The Small Star Van.
Page 13
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Another Useful Model for Those Desiring Something Larger than the Parcelcar.
Following the articles which have appeared in recent issues of this journal, and which were intended to point out the field that undoubtedly exists for the five-cwt. light van, we have taken steps to keep our readers informed of the latest developments in this particular branch of the industry.
Another Richmond entered the field one day last week in the form of a. five-cwt. van which has incorporated in its construction the many years' experience of the Star Engineering Co., Ltd., of Wolverhaarrpton. There are no startling departures noticeable on this model, the maker's idea being to produce a reliable and satisfactory vehicle which will not give trouble consequent on departure from already successful standard car practice.
The engine is of 10 h.p. with four cylinders cast en bloc. The cooling is by thermo-syphon, with waterpipes of large diameter. A honeycomb radiator is fitted, and a beltiriven fan_ from the camshaft assists the cooling. The magneto, which is of the Bosch high-tension type, is driven from the camshaft by helical gearing. The lubrication is forced through the crankshaft, which is drilled for this purpose : a White and Poppe automatic carburetter is fitted.
The maker claims that the clutch, which is of the leather-faced cone type, is free from end thrust, and careful attention has been paid to the design with a view to securing this desirable feature. The drive from the dutch to the gearbox is through a rectangular sleeve, which
allows of a certain amount of longitudinal play. Three forward speeds and a reverse are given by the gears, which are provided with gate change, having direct drive on the top speed. The gear and brake control levers are situated inside the cab. The drive from the gears to the differential is by cardan shaft. The steering is of the wormand-wheel type, strongly encased and bolted to the frame. By the adoption of a complete wheel in the place of a segment, wear can be taken up by removing the wheel and turning it on the shaft., thus bringing new teeth into play. A powerful foot brake of the external contracting type is supplied, while two internal expanding brakes, actuated by hand lever, are fitted to the road wheels. The frame of the chassis is of pressed steel, inswept at the front. Artillery wheels are fitted as standard. The wheelbase is 8 ft. 2 in., and the track 4 ft. 3 in.
The Star concern firmly believes in the advantages of a well-turned out body, and the vehicle wide' notice is right in the front line as far as the finish is concerned. A smart panelled body, fitted with a rack on top, and bevelled plateglass windows, gives an air of distinction to the vehicle. A spare wheel is carried on the right-hand footboard, and a hinged driving shield for the driver affords ample protection from the weather. This model should prove worthy of investigation by the small trader whose business consists in the rapid delivery of light and perishable goods, and who desires a smart van which will afford him considerable advertisement. Useful as is the three-wheeled parcelcar, there can be little doubt that the light van is the most-likely business-getter from the advertisement viewpoint.