Building Bodies from Standard Sections
Page 53
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
IN a new design of body built by 1 Holmes (Preston), Ltd., Preston, Lanes, the object has been to reduce the number of component parts and to eliminate the use of timber. The lightalloy extruded sections, which are to the bodybuilder's own design, are somewhat deeper and stronger than those usually adopted. The crossmembers, for example, are 4 ins. by 2 ins, by 4 in., the other components being propottionately robust.
Nevertheless, a standard platformtype of body to the Holmes design, as fitted to a Seddon 7-ton chassis, keeps the vehicle within the 3-ton unladenweight category. The special alloy used is not subject to corrosion, and in the sections employed is capable of withstanding 100 per cent. overload.
There are no welded joints in the structure, all members being bolted together with high-tensile cadmiumtreated steel bolts and Simmond's locknuts. . Extruded sections are also used for the platform, of which three types are available, all having no-slip surfaces. One is of a plain, interlocked pattern, another takes an interlocked serrated
form, whilst the third is of wide corrugated section to take wood inserts.
All types of platform are waterproof in that water cannot percolate through the joints, and they can be cleaned with a jet of steam without ill effect.
Although a Holmes body costs more than one of normal construction, this is offset by the reduced weight which permits of bigger payloads being carried, longer life, and a higher value when the body is finally scrapped.
The design has been studied with an eye to the export market, and all sections can be packed in cases measuring 18 ins. square, the length being according to the body dimensions. A standard truck body, delivered c.k.d. can be unpacked and assembled in four hours.