super sucker - Diesel Engines

AUSTRALIA’S TOP SELLING TRUCK BRAND SINCE 1989 - T-mark 2011
WINTER 2012
Super sucker
Doing it for the kids
It’s a dirty job, but someone’s got to do it
Isuzu wins over veteran driver
Isuzu helps VFS deliver environment edge
Mining not taxing on Isuzu Truck Fleet
2
3 News
4 New Releases
17 IAL World
18 Industry Insider
20 IAL Parts & Service
21 Tech Torque
22 Truck of the Year
24 Dealer Network
Doing it for the kids
Isuzu helps spread child safety
message. Page 5
It’s a dirty job, but
someone’s got to do it
Sludge cleaning specialists use
vacuum trucks to get the job done.
Page 8
Isuzu wins over
veteran driver
Country mail run puts Isuzu’s
reliability to the test. Page 10
Isuzu helps VFS deliver
environment edge
CNG truck provides bottom line
savings and environment benefits for
logistics company. Page 12
Welcome to the Winter edition
of Isuzu Truck Power
– a celebration of the Isuzu family.
One of the great things about Isuzu is the amazing people it brings together – people who drive,
operate, service and support our trucks.
The Isuzu Dealers, the transport operators, drivers, mechanics and sales and service people all have
chosen to make Isuzu trucks a large part of their lives.
They represent thousands of ordinary people, many of whom are doing extraordinary jobs in incredible
places across the breadth of Australia, who can count themselves members of the Isuzu family. In this
edition we celebrate these people.
There’s the story of 76-year-old Isuzu 600 X Long driver Charlie Aspland, who has been driving the
Ballarat to Birchip mail run, in Victoria, for 30 years. Charlie has seen half a century’s worth of change
on Australia’s roads and has some fascinating stories to tell.
In this edition, we also look at how Victorian industrial services company Envirogen’s fleet of Isuzu
trucks, including a new state-of-the-art FVR 1400 vacuum unit, is cleaning sewage spills and clearing
out blocked drains – it may not be glamorous but it’s a necessary job!
And continuing on the environmental theme, leading logistics provider Victorian Freight Specialists
(VFS) has taken a major step towards lowering its carbon footprint by acquiring and operating an
Isuzu NPR 300 CNG. The company chose the NPR, and is considering buying more, because it delivers
reduced exhaust emissions, eliminates the release of harmful particulates and is cheaper to run than
other clean fuel options. As a part of this feature, we will also include a link for our very first ‘Truck
Power on the road’ truck application story video.
We also take a look at the extraordinary work being undertaken by the Daniel Morcombe Foundation,
who have turned tragedy into triumph in raising child safety awareness.
In the final of our feature stories, we head underground with Peak Gold Mines in Cobar, New South
Wales. When I say underground, it is quite literally underground, to learn about the role several Isuzu
trucks are playing beneath the earth.
Something a little new in this edition is the introduction of special guest writers for our Industry
Insider page. We kick off the initiative with a column from one of Australia’s foremost truck and
transport editors, Mr Steve Brooks. In coming editions we will engage guest writers from a range
of transport industry backgrounds to cover a wide array of relevant topics; we hope you enjoy what
they have to share.
This edition, as always, contains all our regular Truck Power pages, including: IAL Parts & Service, Tech
Torque, Truck of the Year and much more. Oh, and in case you haven’t noticed, this edition also sees a
revised Truck Power design – it’s always nice to keep things fresh. Please enjoy the magazine.
Mining not taxing
on Isuzu truck fleet
Gold mine hits jackpot with Isuzu.
Page 14
Jeff Birdseye
Marketing Manager
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
Editor: Jeff Birdseye - Marketing Manager Isuzu Australia Ltd.
Koichi Yoda – Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.
Phil Taylor – Director and Chief Operating Officer.
Editorial and Design: Arkajon. Contact Truck Power: Arkajon Communications Pty Ltd, PO Box 7242, St Kilda Rd VIC 8004. Phone: 03 9867
5611 Fax: 03 9867 5711 Email: truckpower@arkajon.com.au
Disclaimer: All material in this magazine is copyright and may not be reproduced in any format without the written permission of the
editor. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or transparencies. All statements made, although based
on information believed to be reliable and accurate cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission.
Articles in this magazine are published as a service to Isuzu Owners and should not be substituted for specific advice. Products featured
in Truck Power are for reference only and are not, in any way, explicitly or implicitly, endorsed by Isuzu Australia Limited.
New customer brochure
simplifies leading Care program
3
In a bid to better show customers the breadth of
aftermarket support products and services it has
to offer, IAL has recently launched a new customer
friendly brochure summarising its extensive Isuzu
Care program.
Isuzu Care encompasses products and services including
Roadside Assist, Service Agreements, Extended Care,
Extended Isuzu Assist and access to the Isuzu Care Centre, a
locally-staffed customer care centre designed to assist Isuzu
customers with any problems or queries they may have.
The new brochure, called ‘Isuzu Care – A 360 degrees
program’, outlines the major elements of the marketleading Isuzu Care program, in a simple-to-read format,
making the information easier to digest and understand.
A copy of the brochure can be picked up at a Dealership
near you, or viewed on our website.
New VIC/TAS
Service
Manager
IAL recently promoted Rodney Best to the role of
Service Manager for Victoria and Tasmania.
With over 20 years’ experience in the
automotive industry including many years as a
Parts Manager, Sales Administrator and Fleet
Maintenance Controller, Rod brings substantial
knowledge to the role.
www.isuzu.com.au
Rod, a qualified diesel mechanic, joined
IAL in 2008 and previously held the role of
Warranty Consultant.
4
NEW RELEASES
NPS 300 4x4
receives payload upgrade
I
n response to customer requests, IAL has increased the GVM of its
popular NPS 300 4x4 model from 6 to 6.5 tonnes.
The upgrade has been applied to all new wholesale deliveries of NPS
300 4x4 models since the 1st of July.
According to IAL Product Planning and Engineering Support Manager,
Colin White, the upgrade will be well received across many industries
using 4x4 vehicles.
“The upgrade comes after much feedback from customers, consideration of
application use and testing,” Colin said.
“Most importantly, it will better accommodate the heavier payload that
some customers want and need.”
The model is widely used for emergency services applications such as fire
fighting, where its compact design is well suited for rough bush tracks with
tight access.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
Packed with features including electric control 4WD engagement,
advanced safety, car-like comfort, and with the powerful yet efficient ADR
80/03-compliant engine, the NPS 300 4x4 is effortless off-road.
The 5-speed manual model is powered by a SiTEC Series III 155 engine
which provides 114 kW @ 2,600 RPM of power and 419 Nm of torque at
1,600 to 2,600 RPM.
Standard features include electric mirrors, air conditioning and a newly
designed multi-infotainment system featuring touchscreen control of AM/
FM radio, MP3/WMA compatible CD Player, Bluetooth phone connection and
optional extras (available at additional cost), including NAVTEQ embedded
Satellite Navigation and up to three cameras.
Charity founders, Bruce and Denise Morcombe.
5
FEATURE
www.isuzu.com.au
Doing it
for the kids
6
FEATURE
A
mobile child safety awareness unit is
the latest project undertaken by the
Daniel Morcombe charity Foundation.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
Bruce and Denise Morcombe set up the
Daniel Morcombe Foundation in 2005, two years
after the abduction and murder of their son.
To enhance its twin aims of educating children
on how to stay safe and supporting young victims
of crime, the foundation has developed a mobile
platform to promote the message of child safety.
As a lasting legacy to Daniel and in order to
spread the message of child safety, the charity
plans to take the truck to schools, fetes and
community forums as well as major events with
the help of volunteers.
The truck, an Isuzu NQR 450 Premium which
travels interstate, has been fitted out so that it can
be used for numerous purposes, with the main
focus being child safety awareness.
According to Daniel’s father, Bruce Morcombe,
when the charity was looking for a truck, flexibility
was the key element in the selection process as
the truck is needed to play a number of roles.
“We required a truck that is versatile and can be
used as a command centre, meeting point, stage,
retail outlet, as well as provide an education and
first aid facility,” Bruce said.
“Other requirements were that it had adequate
highway power and an automated transmission
along with a range of creature comforts.”
“We are not truckies doing huge kilometres per
week, therefore, comfort and easy driving were
on the top of our list; along with a proven and
established brand,” he said.
The NQR 450’s body is a pantec design spanning
six metres and is specially made to comfortably
accommodate all sorts of visitors, including
government ministers.
The concept and design was produced in-house
and the body was built collectively by Caboolture
Truck Bodies, Prestige Caravan and RV Works.
7
Mobile awareness unit proves versatile for charity.
Charity founders, Bruce and Denise Morcombe (middle) with the Daniel Morcombe volunteers.
According to Bruce, the end result is a lot more
than he envisioned.
from ever experiencing the nightmare of losing
their child,” Bruce said.
“Inside it looks a motor home, fully equipped with
a kitchen, sink and even a toilet!” he said.
The charity is very active in implementing harm
protection initiatives as well as educating children
about personal safety. As a part of the program,
children are provided with the skills to avoid putting
themselves in unsafe and vulnerable situations.
“The truck is a great addition to the charity. Not
only does it help us to educate children, but also
provides a place for the volunteers to have a quick
cuppa between visiting schools.”
“The charity was not only founded to keep
Daniel’s innocence alive, but to help other families
To raise funds for the cause, the foundation also
has a large online merchandising store which
supplies everything from branded t-shirts to
wristbands and even stubbie holders. You can visit
the online store at
http://www.danielmorcombe.com.au/shop.html
www.isuzu.com.au
Bruce said the charity has had an overwhelming
amount of help from the community to help
spread the message of ‘keeping kids safe’.
Denise and Bruce Morcombe regularly visit and
make presentations in person to tens of thousands
of school children each year as Queensland
Child Safety Ambassadors, as well as reaching
thousands more on a national basis while visiting
community groups, participating in and speaking
at a range of events.
The Daniel Morcombe Foundation has also
developed a national day of action that focuses
on child personal safety. Called ‘Day for Daniel’,
the day encompasses walks, morning teas, school
activities as well as business and community
events. In 2011, it attracted more than 1,000,000
people Australia wide and even saw Federal
Parliamentarians acknowledge Daniel by wearing
something red on the day.
8
FEATURE
It’s a dirty job,
but someone’s
got to do it
Envirogen Owner and Managing Director, Rob Feleppa (middle) with Envirogen drivers, L-R: Darryn Winchester, Leon Chugg, John Kissey and Merv Ketley.
Industrial services
company takes charge
in all things sewage.
T
rudging through sewage and wading in
sludge is all in a day’s work for industrial
services company Envirogen.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
With over 40 years’ collective experience
doing the tough, dirty jobs that most people cringe
at, it’s no surprise that Envirogen chooses to
operate Isuzu trucks.
The company, which has a head office in Adelaide,
recently acquired its fourth Isuzu vehicle, an FVR
1400 vacuum unit, to carry a specialised 8,000
litre interceptor tank and a six inch vacuum pump
unit powered by an auxiliary motor.
This specially-designed truck contains a high
pressure water jet for general cleaning and nondestructive digging. The interceptor is fitted with a
product discharging point for even spread of liquid
product. It is capable of vacuuming 8,000 litres of
product in six minutes.
Envirogen Owner and Managing Director,
Robert Feleppa, said Isuzu’s reliability was one
of the deciding factors for the purchase of the
company’s Isuzu trucks.
“Our trucks can drive up to 500 kilometres daily
on dirt roads and we need vehicles that don’t
break down easily,” he said.
“We also require a truck that can hold the heavy
custom built vacuum loaders, plus whatever
waste the trucks evacuate.”
The FVR 1400 has a storage tank that holds
sewage waste systems, removed from customer
sites throughout the south-east area. The
evacuated sewage is then discharged onto nearby
farms as a non-foodstuff crop fertiliser, meeting
EPA approved guidelines. This process ensures
that waste doesn’t get inappropriately disposed of
and harm the environment.
What sets Envirogen apart from its competitors is its
state-of-the-art equipment and customised service.
Envirogen also specialises in drain cleaning and
9
High pressure spray unit.
has a 2004 Isuzu FVZ 1400 combination unit to do
just that.
The combination unit is capable of vacuuming
6,100 litres of product in seven to eight minutes.
It also has a large storage area at the front of the
truck to carry all equipment for customer jobs and
an under-body tool box.
These are well equipped for smaller council jobs
that require easy and quick manoeuvring in builtup residential areas.
The drivers are happy about the Isuzu trucks and
have been pleased with their performance.
Understanding that every job is different,
Envirogen is confident that it has the machinery
and the tooling manufactured to meet customer
needs. The company also prides itself in providing
the safest and most efficient method of removing
sludge and debris from drains and pits.
Robert said that there are a few reasons why
Envirogen chooses Isuzu.
“Isuzu was a forerunner because the brand is known
for its availability of parts, good customer service and
body size that can carry heavy payloads,” he said.
In addition to the heavy duty trucks, Envirogen has
two Isuzu NPR 300 Tippers in its fleet that carry
goods as well as pressure drain cleaning units.
Robert said the company planned to make
all trucks in its south-east division located in
Lucindale, South Australia, Isuzu models, as they
are very happy with the product.
www.isuzu.com.au
It is purpose-built for cleaning drains, sewers
and pits. It carries a heavy vacuum recovery unit
which can hold 6,100 litres of product and a
drain cleaning unit which is capable of cleaning
drains up to 180 metres long. It also has a 5,000
psi water jet on board for general cleaning and
non-destructive digging. The auxiliary motor
drives a Roots blower vacuum unit and the main
jet pump as well as all of the hydraulics on the
rest of the unit.
Envirogen Truck Driver, John Kissey.
10
FEATURE
Isuzu
wins over
veteran
driver
Mail delivery company
doesn’t skip a beat.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
Owner and Truck Driver, Charlie Aspland.
V
eteran truck operator Charlie Aspland
has been driving mail runs in country
Victoria for 33 years – rain hail or shine
– and has never missed a delivery.
The 76-year-old puts his unblemished record
down to the Isuzu trucks he has always employed.
“I bought my first Isuzu in 1980, an SBR, and I’ve
never looked back. I’ve done it all in Isuzus since
then – they are just the best truck ever made,”
Charlie said.
Owner-driver Charlie drove the Ballarat-Kaniva
run for 22 years and has serviced the BallaratBirchip, in central and western Victoria, run for
the past 11.
“I put that down to the Isuzu trucks I have
always had – eight of them over the years. They
are just a magic truck and I’ve driven almost
all makes of truck over nearly 60 years on the
road,” Charlie said.
Charlie’s latest Isuzu is an FRR 600 long.
“It’s a great truck, the best yet. I’ve done just over
120,000 kilometres in it in 12 months and not had
a skerrick of trouble,” he said.
“It’s very comfortable, very good on fuel and has
all the power I need to eat up the routes I travel.
It’s even got cruise control – so I just sit back and
she just goes.”
In his time on the road, Charlie has seen some
dramatic changes.
“The vehicles we use now are much better – safer
and more powerful. And the roads are safer too,”
he said.
“When I started out I was hauling 20 tonnes with
120hp. Now, with the same size body, I have 235hp
to draw on. It makes life much easier and it is
comforting to have the reliability factor in the Isuzus.
“And when I started the mail runs it was all post
bags or sacks, and now we use trollies.”
Ballarat-based Charlie drove interstate freight
trucks and tippers before switching to the
Australia Post mail run.
“In the early days I’d leave Ballarat at 10.30pm
and I’d be 22 hours in the truck to Sydney.
Nowadays they do it in nine hours. That’s how
much things have changed.”
In his current role, Charlie leaves Ballarat at
1.15am and arrives in Birchip, in Victoria’s north
west, at 6.30am having made ten delivery and
pick up stops. He sleeps for four hours and then
returns home to Ballarat via another ten stops. He
makes the run five times a week.
Despite the tough regimen and surviving cancer,
he has no immediate plans to retire.
“I’ll probably go till I’m 80 and then the young
bloke will take over,” he said.
“It’s a good job for a young bloke and good
money. He’ll take over driving the Isuzu and
delivering mail to a big chunk of western Victoria,”
Charlie said.
www.isuzu.com.au
“In all that time I have never had a breakdown
and never missed a day,” he said.
11
12
FEATURE
Isuzu helps
VFS deliver
environment edge
VFS Metro Driver, Ainsley Cruikshank filling up the CNG tank.
Leading logistics company goes ‘green’,
one CNG truck at a time.
I
suzu’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)powered trucks are helping one freight
company win new business as carbon
emission levels increasingly form part of
transport tender processes.
Leading logistics provider Victorian Freight
Specialists (VFS) has taken a major step towards
lowering its carbon footprint by acquiring and
operating an Isuzu NPR 300 CNG.
The company chose the NPR because it delivers
reduced exhaust emissions, eliminates the release
of harmful particulates and is cheaper to run
than other clean fuel options. The company is
considering adding more CNG-powered trucks to
its growing fleet.
VFS Owner and Director John Rowe said that
while adding the CNG truck to its fleet reduced the
company’s own carbon footprint, purchasing clean
fuel-powered vehicles can help win business
with customers whose operating acknowledges
environmental benchmarks and requirements.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
“We chose to purchase the Isuzu NPR 300 CNG
because when we respond to a range of tenders for
large corporations, it’s important to show that we
are thinking about our environmental impact and
reducing our carbon emissions – we must meet
very strict environmental policies,” Mr Rowe said.
“When we were in the market for a vehicle to
meet these environmental requirements, no other
alternatively fuelled vehicles compared to Isuzu’s
CNG models,” he said.
With the advent of the carbon tax, Australian
businesses, especially those in the transport
and freight sector, are coming under increasing
pressure to reduce their carbon emissions.
Isuzu’s CNG-powered trucks provide
environmentally-focused operators with a viable
alternative to traditional diesel fuel.
As VFS was a newcomer to CNG-fuelled vehicles,
Mr Rowe explained that the NPR 300 CNG – which
has been fitted with a six pallet tautliner and one
tonne tailgate lifter – was purchased as a trial to
test the truck’s performance in its application, and
the results proved very pleasing.
“This truck has a designated route. It covers a
round trip of approximately 200-220 kilometres
each day in the hills of the Yarra Valley, Diamond
Creek and Mernda. The driver makes around
40-50 deliveries per day in the NPR 300 CNG,” Mr
Rowe said.
“After running this CNG truck, we have found that
it provides sufficient power for its requirements.”
Mr Rowe said VFS is currently considering
adding more Isuzu CNG trucks to its fleet with
the increased availability of refueling stations in
Victoria. VFS is also considering installing a CNG
refueling station at its main depot.
“We have had no issues with the Isuzu product at
all, including the after-market service – we still
take all of our trucks to the Isuzu Dealerships for
maintenance. We have 30 country depots, so it’s
great to know that we are close to more than one
major Isuzu Dealership,” Mr Rowe said.
Servicing not only Victoria, but parts of southern
New South Wales, VFS began operating in 1998 as
a small regional provider with a fleet of just two
trucks. Now the Isuzu NPR 300 CNG joins a fleet
of 40 company vehicles, approximately 60-80
sub-contractors and over 140 staff completing
overnight intrastate and metropolitan deliveries.
VFS is a supplier to leading national and interstate
brands, so the firm requires trucks with a wide
range of capabilities.
Of the company’s 40 vehicles, approximately 90
per cent are Isuzu trucks which the company
purchased since the beginning.
“All of our trucks serve a different application,
which is one of the reasons we choose Isuzu
trucks. As a brand, Isuzu has a truck for almost
every need,” Mr Rowe said.
Aside from the CNG truck, VFS operates a variety
of Isuzu trucks, ranging from the smaller NPRs to
FVLs. And to meet their heavy duty requirements,
VFS also runs several of Isuzu’s Giga models.
“I cannot remember the last time our Isuzus have
let us down. The diversity and reliability of the
Isuzu product are the factors that keep us coming
back,” Mr Rowe said.
Watch the video!
13
Scan the QR code with
your smart phone or tablet
to see a video of the VFS
CNG Isuzu in action.
How to scan
Use the QR barcode reader on your device to
scan. Your device may already have a reader
app installed, if not visit your app store.
If you don’t have a smart phone or tablet, either:
• Copy the address below into your internet
browser, or
• Go to www.youtube.com, search for Isuzu
Truck Power, and click on the ‘Isuzu Truck
Power - On the Road with VFS’ video
www.isuzu.com.au
L-R: Owner and Director, John Rowe and Director, Chris Collins.
14
FEATURE
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
15
Mining
not taxing
on Isuzu fleet
N and F Series
trucks ensure
gold mine
works around
the clock.
I
suzu trucks are valued across Australia for
their ruggedness and reliability but perhaps
nowhere more so than at the Peak Gold
Mines in Cobar, New South Wales.
As part of its fleet, the mine runs seven Isuzu
trucks, four of which are used underground
transporting men, equipment and explosives to
service the copper and gold mine’s 24-hour-aday operation.
Located approximately 700 kilometres north-west
of Sydney, Cobar is a famous old mining town.
Found just a short eight kilometre drive south
from the town centre, Peak Gold Mines employs
340 staff on site and has a seven year mine life,
up to 2018.
According to Mobile Maintenance Planner, Ben
Mr Trudgett said two of the company’s Isuzu
trucks were registered, with the remaining five
unregistered.
“Our Isuzu NLS 200 crew cab is used
underground by the Mobile Maintenance Team.
It also transports the team to other workshops,”
he said.
“We also have four FTS 750 Isuzu trucks, which
are used as stores trucks. One of these is a
registered truck and is used for town store runs.
The other three are unregistered and are mainly
used underground.
“Our fleet also includes two FTS 800 4x4s – one
is a fuel truck and the other an explosives truck.”
Mr Trudgett said both the FTS 800 4x4 fuel truck
and explosives truck required some extra body
work to fit the mine’s application.
“The fuel truck has a double skin road transport
www.isuzu.com.au
To keep its around-the-clock schedule, Peak Gold
Mines relies on a range of reliable equipment,
including modern development jumbo boom drills,
load-haul-dump loaders, and a total of 55 trucks
and utility support vehicles.
Trudgett, the Isuzus easily cope with the rock
road bases and 1:6 gradient in the decline mine.
16
FEATURE
Store Truck Operator, Adam Schulz.
fuel body, which is capable of carrying 7,000
litres. This body was purpose built for safety and
practicality,” he said.
trainers who train and accredit each operator
who is competent to operate the machines in the
mine,” he said.
“The explosives truck has a reinforced headboard
for additional safety of operators.
“Apart from the registered stores truck, all other
Isuzu trucks go into the mine. The conditions are
harsh, the roads are rock base with a 1:6 decline.
However the Isuzu trucks have no issues with the
conditions – they do everything that we ask of
them, and sometimes more.”
“All of the other Isuzu trucks are as built and
simply have tray bodies.”
As the Peak Gold Mines operate constantly, the
trucks are used on a daily basis.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
“The registered stores truck does two runs into
town Monday to Friday. The other registered
truck is utilised 24/7 to transport logistics in the
underground workings,” Mr Trudgett said.
“The explosives truck is also used every day by
the charge-up crews.”
According to Mr Trudgett, not everybody can take
the trucks underground.
“Any operator who is ‘ticketed’ to operate the
trucks can drive them. We have our own in-house
Mr Trudgett said he believes the most favourable
features of the Isuzu trucks are their reliability and
operator comfort.
“The Isuzus offer more than enough power. They
have no trouble driving up steep declines at about
20km/h when they are loaded,” he said.
“We chose to purchase Isuzu trucks because they
offer a fleet of standard service trucks that meet our
specification and the product’s reliability is fantastic.
We also can’t go past the back-up parts and service
from the Isuzu Dealership, Tracserv in Dubbo – we
have had very good experiences with them.”
Peak Gold Mines replaces trucks on an as-needs
basis, based on their condition, age and life hours.
“We select the best truck that suits the application
required. We purchased one of our underground
stores trucks in 2000 and the other two in 2008;
we purchased our above ground stores truck in
2005. The explosives truck, fuel truck and NLS
200 crew cab were all added to our fleet in 2011,”
Mr Trudgett said.
“We would definitely consider purchasing more
Isuzu trucks when we require replacement
vehicles. We have a good relationship with
Tracserv and the trucks’ reliability and
performance in the mine are unsurpassed.”
Two mining fields are run from the Peak Gold
Mines site, one hosting a processing plant and
administration buildings.
Peak Gold Mines is operated by Peak Gold Mines Pty
Ltd, a subsidiary of Canadian company, New Gold
Incorporated. It commenced production in 1992.
On 12 July, ten of the best Isuzu Trucks technicians
from six Dealerships around Australia competed in
IAL’s annual National Technical Skills Competition.
Chris Robinson, Brisbane Isuzu.
Coming out on top, Reece Eldridge and Chris
Robinson from Brisbane Isuzu, will represent Isuzu
Australia at the upcoming Isuzu World Technical
Competition, also known as the I-1Grand Prix, in
Japan. The two technicians will join IAL Fleet &
Technical Manager - QLD, Brenton Cook, who will
coach them.
The Isuzu World Technical Competition is scheduled
for 21 November at the Isuzu Training Centre in
Kawasaki, Japan. Last year’s Australian team is
of course the reigning I-1Grand Prix titleholders.
Good luck guys.
www.isuzu.com.au
Reece Eldridge, Brisbane Isuzu.
The Isuzu technicians underwent a series of tests
covering areas including vehicle inspections and
vehicle diagnostics; there was also an engine repair
and measurement activity of several mechanical
components. Each participant was also required to
complete a 25 question written examination.
17
IAL WORLD
Isuzu technicians battle
it out for a place in Japan
18
INDUSTRY INSIDER
Icons
& others
By Steve Brooks, Editor-in-chief, Diesel Magazine
A
fter more than 30 years of road testing
and reporting on trucks of every shape,
size and species from just about every
corner of the industrialised world, and
writing countless articles on the personalities
and products that make road transport tick, it’s
inevitable that some things are more memorable
than others.
Some, of course, are remembered for all the wrong
reasons and the increasingly frequent question
of ‘What’s the best truck you’ve ever driven?’ is
almost invariably followed – or in some cases
preceded – by ‘What’s the worst?’
It is, of course, a completely personal opinion but in
both best and worst categories, the medium-duty
contest has a couple of crystal clear ‘winners’. Not
only that, but each ‘winner’ comes from an era now
long gone yet each in their individual and disparate
ways contributed greatly to the subsequent
success and failure of their respective brands.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
So, do we start with the good news or the bad
news? Let’s go with the bad news. That way, we at
least finish on a positive.
And the worst medium-duty truck is ... Ford Cargo.
Without a doubt!
It was the early ‘80s and the performance of the
much anticipated and much hyped Cargo was
nothing less than terrible. Here was a British
designed and built truck which had been crowned
Truck of the Year in Europe and promoted as the
saviour of Ford’s continental survival, only to be
found severely wanting in almost every area when
put to the test in Australian conditions.
As a mere staff writer at the once great Truck
& Bus Transportation magazine, the resultant
test report titled ‘Great Expectations ... but not
quite!’ certainly didn’t endear me to Ford’s truck
executives of the day.
However, as time and sales stats quickly showed,
Cargo was indeed the disappointment of the decade.
Most significant of all though, its failure was arguably
the final nail in the coffin of British truck representation
in this country. To put it bluntly, the Japanese were
taking over and despite Ford Australia’s meritorious
engineering efforts, Cargo amounted to nothing more
than a dim blip on the radar.
Actually, Japan’s ascendancy to domination
of the Australian light and medium-duty truck
markets was already well advanced and as far as
this commentator’s concerned, there has never
been a greater single contributor to Japan’s early
reputation and Isuzu’s subsequent domination than
the brilliantly resilient SBR 422 model.
It is, hands down, the best medium-duty model
I have ever driven. Sure, by modern standards
it seems basic, rough, even crude, but there is
no doubt in this mind that this truck wrote much
of the script for Isuzu’s ascension by delivering
standards of performance and reliability which
would be enviable even today.
19
SPECS AT A GLANCE
Sure, it was a time of simpler trucks but the
demands on performance and durability were no
less intense.
All these years later, for instance, it’s still easy to
recall the circumstances of my first stint behind
the wheel of an SBR. It was a Saturday afternoon
early in 1979 and the owner of the truck hauled
daily newspapers overnight between Sydney and
regional centres. It’s no secret, of course, that
‘paper runners’ drove their trucks hard and fast,
and after assuring him that I’d take good care
of the truck he had generously provided for our
evaluation, his simple response was, “Trust me, you
couldn’t drive it any harder than we do.” He wasn’t
kidding and as this overnight run and the next few
years would testify time and time again, the SBR
lifted the benchmark for medium-duty performance
and reliability to entirely new levels.
Of course, equally enamoured with the formidable
abilities of the SBR and its siblings were the
General Motors-Holden’s dealers who by then were
entirely convinced that their days of selling Britishbuilt Bedfords were fast drawing to a close. With
trucks such as the SBR, Isuzu was increasingly the
platform of the future.
Isuzu SBR 422W
ENGINE
6 cylinder OHV Diesel
DISPLACEMENT 5785cc
POWER
100 kW @ 3,200 RPM
TORQUE
351 Nm @1,850 RPM
GVM
8,000 kg (Std) or 9,000 kg (Opt)
GCM
15,000 kg
TRANSMISSION
Isuzu 5-speed direct drive
The views in this article are those of the author and are not,
in any way, explicitly or implicitly, endorsed by Isuzu Australia Limited.
www.isuzu.com.au
The rest, as they say in the classics, is history. Isuzu
today is looking at 24 consecutive years of leadership
of the Australian truck market and while the SBR 422
may now be long gone, this iconic model’s singular
contribution is both unequivocal and foremost in the
annals of Isuzu’s Australian history.
MODEL
20
IAL PARTS & SERVICES
Isuzu bolsters
parts range
with American
Driveline products
I
AL has added a wide range of American
driveline components to its spare parts
range to suit both Isuzu and other truck
brands.
Isuzu Dealerships now stock – and can fit – parts
from leading component manufacturers including
Meritor and Eaton, all at competitive prices.
Many Isuzu truck models in the upper medium and
heavy duty weight categories feature American
driveline components – the increased availability
of these parts now positions Isuzu Dealerships as
one-stop-shops not just for Isuzu but other brands
that use American componentry.
IAL National Parts Manager, John Plunkett, said
the American driveline program is a great addition
to Isuzu’s already well-established Parts and
Accessories product range.
“Many fleets run a diverse range of truck brands
including Isuzus that use American driveline
componentry,” Mr. Plunkett said.
“They previously had to source components for
these trucks from different outlets but now they
can effectively handle the majority of their parts
requirements from a single point: their local
Isuzu Dealership.
“This availability provides much greater
convenience for our customers. And of course
for Isuzu customers with models that feature
American driveline componentry particularly FV,
FX and Giga Series, greater parts inventory will
provide faster and more efficient servicing.”
A selection of the American driveline program is
showcased in the current edition of Isuzu’s Real
Deals Parts promotion released on 1 July and
highlights Isuzu’s goal of providing the highest
quality parts at the best prices.
For further information on American Driveline
programs or your nearest Isuzu Dealer, please
visit the Isuzu Parts and Accessories website,
http://parts.isuzu.com.au/
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
TECH TORQUE
‘Heritage Truck’
to get new
lease of life
21
IAL’s Product Planning and Engineering centre in
Melbourne is normally home to the latest Isuzu
trucks – it’s a place where pilot models are tested
and engineering enhancements are developed and
prepared for testing.
I
t’s little wonder then that the centre’s latest
acquisition is a little out of place. It’s not
modern, it’s not state-of-the-art and it’s
definitely not pretty, but in its day it was
market-leading, a champion little workhorse that set
new standards for commercial vehicles in Australia.
The vintage 1979 SBR model is to be restored and
used as a display truck, and everyone’s excited.
The truck was originally assembled in Australia by
General Motors at Dandenong, Victoria.
A popular model in its day, the SBR was known for
its strength and reliability on the road, especially with
its Isuzu 6BBI Diesel engine and eight tonne GVM.
IAL has big plans for the vintage model and hopes
to have completed the truck’s refurbishment in
late 2014.
Stripping and gutting the truck
Replacing parts such as the lights, panel
and interior parts
Repairing and painting the cab
Sandblasting and repainting the chassis
Cleaning and painting the driveline
Re-upholstering the cab
Reassembling the truck
Fitting a new body
The process is estimated to take 12-18 months with
the stripping process now almost complete.
The restoration will be carried out by the
Product Development Department with the help
of industry partners.
www.isuzu.com.au
For the second time round, it has 300,000
kilometres on the odometer; it’s bound to have
made countless deliveries across Victoria, and at
some point it has also been used as a tow truck.
Major renovations on the truck include:
22
TRUCK OF THE YEAR
Truck of the Year
WINNER
WINNER
Joseph Muscat – NPR 300 Medium
Tony Lockwood – FRR 600 Long
BTP Equipment – NQR 450
Western Sydney plumber, Joseph Muscat,
purchased his 2012 model Isuzu NPR 300
Medium from Suttons Arncliffe and uses his
truck daily for his business.
Adelaide resident, Tony Lockwood, recently
purchased an Isuzu FRR 600 Long, which he uses
to deliver Neverfail spring water in South Australia.
BTP Equipment is part of the Best Tractor
Parts Group and specialises in supplying rental
machines to mine sites all over Australia. In
Western Australia, BTP Equipment currently
looks after and services close to 50 machines,
running their field trucks on a two weeks on,
one week off roster.
“This is my second Isuzu truck, the first being
a 2001 model NPR Short, which I had no issues
with,” Joseph said. “With the need for a larger
truck I purchased the NPR 300 Medium.”
“The truck also tows my 2.5 tonne mini excavator
with ease. I had a customised body fitted with a
heavy duty tow bar and an Isuzu bulbar.
“The NPR 300 truck is a joy to work from
and drive.”
Mr Lockwood’s FRR has been painted blue in
line with the Neverfail branding. To assist with
carting bottles of Neverfail spring water, he has
also added a steel framed body to the truck,
which includes full-sliding polyweld lockable
side skirts.
“The body provides the safety to lock and
secure pallets or bottle racks inside the truck,”
Mr Lockwood said.
“I am so proud of my new FRR 600 Long. I
am thrilled that this truck has made delivering
Neverfail products an enjoyment, not a job.
Thank you Isuzu.”
An Isuzu NQR 450 is the latest addition to BTP
Equipment field service department fleet. The
fleet already includes an Isuzu NPR 300 and a
second NQR 450.
According to Western Region Maintenance
Supervisor, Geoff Thorburn, a dual cab was
selected for more room for a few creature
comforts including a fridge and bed.
“The dual cab NQR 450 has been specially set
up for all field service applications, whether it’s
working at a mine site, workshop or remote civil
site,” Mr Thorburn said.
TRUCKPOWER WINTER 2012
“We have found a range of trucks that ticks
all boxes.”
The lucky winner of the 2012-13
Truck of the Year competition will
take home a $5,000 travel voucher*
to spend on local, domestic or
international travel costs, whether
it’s accommodation, flights, hire
cars or tours. With thousands of
countries, cities and sights around
the world, you’re bound to find a trip
to suit you.
This year, all quarterly winners will be in the
running to win the $5,000 travel voucher and
will receive an Isuzu jacket, embroidered polo
shirt and baseball cap, while all featured entries
receive an Isuzu coffee mug.
23
Submit your entry by sending us a photo of your
Isuzu truck/s along with a brief description, your
address and contact details to:
Isuzu Truck of the Year competition, PO
Box 7242, Melbourne, VIC, 8004, or email
truckpower@arkajon.com.au Good luck!
Entries are now being taken for the
2012-13 Truck of the Year competition.
WINNER
Albec – NPR 300
Snowy Hydro Ltd – Giga EXY 455
King Bros. Transport – FVZ 1400
Small family construction business, Albec, takes
its Isuzu NPR 300 to alfresco home extension
and kitchen and bathroom renovation jobs
around Perth.
Renewable energy company, Snowy Hydro,
recently purchased an Isuzu Giga EXY 455 from
Canberra Isuzu.
Based in Batemans Bay, King Bros. Transport is the
primary contract holder for all Coca Cola deliveries
on the New South Wales far south coast.
According to Snowy Hydro Logistics Supervisor,
Shane Blake, the truck’s 18 speed gear box is a
popular feature amongst his colleagues.
To assist with the deliveries, owner Mick King
recently added two new Isuzu FVZ 1400 trucks
to his fleet of 15 vehicles. Both new Isuzus
have been specifically coloured to Coca Cola
specifications.
Albec Manager, Glenn James, said the business
has always owned Isuzu trucks, with two
currently in the fleet.
“We have found that Isuzu trucks are worth
their weight in gold with their adaptability
and versatility. They are suitable for all of our
construction needs,” Mr James said.
“We have placed fitted tool boxes in the truck
bodies which allow us to carry a large variety
of carpentry and construction equipment. The
black enamel and personalised number plate
make the truck very eye-catching, which is
great advertising for our business.
“The tipper is invaluable for site waste and
renovation debris.”
Albec are planning to purchase two more Isuzu
trucks from Melbourne in the near future.
“The drivers feel the manual gear box is critical
on the very steep and tight roads we frequent.
It’s a beautiful truck to operate and has no
problems in the mountains,” Mr Blake said.
“We are based in Khancoban in New South
Wales, and are constantly moving plant
equipment and large and heavy power station
spare parts throughout the Snowy Mountains
area, so the extra horsepower that the Giga
offers is essential.
With a GCM of 36 tonne, these trucks are ideal
for delivering hundreds of cases on a daily
basis. Both trucks have been fitted with an ADA
Slider System which makes it easier for the
drivers to access the freight, which helps to
ensure timely deliveries to customers.
“We have also recently purchased an FSD 850
Long tray truck to help us out with the smaller
loads. It is also a great truck on the highway
and in the hills.”
www.isuzu.com.au
*Conditions: The travel voucher is non-transferable. The voucher must be treated as cash, as lost or stolen cards will not be replaced. This voucher is not redeemable for cash or
travellers cheques. The Destination Dollars Gift Card is only redeemable at Destination Solutions, a member of the Destination Group of Companies. Booking fees may apply. This
voucher will expire 12 months from the date of issue.
ISUZU TRUCK NETWORK
* DENOTES Isuzu Service & Parts only
DENOTES INDUSTRIAL ENGINES • DENOTES LOCATIONS which have a mobile service unit
Location
QUEENSLAND
Brisbane (Archerfield)
Brisbane (Burpengary)
Brisbane (Eagle Farm) *
Bundaberg*
Cairns
Emerald *
Gold Coast (Nerang)
Gladstone*
Gympie
Hervey Bay (Pialba)
Mackay (Paget)
Maryborough
Mt Isa *
Rockhampton
Roma
Sunshine Coast (Woombye)
Toowoomba
Townsville (Garbutt)
Name
Address
Telephone
After Hrs Ph
Web Address
Brisbane Isuzu
Brisbane Isuzu
Brisbane Isuzu
Rod Grieves Isuzu
Ireland Isuzu
David Lowery Diesel Repairs
Gold Coast Isuzu
Diesel Services
Madills Isuzu
Rod Grieves Isuzu
Crokers Truck Centre
Rod Grieves Isuzu
Outback Forklifts
Lawrences
Black Truck Sales
Madills Isuzu
Black Truck Sales
Tony Ireland Isuzu
26 KERRY ROAD
230 EASTERN SER RD, BRUCE HWY
208 FISON AVE
26-30 BAROLIN STREET
227 - 233 MULGRAVE ROAD
LOT 6 COTTONVIEW RD
107-113 SPENCER ROAD
19 COTTON ST
2 BRUCE HIGHWAY
96 BOAT HARBOUR DR
4 SOUTHGATE DRIVE
92 ADELAIDE STREET
9-11 TRADERS WAY
327 RICHARDSON ROAD
LOT 4 & 5 LINDSAY COURT
229 NAMBOUR CONNECTION RD
494-498 BOUNDARY ROAD
36 DUCKWORTH ST
• 07 3373 2400
• 07 3385 4300
• 07 3866 2200
07 4153 3355
• 07 4052 3666
07 4987 4444
07 5583 8850
07 4972 2350
• 07 5480 5545
• 07 4194 4444
• 07 4952 4952
07 4194 4444
07 4743 0322
07 4930 5111
07 4622 8288
• 07 5442 1388
• 07 4631 4200
• 07 4726 7777
0410 484 013
0405 223 052
0416 241 493
0400 944 444
0448 768 732
0419 273 095
0417 621 576
0419 722 359
0407 732 888
0400 944 444
0418 186 315
0407 589 055
0402 166 159
0408 213 989
0417 773 470
0407 732 888
0429 063 130
0419 673 237
www.brisbaneisuzu.com.au
www.brisbaneisuzu.com.au
www.brisbaneisuzu.com.au
www.rgauto.com.au
www.irelands.com.au/isuzu
NEW SOUTH WALES / ACT
Canberra (Queanbeyan)
Dubbo
Gosford (West)
Inverell
Lismore
Macksville
Moree
Newcastle (Hexham)
Orange
Port Macquarie
Sydney (Arncliffe)
Sydney (Huntingwood)
Sydney (Narellan)*
Tamworth
Wagga Wagga
Wollongong (Conniston)
Canberra Isuzu
Tracserv Trucks
Gilbert & Roach Isuzu
Kenway & Clark
Northern Rivers Isuzu
Midcoast Trucks
Kenway & Clark
Gilbert & Roach Isuzu
Tracserv Trucks
Midcoast Trucks
Suttons Motors Arncliffe
Gilbert & Roach
Gilbert & Roach
Peel Valley Isuzu
Wagga Motors
Dwyers Truck Centre
16 KENDALL AVE
19 PURVIS LANE
CNR MANNS & YANDINA ROADS
10-12 SWANBROOK ROAD
CNR BRUXNER HWY & SNOW ST
169 NURSERY RD
369-379 FROME STREET
320 PACIFIC HIGHWAY
23-25 PEISLEY STREET
183 HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE
93 PRINCES HIGHWAY
8 HUNTINGWOOD DRIVE
7 MILLWOOD AVENUE
97 GUNNEDAH RD
32 DOBNEY AVE
LOT 5 JOHN CLEARY PLACE
02 6297 3862
• 02 6884 2023
• 02 4323 1000
• 02 6721 6900
02 6627 8450
• 02 6568 2888
• 02 6750 8300
• 02 4964 8641
02 6360 1851
02 6583 9888
• 02 9335 9000
• 02 8825 1000
• 02 4647 7377
• 02 6768 3111
• 02 6933 0100
• 02 4251 6720
0408 697 151
0418 404 260
0438 297 234
0428 221 452
0407 754 059
02 6568 2888
0428 662 706
02 4964 0600
0428 638 980
02 6583 9888
0411 073 115
02 8825 1000
0408 260 402
0428 293 439
0428 695 080
0417 449 902
www.canberratrucks.com.au
www.tracserv.net.au
www.gandr.com.au
www.kenwayandclark.com.au
www.goldcoastisuzu.com.au
www.midcoasttrucks.com.au
www.kenwayandclark.com.au
www.gandr.com.au
www.tracserv.net.au
www.midcoasttrucks.com.au
www.suttonsmotorsarncliffetrucks.com.au
www.gilbertandroach.com.au
www.gilbertandroach.com.au
www.peelvalleygroup.com.au
www.waggamotors.com.au
www.dwyersmotors.com.au
VICTORIA
Bairnsdale
Ballarat (Wendouree)
Bendigo (Epsom)
Geelong
Leongatha*
Melbourne (Campbellfield)*
Melbourne (Dandenong)
Melbourne (Derrimut)
Moe*
Mildura
Shepparton
Swan Hill
Warrnambool*
Wodonga
Gippsland Truck Centre
Ballarat Isuzu
Poyser Trucks
Winter & Taylor
GTM Truck Centre
Westar Truck Centre
Patterson Cheney Trucks
Westar Truck Centre
Moe Diesel & Automotive Services
Mildura Truck Centre
Taig Bros
The Truck Specialists
West Coast Service Centre
Blacklocks Isuzu
180 PRINCESS HIGHWAY
356 DOWLING STREET
119-141 MIDLAND HIGHWAY
53 MERCER STREET
16 CUSACK RD
HUME HWY & NORTHBOURNE RD
200 CHELTENHAM ROAD
1 AUSTRALIS DRIVE
148 MOORE ST
293 BENETOOK AVE
6 WHEELER STREET
219-221 SEA LAKE ROAD
87 ROONEYS RD
5 KENDALL ST
• 03 5152 1616
• 03 5335 3600
• 03 5444 4011
03 5222 1811
03 5662 5266
• 03 9305 3155
• 03 9215 2300
• 03 9394 0000
03 5127 2933
• 03 5051 2800
• 03 5821 9811
03 5033 1372
03 5562 0665
• 02 6057 8777
0428 521 027
0417 546 083
0419 345 100
0419 559 613
0408 517 795
0418 179 945
03 9215 2391
0409 776 540
0412 707 974
0408 596 435
0417 528 919
03 5033 1372
0419 154 034
0408 192 982
www.gtctruck.com.au
www.ballaratisuzu.com.au
www.poysermotors.com.au
www.wth.com.au
www.gtmleongatha.com.au
www.westartrucks.com.au
www.pattersoncheney.com.au
www.westartrucks.com.au
www.blacklocks.com.au
TASMANIA
Burnie*
Devonport (East) *
Hobart (Derwent Park)
Launceston (Kings Meadows)
Webster Trucks
Webster Trucks
Webster Trucks
Webster Trucks
17-19 RIVER ROAD
LOT 1 6183 FRANKFORD HWY
8C LAMPTON AVE
90 CONNECTOR PARK ROAD
03 6431 9855
03 6427 5444
03 6211 0500
03 6340 7723
0418 574 477
0418 514 220
0408 102 706
0418 133 868
www.webstertrucks.com.au
www.webstertrucks.com.au
www.webstertrucks.com.au
www.webstertrucks.com.au
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide (Burton)
Adelaide (Hampstead Gardens)
Mt Gambier
Port Augusta
North East Isuzu
Adelaide Isuzu
OG Roberts
Port Augusta Isuzu
112 PORT WAKEFIELD RD
253 NORTH EAST ROAD
JUBILEE HIGHWAY WEST
NO 3 FOOTNER ROAD
• 08 8280 9899
08 8261 6006
• 08 8724 1111
• 08 8643 6233
08 8280 9899
0419 838 798
0438 241 131
08 8643 6233
www.neisuzu.com.au
www.adelaideisuzu.com.au
www.ogr.com.au
www.paisuzu.com.au
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Alice Springs
Darwin (Pinelands)
Airpower
Airpower
19 KENNETT CRT
LOT 1810 MCKINNON ROAD
08 8952 5155
08 8939 0200
0423 777 699
0411 271 856
www.airpower.com.au
www.airpower.com.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Albany
Bunbury (Picton)
Geraldton
Kalgoorlie
Moora
Perth (Forrestfield)
Perth (Malaga) *
Perth (O Connor)
Port Hedland (Wedgefield) *
Albany City Isuzu
South West Isuzu
Midwest Isuzu
Goldfields Truck Power
Waltons
Major Motors
Major Motors
Major Motors
Major Motors Port Hedland
92 - 98 EARL STREET
3 GIORGI ROAD
30 WEBBERTON RD
5 EPIS STREET
LOT 59 PADBURY STREET
789 ABERNETHY ROAD
65 CROKER DRIVE
324 STOCK ROAD
14 MURRENA STREET
08 9842 8000
08 9725 4911
08 9965 5855
08 9021 4800
08 9651 1363
08 9365 6333
08 9249 1740
08 9331 9331
08 9140 1811
0438 535 841
0400 250 181
08 9965 5855
0418 945 980
0427 387 884
0418 954 827
0419 041 899
0413 704 011
0429 993 166
www.albanycitymotors.com.au
www.southwestisuzu.com.au
www.midwestisuzu.com.au
•
•
•
•
•
www.goldcoastisuzu.com.au
www.madillsisuzu.com.au
www.rgauto.com.au
www.crokerstruckcentre.com.au
www.rgauto.com.au
www.lawrences.ihub.com.au
www.blacktrucksales.com.au
www.madillsisuzu.com.au
www.blacktrucksales.com.au
www.tonyireland.com.au
www.milduratruck.com.au
www.taigbros.com.au
www.milduratruck.com.au/location.php
www.waltons.com.au
www.majormotors.com.au
www.majormotors.com.au
www.majormotors.com.au
www.majormotors.com.au