Some Notes From the Army Cross-country Trials.
Page 49
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ITN our report of the recent trials of cross-country vehieles tractors carried out by the Army over the Tank Corps test ground, we made reference to an interesting form of ground anchor which is being used by the Hathi tractor,and promised to give further details of this interesting device, which might prove serviceable in connection with other forms of transport or wherever an effective anchor of this nature is required.
The anchor is laid down in sections of any length necessary to give the requisite security. In fixing it, two pointed iron bars are first driven into the ground so that they lean backwards at a slight angle. Over each of these is passed a triangulated plate, and through the extreme end of each of these plates is passed a second bar, also driven into the ground, this procedure being carried op until four or more plates and bars are in position at each side, the two sections being parallel with each other. To the foremost pair of bars, and close to the ground, is attached a triangulated member to take the pull, which is, of course, transmitted throughout
the whole anchor, which for its strength is extremely light.
Such a device as this can be employed even in the softest ground, and, as we pointed out, it was through the meilium of this anchor that the Hathi tractor was able to winch itself through very soft, boggy ground.
We also drew attention in our article to the way in which a six-wheeler, if driven direct into a narrow trench with a vertical, or very soft, opposing face, sometimes stubs its front wheels into this face, thereby stalling the vehicle, and we reproduce here a photograph which shows the exact way in which this happens. • This emphasizes the need for great caution in crossing such ditches or small trenches, which should always be taken at a good angle, as this may prevent such an occurrence.
It also emphasizes our remarks recently given in an editorial as to the advantage of providing front-wheel drive for special machines of this type intended for cross-country service, although such drive would, of course, not be required on ordinary roads.