Fiat Six

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 504, 6 November 1928, Page 7

Fiat Six

Many Changes on New Models That over a year’s development work has been carried out on Fiat's new “Light Six”—model 520 —is evidenced by the radical changes effected. Nevertheless, it preserves distinctive Fiat characteristics. The engine is rated at 20 h.p.—increasing to a maximum of 52 li.p. at 3.400 r.p.m.—and has a bore of 72 mm. by a stroke of 103 mm. A vibration damper is fitted to the forward end of the crankshaft, now mounted on seven bearings. Lubrication is by forced feed, and there are three filters in different parts of the oiling system. It is claimed that only one oil change every 1,200 to 1.800 miles is needed. The Ricardo type of detachable head still is used, while Invar-strut pistons have been adopted. The generator is chain-driven from the crankshaft—the distributor, placed high above the engine block, is geardriven from the camshaft. NEW IGNITION SYSTEM One of the notable alterations is the change-over to the Delco-Reniy ignition system. Spark control over a range of 35 degrees is provided—with an automatic advance of 20 degrees and a further advance of 15 degrees by manual control on the steering wheel. The gearbox is surprisingly silent in action. It offers four forward speeds and reverse—the third gear being quietened expressly to provide for fast climbing on extra steep hills. The clutch is of the single-plate dry type. In outward appearance, much artistic improvement is apparent. The new Fiat radiator is larger and bolder, while the lines of the engine hood have been altered. In accordance with the latest body-building practice, the two spare wheels are sunk in wells on the front mudguards—a luggage grid being standard equipment Q.t the rear. Two neat steel tool boxes also are let into the guards, which are neatly domed to harmonise with the general solidity of the design. The new Fiat has a double-drop frame with a clearance of eight inches. The wheelbase is 114 in, the track 56in. Its springs are extra long, splayed at rear, and snubbers are fitted on all four. Four-wheel brakes, easy of adjustment, are standard equipment, and safety locks are fitted both to gearbox and ignition system.