Gulf Construction Online - Crown drives in all-new four-wheel series

Materials Handling

All-new .. the FC4000 series.

Crown drives in all-new four-wheel series

01 December 2002

Crown says that its all-new FC 4000 series of four-wheel counterbalanced trucks not only combines stylish design with state-of-the-art technology and enhanced ergonomics, but also affords the best overall visibility of any truck in its class.

"Not only does the driver have a direct view of the fork tips and load, the rounded, low front apron improves front visibility to the extent that the driver can even see the front tyres and outer edges of the truck," says a spokesman for the US-based firm. "This, coupled with the new mast design, narrow steering column, the position of the lift cylinders and the routing of the hoses within the new FC 4000 allows the driver to see 25 per cent more of the fork surface area than with other competitive models. This high visibility also helps to minimise product damage and maximise pallet throughput levels."

The new trucks, in capacities of 2,000, 2,500 and 3,000 kg, have lifting heights of up to 7,390 mm and a turning radius of 7,390 mm. They feature the new Crown colours - a lighter beige with shades of grey on the mast and forks. An additional orange accentuates the fork tips and load wheels. This further benefits operators, says the spokesman, as the contrasting orange on the dark grey forks helps them to focus more effectively and quickly on the loads being handled.

More freedom

"Compared with competitive models, the driver's cab in the FC 4000 offers more freedom for head, shoulders and knees," the spokesman says. "The spacious legroom has a non-slip rubber lining, while rubber-protected accelerator and brake pedals are comfortably and conveniently arranged. Hydraulic function levers are also ergonomically positioned to improve operation and selection functions.

''As importantly, the parking brake can be operated at the press of a button, which is a considerable enhancement for operators when compared with the conventional use of levers or control sticks.

"The design of the new overhead guard, with its rounded curved supports, further provides generous space for the driver. Getting on and off the truck also could not be easier, thanks to the 460-mm step-board that is one of the lowest on the market for this type of truck.

Built to last

"The chassis, mast, drive unit and steering axle are not only sturdy and reliable, they have all been tested for durability over a long period of time. For added longevity, the FCs powerful 11.6 kW drive motor is fitted at an angle above the drive axle. This additionally speeds maintenance routines, while protecting the motor from damp and dirt.

"To further reduce operational downtime, the new range also features the Crown Info Point assembly reference. This allows service engineers to localise components quicker and ascertain their current operational status. Hydraulic disk brakes also come as standard and are considerably more resistant to wear than the conventional drum brakes fitted to competitive four-wheeled machines."