New Automatic Couplings for 6-12-Tonners
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NCORPORATING all the refinements introduced on I the I-type semi-trailer coupling over the past 13 years. the • 6-type now being produced by Hands (Letchworth), Ltd., is simple, robust and efficient.
Suitable for mounting directly on to the drop frames of tractors designed for Scammell couplings and capable of modification t4,3 fit many other tractors with straight frames, the coupling will pick up semi-trailers fitted with forecarriages of Takers, Brockhouse, Scammell and Commer manufacture, in addition to the Hands model specifically designed for this application.
The ramps on the tractor unit are backed under the rollers on the forecarriage, which enter into two substantial forks pivoted to clamp the rollers against curved rubber buffers. The forks are automatically locked in position by triggers heldin place by two springs in compression. Release is effected from the cab by hand lever, or, if preferred, by a vacuum or hydraulic system.
Semi-trailer braking is effected through the king-pin. A u24 • feature of all Hands couplings is that with either air-pressure or vacuum systems a separate control for the semi-trailer brakes is provided as standard equipment, a Clayton semi-trailer brake valve being mounted on the steering column for the hand.
The coupling is produced in two sizes, one for 6-8-10-ton semi-trailers and a heavier model for 12-tonners. It allows the use of 8.25 by 20-in. tyres and permits an imposed load of a tons on the tractor coupling gear.