Description
De Mack B85 is a rare and powerful truck model from the iconic B-series of Mack Trucks, produced between 1953 and 1966. This series was known for its robust construction, striking round lines and innovative diesel technology.
🛠️ Technical specifications
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Motor: The B85 was equipped with a turbocharged Cummins NH engine, good for approximately 265 hp. Some examples were even equipped with a supercharger. This was exceptional for its time, especially in Australia, where most trucks still ran on petrol.
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Transmission: Usually equipped with a 5-speed gearbox and a 3-speed gearbox as an additional “joey” gearbox, resulting in a 15-speed system.
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Shaft configuration: Available in 6×4 and 8×4 configurations, ideal for heavy haulage and long journeys.
🏭 History and production
The B-Series was introduced in 1953 and was a response to the need for more powerful trucks for heavy-duty transport. The B85 was one of the rarer models in this series, with only 77 copies produced. Of these 77 there were 29 equipped with Thermodyne diesel engines, while the remaining 48 units probably had petrol engines.
In Australia, the B85 was appreciated for its power and reliability. A notable example is a B85SX, one of only 45 produced worldwide B85SX models, only one of which was exported to Australia. This example was originally delivered with a 265 hp turbocharged Cummins NH engine and later rebuilt with a Detroit 8V71NA engine.
🔥 Fire trucks
Another notable aspect of the B85 is its use as a fire engine. In 1960, the first diesel-powered fire engine, a Mack B85F, was sold to the City of Hamilton, Bermuda. This marked an important step in the evolution of firefighting vehicles.
