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Source of new ideas As an experienced wrecker mechanic, I
Page 83
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have found the articles on -Vehicle recovery: tricks, trucks and tactics" of considerable interest. I may say that I have avidly read (and kept) every one. Through them, I will admit, I have been taught new ideas, and a different way of looking at certain jobs, which will benefit myself and my employer.
Most recovery work that I have dealt with concerns p.s.v., and in this respect your article (No. 14) regarding the righting of an overturned bus, although enlightening in the extreme, was. I thought, a little antiquated. Surely to go through all that business of removing panels, and fitting this lifting beam to the chassis with clamps, always being careful to avoid damaging brake linkages, air pipes, etc., is a long drawn-out and unnecessary chore.
My drawings show a lifting tower which we have been using for a great number of years with 100 per cent success. All it entails is the removal of the rear wheel nuts, placing the tower in position, tightening up and connecting the tow ropes from the top of the tower to the breakdown wagon. Excellent leverage can now be obtained. This whole operation, from arrival, to the bus back on its feet, takes only about 20 minutes.
Handyman seems to favour winching for this operation. If the bus is on the flat, what's wrong with a straight steady tow in low gear plus front wheel drive if needed?
This tower can also be used for p.s.v., if overturned on a location lower than the road and two can be fitted if required, the extra one being on the front hub after the front axle is locked, and, after righting, the rear one can be used for holding, while the vehicle is towed out.
Thank you for your articles and may they continue.
S. THOMPSON, Glasgow.