CAR DESIGNING

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 100, 19 July 1927, Page 10

CAR DESIGNING

THE THIRD STAGE TREND OF MANUFACTURE “In view of the higher standards of the car-buying public, who demand more than mere transportation in their motor vehicles, the maker’s greatest concern,” according to Mr. Alfred Reeves, general manager of the National Automobile Chamber of Commerce, “is to build and equip their cars so that a buyer would not hesitate to pay a little more to obtain the model that meets his requirements.” “The auomobile business has developed in three stages,” continued Mr. Reeves. “At first, the problem was to build cars that would run satisfactorily. The price element was not important. Then, for several years, until about 1925, production methods were improved with new price levels resulting.” “To-day we are in a situation where handsome design and adequate equipment are more important than the price factor. In fact, a number of companies have materially improved their position even though selling cars at a higher price than previously, because they have improved the looks and equipment of the vehicle. “The most valuable man this year to the manufacturer is the designer who can improve the appearance of the product. And the winners in 1927 will be those makers who have concentrated on making a good-looking car.” Grease should be forced through eac i bearing until it comes out clean, then the dirty excess grease wiped off. Neglect to give regular attention to wheel bearings, steering connections, spring shackles, etc., makes it necessary to start replacing such parts as bearings, tie-rod bolts and bushings, and shackle pins and bushings long before it should be necessary.