Cumbrian bulk powder transport specialist Sam Ostle has purchased a new Daf tractor unit, his 400th since the early 1980s. The Daf XF105 is an FTP model featuring a lightweight mid-lift axle with 17.5-inch wheels. These are popular with tanker and car transporter operators as they can add up to 500kg of payload and improve traction by dumping weight onto the drive axle.
Ostle's vehicles are renewed very frequently and over the past 25 years, the Kirkby Stephen-based firm has run Daf 2600, 3330 and CF85 models.
"I started the business over 50 years ago with a Bedford," says director Sam Ostle, "but when Daf came along in the early 1980s I thought I would give them a go and have stuck with them ever since. They've proved reliable and good on fuel, but I particularly value the excellent support I get from our local dealer, Solway Daf.
"Our policy has always been to replace vehicles once they are out of warranty. Running a fleet with a low-age profile enables me to do so." As a result of Ostle's one driver, one truck rule, some long-serving employees who began their driving careers with the company have never driven any other make.
"My drivers are very happy with their Dafs," says Ostle. "They're good trucks with a lot of thought going into features that improve driveability and driver comfort, such as the layout of the controls and instruments, storage space for their personal gear, and a comfortable bed."
The XF105, supplied by Carlisle dealer Solway Daf, is being used in conjunction with a Feldbinder bulk-blower tank trailer and will average around 90,000 miles a year. The Ostle fleet, now owned by Turners (Soham), currently operates 14 trucks and employs Sam Ostle, his sons Ian and Tony, and grandsons Neil and Mark.
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