Dennis Compete in 7-8-ton Class
Page 25
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Z.-I A NEW Dennis Centaur for 7-8-ton
loads is now being produced with a 51-litre oil engine and five-speed constant-mesh gearbox, having singlehelical gears. It is equipped with 9.0020-in. 12-ply tyres, but to give maximum performance is rated for a gross vehicle weight of 11.1 tons. As a complete chassis of 13-ft. 6in. wheelbase, it weighs 3 tons 3.l cwt. A six-wheeled version with twin-axle steering is also being made.
The new Dennis 51-litre engine is similar in design to the former six cylindered 5-litre unit, but the bore is increased to 112 mm. and output is raised to 87 b.h.p. at 2,700 r.p.m. Maximum torque, 242 lb.-ft,, is yielded at 1,000 r.p.m.
The gearbox and single-platedry clutch are attached as a unit with the engine and the remote-control selector is bolted to the side of the crankcase to give full-forward control. An Eaton two-speed axle with optional ratios is fitted as standard, the normal ratios being 5.62 and 7.81 to I.
A composite-construction cab is available, which permits an 18-ft.-long body to be employed.
In an independent test by The Conunercial Motor, the Centaur afforded a fuel return of 161 m.p.g. when operating at 12 tons gross vehicle weight.