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TFL 8.180
Page 35
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The MAN TGL came equipped with a Hiab and grab on top of the tipper body, cutting the available payload down to only 1.2 tonnes.
Loaded to its maximum GVW, the 180IpS engine was more than adequate, lugging down deeply on the hills and pulling away from as low as 1,100rpm. Throughout the test route it easily maintained the legal speed limits With the engine capable of dropping down so low, the six-speed ZF manual gearbox was rarely troubled. On the occasions when a change was needed, the lever was conveniently located and the shifts felt crisp.
Braking was responsive and progressive, and the exhaust brake easily held back the fully laden tipper on the downhill slopes giving the feeling that the truck was under total control at all times.
One of the reasons for specifying a 7.5-tanner in a highway utilities role would be to accommodate working in tight, restricted areas. The TGL facilitates this with good manoeuvrability and a reasonable turning circle. Over both rough ground and on the asphalt test route, the steering was light enough to make manoeuvres easily, while still retaining enough feel to let the driver know what was happening underfoot.
Despite the crane and grab sitting high above the body, the TGL felt very stable throughout the drive, with very little body roll through the corners. On the steep climb out of our staging area in the quarry, it coped easily with the deeply rutted rough ground, and at no time did the higher centre of gravity give any cause for concern.
In-cab noise levels were low; even with the engine working hard and the windows open, normal conversation across the cab was possible. From the driver's seat, all the controls were within easy reach and the dashboard displays were clearly visible.
The operator of the test vehicle had specified the tipper controls to be mounted on the floor in front of the second passenger seat, which made cross-cab access difficult. Seeing as this vehicle would probably be used on stop/start highway works, restricting the driver's exit to the nearside seems bizarre. MAN tells us that options to site the tipper controls elsewhere are available, The TGL had a solid feel, not just in its handling but also in its finish within the cab. Easy-to-clean surfaces and floor coverings are almost essential for the type of work these trucks will be involved in.
Good all-round visibility and clear, easy-to-use controls all lead to the TGL being an extremely competent truck. RC