Thornycroft Trusty 8-tonner Improved
Page 49
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Q INCE it was introduced, towards
the end of 1934, the Trusty 8tonner, made by John I. Thornycroft and Co., Ltd., Basingstoke, has been modified in a number of respects. As a result of a short run on this vehicle, last week, and a careful study of its consttuction and specification, we have formed a high opinion of it. The chief modifications are a reduction in weight and an increase in the outputs of the various power units offered. Furthermore, the machine is now available with either forward or normal control. These two types can be supplied with either petrol or off engines ; in each case, four or six cylinders may be specified. There is also a choice of two wheelbase lengths. Thus, altogether, there are 16 models in the Trusty range. Full particulars, including prices of them all, are set out in a data sheet that has just been published by the maker.
The model illustrated on this page is the long-wheelbase (15-ft. 3-in.) four-cylinder petrol machine, which has a platform measuring 21 ft. In chassis form, it weighs 3 tons 4 cwt For our brief test, we took it up Highgate Hill, the major part of which it climbed in second gear at about 10 m.p.h. On reaching the steepest portion (about 1 in Si), however, the speed fell to 6 m.p.h., necessitating a change to first gear. Using this ratio (42.3 to 1) there was plenty of power in hand. It is worthy of record that, when ascending the moderate slope of Holloway Road, top gear sufficed.
With a bore and stroke of 111 mm. and 133.4 mm. respectively (5.173 litres), the engine, in its latest form, develops 74 blip. Despite this high efficiency, it is commendably silent, the noise in the cab being definitely less than many other vehicles we have tested, with similar types of power unit. The chassis price of this model (PE/AC4) is £765.