MAN TGX 25.540: Operator Review

The pleasant aroma of bacon and eggs frying in the stillness of the morning filtered down to the banks of the Tamar River north of Launceston, where Wally Allen had reversed his MAN TGX25.540 and purpose-built Smith drop-deck trailer down the concrete ramp into the still waters of the river.

Incidentally, we're told that not too far back up this same river is where the Boags brewery gets its pure water to make its famous beers; Wally admits he's pretty partial to that company's products too…

Even in early autumn the Tamar valley is spectacularly picturesque with an abundance of wildlife and flocks of ducks basking in the morning sun.

Nevertheless, for Wally and his handful of helpers there was little time to enjoy the tranquil serenity of what locals refer to as the Tailrace Park, because there was a sense of urgency to get the boat loaded on the truck and out of the town before the hustle and bustle of daily life in Launceston reached full swing.

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The MAN TGX25.540 is Kellara Transport's first of the brand in a yard with many tired old dogs. Kellara specialises in tilt-tray transportation of a wide variety of products, which also includes boat transportation.

The decision to go with MAN wasn't taken lightly, but was driven by sound business principles rather than emotion and old habits. MAN trucks have an enviable reputation in Tasmania and that's largely attributed to the brand's local representative, Phil Salter, who is always on hand to provide first-class back-up.

Wally admits the MAN D26 engine, with its 540hp output, is ideal for Tasmania's undulating terrain, and that he's more than happy with the wide spread of torque it delivers.

The MAN D26 is a 24-valve in-line six-cylinder turbo-diesel, with common rail injection and intercooler. The electronically controlled common rail fuel injection system operates at high pressures of up to 1800 bar, delivering finely atomized fuel at precisely defined intervals for maximum efficiency and performance, while burning the mixture cleanly and quietly.

This MAN fuel system is gear driven from the crankshaft, which allows very high fuel pressures to be generated even at idle. Maximum fuel pressure is also generated at very low revs, resulting in a more responsive engine. The MAN common rail system design includes an accumulator, which holds reserves of fuel for the rail and allows multiple injections per stroke for improved torque delivery.

It uses tried-and-tested SCR (selective catalytic reduction) technology with AdBlue to meet the Euro 5 (ADR 80/03) emissions regulations, and it also comes standard with an MAN Engine Valve Brake (EVB).

The transmission is an MAN 12-speed automated constant-mesh 'TipMatic' gearbox, which is made by European transmission specialist ZF. It boasts 12 forward speeds and two reverse ratios and it is suitable for gross train weights up to 70 tonne, although we're told it can be rated up to 90 tonne upon application.

With MAN's TipMatic, shifting and clutching are electro-pneumatic meaning there is no clutch pedal. Normal mode is automated with manual mode available with shifting via fingertip lever. Driving with an engaged PTO is only possible in second and fourth gear, while an 'M' setting for precise low-speed maneuvering in forward and reverse is also provided.

The fact that the MAN TGX25.540 comes standard with a heavy-duty spec means its versatility is a highlight. The front axle, for example, is MAN's dropped I-Beam axle, which is rated at 9000kg and comes with sealed-for-life hubs, coupled to 8000kg parabolic springs with shock absorbers and stabiliser bar.

The rear axle too has sealed-for-life hub units and the rear suspension is MAN's electronically controlled eight-bag air suspension, again fitted with stabilisers and shock absorbers. It's rated at 23,000kg.

Wally's MAN TGX25.540 is fitted up with twin aluminum fuel tanks that give him a usable 1140 litres, along with 100 litres of AdBlue.

It boasts an Electronic Brake System (EBS) with ABS as standard. There are disc brakes fitted to all axles with brake wear monitoring and wear equalisation function. The full air-operated braking system also comes standard with as air dryer.

One feature that Wally cites as a big advantage is MAN's 'easy start' function, essentially a hill holder that holds the service brakes on hills for smoother uphill starts. There is also a hand-operated trailer brake lever, which is essential for performing a tug test when coupling trailers.

Wally is more than happy with the generous storage space in the MAN cabin and mentioned the easy cross-cab access due to the low engine tunnel.

Other standard features of the MAN TGX 25.540 cabin include a super-comfortable air-suspension driver's seat with black velour upholstery, with arm rests and integrated seat belt, and the factory-fitted climate control system.

The list continues with a six-speaker sound system with sub-woofer, power windows, interior sun blinds for the windscreen and both side window, full curtains, a slide-out central storage box, two large storage drawers in dash console, and a modular cup holder.

Meantime the instrument panel includes a full electronic highline dash display with easy access to vehicle information systems.

The steering boasts a fully adjustable steering wheel with pneumatic lock. Meanwhile, the multifunction steering wheel interfaces with the sound system, cruise control and electronic dash display to make life easier (and safer) for drivers.

The standard headlights are fitted with long-life H7 globes. There is even a cornering light, which automatically illuminates when the indicator is activated and lights are switched on below 30km/h, for better visibility on the inside of the corner.

For Wally, today's short run across the island was just a walk in the park for him and his MAN TGX25.540, because he told us he was loading the boat up to go to Western Australia in the next few weeks – a trip where he'll really appreciate the bunk and generous cabin storage.

Nevertheless, while Wally is enjoying the creature comforts of the new MAN, Kellara Transport are reaping even bigger benefits, thanks to the TGX's modest operating costs.

MAN TGX 25.540 specifications:
Make: MAN
Model: TGX 25.540
Engine: MAN D2876
Power: 532hp (397kW) at 1900rpm
Torque: 1843lb/ft (2500Nm) at 1050-1350rpm
Gearbox: ZF AS2301 TipMatic 12-speed AMT
Front axle: MAN I-Beam, 9000kg
Front suspension: Taper leaf
Rear axles: MAN hypoid
Rear axle ratio: 4.63
Rear suspension: MAN airbag
Main driveline: MAN
Inter-axle driveline: MAN
Brakes: Disc
Fuel: Alloy, 2 x 473lt
Wheels: 10-stud steel (335mm PCD)
Bumper: Painted FUPS bumper