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Advanced Features in New Models

12th June 1959, Page 33
12th June 1959
Page 33
Page 33, 12th June 1959 — Advanced Features in New Models
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GOOD use has been made of front-wheel drive for a new range of light delivery vehicles manufactured by the Mgie Nationale Des Usines Renault. The layout affords a loading height of only 14.1 in. whilst the engine, gearbox, transmission and front suspension are readily detachable as a unit after the removal of eight bolts. The new chassis also have independent suspension on all wheels.

The two basic models, known as the Trafic and the Estafette, have payload capaCities of approximately 10 cwt. and 12 cwt. respectively, the only difference between them being heavier rear springs on the Estafette. Integral construction is used, with bodywork welded to a platform made up of two side members and eight cross-members, to which is welded corrugated-steel flooring. The cab is combined with the body in the van versions, but is separate and rubber-mounted for pick-up trucks.

The engine is the 845 c.c. four-cylindered water-cooled unit employed in the Renault Dauphine car. With a compression ratio of 8 to 1 it is not derated for the van application and develops 32 b.h.p. at 4,350 r.p.m. and 50 lb.-ft. torque at 2.000 r.p.m. (both S.A.E. rating). It is coupled to a four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on all forward gears. The engine is ahead of the front-wheel line, whilst the gearbox is behind it. the differential and final-drive gearing lying between the two units. input and output shafts for the gearbox are at the front, with the input shaft passing through the centre of the final-drive pinion and the output shaft. The thin inner shaft is said to act as a torsion bar to absorb vibration.

From the differential gearing the drive is taken to the independently sprung front wheels by swinging half-shafts, which each incorporate one universal joint at the differential output flange, a sliding splined joint, a Repusseau sleeve which uses rubber to absorb torsional vibration and take up small variations in length, and a double universal joint at the wheel end of the shaft. The wheel centres are placed slightly behind the differential output flanges to obtain the maximum pivoting capacity from the universal joints and inclined swivel pins. This results in an average turnifig circle on both locks for the 7-ft.-54-in.-wheelbase vehicle of approximately 31 ft.

The front wheels are carried on double wishbones, with coil springs surrounding telescopic shock absorbers attached to the upper wishbones and abutting on the frame. A simple single-wishbone layout is used for the independently sprung rear wheels, also with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers. Rubber bump stops arc fitted on all wheels. With this arrangement the maximum variation between laden and unladen heights is 2 in.

With an overall length of 13 ft. 51 in. the standard van body. has a capacity of about 60 Cu. ft. A model with a raised roof is also available to give a slightly greater cubic capacity and more headroom for applications such as mobile shops. Other standard variations are a pick-up body with a. canvas tilt and an eight-seater personnel wagon. All versions are stated to have a maximum speed of 56 m.p.h. and a gradient ability of 1 in 5 fully loaded. Laden weight distribution is about 60 per cent. on the front axle and 40 per cent. on the rear axle.

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