MOTOR NOTES.

Putaruru Press, Volume IV, Issue 117, 21 January 1926, Page 7

MOTOR NOTES.

THE 1926 MODELS.

IMPROVEMENTS INTRODUCED. Additional Comfort. So far as general principles are concerned, there is very little difference between the various makes cf present-day cars. There are, perhaps, one or two isolated cases where a manufacturer with ideas of his own has followed a new line of thought, but speaking generally one might say that progress has been along welldefined lines. It is contended by some authorities that providing a car represents value for money the specification may be fairly accurately defined from the price at which it is sold. And it is probably for this reason that in the 1926 model designers have paid attention more to mechanical refinements and additional items of equipment than to radical changes in design. A studied inspection of the latest models reveals a wealth of detail in this direction.

Many improvements have been introduced in the driving compartment. One maker has designed a telescopic support for the instrument board which allows the dash to be adjusted to any distance or angle. To suit different drivers or styles of body is the purpose of an adjustable steering column which can be positively locked at any one of four different rakes, while a special mounting for the steering gear box is provided by another maker in order to guard against a disabled driver—downward pressure on the steering wheel first of all puts the clutch out, whilst further movement applies the brake. More instrument boards are now illuminated by means of concealed lights. This arrangement prevents the dash light dazzling the driver. Cubby holes for the accommodation of small parcels are increasing in popularity. Other additions include a powerful operated tyre pump driven from the gear box and brought into use by a control on the instrument board ; a lever fitted to the steering wheel combining a horn push button and a dimmer switch for tire head lamps, and an oil filterfitted to the dash through which all the oil in the engine passes every five minutes.

Increased comfort for passengers has been the aim of a number of designers. Several manufacturers have adopted side screens of the hinged or “ disappearing ’’ variety, as distinct from detachable screens. Adjustable seats have greatly improved, and they may now be moved into position expeditiously and without disturbing the sitter. Folding steps to facilitate the entry of elderly passengers is something quite new. Occasional seats in the rear compartments of touring models show that the present-day car is capable of carrying additional passengers. The adoption of folding arm rests is another feature making for greater comfort ; in fact, the main rear seat of one car consists, in effect, of two armchairs, there beingarm rests on each side and a broad one in the middle dividing two separate cushions. Better access to dickey seats is now provided, and passengers on some cars may enter the rear auxiliary compartment by special door opening at the side. Other improvements of importance include a locker running transversely across the car between the back of the rear seat and the boot, to provide accommodation for golf clubs and similar articles ; blinds for the rearwindows to obliterate the light from headlights of cars astern ; a reserve benzine supply comprising two petrol tanks, one for gravity, and one for vacuum feed ,* removable rear seats to provide a large-sized compartment for the storage of luggage ; a locker under rhe running board to provide accommodation for a detachable hood when not in use ; a partitioned case below the bonnet for tools and spares ; and an exhaust pipe carried forward in order to keep the front driving compartment cool. Novelties of past years which, in many instances, are now standard equipment, comprise air filters for carburettors, radiator shutters, “ one shot ” chassis lubrication systems, and inspection lamps beneath the ! bonnet.