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Spring-mounted steel cab

5th April 1968, Page 54
5th April 1968
Page 54
Page 54, 5th April 1968 — Spring-mounted steel cab
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for Fodens by R. D. Cater

• As an alternative to the reinforced plastics cabs offered on its vehicles since 1958, Fodens Ltd. has now introduced an all-steel cab based on a revised Motor Panels Ltd. unit used by another manufacturer.

The generous dimensions of 6ft 2in. from front panel to back panel and 8ft 2.5in. overall width have resulted in a much better spaced control layout than hitherto.

A most significant feature of the new design is that it has full suspension mountings giving approximately 1.5in. of vertical movement, but it does not tilt. Front mountings comprise bonded conical rubber units providing for a degree of articulation between what is an extremely rigid box section and the vehicle chassis. The rear mountings comprise hydraulically damped coil-springs and the combination of this medium and the rubber at the front mountings is claimed to overcome pitching. Lateral location of the cab assembly is facilitated by a Panhard rod.

Special attention has been paid both to heating and ventilation of the new unit, primarily because of the company's export activities. Much attention has been paid to the engine tunnel at the back of the cab, which has always been a weak point in forward control units. A heavy box section in the form of a bridge over the rear of the engine transmits stresses from the cab suspension evenly into the floor structure and is aimed at eliminating failures of the latter.

A gently curved vertical two-piece windscreen is used for economy and ease of replacement. A slim central pillar divides the two halves, which are wiped by airoperated twin wipers.

Chapman Superide seat suspension gives additional driver-comfort. Adequate clear

ance between engine and engine covers ensures low heat transfer into the cab, while the removable panels covering the engine provide good accessibility for maintenance.

A large roof ventilator has three locked positions which give maximum outlet of hot air, maximum extraction, or a maximum intake of fresh air respectively. This, and an insulated roof panel provide for driver comfort in tropical or semi-tropical conditions.

A reinforced plastics front panel embodies a central grille for the engine cooling air intake and two smaller grilles serving the ventilation system. Twin headlights are carried in nacelle mouldings, as are separate side lights. Flashing indicators are mounted on the leading outside corners of the cab. A substantial grab rail is situated on the rear door pillars and this extends from the roof almost to the top of the wheel arch, making entering and alighting from the cab safer. Part of the standard specification includes a 6in. by 3in. rolled-steel-channel bumper bar.

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