The James Handyvan Range Improved
Page 36
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SINCE we last described the range of James Handyvans, a number of important improvements has been incorporated in the chassis and bodywork of the 8-cwt. model. We are also able to illustrate, for the first time, an attractive open truck based on the 12cwt. model The most striking modification in the smaller machine is the greatly improved lines of the body, which now conforms with modern ideas. Instead of a square-shaped container the panelling is curved attractively at the sides, swept cant-rails and a rounded rear panel forming a shapely ensemble.
Greatly Improved Appearance.
As will he seen from the accompanying illustrations the waist rail is swept downwards from the front, as are also the tops of the doors to the driving compartment; at the rear of the body large celluloid windows are now provided giving a good view rearwards. In passing, it might be mentioned that above each of these rear windows is a ventilator. The swept cant-rail runs forward to a point very little higher than the top of the screen rail, a fact which represents a marked improvement in appearance.
By increasing the rear-wheel track from 3 ft. 10 ins. to 4 ft., it has been possible to increase the capacity of the body, despite the fact that rounded contours naturally cut into the loading space to a, slight extent. Actually, the floor is now 3 ins, wider, the capacity being 75 cubic ft. instead of 70 cubic ft. as in the earlier types. The length of the body behind the driver's seat is 4 ft. 10 ins. and the height 3 ft. 11 ins.
Whilst the general disposition of the main components in the driving compartment remains unaltered, it is noteworthy that the cowling over the engine and transmission is now much easier to remove. Four quick-action bonnet clips are employed on each side to hold the cowls in position, and it is a matter of only a few moments to remove them. It may be added that a starter for the engine and a speedometer are standard items of equipment, as is also a damper for the faint fork. • PreSsed-steel spoked wheels are now B26 used to cut down weight and to reduce the effect of a side wind on the steer ing. The new model is priced at £106 10s., and a choice of three colours is given.
It will be recalled that the specification of this model embraces an aircooled twin-cylindered engine having a capacity of 1,098 c.c., a single-plate clutch, a three-speed-and-reverse gearbox and a semi-floating rear axle of the spiral-bevel type. Side steering is provided through the medium of a wheel and appropriate gearing, whilst internal-expanding fully compensated brakes are applied either by pedal or lever. With the standard bodies both the van and the open models weigh less than 8 cwt., so that they come within the £4 tax range.
The controls are well arranged, the gear and brake levers being centrally disposed. Ample leg room is available, and full protection is afforded by strong detachable side curtains.
A Neat 12-cwt. Open Truck.
The body of the 12-cwt. open truck is 5 ft. 5 ins, long and 4 ft. wide, whilst the height of the sides above the platform is 1 ft. 7 ins. The side panels are carried well below the floor level and a drop tailboard gives easy access to the load. Although panelled throughout, the body is lined with matchboarding to protect the sides, whilst a well-supported floor of Fin. tongued-and-grooved boards enables a concentrated load to be carried without damage. The price of this model has been fixed at £126 10s. and the Mi. is £10.
This business-like truck, is of a tYPe that is specially suitable for certain trades,'