Reader discovers an “ADT Graveyard”

Regular Digger Man Blog reader and contributor Chris Griffin of Kent based Griffin Groundworks has been out and about during his working day and came across this selection of old Volvo ADT’s resting in peace and has kindly sent them in to share with fellow readers.

Volvo has been at the forefront of ADT technology ever since it introduced the DR631 back in the 1960’s. The machines which were affectionately known as “Gravel Charlies” were a roaring success and kick-started Volvo Construction Equipment’s association with articulated haulers, which really took off with the launch of the DR860 in 1968. The durability of these Volvo trucks ensures that many of the old machines are still out there on job sites to this day especially in less regulated parts of the world. The old Volvo trucks seen here are resting at a facility run by Gallagher in Maidstone and are more than likely to become donor machines for others that are still running. Greeting Chris on his arrival were two examples of the A25, these models were first launched to market in 1987.

Further on down Chris came across one of the predecessors of the A25, the 5350B which first appeared in 1984 and was a full 6x6 drive model. The earlier model the 5350 was a 6x4 version with a trailing rear axle, also of note is the single lift ram fitted on these models.

Also spotted but partially obscured was another 5350B which I immediately saw was one of two that used to be run by Northampton based James King Plant, with whom I had the pleasure of working for in 1996/97.

I was wondering, could that be the same truck that I am seen loading topsoil onto when I was working on the Hams Hall job in Coleshill near Birmingham back in the day.

Its also worth noting that Gallagher have also recently taken delivery of two of Volvo's flagship A60H ADT's the manufacturers largest and most impressive truck to date. Check out this promotional video from Volvo CE with a historical twist.