A Driver-c--Ittrolled Heavy Wagon Scotch.
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We have received particulars and photographs, reproduced herewith, of an ingeniously-designed rolling scotch which has been fitted to the steam wagons belonging to a Leicester firm of brewers. As will be seen from the photographs, the appliance is of simple construction, and we are told that in service it has proved to be extremely effective. There is no doubt that some such device is greatly needed on heavy wagons which are called upon to traverse rough and hilly country, As is rightly pointed out in the particulars sent to us, the W.O. subsidy scheme specifies that sprags shall be fitted to subsidized vehicles, and should this practice be generally followed, and the sprags used when gear-changing on inclines, the condition of the roads would in a very few months indeed be a subject a mention.
A Driver's Idea.
Some two years ago, the driver of a steam wagon in the employ of a brewing firm reported to his garage foreman that the driving chain on the wagon was showing signs of
wear. The head of the firm at once gave instructions to replace the worn chain, and suggested at the same time that some kind of scotch should be made and fitted, which would always be to hand in case of need. ' The appliance described here was eventually evolved. At times, the usual brakes are insufficient to hold a heavily-laden char-h-bancs or wagon, if it happen to move backwards when out of gear, or standing on a steep hill, or in the event of the driver's failing to change gear pro
perly. Of course, a smart driver may change gear on a steep hill with perfect safety, and without any sprag fitted. The scotch will save him if he happen to miss.
Easily Operated.
The appliance under notice possesses quite a good feature, inasmuch as it can be put into operation before the vehicle starts to run backwards. We are told that drivers of wagons on which the scotch is fitted are not afraid to take out the pin even on the steepest hills ; they trust entirely to the scotch holding the wagon in posi tion. The roller, of course, does not damage the ground to any appreciable extent. The handle control is conveniently situated for the driver, and the scotch can be dropped whenever an incline is being approached. It is held by two chains clipped to side lugs. The scotch can then be lifted when the top of a hill has been reached without stopping the wagon or causing inconveiet nee to the driver.
Cheaply Made.
It is also something of a timesaver, as it dispenses with the necessity for the driver's mate to get off the wagon and place the scotch in position before changing the gears ; there is no danger of leaving the scotch behind on the road. The small winch and the wire cable running round the pulley and under the platform can be obtained from any tool-maker's or engineer's stores, or they can quickly be knocked together in the repair shop by a mechanic.
Full particulars of this interesting device can be obtained from Shouler, Princess Road, Leicester.