Sterling Other models

The 235 D.D.S.659 is driven by a six-cylinder engine and stands on six wheels, with a wheelbase of 4,570 mm, a length of 8,000 mm and a width of 2,440 mm. The vehicle weighs 12,250 kg empty, with a gross vehicle weight of 15,422 kg.

At a gross vehicle weight of 15,422 kg the 235 D.D.S.659 falls into EU class N3 above 12 t. Kerb weight and gross weight differ by 3,172 kg of payload margin, a fitting share for a lorry of this weight class that points to use with variable cargo rather than permanently mounted equipment. Six wheels on three axles carry this load in the manner typical of medium-heavy long-haul chassis of the 1940s.

Buying such an old chassis second-hand, checking the frame for corrosion and cracks comes first, followed by a check of the riveted joints used on vehicles of this era in place of welded seams. The six-cylinder engine calls for a check of compression and the cooling system, and the brakes should be checked for the transition from mechanical to hydraulic or air actuation, since both systems occur on vehicles from this transitional period.