CharlesS

RadioMike, i called smiths and they've asked for some details on the axles and/or diffs. The truck is stored in the South West at the moment so I can't readily check. I wondered if you or anyone else new what the spec was on the daf drops, it's a 91 model. ive also contacted Dave Crouch, who provided me with an engine previously, he's offered me a set of larger wheels off an AEC mark 3 wrecker, which he thinks will fit and will check but the price is pretty high, although the diffs will be costly too. Which do you think, regardless of price which is the better option? I assume diff exchange due to CofG, clearance etc but as it's all 3 differentials smiths were sceptical on the price to do it but need to check specs first. regards charles

Hi, I'm new to the forum, I've got a Daf Drops, which I use at work for engineering support and being generally useful. I've had it desertised and it was also used in the Dakar in 2013, very useful as a support truck but struggled with the distances and times due to top speed. It was used alongside a Drops equipped Man Kat a1 which has a top speed of over 60. Neither vehicle had much more than 6-8 tonnes in a converted ISO container on the back, so not overloaded, but empty or full the Daf only does 47mph and is thirsty (than the Man). We had a few Drops REME experts on the team (had been on Drops) all stated that the engine has a mechanical geared governor system (I think) so it can't be easily changed. It appears that larger tyres are the only option unless someone has any ideas on gearing changes etc? I hope to use it again on another rally raid or similar but with a top speed of 47 it's not practical. So that people understand, even on a road support stage the support crews have to make specific times. You also have to be in before the racers so if you cannot make the speed limits I.e. 55mph or similar, which stage transfer times are calculated by, you'll find yourself arriving after the main team which is obviously pointless. I don't see the side angle C of G change being an issue with bigger tyres as the load is low, secured and probably no more than 6 tonnes. Any ideas or findings would be very helpful. I'm thinking of changing for a Man Kat but this would be unnecessary if the top speed can be sorted and I may get another. From the last thread I couldn't make out if there was a final agreed best practice or indeed if anyone had done this on a Drops in practice. Very best Charles

Hi, I'm ex infantry and I've now got a few ex-military vehicles that I use within my manufacturing business. I also have used them supporting other charitable ventures. I currently own 2xrb44s, 1 daf drops, 2 Scania fire engines and a JCB rough terrain fork lift. Will probably get a few more rough terrain lorries but look forward to discussing issues further. Best Charles