Review of the new DAF CF, XF and LF trucks: across the board

Daniil Minaev, photo by the author

In 2011, at the race track near St. Petersburg, having tested the DAF LF, I was ready to drive it home and put it in my garage (“GP”, No. 10, 2011), I liked it so much. In February of this year, in the vicinity of Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport, I was lucky enough to get behind the wheel of the next generation of this medium-duty truck. And here are my impressions this time.

DAF specialists involved in bringing the product to our market complained that certification and other legal procedures had to be carried out at an emergency pace in order to complete the process before the end of 2014. The new car was shown literally “in the heat of the moment,” and I, truly the first in Russia, found myself behind the wheel of the fundamentally new DAF LF.

Features and Benefits

The car has become more attractive, more comfortable and more ergonomic, both externally and internally. The changes also affected the equipment; now the equipment has become more powerful and reliable, more efficient and productive. For intercity transportation, low fuel consumption is provided, which ensures efficiency. Ease of use in many areas provides the ability to install various add-ons:

• fire engine;
• Gasoline tanker;
• dump truck;
• tank;
• garbage truck;
• vans (manufactured goods, refrigerator, etc.);
• crane arm;
• the flatbed body is open, with an awning or curtains;
• fluff.

The truck's design features include maintenance-free single-leaf springs that provide smooth ride when the truck is empty or full. At the same time, the difference in movement with and without a load is not felt, and this solution became possible without the use of air suspension. Its advantages also include the safety of goods during transportation.

Van DAF LF 45. Photo

The disadvantages of the DAF LF 45 truck include the poor location of the air filter and air intake; they are located at a low height. This is not the best solution for using technology in Russia.

When developing the machine, it was decided to use innovative developments:

• proprietary Connect parking management systems;
• glass at the bottom of the passenger door, which provides maximum visibility;
• modern materials in the interior;
• improved appearance;
• standardized parts that are compatible with equipment from world brands;
• a new engine that provides efficiency in terms of fuel consumption.

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Familiar appearance

According to the press release, literally everything in the new model has been redesigned, from the frame design to every small component. However, externally the car looks familiar and quite recognizable. Intrigue is hidden in little things that are not really little things. Sorry for the tautology, now I will explain everything. For example, by eye you can recognize new Lexan headlights, which withstand the impact of road stones and do not become cloudy over time, or new galvanized bumpers, which also withstand impacts better than plastic ones and are now not afraid of corrosion, like all metal ones. And there are a lot of such “little things” in the new product.

Another feature is the location of the elastic elements of the air suspension inside the frame; there, on the inside of the side members, the electrical wiring and some blocks are hidden as much as possible. This both increases the degree of protection of components and frees up space outside the frame if there is a need to install additional equipment, for example, for a superstructure. The frame of the new model itself was inspected for “extra” gussets and reinforcements, which made it lighter by 60 kg. I would call such an improvement for Russia controversial. What is 60 kilos with a total vehicle weight of up to 19 tons? But the margin of strength and rigidity has never been superfluous for us. However, it’s enough to freeze outside, welcome to the cabin.

Technical characteristics and dimensions

The main technical characteristics of the DAF LF 45 include:

The dimensions of the machine are: 7.77 m x 2.5 m x 3.45 m.

To accelerate to a speed of 60 km/h, it takes 13 seconds when the body is empty and 19 seconds when loaded. Maximum efficiency is achieved at a speed of 80-90 km/h.

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The power line is like a meeting!

For the DAF LF Euro 5, as befits a reputable automaker, a set of engines is offered, consisting of a PACCAR FR with a displacement of 4.5 liters and a 6-cylinder PACCAR GR with a displacement of 6.7 liters. The 12-ton machines are equipped with an FR152 engine with a power of 207 “horses” at 2300 rpm and a maximum torque of 760 N∙m at a shelf of 1400–1800 rpm.

The test car was equipped with just such a unit, which upon closer examination turned out to be a modification of the well-proven Cummins ISB4.5EV engine, which, by the way, was evidenced by the nameplate. Not a bad result of cooperation, and a help for an ordinary operator with his own repair area! You can select spare parts and repair such an engine with us not only with the help of the car manufacturer’s service network. For heavier modifications of the chassis, GR184 engines with a power of 250 hp are provided. and a maximum torque of 950 N∙m. The most powerful construction chassis is equipped with a 286 hp motor. The engines are coupled with 6-speed manual gearboxes manufactured by ZF or automated ZF ASTronic; a 9-speed manual gearbox is also offered separately as an option.

Engine

A Paccar power unit with 150, 180, 210 or 220 horsepower is standard, depending on the configuration. The 3.9-liter Cummins B-series engine is characterized by an in-line cylinder arrangement with four valves for each of them, turbocharging with intercooling of air and a Common Rail direct fuel injection system. The exhaust quality of the DAF LF 45 engine complies with Euro-4 standards.

The main advantages of the motor include efficiency. Complete combustion of fuel is ensured by the injection system, fuel distribution device and exhaust treatment system. This ensures the demand for such power plants. Power and torque can reach maximum values ​​even at low shaft speeds. The rear axle has a 3.31:1 gear ratio, so the speed can be reduced by 150-200 rpm when driving in the mid-speed range. All these features allow you to save up to 6% fuel.

The noise level in the cabin is low, which has a positive effect on the operator's condition.

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Predictable result

The area where I tested the car was in some places cleared of snow using reagents, and in others covered with outright ice - an excellent field for experiments with traction and elasticity. The lever of the manual 6-speed gearbox, although a little tight, is selectivity and fixation above all praise, so you definitely won’t have to fuss about choosing a gear or “tweaking” one here. And the Euro 5 engine is a stage that designers have long passed. I remember that it was DAF, but on large tractors of the XF series, when switching to the Euro 6 standard, problems arose with elasticity and not the most successful gear ratios (see “GP” No. 2, 2013), although in general this problem affected absolutely all automakers. And here - walk in the field. Therefore, the empty van immediately tears up in third gear and is ready to storm a small icy slope. Having caught the reproachful glances of the company representatives in my direction, I calmed down a little. That's it, that's it, I won't do it again, good... The rehabilitation of the new generation DAF LF has completely taken place in my eyes. Now is the time to open the hood and lift the cabin, and, looking ahead, lift the veil of secrecy.

Device

The external design of the DAF LF 45 has become more attractive and expressive. Above the manufacturer's logo there is a place where you can place the name of the carrier company.

The footrest is located conveniently, with its help you can easily get into the cabin. Heated and electronically adjustable rear view mirrors are installed on the sides.

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Chassis

Working on this machine is characterized by comfort. The front suspension is optimized to ensure an optimal balance of damping, stability and rigidity. The front axle has a large load capacity, which eliminates the risk of overload. To ensure the possibility of movement of the DAF 45 in confined spaces, the minimum turning radius in its class is provided.

The front axle is mounted on springs and shock absorbers, there is a stabilizer bar, the rear axle is a drive axle, equipped with a mechanical differential lock. The last component is optional; it provides increased traction force and faster response to manipulation. An electronically controlled pneumatic rear axle suspension is used; its installation is similar to the front axle.

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Driver Performance Assistant (DPA)

This innovative system is an example of the transport efficiency concept that DAF is committed to. The central display on the instrument panel provides the driver with detailed information on real-time fuel consumption, braking and predictive behavior to optimize the driving experience. In addition, the information screen automatically displays messages designed to improve its efficiency, in particular recommendations for switching to another gear. DPA gives the driver advice on how to save fuel and reduce operating costs, for example by ensuring the correct tire pressure or adjusting the cab roof spoiler.

Driver's cabin

Depending on the purpose of the equipment, one of two types of cabin can be used:

• standard with dimensions 1.6 m x 2.13 m x 1.61 m;
• night room with dimensions 2 m x 2.13 m x 1.61 m and a sleeping place.

The heater allows you to create a comfortable microclimate, eliminate fogging of windows, and warm up the seats. The DAF 45 cabin is quite spacious inside, it has ceiling niches with mesh, and only one passenger seat. In the middle between the seats there is an engine tunnel, a gearbox control lever, a handbrake, and a document compartment with a lock.

The driver's seat is mounted on air suspension, can be adjusted, is characterized by an anatomical shape and the presence of lateral support. The passenger seat differs only in fewer adjustments.

The clutch pedal in the DAF LF 45 truck is installed at the optimal height, with space for your foot next to it. When idling, the engine makes virtually no noise, even though it runs on diesel fuel. There is also no vibration.

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Dual interior

At the presentation of the DAF LF Euro 5, two of the three possible cab options were shown: the Day Cab and the Sleeper Cab. There is also an extended day version with Extended Day Cab. I immediately remembered Asian trucks with their tiny “sleeping bags”. No, no analogy! Of course, the external dimensions of the cabin limit the possibilities, but the berth is quite full, and even the shelf can be secured in a reclined position, like in a train carriage. Right under the “bed” I found three quite capacious niches for things, covered with lids. Commendable!

Now let's turn to the workplace. Bah, holy simplicity here! Where is the luxuriously equipped Dafik that I loved so much three years ago? For some unknown reason, the equipment of the test car was incredibly ascetic, which, compared to the cabin I loved, involuntarily upset me. And don’t go to grandma, our carriers will buy something close and inexpensive. But stop being sad, let's try to work.

On the move, the car made a much better impression than when static. Although the interior did not pamper me with a comfortable glove box and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, the ergonomics were at a high level. The icons of a few keys are clearly understandable, the steering column is adjustable for tilt and reach, and control of some functions is duplicated on the steering wheel crossbar, so you don’t have to reach out and look for the controls. So this forced asceticism suddenly turned its face towards me.

Ease of operation and maintenance

Car DAF 45
Repair work and maintenance of the car will not require much time and money. For this purpose, a fixed cost is established for each kilometer of travel. The cabin hydraulic lift is small in size and is located behind the front wheel mudguard.

It is convenient to check the oil level due to the long dipstick with a spring.

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Reviews from DAF LF 45 owners

Owners of trucks of this model warn: this vehicle is definitely only for ideal roads. She also doesn’t like overload: if you overload, there is a high probability of saying “bye-bye” to the spring. And its cost is not cheap.

The front hub bearings are silent until the last moment, until they turn. This is a fairly common breakdown; in this case, the knuckle and hub have to be ordered for a lot of money, and even wait for it to be delivered.

The electrical wiring is even visually frail, “like in Chinese toys.” The Pakkar diesel engine is certainly very good, there are no complaints about it. The gearbox is also trouble-free, reliable and durable. A six-speed gearbox is better, but the five-speed gearbox for the DAF LF 45 is also very good. The front brake calipers need to be rebuilt once every year or two - due to the fact that they are located on top and not in front.

What this car is definitely worth praising for is that it has amazing maneuverability, a very large angle of rotation of the wheels: you can drive into difficult spaces, and not even “steam”. The car drives extremely easily and smoothly. But her cabin can be a little cold for our harsh winters. Also, if the car is operated in the north, it is better to install heating of diesel fuel and coolant.

The sound insulation of the cabin is very well done; the manufacturers certainly did not spare any materials on it. That's a plus.

The main disadvantage is the high cost of spare parts and their lack of availability. We have to wait a long time.

In general, the DAF LF 45 is considered one of the best trucks in its class in terms of handling - very maneuverable. The dynamics of this car are also very good for a truck.