W S W S hen Foden gave us a 4000 Series twin-steer for test
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back in 1989 represented something of a new departure for the
andbach truck maker, which had previously blazed a lone trail with 6x4 double-drive tractors. Our 4350 was powered by the impressively torquey 14.6-litre Caterpillar 3406B engine with 237kW (317hp) net installed on tap. At the time Cat described the 3406B as "the fleet engine of the future". It didn't quite work out that way because, despite a strong performance, its overall fuel economy of 39. 6lit/100km (7.14mpg) was not enough to beat similarly powered rivals round our Scottish route. Out on the road it soon became obvious that it was a waste of time revving the big Cat beyond maximum power at 1,800rpm, not least as it produced over 97% of peak torque at 1,500rpm and 81% at 1,100rpm. Even on shallow inclines the 4350 was happy lugging down to 900rpm. In general we were happy with the driveline combination of Cat and nine-speed Fuller Roadranger but we wondered if the engine "would not be better suited by an Eaton Twin Splitter". The unusual cable connection between the lever and the box helped, rather than hindered changes especially when coming down the box on steep hills. While the three-axle 4350 certainly offered a better ride than its steel-sprung 4x2 counter part, the ride was still bumpy with the second steered and drive axles exhibiting the most movement: our tester recommended better damping. Foden's reputation for lightness was proven on test. Only the now defunct 6x2 Cummins-powered Leyland Daf 20.35 Roadtrain could beat the 4350's 23.8 tonne payload.