Hi Richard,
I would suggest the redesign (to 4x4 15cwt) raised the centre of gravity and upset the balance/stability. Also the empty Quad-Ants were carrying an additional 1 ton more than the Ant, from the front diff, transfer case and winch, with no significant increase in power, 55 bhp in the Ant to 58bhp in the FAT. The transfer case and winch are at chassis level, so there alone is a significant height change in C.O.G.
The changes they made equate to: an Ant carrying 1 ton, on-road, which is OK, then adding a payload of another 15cwt to that, I could see that becoming taxing on horsepower, let alone then towing something of another ton or two. After getting going you have to stop, which I have always found to be a good thing to do. Harder braking means severe wear on shoes, which means a more frequent maintenance schedule.
Well, it is a though or two.
Cheers,
Dave
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