With thanks to Brian Lomas and Adrian Graves of the Foden Society.
Brian was Fodens Limited Technical Sales Manager, based at the factory at the time and Adrian was its Public Relations and Advertising Manager, responsible for the production of the film, the press launch, advertising campaign, exhibitions and dealer roadshows which supported the launch of the Foden S95 Fleetmaster.
The S95 Fleetmaster was Foden's flagship premium product for the European market in 1978, although ironically, other than the front axle, there was very little in the way of Foden manufactured parts in it.
The steel cab was produced by Coventry Motor Panels, in day or sleeper configuration. Engine choices were either the recently introduced Cummins E290 'big cam' or the Rolls Royce 265L / 290L, all using the superb Fuller RT-9509A gearbox. A Gardner 6LXC engine option was also offered with Foden's own 8-speed gearbox. The final drive on all versions was via a Rockwell hypoid bevel single reduction axle, with diff lock as standard - and the 3.8: 1 ratio gave a geared road speed of 68 mph with the Cummins engine option.
The 3.8 metre wheelbase chassis featured Taperlite leaf springs, which gave a smooth ride even when un-laden - and the Type 30 spring brake chambers with 8'' wide linings all round gave unrivalled stopping power.
The design weight was for operation at 38 tonnes gross, although that would not be legal in the UK for another five years after it's introduction.
21 фев 2015
