Passing Comments
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What Will Be the qUPPLIERS of light metals Future Of Light and enthusiasts in their use
. Meta.!s ? may well be concerned at some
of the comments made in con. nection with these materials during the discussion on , one of the papers given at Harrogate. Certain doubts were expressed as to their advantages, and as to whether the weight-saving in vehicles mostly built of them could be as great as was sometimes estimated if the vehicles were to be of similar strength and have as long a life. However, these comments are partly offset by remarks from .other operators, who stated their belief in the alloys, Mr. D M. Sinclair, in particular, suggesting that they would be employed far more extensively, even for rear axles, but that the advice of experts in their correct use should be solicited. .Stronger metals than light alloys often have to be used in amounts. in excess of the theoretical strength required, otherwise they might be too thin and lacking in rigidity. Light metals can often provide the necessary bulk without any such excess, and this is one of their advantages
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Why Was the UpI OOKING at a new Austin holstery in Cloth and 1—‘ owned by a well-known Leather ? transport man, a party of friends the other day remarked upon the fact that the upholstery was in cloth; whereas most others were finished in leather. The owner said: "Oh, Mr. F. I. Connolly must have quarrelled with Mr. L. P. Lord." Another, however, spotted that there was leather at the front of the seats, and the explanation then given was that the quarrel must have been patched up. Actually, The two are the best of friends. Incidentally, as far as coach and bus seats are concerned, many passengers seem to prefer moquette, for the reason that they do not slide about so much and, consequently, their clothing does not so quickly develop a shine. Perhaps it is as well, as leather is expensive and the supply limited. On the other hand, a woven material is apt to become dirty more easily and to collect dust. Consequently, more cleaning is required and usually the employ-ment of a vacuum cleaner Will plastics ever overcome both troubles and be appreciated by the public? To Prevent Mud A S a result of complaints Slinging by Test received by the Royal Chassis Automobile Club from some of its members regarding mud being thrown up by the rear wheels of commercial chassis on test in wet weather, that body approached the chassis maker concerned, This was one of the foiemost makers in this country and, following negotiations, it has announced its intention of returning to the pre-war practice of fitting temporary mudguards to such chassis during test or delivery. The chief reason for dropping this practice had been the shortage of timber and other necessary materials, and the R.A.C. offered to approach the Ministry of Transport in an endeavour to expedite the availability of these. However, the company has now informed the R.A.C. that a licence to obtain them has been granted. No doubt other chassis makers in a similar position will follow the example which has anis been set. Experiences of TransTHE managing director of port Chiefs Visiting I Red and White United
Africa Transport, Ltd., Mr John H.
Watts, who has been visiting several parts of Africa, appears to have had quite an exciting time, to judge from news received from him recently. He says that on one occasion the vehicle in which he was travelling was surrounded by 20 lions, and all in the vehicle were warned to remain still and very quiet. It seems, however, that this injunction was barely necessary. Several times we have seen Mr. Watts being "lionized," but not in quite the same manner. Perhaps, after • learning of such an experience, Mrs. Watts does not regret so much not having been able to accompany her husband. Other men who have visited Africa, and who happen to be members of the Institute of Road Transport Engineers, have told us of the pleasure they have experienced and Of the cordial reception extended to them when they met overseas members