NORTH TRAINS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23719, 27 July 1940, Page 10

NORTH TRAINS

AN IMPEOVED SEBVICE NEW CARRIAGES READY r 1 COMFORT IN MODERN DESIGN Improved types of carriages, similar to those used on the Main Trunk line, have been constructed at the Otahuhu railway workshops for the North Auckland railway service, and will be placed in commission on Monday. Six feet longer and. nine tons heavier than tho present type, the new first-class cars, which are 56ft. long, are made entirely of steel. The second-class carriages, about the same length, are eight ton 3 heavier than those now in use.

The length, increased weight and an improved automatic type of coupling and patent roller bearings, will mako for greater comfort in the new carriages, which are equipped with all the latest accessories. The vestibules, which are closed, are similar to those on tho limited and Main Trunk expresses. Double and single rows of seats in the carriages are upholstered in leather, the double seats being divided with padded arm rests. An adjustable foot rest and a folding table fitting into the seat in front are provided, and a new liglfting system with indhidual switches for each light is an innovation The carriages are air-conditioned and the windows do not open. The air, which is drawn in from outside, is filtered and circulates through the carriage before being drawn out through ventilators in the roof. The plant is automatically shut off when the train enters a tunnel The train which will be drawn by one of the new "J" locomotives, will leave Auckland with four cars and two vans, and will be divided at Otina, two cars and a van continuing to Opua and the remainder running up the branch line to.Okaihau. Similar carriages are proposed for the express service to Taneatua when material is available.