OVERCOMING CARBURETTER DIFFICULTIES WHEN USING GAS.
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In an article which we recently published in our pages we made reference to the wear of the carburetter float and needle with an empty float chamber when an engine is running en coal-gas. This disability can be completely overcome, we are given to understand, by a method which has been devised by the general manager of the Potteries Electric Traction Co., LW., of Stoke-on-Trent, for cutting off the supply of petrol when it is
desired to use coal gas by means of the needle valve' itself.
This device was primarily fitted to enable a change over from gas to petrol or vice versa tG be made from the driver's seat, the arrangements of the petrol tank and pipes on th 110 h.p. Daimler, the type .o? vehicle to which the conversion was made, being such that a petrol cock could net be fitted within reach of the driver without, considerable alterations. As will be seen from the sketch we reproduce herewjth, the petrol supply is shut off by using .a Bowden wire controlled rubber pad to press down the needle valve on its seat. By this means both the petrol and gas supply is under the immediate control of the 'driver, and the needle valve is also held firm, thus preventing any damage •being caused by hammering Wfnen the float chamber is empty. The • illustration is practically self-explanatory and it will be observed that the fitting has been adapted from a' Bowden inagneto control, the only additional parts being the plunger piece -fitted with rubber pad and the 'guide which is fitted to keep the plunger always central over the needle.
The device has been in use on several ma.chinei for upwards of nine months with very satisfactory results. The idea is certainly a commendable one.
A Dope for Gas Bags.
We have recently received a sample o0 a dope for gas bags which is being marketed by Mr. M. R. Brims, of Swan Rubber Works, 21., The Square, Isleworth, under the name of S.alvox. Most of our readers who have followed the trend of events in so far as the flexible gas container is concerned will be aware that it increases in its permeability to gason exposure to light and air, and, although when new, the diffusion of gas is about,6-10 litres per meter square (about O15 to 0.2 cubic ft. per square ft.) this permeability is not long maintained ender normal running conditions.
It has been found ,after prolonged experience that the gas tightness of holders after some four to six months wear and tear becomes a doubtful point, and that after about .:eight 'months continuous usage the permeability becomes so pronounced as to render the container of relatively ,little value for its purpose. This permeability anionnts in some cases to as muck as 1 cubic ft. per unit area. Salvox is sold packed in tills, and is made in three colours; the price being 35s. per taree-cluarter gallon.