Overdrive Six-speed Gearbox for Albion
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ANEW six-speed gearbox has been introduced for installation in the Chieftain, Clydesdale, Riever and Victor models manufactured by Albion Motors, Ltd., Scotstoun, Glasgow, WA. The aim is to provide a means for improving fuel economy or, where conditions permit, to enable operators to maintain a higher road speed when running light.
The sixth speed has been obtained by incorporating an overdrive, with a stepup ratio of 1 to 1.13, housed in a casing bolted to the rear of the main gcarcase of the existing Albion five-speed gearbox. It is engaged similarly to the other gears, there being an additional selector fork mounted on the reverse selector spindle. With any given axle ratio the maximum speed will be increased by 30 per cent. under favourable conditions, performance in the normal ratios being unaffected.
Improved fuel consumption of about 10 per cent. on a vehicle fitted with the new gearbox is obtained when driving at the same average road speed as with a normal five-speed gearbox, say the makers. If, however, the maximumspeed capabilities are used to the full at all times, no great benefit to fuel economy can be expected. Nevertheless, the overdrive ratio is of advantage when returning empty or running with light loads. always provided that the average speed is not greatly increased.
The new six-speed gearbox is available as an alternative to the five-speed gearbox for an extra charge of under 4:20, inclusive of purchase tax. Conversion of five-speed gearboxes at present in service is under investigation. Interested operators should contact their nearest Albion service depot for particulars.