New Dodge Range, Despite the War
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Models Ranging from 11 to 6formers. Diagonally Braced Frames, LockheedGirling Brakes, Hypoid
Rear. Axles
LONG awaited, the new range of Dodge models, which was to have made its appearance last September, has now arrived. Operators and distributors using or handling Dodge vehicles, or contemplating doing so, should not be disappointed in their anticipations, for the new range is comprehensive in its scope and the models incorporate many major advances.
Notable among these are the inclusion in the specifications of Bishop cam steering, new front and rear axles, Lockheed-operated Girling two-leading shoe brakes, frame's with triangular bracing and hypoid-gear rear axles.
The range comprises five models, from l to 6-tonners, certain of them being offered with a choice of wheelbase lengths. Here are the basic types, distinguished by their pay-load ratings, with their maximum gross-weight limits, standard tyre sizes and chassis prices:— 14-2-tonner, 4 tons, 32 by 6 T.T., £247; 2-3-tonner, 5 tons 10 cwt. (short), 5 tons 13 cwt. (long), 20 by 6 front, 32 by 6 T.T. rear, £262; 3-4-tonner, 7 tons 12 cwt. (short, medium and long), 6 tons 15 cwt. (very long), 32 by 6 H.D., £302; 5-tonner, 8 tons 15 cwt., 32 by 6 H.D. front, 34 by 7 rear, £337; 6-tonner, named "Major," 9 tons 5 cwt., 34 by 7, £405. The wheelbase dimensions of the 3-4-tonner are 112 ins., 124 ins., 162 ins. and 168 ins.
The Dodge l5-cwt. and 25-cwt, models will continue to he produced unchanged.
Probably, chief interest attaches to the 6-tonner, as it is the largest model ever produced by Dodge Bros. (Britain), Ltd., Mortlake Road, Kew Gardens, Surrey. It will make special appeal to the sand and gravel-haulage industry, in which this make of lorry enjoys a marked measure of popularity.
Robustly built, yet not unduly heavy, the Major is available in two wheelbase lengths. Semi-forward control gives good load distribution and its performance is enhanced by the standardization of a five-speed gearbox.
On this model Bishop cam-and-lever steering gear replaces the worm-and-sector type formerly used, and a new brake system is now standardized. Application is by Lockheed hydraulic means, and the front shoe assemblies are Lockheeds, whilst at the rear Girling two-leading-shoe mechanism is employed, the actuating cylinders being external and transversely positioned. Another new braking -feature is a redesigned and more efficient hand-brake linkage. The rear drums measure 16 ins, by 3 ins. Both axles are of new type, being stronger than formerly. This also applies to the 5-ton and 3-4-ton models. With regard to the hypoid final drive, used on these two chassis, this brings several advantages in its train. Compared with a bevel gear, larger tooth contact area is obtained and the action of the pinion and crown wheel is to improve tooth contour, thus tending to lengthen the lives of the parts. Further, a larger pinion and shaft can be used.
By the new frame design a material increase of strength is afforded, and the triangulated cross bracing minimizes distortion.
To the engine a number of minor but important improvements has been effected, notably the use of high-lift cams, giving a bigger power output. Such features as full-length water jackets, hardened steel exhaust-valve seating inserts. and special exhaust-valve cooling are retained.
The new steering and braking gears are also incorporated in the 5-tonner, the 3-4-ton model, the 2-3-tonner and the 14-2-ton chassis.
By reason of the choice of wheelbase offered, the Dodge 2-3-ton machine is suitable for a variety of body types from tippers to pantechnicons. High-speed, general " nippiness " and low operating cost are special attractions of the smallest model in the new range.
With regard to external appearance, there are no outstanding changes. The radiator grille, however, is of a new design. Formerly, all the bars were vertical, but now a combination of vertical and lateral bars is used. Production, we understand, is now getting into full swing and deliveries are already being made to Dodge distributors.