When Welbourns of Wisbech added a 40-year-old ISOLI recovery truck to their fleet this year, they weren’t just buying a vehicle; they were inheriting a piece of recovery history. Already in exceptional condition, and originally purchased from respected industry name Dave Cosby, this heritage unit has quickly become one of the most talked-about machines in their yard.
Despite its age, the truck remains fully operational, structurally sound, and capable of daily recovery work, a rare achievement in an industry where machinery faces relentless stress and unpredictable environments.
A Heritage Vehicle With a Proven Life Before Wisbech
Welbourns have owned the truck for just 2–3 months, but its story stretches far beyond their workshop doors. Purchased from Dave Cosby, a trusted name in the business, the vehicle required only straightforward engine work before entering service. The team quickly saw that beneath its age was a remarkably preserved machine with a rich past.
They were particularly drawn to its 6×6 all-terrain capability, ideal for farm recoveries and rural callouts. The crew described it as “compact, versatile, and easier to use than many modern rotators with similar capability.”
Once the engine work was complete, all they needed to do was rebrand the truck and repaint the cab in their signature British Leyland/Pageant Blue, a subtle refresh for a machine that had clearly been cared for across multiple owners.
Build Quality That Outlasts Generations
What stands out most about this truck, to both operators and management, is the level of engineering ISOLI delivered nearly half a century ago.
From the thick steel to the sturdy supports, everything about the unit reflects a philosophy of building machines that survive, not simply perform.
The original crane/boom remains fully functional today, now fitted with a recovery hook instead of the historic crane lock and the belly winch, both working without issue. The team describes the structure as:
“It’s properly engineered”
They note that modern units, while lighter and using cheaper materials to build, simply don’t match the density, integrity, or longevity of the materials used in this era of manufacturing. The military-spec design is still evident in the welds, the beams, and the way the truck handles load stress.
Routine servicing and greasing are all that’s needed. As the team put it:
“That’s how you look after them for longevity.”
Daily Performance: A Machine That Still Earns Its Place
This ISOLI does not sit in a corner gathering dust. It continues to work whenever needed, sometimes twice a week, sometimes once a month, but always ready.
Its workload ranges from winching tractors out of ditches to upright rollovers to heavy rural recoveries. Its performance under load remains strong, though the crew proudly point out that operator skill still matters more than modern automation.
Mechanically, the truck has had no failures since joining the fleet.
One memorable job involved rescuing a lorry that had become stuck deep in a dyke.
“The machine just did the job,” they said. “No drama, the lorry was back on its wheels in no time.”
Maintenance: Simple, Accessible, Cost-Effective
Despite its age, servicing remains straightforward. The truck offers excellent ground clearance, making inspections and repairs easy. Six-week servicing intervals, basic greasing, and in-house maintenance keep costs predictable.
Modern parts and supplies may be pricier today, but the simplicity of the design keeps the overall running cost stable.
Longevity & Trust in ISOLI
When asked why this truck has lasted so long, the answer was simple:
“Good owners, and built to last.”
They believe that while many modern lighter recovery trucks won’t achieve the same lifespan, heavy recovery units built properly still have the potential to last decades. And after working with this ISOLI unit, their confidence in the brand has grown significantly.
While the team traditionally gravitates toward American kits, this experience has reshaped their view:
“After seeing how long this ISOLI has lasted, we can’t knock it. It’s a nice bit of kit.”
In fact, they’ve already requested a quote for a new slide-bed ISOLI unit.
Their philosophy is simple:
“Cheap isn’t always good, and good isn’t always cheap.”
Sentiment & Perception: A Truck That Makes People Stop and Say ‘Wow’
Even the public reacts with disbelief when told the truck is 40 + years old.
“WOW” is the most common response.
Operators, many of whom prefer old-school machinery, enjoy working with it. They recognise its craftsmanship and understand the brand’s value immediately.
As a business, owning this truck demonstrates an appreciation for quality engineering and operator skill. In an era where many companies rely heavily on technology, Welbourns take pride in relying on expertise.
Preservation & Condition Today
The truck’s interior is original and impressively well-kept for its age.
Externally, the blue cab, renewed window trim, and updated exhaust pipes give it a fresh, professional look without altering its character. It’s a machine with history, and one that still turns heads.
A Final Word From the Operators
When asked what makes this ISOLI special, the crew summed it up perfectly:
“It’s unique, and it’s ours. It might end up in a museum someday.”
And what is their message to other operators considering adding ISOLI to their fleet?
“Great build quality. If all their trucks last as long as this one, they’re highly recommended.”
If you would like to learn more about CPL x ISOLI, make sure to get in touch, and our team will be able to support your fleet needs.
Charlie Welbourn, Welbourns Director & Stephen Keech, CPL New Business Development Executive
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