Four-wheel-steered Version of Dennis Centaur
Page 56
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
TO keep handling costs at the lowest level, Shell-Mex and B.P., Ltd., arc streamlining the pattern of their distribution facilities. The focal points of the distributive network are the new refineries built since the war by the Shell ' and Anglo-Iranian groups at strategic points in Britain.
Fewer, but better-equipped. intermediate depots are envisaged, and road tankers of the largest types permitted are being introduced to carry out the " big-drop " policy.
The smaller vehicles formerly used are being replaced by 2,000-gallon tankers, with larger vehicles up to the new maximum of 4,000 gallons for bridging and bulk distribution.
A most useful type of outfit is the articulated vehicle carrying a 2,000gallon tank. As the motive units are independent of the tank units, the maximum use can be made of them.
The overall size of these articulated vehicles does not, however, suit all circumstances, and this has led to the development of a rigid vehicle of 2,000-gallon capacity based on a Dennis Centaur chassis. Because a fully laden 2,000-gallon petroleum tanker would exceed the permitted 12 tons for a four-wheeler, it was decided to convert the chassis to a six-wheeler with two steering axles at the front. As the chassis was being built for a specific purpose it was possible to arrange that the axles took the exact weight required. This has resulted in a vehicle which is compact, highly manceuvrable and possessing excellent traction characteristics.
The first Dennis Centaur of this type has just completed 20,000 miles and a number of others is now being put into service.