Hook Loaders

Choosing the Chassis

We build hook loaders on three chassis: the DAF XDC 450, the Scania P420 XT and the Volvo FMX 420. All three are 8×4 day cabs plated at 32,000 kg GVM, all have automated gearboxes, and each is a construction-spec truck built for site work as well as the road. The first difference is the driveline.

The DAF XDC 450 has the highest output of the three, 450 bhp and 2,350 Nm from 900 rpm, from the smallest engine, the 10.8-litre MX-11. Its TraXon 12-speed gearbox has urge-to-move, so the truck creeps on the brake pedal alone when you line up with a container.

The Scania P420 XT uses the 13-litre DC13 at 420 hp and 2,300 Nm from 900 rpm. The 14-speed Opticruise gearbox adds a crawler gear for slow, controlled manoeuvring on site.

The Volvo FMX 420 runs the 12.8-litre D13K at 420 hp, with 2,100 Nm from just 860 rpm, through a 12-speed I-Shift with construction software.

Beyond the driveline, each manufacturer has its own style of cab, so it is worth sitting in each before you choose. Many operators simply stay with the make their fleet already runs. Drivers keep familiar controls, and the spares and parts you already stock still fit. Resale value matters too, because the make affects what the truck is worth when you come to replace it.

Our sales team can talk you through the specific differences between each chassis, or you can visit us for a hands-on look at the trucks themselves.

Boughton or Hyva

Both are roll-on roll-off hook systems with in-cab controls, rear stabilisers and a sheeting system, and either can be built on any of the three chassis.

The Boughton RORO 8/32-70C locks containers at three points, with two rear Combilocks and a rear-facing secondary lock. Its controls sit in a box between the seats and are fully interlocked. The Kwikcova sheeting system lays the sheet over the load rather than dragging it, and sheets a loaded container within one minute. Boughton also offers matched close-coupled trailers for work up to 44,000 kg GTW.

The Hyva Titan is rated to lift 26 tonnes, with a sliding knuckle hook and heavy duty 90 mm cylinder rods. A low installation height improves stability. Its step-by-step pneumatic controls can be upgraded to radio remote control, so the driver can work from outside the cab. Hyva’s Easy Sheet adjusts in width to cover a range of container sizes.

Again, speak to our sales team who can run through the specific differences between these two hook bodies.

Match the Body to Your Containers

Check which containers you lift before you choose a body. CHEM is the usual UK container standard, but some customers still run Dinosaur type containers. The Hyva’s rear locks are to CHEM standard. Boughton builds to CHEM ‘B’ Spec or Universal ‘C’ Spec, and the C Spec handles both CHEM and Dinosaur containers. If you collect other people’s containers, or your stock is mixed, the Universal spec saves turning work away.

If you are comparing a hook loader for sale on one chassis with another, our team can talk you through the options, finance and our body builds before you order.