Whoops there goes the clutch.

The clutch on this 454hp Mack Elite went yesterday morning, the centre of the clutch plate collapsing. There are some minor associated problems with the spigot shaft, seals, lever arm and it had to be towed to the workshop in Wiri. This truck has been with us about 4 years and does a relatively high mileage daily. Unlike the earlier models it is comfortable to drive though a characteristic of these engines, which range from around 430 - 470 hp is that they fade on the hills and rely on an 18 speed gearbox to keep speed. In particular the steering wheel is downsize and less like a tractor steering wheel of the R and Superliner models, fairly good vision over the bonnet as well. This model largely avoided the European influence found in the cab over that superceded the ultra liners. I'm sure my next photos of this will be of this ex South Island truck, trailered up and working.