New American Fords Have Tilting Cabs
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POSSIBLY indicating design trends to I be followed by the organinition's British counterparts, a new range of goods vehicles has been introduced by the Ford Motor Co., Dearborn, Michigan, U.S.A. All forward-control models have cabs which may be tilted forward to give easy access to the engine. Clutches are hydraulically. operated, and five-speed gearboxes have
synchromesh on four forward ratios,' compared with two on previous types.
A fully automatic transmission with six forward ratios is to be offered in May. It will be known as the Transmatic. Power output of six-eylindered and V8 engines has been raised "to help truck operators stay abreast of modern traffic flow." Detail improvements include the use of self-locking tappet-adjusting screws which eliminate need for lock nuts, and require only one spanner for resetting.
An air cleaner with a dry cellulose fibre element has been introduced. The element can be cleaned by tapping the cleaner on a firm surface. New fourbarrel carburetters and combustion chambers redesigned to provide high turbulence are other features. The compression 'ratio of smaller engines has been raised to 8:3 to I, that of bigger units being 7.6 to I.
There is a choice of four basic engines with 27 individual variations. Outputs range from 139 b.h.p. at 4,200 r.p.m. to 212 b.h.p. at 3,800 r.p.m. Three .different types of 10-cwt. pick-up are
offered. These have wider bodywork than former models. Ground clearance has been raised, although loading height has been reduced.
Three types of van and nine series of normalcontrol chassis for gross loads ranging from 2-13 tons are being produced. Six series of forwardcontrol chassis have gross weight ratings of 8-14 tons. Heavier types are available with the choice of four or five wheelbase lengths.
Cabs have been designed to enhance the comfort of the driver. They now have wrap-round windscreens, windscreen washers and large rear-view mirrors. Accessories include seat safety belts, fresh-air heaters and radio sets with transistor power units. Pedals are of the pendant type, and the gear level is on the steering column.
Two long-wheelbase normal-control chassis can accommodate 66-seat schoolbus bodywork. The new range was intended to be introduced in 1958, but, it is stated, $5m. was spent to reduce development time by a year.