TOWER POWER: ART GROUP UPGRADES TO FYJ HEAVY HAULER

Chris said they selected the FYJ twin steer model specifically for its weight bearing and load sharing advantages. With its four axles, the FYJ provides maximum support and load distribution for the crane, which needs to lift five tons or more at close range and just under a ton at a range of 17 metres.

Featuring a Gross Vehicle Mass of 30,000 kilograms (28,000-kilogram on-road legal limit) and a hefty Gross Combined Mass of 45,000 kilograms, the FYJ 300-350 8x4 is more than capable of carrying the powerful Palfinger crane behind the cab, plus a load on the tray and dog trailer safely.

It offers more grunt than ART really need but happens to be the perfect length when combined with their trailer for coming under a very specific 19-metre length restriction.

"We carry equipment that takes up a lot of space, but not a lot of weight," Chris explained.

"As you can imagine, a radio tower takes up a fair bit of room, but it doesn't have a lot of weight because it's got to be streamlined and efficient to be able to go up to 160 meters in the air.

"The setup can be a bit more awkward to get around tight corners, but it gives us more carrying capacity and with the front mounted crane, allows load sharing over the twin axles at the front.