Factory clocks up 60 years
There can't be many heavy metal fans who haven’t heard of Basildon, situated about 40km east of London and originally created in 1948 to deal with the population boom after the Second World War.
A lifting capacity of 4200kg complemented by a 7.1m reach, with power delivered by an FPT 4-cylinder engine that provides 129hp at rated speed, 146hp at peak power, alongside maximum torque of 591Nm at 1500rpm.
The standard 6x3 Autoshift transmission is fully automated through the forward speeds and can also be operated as a semi-automatic through forward gears 2-3-4, with a memory shuttle feature where the power shuttle selects the last-used forward and reverse gear after changing direction.
A joystick-mounted de-clutch button allows a smooth transition between ratios, or to bring the machine to a stop, while electronic modulation ensures smooth changes and linear pick up when different ratios are selected.
Running gear is taken care of with HD axles, with a limited slip differential (LSD) on the front axle, and the option of a similar set-up at the rear.
Inboard wet-disc brakes offer good stopping power, are protected from external elements and simple to service. For safety, a parking brake is standard on all models.
A dedicated hydraulic system delivers 140l/min output via a variable piston pump layout, incorporating load sensing system to automatically adjusts oil flows at lower engine speeds.
Selectable three-way steering, making work easier even in tighter surroundings, with automatic steering alignment ensuring front and rear wheels are aligned during steering mode selection.
With a 3m wheelbase said to offer good stability, the 742 offers a tight outside turning radius of 3.91m.
Daily servicing checks, engine oil dipstick, water coolant filler, air filter and radiators are easy and convenient, while the engine hood can be easily raised if greater access is required. Refilling the lockable fuel and SCR tanks can be undertaken from ground level, while a 500-hour service interval allows for long working periods.
For maximum operator comfort, the 742 is fitted with a comfortable mechanical suspension seat or can be optioned with an upgrade to air suspension, while the backlit joystick is integrated into the right-hand side armrest for driver convenience.
Options include an electronically controlled pump for automated greasing of the chassis, axles, boom pivot points and cylinders; alongside a hydraulically operated lubrication pump sited on the boom headstock that greases all boom movement points, instigated by movement of the tilt ram cylinder. An optional quick coupling/uncoupling system option is said to make changing attachments as simple as possible.
