Forward Control in 12-cwt. Van
Page 44
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
DESIGNED to meet a current need for a large-capacity vehicle for local delivery which falls between the 10-cwt. and 30-cwt. class, a modified Standard with forward control is being marketed by Palrners Motors, Ltd., 53, York Street, Twickenham. Based on the Standard 14 h.p. chassis, the vehicle offers an interior capacity of over 150 cubic ft. and can carry a payload of 12 cwt.
Ex-Service chassis are used for the conversion, and are fully reconditioned by Armstrong-Whitworth (Vehicle Service), Ltd., Lampton Road, Hounslow, Middlesex. The steering and foot controls are then adapted for the forward driving position. The pistoltype hand-brake is placed under the instrument panel. A close-fitting engine cowl is formed of welded steel sheet, and leaves ample space on the off side for the driver's feet. The gear lever, which is left in its normal position, is cranked forward slightly to bring it closer to the driver's hand. The 12-volt battery is stored in a lockable compartment on the near side of the body.
The bodywork, which is by King and Taylor, Ltd., Godalming, comprises angle-iron framing and lightalloy panelling. The angle-irons carry timber fillings to which the panelling is attached. The unladen weight of the complete vehicle is 1 ton 2 cwt.
Powered by a 1,776 c.c. side-valve engine in unit with a four-speed gearbox, the van has ample power. The retail price is quoted as L650.