Detachable-axle Semi-trailers With Interesting Brake Gear
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TWO interesting big-capacity semi-trailers are being supplied by Taskers of Andover (1932), Ltd., Waterloo Iron Works, Andover, Hants, to Messrs. G. Baker and Sons, Southampton, and Messrs. W. Chivers and Sons, Devizes, respectively. That for the former has been completed and is shown in an accompanying picture, whilst the other is still in course of construction.
Both machines are of similar type, except for the fact that the one illustrated is non-detachable from its tractive unit— an E.R.F., CI6 model—whilst the other is detachable, Although the gross-weight limit for normal operation is 22 tons, the maker permits a pay-load of 20 tons to be carried if the speed be not in excess of 5 m.p.h.
Loading can be effected either from the sides, by ramps, or from the end with the trailing axles detached. The lastnamed are of the oscillating type and are independently
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sprung, following usual Tasker design. All four mudguards are arranged in a single assembly for ease in demounting.
Withdrawal of the oscillating units does not affect the braking mechanism, as this is parted between a lever on the main frame and an adjustable tappet running through the middle of each rear trunnion pin. Incidentally, the position of this tappet permits oscillation to take place without alteration of the braking force or shoe clearance. Spring deflection is accommodated by flexible operating cables of the Bowden type.
Applied through Dewanclre vacuum servo gear, the brakes are Girlings, the drums measuring 16 ins. by 31 ins.
Having a loading height of only 1 ft. Ii ins, when laden, the platform is 13 ft. 4 ins, long and 7 ft. 6 ins. wide. On the trailing wheels there are 13.5-20 low-pressure tyres, whilst the E.R.F. unit is equipped with 10.5-20 tyres.