Oldsmobile Lorries for the British Market
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.SO long ago as the end of the past century the name Oldsmobile Was prominent in the automobile world, as it then existed. The Oldsmobile coin mercia,1 vehicle, however, is a comparatively recent introduction, and we now announce. that the make has been introduced to this country.
Manufactured by the Genera! Motors concern, it is being marketed here by Oldsmobile Distributors, Ltd., 5, Lower Marsh, London, S.E.1. The range comprises a 3-tonner and a 21tonner, both of which are available in two wheelbase lengths. All are guaranteed to carry a 50-per-cent. overload.
The larger-capacity chassis, with I31-in, wheelbase, costs £299. It has auxiliary springs and 32 by 6 N.D. tyres. Similarly equipped, but with a wheelbase of 157 ins., the price is £315. Shod with 32 by 6 T.T. tyres, the 131-in. 21-ton chassis sells at £269, whilst for the corresponding 157-in, model the figure is £285. The price of the standard de luxe cab is £30 on all models.
Attractive Appearance.
ew will dispute that the frontal aspect of the Oldsmobile is both pleasing and striking. A good impression of its appearance is afforded by an accompanying illustration. A cursory examination of the chassis and a brief study of the main points in the specification, which, in the main, is common to all models, will reveal that in construction and design also the vehicle ranks high.
Developing 84 b.h.p. at 3,500 r.p.m. and exerting a torque of 152 lb. ft, at 1,200 r.p.m. to 2,500 r.p.m., the engine is a six-cylindered unit, having side valves and bore and stroke dimensions of respectively 3* ins. and 41 ins. (213,3 cubic ins.).
The counterweighted crankshaft runs in four main bearings and incorporates an harmonic balancer, whilst the engine B26 is mounted at three points on rubber. A clowndraught carburetter with large air filter and automatic heat control is employed. "
Power is transmitted through a cushion-type single-plate 'clutch to a sour-speed gearbox, equipped for the addition of a power-take-off. Thence it is conveyed by an enclosed propeller shaft, through a spiral-bevel final drive to fully floating half shafts. The overall ratios afforded are approximately 39, 19, 9.3 and 5.4 to 1, whilst an alternative bevel gear, giving a ratio of 6.2 to 1, is available.
Braced by alligator-jaw-type crossmembers, the frame is sturdy and its side members measure 7 ins, in depth at the points of maximum• section.
Hydraulic brakes are used, the front drums being 14 ins, in diameter with 2-in, shoes, and those at the rear having a diameter of 16 ins., the shoewidth, in this case, being 3 ins. Semireversible worm and sector steering is employed; the turning circles for the long and short chassis respectively are stated to be 57 ft. and 50.6 ft. Equipment is comprehensive, the electrical system operating at 6 volts.
The body space, measured from the back of the cab to the rear of the frame, afforded by the 157-in, models is 9 ft. 41 ins., and by the 131-in. models, 7 ft. 21 ins. Complete with cab the largest model weighs approximately 34 cwt.
Accommodation is afforded for three persons in the cab, the seat being adjustable and well upholstered. Under it is the fuel tank, with accessible filler at the end. All the usual instruments are included in the facia-panel equipment, and on the near side of the dashboard there is a cubby-hole provided with a door.
To ensure rigidity of the front wings, radiator shell, headlamps, etc., a system of bracing is employed, by which these parts are securely supported, and thus protected from the damaging effects of strains and twists in hard service.
Double-acting shock absorbers are offered as an extra.