Diverse Activities of a Prominent Concern
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WlTH such a diversity of activities, it is hardly surprising that Hamilton Motors (London), Ltd., 466-990, Edgware Road, London, W.2, recently found it necessary to enlarge its premises. Although specializing in the sale of new and reconditioned Bedfords, the company handles numerous other makes, mainly machines within the 3-ton limit, or rigid and articulated conversions having, as their bases, chassis in this class.
General repair work, overhauling second-hand machines, bodybuilding, the production of the Theed tipping and servo-brake gear and of forwardcontrol conversions constitute its main engineering business on the commercial side, and, in addition to the Edgware Road premises, the company has works at Willesden, whbre bodybuilding, welding and machining operations are' carried out.
Completed some two months ago, the new showrooms and repair shops, which adjoin the concern's original headquarters, have a frontage of 100 ft., bringing the total up to about 160 ft. and extend rearwards 115 They are used exclusively for commercial vehicles. The showroom accommodates approximately 40 machines and occupies about half the space, whilst behind it is the repair shop.
The syatem of reconditioning all used machines taken in part exchange seems to leave little to chance. The member of the staff responsible carries out a test and examination of the machine when it comes in. noting his observations on a card against the components named. Unless the test arouses his 3342 suspicion of a major part, it will' not be dismantled, but if he detects the smallest symptom of a fault the investigation will be pursued further.
Every entry made on the form constitutes a job which is carried out before the vehicle is sold. Body repairs, repainting, etc., are, of course, included, and as a general rule new tyres are fitted.
The system appears a thoroughly practical one. Furthermore, it affords a valuable record of what has been done to the vehicle.
Nearly two years ago the company introduced its now well-known Hamiathan body, but in its present form it embodies many improvements upon the
original design. Although 8 ft. 6 ins. high, 7 ft. 2 ins, wide, 15 ft. long behind the driver's cab, with a 4-ft. 6-in, extension over the cab, this large body can be mounted on a Bedford 2-ton chassis converted to forward control, to produce a van having a capacity approaching 900 cubic ft. and weighing less than 2 tons 10 cwt.
The success these bodies have encountered in service is sufficient proof of the material and workmanship put into them, and that strength has not been sacrificed to lightness.
The framework is built of ash and oak throughout, and the side panelling is entirely of Plymax. The complete van costs £425.