 tons.
In addition, at both weights, the power-hydraulic brakes would need to be converted to air over hydraulic brakes and an extra line laid in for the trailer. The trailer brake would have to be actuated by the normal truck service brake.