Short or Long Distance by Changing Wheels
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THE Karrier Bantam 2-3-tonner, powered hy the Rootes light-oiL engine, is capable of a range of performances which can be selected merely by altering the tyre sizes.
With the standard 6.57 to 1 rear axle ratio and 25 by 6-in. tyres, the maximum road speed is approximately 36 m.p.h., when the vehicle is eminently suitable for shortand medium-distance operation.
By altering the tyre size to 27 by 6 in., however, and retaining the standard rear-axle ratio, maximum speed becomes 38.75 m.p.h. Carrying the modification a stage farther by using 6.50-20 equipment, the safe maximum speed can be Increased to 45 m.p.h.
The advantages of this multipurpose feature have been appreciated by Manton Motors, Ltd., Shirley Road, Croydon, Surrey, when supplying a series of Karrier Bantams to Hadflelds (Merton), Ltd., Mitcham, Surrey.
The vans can now be used economically for shortor long-distance deliveries.
The only problem which confronted the bodybuilders, Superline Bodies, Ltd., Sugarhouse Lane, Stratford, London, E.15, concerned the provision of sufficient wheel-arch clearance for the largestsection tyres: this was not insuperable.
Measuring 10 ft. by 6 ft. by 6 ft., the body has an ash frame panelled in aluminium-faced Plymax. The radiused portion of the roof is also of aluminium, with a centre panel of glass fibre. Up to waist-rail level, the interior is match lined, with slatting to the roof. The wheel-boxes are square and the floor has mild-steel plates to assist in loading and to resist wear of the flooring.
A full-length roller shutter encloses the rear of the body. Tail lamp and number plate are recessed to protect them from damage. The finish is in bright yellow, with black lettering shaded in white.