New Maudslay Passenger Chassis
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IT is probable that a new Maudslay
Marathon Mark III 20-ft. wheelbase single-decker passenger chassis, an addition to the present range, will be making its debut at the Brussels Show. Like the 17-ft. 7-in, wheelbase exporr model, it is available with right or lefthand drive and with a chassis width of 7 ft. 6 ins. or 8 ft. The new machine will have a seating capacity for 46 passengers, when equipped as a bus, and 40 passengers when fitted with a luxury coach body.
Both long and normal-wheelbase models are arranged for forward-control and are powered by the A.E.C. 9.6-litre direct-injection oil engine. The engine is suspended in the chassis by a flexible three-point-controlled rubber mounting. A single-dry-plate clutch and propeller shaft convey the drive to the five-speed overdrive-top gearbox, which is centrally mounted in the frame.
A remote control, mounted on the side of the engine, is connected to the gearbox by a single tube. The gearbox affords ratios of 4.465, 2.470, 1.472, 1.00 and 0.656 to 1 forward and-4.74 to I reverse. The underslung worm drive of the rear axle is offset.
Universal joints, with needle-roller bearings, are fitted to the open tubular shafts, the main propeller shaft being supported amidships by a self-aligning bearing sealed to prevent loss of lubri cant. Both axles have semi-elliptic springs and telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers in their suspension systems.
Cam-pattern brakes, hydraulically operated with vacuum assistance, are employed, a tandem master cylinder providing added safety. The front brakes are actuated by integral cylinders, whilst the brakes on the rear axle are connected by rods to individual cylinders mounted on a cross-member.
Other features of the chassis include a 21-in-diameter steering wheel operating through a cam and double-roller box, and 24-volt lighting and starting equipment.'
The new chassis is built by the Maudslay Motor Co., Ltd., Castle Maudslay, Alcester.