Mercedes-Benz Arocs 10×8 for Douwe Hoekstra

The state-of-the-art Arocs 10×8 is an 8×8 modified by Veldhuizen b.v. that is now good for a GVW of 50 tons. The new Mercedes-Benz joined a fleet of 13 trucks of which the new Arocs is the first with a star in the grille.

Douwe Hoekstra was founded in 1980 and the company has since grown into a renowned player in the earthmoving and transport market. In addition to its fleet of 13 own vehicles, the company has an extensive fleet of machinery with dumpers, excavators, tractors and so-called swamp dumpers. To replace a Terberg 10×8, several brands were considered, but recommendations from fellow hauliers and the preference of the regular driver, Gjalt Bergsma led to the purchase of the Arocs. The new Arocs is now the only Mercedes-Benz in the fleet, but previously the company had excellent experience with the previous Actros models.

Additional axis

The truck came off the line as Arocs 4148 at Mercedes-Benz after which Veldhuizen added an air-suspended, 10 Ton Mercedes axle. Furthermore, the position of the second axle was changed so that it is now 180 cm from the front axle. Both front axles were then approved for 10.5 ton axle load by, among other things, fitting 445/75R22.5 tires. Both rear axles were fitted with 325/95 tires on 24-inch wheels. The rear axle loads are good two times 9.5 tons and with the 10-ton center axle the total sum thus comes to 50 tons. The lifting height of the non-driven middle axle is 30 cm, so this axle does not become a game breaker off-road.

Compact turning radius

The Arocs is equipped with a spacious cab with the attractive digital dashboard and the Mercedes-Benz Mirrorcam system. Furthermore, the truck is factory equipped with the Servotwin steering system with an electrically powered steering pump. This makes maneuvering child's play to the delight of regular driver, Gjalt Bergsma. He also praises the five-axle truck's compact turning radius. The Arocs is fitted with a flywheel PTO and was equipped with an insulated Hyva tipper with hydraulic environmental valves and sludge hooks. A Y-shaped fuel tank with a capacity of 345 liters was mounted on the right side between axles 3 and 4. On the left side, a stainless steel toolbox was installed at that position. Douwe Hoekstra opted for an upright exhaust behind the cab.

The conversion and bodywork were fully taken care of by Veldhuizen in Groenekan. The beautiful tipper was further completed and complete with accessories such as additional lighting by Mercedes-Benz dealer Wensink in Heerenveen.