New Automatic Gearbox System
Page 57
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
OFF to Cyprus shortly is a Commer 15-cwt. van fitted with a new type of Hobbs 4-speed fully automatic epicyclic gearbox designed to give the best performance from the engine. It is an experimental vehicle and is fitted with refrigeration plant, carrying ice-cream for
Lyons and Co., Ltd.
Known as the 1523 unit, the gearbox has recently been put into production by Hobbs Transmission, Ltd., and is automatic with an overriding control for pre-selection. No torque converter is used, and it is based on a system of epicyclic gears whose torque inputs and outputs are controlled by the clutch and brakes. The selection takes place in a unit sensitive to road speed and throttle Opening. There is a kick-down control for maximum engine performance.
In addition, in any one gear a manual overriding control can be selected and held, and whichever gear is selected the unit is automatic up to that point. Two sets of ratios are available, the low gear ratio gives a maximum torque of 1.40 ft. lb. and the higher ratio gives a maximum torque of 120 ft. lb.
125,000 BUS STATION IN1TED AUTOMOBILE SERVICES, LTD., have been granted permission to construct a £25,000 bus station at Post Office Square, Blyth, Northumberland,