Economical Transport for Shop Fittings
Page 43
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
k PETROL-CONSUMPTION rate of
m.p.g. and no apparent tyre ear after 16,000 miles are the record ' a Morris-Commelicial FV petroltgined 5-ton chassis with Luton body, riployed by Harris and Sheldon, Ltd., opfitters, Stafford Street, Birmingham. le favourable consumption is credited part to the use of an auxiliary two= zed gearbox giving an overdrive ratio, ich is particularly advantageous when ming light on return journeys. The erage length of the runs is 180 miles. Fitted with a Baico extension, the tssis has a 7 ngth of 22 ft. 6 in.
behind the cab, which has enabled a body of l,400-cu.-ft. capacity to be used. It was built by Thomas Startin Jnr., Ltd., 71 Aston Road North, Birmingham, 6, and has a hardwood frame panelled in aluminium.
Modifications to the chassis included the !fitting of a 15-gallon petrol tank on each side, a two-way valve being provided in the feed line for the changeover, and a switch on the instrument panel for connecting the fuel gauge to the tank in use. The battery box is situated in an easily accessible position on the off side. The rivets of 1he front cross-member have been replaced by bolts to enable the engine to be withdrawn from the front when dismantling.
Girling opposed-piston shock absorbers fitted at the rear give a particularly smooth ride. This is important, as many of the counters, shop-front fittings, display stands and so on carried arc highly polished and must be protected from the effects of movement and vibration. The steering characteristics are also praiseworthy. A Lockheed Hydrovac has reduced braking effort.
Body fittings include a roller shutter which is actuated by two side drums situated some distance from the end. In the "raised " position, the shutter lies horizontally under the roof and occupies the minimum of space. With the conventional type of roller the loading height would be substantially reduced.
The Luton head has been designed to accommodate a standard shop counter. A Perspex forward roof panel increases daylight . illumination for loading, whilst at night two interior rear side lights connected to the mains supplement the illumination from central lights supplied by the vehicle battery. Twin tail lights are fitted and there are reflectors on the sides of the van to aid drivers of other vehicles maneenvring in the vicinity.
Cab equipment includes a Smith's recirculatory heater, a radio set and a passenger seat wide enough for two people. The driver's seat is fully adjustable