Bespoke crane set-up fits Fielden’s new DAFs

Fielden Factors has taken delivery of six new DAF trucks – including one with a bespoke front-mounted HIAB crane.

The order includes three DAF LF 290 18-tonne 4×2 brick grabs fitted with HIAB X HIDUO 118 B-2 cranes, and three DAF CF 320 26-tonne 6×2 rear-steer brick grabs with HIAB 158 B-2 cranes.

All the trucks feature Wisa deck floors, rope hooks, a fall arrest system and rotating beacons, with the DAF CF 320s also featuring rear advertising boards, extra cab storage and work lights.

Two of the DAF vehicles were custom-designed by supplying dealer MV Commercial and feature shorter wheelbases and manual gearboxes for better control and safety over rough terrain.

The Lancashire operator will primarily use the vehicles to transport timber, building materials and landscaping products from its depots in Rossendale, Todmorden and Wigan to customers across the North West of England.

“These modern and well-equipped vehicles are ideal for transporting building materials,” said Tom Whitehead, MD, Fielden Factors. “The front-mounted crane on the DAF CF 320 is an excellent adaptation that gives us a different option for moving the diverse range of materials we now offer.”

The new vehicles join five other trucks in the company’s expanding fleet and feature a brand-new distinctive livery.

“We’ve invested in the brick grabs to grow our services. Adding 26-tonne vehicles to our fleet allows us to operate a higher payload than some of the units we had previously, and enables us to be more cost-efficient in our operations.

“With lower running costs and reduced CO₂ emissions, we are also well prepared for when the clean air zone is introduced in Greater Manchester. Everyone needs to do their bit,” Whitehead added.