Time-saving Timber-extraction Outfit
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CULLY-MECHANIZED timber extrac tion which allows time savings of up to 25 per cent in operation and which is controlled from the cab of an A.E.C. Matador Mk. II 4 by 4 lorry, was impressively demonstrated at Longleat, the estate of Lord Bath, near Warminster, Wiltshire, last week.
The demonstration vehicle is the first of this version to go into service in this country, although a number are already working overseas, and is operated by Charles Franks and Son, Ubley, Somerset.
The vehicle is powered by an A.E.C. AV470 138 b.h.p. engine which also supplies power for the Edbro hydraulically-operated lifting tackle and 8-ton winch. Power-assisted steering is employed.
The special Matador is capable of felling a prepared tree and hauling it into position for trimming. It then lifts the trimmed trunk and carries it across country to the waiting road trailer. Operational experience already gained shows that the comparatively sophisticated handling, controlled completely from the vehicle cab, saves some two hours in a normal 8-hour working day over previous manual methods.