New Low-frame Guy Arab Chassis
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THE latest version of the .Guy Arab 1. double-decker bus chassis, the Mark V model, has a modified frame design to permit the use of a lower floor level. With forward-entrance bodywork. this is claimed to make possible the use of only two steps of normal height to gain access to the interior. The main portion of the side-members has been lowered 21 in., as compared to the existing Mark IV model, giving a laden frame height of 1 ft. 91 in. This is only about 3 to 4 in. higher than the various low-floor double-decker models of unorthodox layout, yet the Arab V is otherwise entirely conventional in design.
The main mechanical Units are those used on the present Mark IV model. The standard engine is the Gardner 6LW unit, although the 6LX and, in certain cases, the 5LW engine of the same make are offered as alternatives. The front engine mounting continues to be of the two-point type incorporating inwardly inclined bonded rubber sandwich blocks. At the rear, a system similar tf) that used on the Invincible goods models has now been adopted. This 'incorporates large bonded rubber bushes mounted one at each side of the flywheel. housing, with a stout tubular cross-member passing through them.
Transmission alternatives are a singleplate clutch and four-speed constantmesh gearbox or fluid flywheel and four'speed direct-acting air-operated epicyclici gearbox giving two-pedal control. In both cases the gearbox continues to be mounted amidships.
The rear axle is an underslung worm driven unit, with worm centres. whilst the front axle is an 1-section beam Unit with 21-in.-dia. stub axles. Read
springs 4 in. wide are used for both axles in conjunction with telescopic dampers.
The air-pressure braking system incorporates diaphragm brake chambers its place of the cylinders used on the Arab IV.
The new side members are :10* deep, in. thick and have 2a-in.-wide flanges at the point of maximum section. They terminate just behind the rearmost spring shackles, but dropped or straight extensions can be provided.
The wheelbase of the Arab V is 18 ft. 6 in. and the chassis is being offered in a form suitable for vehicles of approximately 30 ft. overall length only. Among the optional extras are automatic chassis lubrication and 24-volt A.C. electrical equipment.
The Arab V is going into production later this year and an example for Wolverhampton Corporation is to be exhibited at the Commercial Motor Show at Earls Court in September. The new model is of particular interest as it is the first to be announced by Guy Motors -(Europe), Ltd., since the take-over by Jaguar Cars, Ltd. The Wulfrunian is not being displaced by the Arab V. which has been developed in response to continuing demand for a doubledecker chassis of orthodox layout.
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