Truck likes bumpy rides
February 1st 2011

Still has expanded its range with new

RC40 diesel and LPG counterbalance

trucks with load capacities of 1.5 to 3.0

tonnes

With the introduction of the RC40, Still has released a

truck which is said to offer versatility, rugged build,

ease of handling and well thought-out ergonomics.

Illustrating its versatility, the RC40 is suited both to indoor

and outdoor work. A single speed torque converter

transmission feeds the engine's power smoothly and efficiently

to the front wheels. These large front wheels make the truck

suitable for indoor and outdoor operation. In these

applications the RC40 complements the RX70 with its hybridelectric

drive.

The company says: "The RC40 combines productivity and

economics. It is a user-friendly truck offering well thought-out

design details. The RC40 is especially suitable for outdoor

operation on bumpy or uneven surfaces as well as smooth

loading areas."

Several features were implemented to reduce the body

vibrations to the operator. The large drive wheels reduce hard

impacts from bumps in the road, the cabin is mounted on four

rubber shock absorbers and the foot space is clad with a

vibration dampening floor mat. In addition, vibrations are also

dampened by the full suspension Grammer seats.

The operator will feel at home at once in the large workspace

of the RC40 which is also available with a cab. The angle of the

steering column is adjustable and the hydraulic controls

functions are positioned to reach from the driver's seat and the

display is clear to read. A DIN A4-sized storage space is located

beside the seat. The standard seat is the Grammer MSG 20 with

various other options available on request.

Safety starts with good visibility, says the company. The RC40

offers a panoramic view with full visibility through the mast,

cab and overhead guard. Safety for the driver is further

increased by the large access step which is easily visible when

getting in or out of the cab.

The large footwell is free of obstacles giving the driver

freedom to move his feet comfortably. The tilt angle of the floor

plate and the low positioning of the pedals allow the driver to

hold his feet at a relaxed position when operating the pedals.

The MoveControl twin drive pedal option is said to offer the

operator two advantages. The first of these is that he can

change the drive direction with his foot. Secondly he can lift

quickly and drive slowly at the same time. If the driver

depresses both pedals at once, the diesel engine will speed up

according to how far the pedals are pressed. However, the truck

will not move forwards or backwards. This is a unique safety

function for a torque converter truck and only available on the

RC40.

A conventional torque converter truck will tend to creep

away when direction of travel is selected and the brakes

released. The RC40 however has safety as a premium and will

not start moving in either direction until the accelerator pedal

is depressed.

For ease and speed of maintenance all important

components in the engine compartment are easily accessible.

The engine cover can be opened to an upright position and the

floor plate is easy to remove. All inspection and maintenance

points are located within easy reach.

With the main manufacturing facility and headquarters in

Hamburg, Germany, Still employs over 6,000 people

throughout Europe.

In the UK, Still has won a

remarkable 7 FLTA awards.

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