NOISES IN CARS

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 82, 28 June 1927, Page 11

NOISES IN CARS

WHAT THEY MEAN

A GUIDE TO DIAGNOSING Noise coming from any part of the car is a source of great irritation to the owner-driver. But car noises play a very useful part in the diagnosis of trouble. A study of the various mechanical cries for help is a helpful aid to the beginner. Unusual noise may be taken in most cases as a warning and the beginning of trouble. Here are some common cries of distress: A dull and continuous thud from under the bonnet probably denotes that a sparking plug is misfiring. The noise is rather like the muffled tap of a hammer. A noise like champagne corks being drawn in the neighbourhood of the carburettor suggests that the jet is becoming choked. Sudden and rapid acceleration may clear it, but, failing this, the jet will have to be dismantled. A popping' noise may also indicate that the petrol supply is coming to an end. After a few pops there is a sighing noise, and then silence. THE FAN’S PITEOUS APPEAL Brakes shriek when they are in trouble. Usually this means that the fabric linings have become smooth and dry. An injection of paraffin will cures the trouble. Brakes that require relining also shriek. When the fan drive requires oil it makes a pitiful noise. It is such a high-pitched and persistent note that it can be traced at once. Spring shackles that require oil twitter, like canaries. The dynamo, when in the same predicament grunts. A loose dashboard makes a drumming noise. Nearly all modern engines “pink” when the ignition is too far advanced. “Pinking” is like the noise made by tapping a teacup with a spoon. Some engines pink too easily. A mixture of benzole and petrol suits this kind of engine best. WELFARE WORK AT FACTORIES EMPLOYEES COMFORTABLE From time to time we hear from America of the high standard of living enjoyed by the workers. In an American paper jus x t come to hand there are details of welfare work at present being carried on in one of the big automobile factories —the Nash. The employees have a club at each of the company’s plants for social and athletic activities. Membership is optional, but is very popular, as it comprises 90 per cent, of the employees. They have their own motion picture machines, their orchestra and maintain a band. The company also maintains an athletic field, with tennis courts and clubhouse, and baseball field complete with grandstand capable of seating 6,000 people. These activities are administered by the employees themselves, who havecomplete charge. The factory is divided into 50 wards, each of which elects a representative to an advisory council, and the council elects a board of directors of 15 members; the directors then ” appoint various committees in charge of the different activities. STOCK OWNED BY EMPLOYEES As if working under such ideal conditions were not enough, the employees have the opportunity to purchase the company’s stock. Seventeen million dollars worth of such stock has already been purchased! This is a stupendous amount. Practically every foreman in the Nash plants, and hundreds of men who work on the bench, and practically every salaried employee, are included among the company’s stock-holders. Familiar Hammer. —“ Ever get a knock in your automobile, Jim?” “Often —when my wife rides in the back seat.”