5i-ton Semi-trailer has Retractable Wheels
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DELIVERY has recently been taken by the French Air Force of a 5i-ton semi-trailer fitted with four manually operated Deplirei bearers, capable of extending the width of the body from the normal 8 ft. to 14 ft. 9 ins.
En order that the vehicle may be transported by rail, the rear wheels are made retractable to the extent of 1 ft. to bring the overall height to 9 ft. 61 ins. When mounted on a railway wagon; the combined height is less than that of the 'loading gauge of the French railways.
The retracting action is carried out hydraulically, the manually operated lever being at the rear, alongside the crank handle used to extend and withdraw the body sides.
The forccarriage is composed of two like members mounted on the body, so that when it is required to reduce the overall length they can be swung back on to it. Body frame members are of top-hatsection steel and all panelling is of steel, chequered light-alloy plate being employed for the floor.
Access to the body is gained by portable steps which, when not in use, are carried on the inside of the rear door. The gross laden weight of the semi-trailer is 10 tons 16 cwt., so that the unladen weight and payload capacity are similar. ,
The vehicle was built by S. A. Adrazur, Gerinevilliers, and will be used by the French Air Force as a mobile stores unit. Deplirex extension bearers are made in this country by.E. W. Campion and Sons, Ltd., 45, Braunstonc Gate, Leicester.