Cranes to Build Van Semi-trailers k SERIES of new 10and 12-ton
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van semi-trailers has been developed by Cranes (Dereham), Ltd. The name Space Van has been adopted, and the semi-trailers—which are scheduled for production in the near future—are to be offered in four different lengths ranging from 21 ft. 6 in. to 27 ft. 6 in.
The new design has a separate chassis frame, in which respect it contrasts with several recently introduced integral designs.
One particular advantage of . the separate frame, however, is that in the event of an accident a badly damaged body can be removed easily and a new body fitted within a few hours.
A chassis assembly similar to that used in other Crane trailers has been adopted. The frame has pressed-channel side members, and the cross-members are bolted in position. Either automatic or S.A.E./S.M.M.T. fifth-wheel coupling gears may be fitted, and when the latter type of coupling is used vertical landing gear with either wheels or feet is fitted. The body undcrframe comprises 4-in.deep light-alloy cross-bearers, supported by outrigger brackets, to which the alllight-alloy body assembly is bolted. A choice of floorings is offered, including aluminium-alloy planking, 14-in.-thick hardwood, or 11-in. hardwood covered with aluminium alloy chequer plate. The aluminium panels are left unpainted, but steel components, such as the mudguards. are finished in primer.
Up to 1,446-cm-ft. Capacity
The body has an interior width of 7 ft. 2 in. and an interior height of 7 ft. 6 in.. and the cubic capacity ranges from 1,124 to 1,446 cu. ft. according to length. Because the rear portion is heavily reinforced the doorway width is 7 ft. 14 in.
On 10-ton models Gilding 571 x 41. twoleading-shoe brakes are fitted, whilst 12-tanners have 51 x 6 brakes of the same make. Standard trailers have vacuum brakes, but air-pressure equipment can be supplied. As an alternative to the standard Crane-patented progressivebumper type suspension, in which the spring ends work in specially designed shoes, Crane Airtrail air-suspension is offered.
Standard tyres are 8.25-20-in. Michelin ' X " or 14-ply on 10-tonners, and 9.0020-in. Michelin " X " or equivalent on 12-ton models. In each case 6.00-20-in. 8-stud wheels are employed.
LORD BRABAZON HONOURED
ORD BRABAZON OF TARA, during Li a recent visit to the Mercedes factory at Stuttgart, was presented with a bronze model of the 300 SLR which has had a most successful racing career. This is the first time such a presentation has been made at Stuttgart to any guest other than a' reigning monarch or Head of State.
Lord Brabazon, who is 76, went to Germany, for the first time, as chairman of Mercedes-Benz in Britain. While at Stuttgart he took the wheel of a sports model on the test track.
BRAKE FACTORY VISIT
THE Manchester and District Centre of the Institute of Road Transport Engineers are to visit the works of British Belting and Asbestos, Ltd., Cleckheaton. Yorks, on April 13.