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to be reduced to not more than 2 feet 6 inches above ground level, which in turn meant special wheels and springs, etc., then again we found that with the engine throttled right down, the generator gave a voltage of 365 which had to be reduced to 65 volts by the aid of a solenoid in order not to overload the elevating Motor.
Generally speaking however this combination has proved quite a success.
The combined cost of ladders and chassis was roughly £2,300.
Since the War Messrs. Magirus have developed the design of their ladders further and the three operations of raising, extension and turning is actuated from one position only (and not three as at present) and moreover the use of electric motors and current is dispensed with, as the whole thing is operated from the propeller shaft of an ordinary petrol chassis. I have had no experience with these myself, but the mechanical features appear commendable.
The length of our ladders when fully extended is 85 feet.
Hook Ladders.
These are made of carefully selected ash, well seasoned, straight grained, and free from knots, the wood-work being made up in our own workshops.
The hook, which is a chrome nickel steel stamping is purchased from Messrs. Vickers, River Don Works, Sheffield, but is milled and finished here. The shroud into which the hook houses is of nickel steel.
The standard length is 13 feet 4 inches, and the weight approximately 26 lbs.
The cost as specially made by us is at present £10 each.
I do not think there would be any difficulty about your purchasing one if you feel so disposed.
Hose Drying Tower.
These are usually triangular in shape, of skeleton design and of a height not less than 60 feet, and can be used as a drill tower.
The hose is raised and lowered by means of a pulley blocks with ropes (called hose whips)-rove through.
No artificial heat is used.
Brass Fireman's Poles.
These are used somewhat extensively here, and are of material assistance to those riders above ground floor, in effecting a smart "turn out."
Our system is "one pole--one floor," and they are not dangerous if the openings are properly protected. Cost about £60 each floor.
Automatic Station Doors.
Out doors are generally 11 feet wide by 11 feet 6 inches high.
The door is a four fold door with the upper panels glazed, and the lower solid. The hanging leaves are 21⁄2 inches thick, and the folding leaves 2 inches.
The hinges used for the hanging leaves are "Collins" 2 feet 3 inches long and ordinary butts for the folding leaves.
The automatic arrangement is supplied by Messrs. Thomas Try & Co., Ltd., of 37, Great Pulteney Street, London, W. 1.
Out total cost is about £180.
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