SEVERE TEST RUNS.

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SEVERE TEST RUNS.

In these days of mass production the road test of the finished car often receives less attention than it should, and it is therefore interesting to note that many of our higher class cars are subjected to most arduous tests before being passed ” O.K.” Some manufacturers find it difficult to select a suitable test run in the vicinity of their works. Others are more fortunate, and amongst them may be numbered the Crossley Company, which has the tracks and mountains of Derbyshire, often used in reliability trials, at its disposal. The tests through which each of these cars has to pass would surprise most motorists, and, should they be passengers, would probably terrify them ! The test run comprises eighty miles, mainly in the Peak district, and hills, hairpins and rocky surfaces are all included. Each chassis, before test, is loaded up with sand, equal in weight to the body and full complement of passengers,

and it is then driven at speed over one of the most difficult courses it would be possible to find in Great Britain. Where private owners slow down and pick their way, the Crossley testers take the rough, in a definite attempt to discern faults. By the time the run is finished every detail of the chassis has thus received a test which only first-class quality and workmanship would allow.

On return to the works, the tester fills in his report, adjustments, if necessary, are made, and the car is taken out for a shorter final run, by a special tester. It is only by strenuous tests of this nature that manufacturers can be assured of the fitness of the cars for delivery to the public, and it is to be regretted that in some cases ” cut ” prices do not permit the time and money to be spent on it.