Tidd build open-top Strongbox
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AN OPEN top version of the Tidd Strongbox van body, which is able to be loaded by crane from the top, as well as in the normal way through the rear doors, has been developed by H Tidd and Son Ltd.
The first open top Strongbox has been built as a removable body for use with a skeletal semi-trailer. The vehicle has been delivered to H. G. Brown and Son International Trucking of Leighton Buzzard for use between Britain and the Middle East. The tri-axled trailer has been modified by the operator to carry the body. The modifications include provision for carrying extra fuel and water, and mechanical spares for use in remote areas.
The body is built using onepiece side* and front-end panels and rear doors of Glasonit plywood-core reinforced plastics sandwich. The van is topped with a removable pvc sheet, laced all the way round the body at the top.
The top sheet rests on steel roof-bows at 60cm (2ft) intervals, which steady the open top of the body. The roof-bows can be lifted off during top loading or unhooked at one side and swung over.
The trailer chassis is a Thompson Trailmobile running on a tri-axle bogie with twinned 9.00-20 tyres.