The latest in the JT Fossey Trucks Outlaw series initiative, a Mack SuperLiner, looms large in the wheatbelt of northern NSW where it has gone into service for MJR Haulage.
A local carrier owned by Jaime Kiehne, who recently welcomed its delivery ahead of the upcoming grain harvest, the Mack SuperLiner comes in British Racing Green and marks the fourth iteration of the fledgling Outlaw series, a continuation of having a different colour scheme for each vehicle in the series to date. The Outlaw series is the brainchild of John Saint, JT Fossey Dealer Principal. Following the centennial celebrations of Mack in 2019, Saint was energised to make a statement that would help to put the Tamworth business on the map.
Every one of the Outlaw Mack units come out of the factory as a base standard truck. The goal for Saint was to be able to add every available option to it.
“The people involved understand the quality of the truck,” he says. “Different guards and exhausts are added. We build it carefully in increments to ensure the presentation is comprehensive and cohesive.”
Every unit becomes, in its own right, a special project, customised to the Outlaw specification according to Saint.
A bullbar, LED lights, chrome exhaust stacks and stainless-steel guards are included as standard fittings.
In addition to tinted windows, the MJR Haulage Mack SuperLiner features strip lights fitted under the cab and LEDs on the floor of the cabin which, incidentally, also houses a new microwave, fridge and television. The PTO installation was performed in Brisbane; the signwriting took place in Newcastle; and the chrome and lights were detailed in the Lockyer Valley.
“The truck has been halfway down the east coast of Australia getting fitted out,” says Jaime. “There’s nothing I’ve had to ask for. It’s just been done for me. A great deal of imagination has gone into the truck.”
As a process, fitting the truck out has taken the better part of five months, with every detail complementary to the overall look and design of the vehicle. Rated to 131 tonnes (GCM), the Mack SuperLiner is powered by a 685hp MP10 going through an MDrive manual automated transmission with group rear axles and suspension, Icepack and hydraulics.
The truck will pull roadtrains and cart grain into and out of feedlots around the region known as the Golden Triangle with occasional forays into the Darling Downs, where most of the work is at present.
Jaime, who works five to six days a week depending on the season, typically carries barley, Mung beans and wheat.
Many of the shuttle routes are tough going. The job requires Jaime to do a lot of rough running on dirt roads. It’s a whole new experience in the Mack.
“The Mack delivers a brilliant ride. It’s comfortable — there’s no noise,”he says.
