THE MOTOR WORLD.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19199, 16 June 1924, Page 4

THE MOTOR WORLD.

By ACCELERATOR.

Motorists desiring information with regard to mechanical or other car troubles, or on any matter coming within the Boopc 0/ the sport, pastime, or business of motoring are invited to send Inquiries to Accelerator. M Special efforts will bo made to givo the most reliable advice on all topics of interest. Celluloid.’ —When <*e!luloid !>eeomes discoloured through age there is no method of cleaning it. Tho remedy is to have it renewed. IMPORTANT OIL DISCOVERY. A London motoring journal states that Mr J. Parker, managing partner in a Shipley oil concern, has refuse*! an offer of £45,000 for an invention which, it, is said, will cheapen by 25 per cent, the cost of lubrication cf the internal combustion and other engines. It is said that the process will revolutionise tho oil industry. the sane view. If they (the police) are still obsessed with tho idea of preventing every motorist on every road from exceeding the 20-miles-an-hour legal limit (says an English writer), it is pretty certain that tho really reckless driver will be slipping through tho net more often than not —and we shall have a bad crop of accidents. The important thing the police have to bear in mind Js that careful motorists, who, fortunately, are in the great, majority, are themselves anxious to see reckless driving put down with a firm hand. tVhat is needed, in fact, is to stop, not fast driving whe.n such driving is safe, but bad driving, which is always dangerous. A GOOD IDEA. The Motor Cycle has offered a cup for the rider from an overseas dominion who puts up the best performance in this year’s 'Jt'.T. races. The Auto-Cycle Union, to which the cup wa s offered, has accepted the award, which will bo presented at tho discretion of the judges and committee. We confess we are a little surprised (remarks an expert) that but few of our manufacturers have shown themselves eager to secure the services of a rider from overseas. On account of the Wembley Exhibition, this is to be a British Empire year, and a win on a British machine hv a “colonial” rider would prove extremely popular, not only among tho rider’s own countrymen, but throughout the whole of the motor cycle movement. A FRIENDLY WARNING. A little red sticker has been finding its way with persistent frequency lately to the windscreens of many cars in New Plymouth. The colour is appropriate, for on closer inspection the motorist learns that ho has committed a breach of a bylaw and that it would be profitable to sec tho traffic inspector at once. Needless to say, the inspector has been a much-sought-after individual since their advent, but his novel idea is doing a great deal towards reminding motorists of by-laws and regulations to bo observed. Of course, after too frequent appearance, the rod might change to blue. LIGHT CAR ENGINES—AND THE CHART. In “Small Car Talk,’ bv “Runabout,” in a recent number of the Autocar, emphasis was placed on the importance of following the manufacturers’ recommendation in regard to lubrication. A little further information is to hand (says the writer) about some of tho extremely bijou four-cylinders now on the market, of which I reported the plug-shoot-ing propensities. It has transpired that in each case a nonrecomtnendcd lubricant was being used. Users are advised to rely on the exact grade and make of oil specified by the factory of origin, or, if they insist on making experiments, not to do 'so at random, but to get precise instructions from the purveyors of the lubricant which they prefer. Many large engines are undoubtedly careless which oil they are fed with; but some of tbe lilliputian breed appear to bo much more particular. LEARN TO DRIVE WELL. There is a vast difference between the pleasure obtained from being able merely to drive a car and from being able to drive one really well. But a driver who has taken pains to become tho absolute master of his car earns not only pleasure tor himself; he instils confidence in his passengers, winning both their gratinde and their appreciation. We should like overv car owner to set himself the task of becoming a really polished driver. Patience and practice are both necessary before complete mastery of the controls of a car is attained, and it must not be thought that any special qualifications other than those are "needed. Every owner of a car could be an almost perfect driver if only ho would apply himself to achieving perfection. A sound rule to remember is that if one man can get the best out of the make of car you drive. 5 o also can yon. Humour your ear by dexterous handling, and it will repay you a thousandfold. TAKING THE RISK. A motorist got into difficulties the other day in a creek bed near which a number

IZttms of news—short descriptions of tours, the state of the roada, ate., comment, or inquiries wiU be welcomed by "Accelerator."!

of men with a dray wore working in the Marlborough district. There was a, chance that ho would get through, provided ho secured assistance in extricating one wheel of the car from a hole into which it had sunk. The men offered to help to lift the wheel, but were somewhat dubious over the driver’s chances. “We’ll unharness the horse and pull you through for seven-and-six,” one of them offered; “but if you try it yourself and get stuck the charge for getting you out will bo 10 ‘bob.’ ” The motorist, thought 10 shillings to nothing was the better bet, and after a struggle managed to make the other side. Ho left 5s with his helpers, however, and received their smiling thanks.” CLEARING CHOKED JETS. In the case of choked jots, they should lie removed and blown' through, and, if they still appear to be choked, they can bo cleaned by means of a fine needle or piece of catgut. Care should be taken not to enlarge the hole of the jet, as it is usually constructed of fairly soft brass, which is easily damaged. A somewhat similar trouble may bo met with in which the engine lacks power and develops popping back, and will not run evenly when the throttle is opened, but turns over steadily even at a small throttle opening. This indicates a partial stoppage of jets, and in some oases it may be remedied by Hooding the carburetter, and at the same time opening and closing the throttle the combined effects of flooding and engine suction very often suffice to remove the obstruction; but, in the event of failure, it will bo necessary to take out the jots. SOME USEFUL TIPS. The rear axle should not be neglected. Adjust and repack the bearings, refill the differential case and clean it, the wheel huh bolts shquld bo tightened and the spring clips tightened. The clutch should be looked after. Lubricate the clutch collar, and adjust the clutch collar. The transmission is an important factor. Drain, clean, and refill it. Tighten the transmission support nuts. The brakes represent a major consideration. They should be relined if necessary. At any rate adjust the service and emergency brakes. It is well to give the battery a careful onec-over. Have it examined by a local service station expert. The wiring—what condition is it in? Test for grounds and intermittent shorts, the worn or broken parts should be replaced and the wiring should bo tested for loose connection. The body, besides needing a bath, may require other attention to make it look like a car ono would be proud to own. Revarnish it to renew finish and protect undercoats if it is needed, tighten up body bolts. FAULTS IN THE IGNITION SYSTEM. A sudden failure of power, accompanied by misfiring, but with no signs of an incorrect mixture, is almost certain to be due to faulty ignition and if the engine stops altogether the magneto or coil will be the source of the trouble, and not the plugs. Ihis is fairly obvious, because one can hardly conceive of four or six plugs failing simultaneously. However, before attempting to dismantle the magneto or coil unit the engine should bo turned over by hand and the plugs tested with a screwdriver to see whether any spark is being produced. If no spark is obtained, or if the spark is obviously extremely weak, the trouble may be m the wiring connected to the switch by means of which the magneto is earthed. To make sure of this point the switch wire can be detached from the magneto and the plugs tested again. Similarly, in the ease of a coil unit, the switch can bo examined, and shortened by moans of wire behind the instrument board if suspected of being faulty. If the trouble persists, it will be necessary to examine the magneto or the coil unis. SOME RIDER. There’s another sportsman off to America (says “Pedal” in the Sporting Globe). Several of Australia’s leading professional racing cyclists have cone to the land of tho Stars and Stripes to seek fame and fortune on the cycle tracks. In the zenith of his sufjeess and with youth on his side ho is only 19 years of age —Spencer Stratton, the brilliant New Zealander is now on his way to America, where he intends to compete in motor cycle track and road contests. Ho left with the good wishes of his friends and rivals on and off the track. Stratton came from New Zealand a few months ago, and bo thrilled motor fans with his brilliant and daring dashes of speed on the grass tracks. I met him for the first time at Geelong and he possessed the modesty of a schoolboy. Spectators were thrilled by the masterly manner in which he handled his machine, and he was the subject of admiration, Paul Remaley, the American long-distance rider, was an interested spectator, and was saruck with Stratton’s gameness. ‘‘Say, that ‘kid’ is some rider, and he should try Ids luck in U.S.A., for ho has all the gameness possible. I think ho will do well on the earth tracks in the States, and lie should fare well against America’s best,’’ said Remaley to me. MOTORISTS AND ORGANISATION. I have received an interesting letter signed “Interested In Your Notes," which reads as follows: “I see in your notes some mention of tho Otago Motor Union or Club. Would you bo good enough to give some information through your motor column as to the objects of tho union, also what fees are charged? There are hundreds of motor bikes and motor cars in the Clutha and Tokomairiro districts, tho owners of which may he induced to join up or form a subunion.” Tho objects of tho Otago Motor Club are generally to look after the interests of motorists, to secure rational legislation and by-laws affecting motorists, and to endeavour to bring about an improvement in the roads and bridges. If you follow the reports of the doings of tho club you will sec that, matters dealing with roads, bridges, by-laws, legislation, and other matters affecting motorists generally are constantly being discussed and reported on by the various subcommittees attending to them. In this respect you will notice in. to-day’s notes that, members representing the Otago Motor Club visited Temuka with a view to getting a by-law imposing a speed limit of six miles perhemr declared unreasonable. With regard to your suggestion that yon shoadd “join up or form a sub-union,” I would suggest that you communicate with the Otago Motor Club’s secretary, and no doubt ho will be very pleased to go into the matter with you. This question was raised last week by a correspondent writing to “Chassis,” of the Sun, m tho following terms: — “I haven’t been in this country very long, but long enough to discover that if I handed out a subscription to every organisation I am introduced to there would not be much of my savings left.. One of the organisation referred to is the Automobile Association in this city. lam asking you to tell me what would bo the benefit of becoming a member, as ono motorist, whom I confess was a hit disgruntled, told mo that there, was not much . o 1 gained.” “New Chum” tuny safely pay his guinea and join up with tho 2500 motorists in the U.A.A. (said “Chassis” in reply). Mr J. S. Hnwkea, the secretary, will give him all tho information ho requires. In tho meantime, when he sees the road signs- hundreds of them—erected about the countryside, ho must remember that the C.A.A. pul, them there, and sign-posts are useful and cost money. If ho travels much he can benefit by the hotel concession scheme covering 80 hotels in the Bouth Island. There is a big fight ahead of motorists regarding motoring legislation, and greater membership of associations will strengthen the hands of those protecting their interests. There are several club benefits and roncessions which Mr Hawkes can explain to “New Chum” in detail. He will not grudge the subscription. UNREASONABLE BY-LAWS. A matter of considerable importance to local authorities and motorists was brought up at Temuka last week and a resume of the case in question cannot fail to interest motorists. A member of tho Otago Motor Club was summoned to appear before the magistrate for exceeding the speed ol six miles an hour over an intersection whilst, passing through Temuka. The motorist referred to was able to produce to the club satisfactory evidence that his speed was not unreasonable. 10 miles per hour, ffc had trouble with his engine, and was doubtful if he could reach Timaru, but was advised hv a Temuka garage proprietor to go slowly to Timaru, where the

trouble could be rectified. Ho travelled through Temuka on second gear, with one cylinder missing, one of the valves not being in operation. Nevertheless ho was alleged to bo travelling at 25 miles per hour, ami thi s within ISO yards of the garage he had just left. The matter was brought before the club's officials, who decided that the time was opportune to make a strong protest against the unreasonable speed limits of 'temuka —namely, 10 miles an hour and six miles over all intersections at any time of the day or night.

Mr J. C. Stephens was engaged fo defend the case on behalf of the club, and Messrs J. L. Passmore and A. E. Ansell wore, requested to proceed to Temuka to represent the club. In the meantime an effort was made to arrange a conference between the council and representatives of the South Island Motor Union to discuss the reasonableness or otherwise of the speed regulations. This failed to eventuate, and the council decided to proceed with the ca.-e, the Mayor stating that at the eleventh hour he was not prepared ter accept the responsibility of adjourning the case. When the case was called the solicitor apearing on behalf of the Temuka Council suggested an adjournment after hearing the evidence as only on the previous day had he received Instructions to defend the by-law. Mr Stephens warmriy protested against such procedure and outlined a very strong case on behalf of the club, and emphasised the fact that motor organisations certainly would not attempt to defend “road hogging,” hut were against unreasonable and impractical speed limits. Mr E. D. Mosley, S.M., then took a hand in the proceedings and said that ho would like to address those interested, not as a magistrate, but as a man. What he would have to say as a magistrate would depend on the evidence placed before him. Ho then stated that there could bo no doubt that the present by-laws were impossible to observe, and. further, ...at a motor car was considerably- less under control at six miles an hour than it was at 12 to IS miles an hour. A car to be under efficient control must have steering way, and thi= was not the case at six miles an hour. Ho strongly advised the council not fo proceed with the case, but to adjourn it for a month and arrange a conference with the interested motor organisations and mutually agree upon a reasonable speed limit. The suggestion was readily accepted. All concerned will applaud the sound advice given by Mr Mosley, and it is hoped that other magistrates will follow his example when such difficulties arise. Councillors, generally speaking, whilst aiming at safety' for both pedestrians and vehicular traffic, are prepared to be reasonable, but at limes lack the practical knowledge of what constitutes “a reasonable speed.” Motor organisations such ns the Otago Motor Club are able and willing to assist in bridging such difficulties, and have in the past proved zealous in devising means for the better control and regulation of motor traffic. There is fortunately a number of local authorities willing to accept such services ns can be rendered by motor organisations, and this number is increasing. Locally wo have examples of this in the action of the West Harbour Council and the Portobello Roar] Board, whose speed limits ha%’o been revised after consulting the lorn! motor club. A pleasing feature of the Temuka case is the fact that no trace of antagonism exists between the parties concerned, both sides being quite prepared to try to evolve better conditions for regulating motor traffic. The represntatives of the Otago Motor Club who waited on the Mayor of Temuka (Mr T, Gunnion) subsequent to the court proceedings were assured that he welcomed the proposal for a conference and that he and his councillors were anxious to do the right thing to all concerned. Several local motorists have received visits from the police in reference to alleged breaking the by-laws referred to. and such motorists who are members of the local motor club are advised to consult the secretary, who will advise such procedure as is necessary under the present circumstances. The Otago Motor. Club has in hand the matter of arranging the conference, and have been in communication with the Temuka Council, South Canterbury Motor Club, and the Canterbury Motor Association, making arrangements for a conference within the next fortnight. The whole case is important from every point of view, and shows that a better understanding is being brought about between local authorities and motor organisations. Individual motorists can help consderably byrespecting reasonable speed limits when and where they arc arranged.

MOTOR CYCLE NOTES. “Defective brakes,” was the reason given for a motor smash in Auckland last week. The world’s record for the smallest class of motor cycle (75 c. 0.) is 34.95 rn.p.h. Several British firms have already nounced an advance in prices, and the present indications are for a steady all-round increase. Prospective buyers should consider the wisdom of securing (heir mounts now instead of waiting for the spring. At the recent Inter-Club Race Meeting at Rrooklands, C. F. Temple, on a Montgomery Anzani machine, won the Car v. Motor Cycle Race (51, miles) at an average speed of 98,62 miles an hour. in the second lap ho averaged 108.2 rn.p.h., and on the railway straight was estimated by the time keeper (Mr A. Enblewhitc) to have touched the extraordinary pane of 120 mile- an hour—probably the highest speed that lias ever been attained on e. motor cycle on a track or speedway. ’TASMANIAX ECONOMY TEST. A petrol economy tost held at Launceston recently resulted in an Indian and sidecar averaging 90.83 rn.p.h., an Indian Scout and Doubling side-car averaging 91.b.t miles p.g., ami a Scout solo at 140 m-P-K-A record number of motor cyclists started in this contest, and the winner. Ah' H .T King, covered a distance of 2-.8 mi.os on a little less than two pints of spirit. Tne nearest side-car competitor covoied 16.7 miles. This gave Mr King a lead of over 25 per cent. The first solo rider to finish was throe mile.s behind the winner. The machine used by Mr King was rnrec years old. and he uses it every dav to ride to work. MOTOR CYCLE TIPS, The carburetter should be placed at an equal distance from each cylinder. 11ns distance can only be gauged properly on the manifold. The carburetter should tie absolutely level. There are small air vents in each tank. Iheso must be kept open to ensure an casv How c. gas aid oil There is also a small vent hole in the carburetter close to the needle valve inis must be kept open. 'n exhaust valve lappet adjusted too close is liable to cause the exhaust valve seal to bum away, causing a loss of compression When motor is hot the exhaust valve tapnot should be free. Attention to this detail will save replacing the exhaust valve. . , When the handlebar grips turn hard remove the grips and control wires. To remove kinks in the wire, place the wire between two blocks of wood tightened in a, vice and pull the wire through several times Crease the wires and replace, nicking Lire that the control wire housings arc not kinkod. A \virc that tJOHs in _ haicl ma\ bo burred on the end. inc wire is hard and cannot be filed. Rub its ones on a concrete floor or brick to slightly iound it.

SPARKS. Abrupt stops, quick starts and side skids—will ruin tyres. I’ll© Clarence River punt was attain out of action last week—(ho river had risen four feet. When a car has travelled 2000 miles, shift (lie tyre? around from wheel to wheel, so that the wear will ho equalised. When spark-plugs habitually become fouled with oil and soot, it is a good plan to investigate and see whether they may not he projecting too far into the combustion chatruet. The careful tourist makes a mental note ©t the garages alone the various routes with which he is familiar, and in the event of a breakdown ho knows exactly where he can he ghen a helping hand. The road between Burnham and Norwood on the Main South road is in a disgraceful condition (says a Christchurch exchange). Motorists going south should cross the railway line at Burnham, and lake the north side of the line to Norwood and then switch back on to the main road. “Would you drive a car only 10ft hehma another?” asked Mr S. L. P. FreoS.M., of a witness at the Masterton Magistrate’s Court. On receiving an affirmative reply he said : “Well, yon would be taking an unnecessary and unwise risk.” “On race days and other occasions, such »» football matches and the like, a spirit of ompuation arises among motorists that Is a direct menace to the public,” said Mr •3. L. 1’ .Free, S.M., in a motor collision case at Masterton. "1 cannot express myself 100 strongly on the .subject,” ho added. l When stuck in a nmdhole or on a sandy stretch, do not speed up the engine and “jump” the clutch. This wilt only cause the wheel to spin and the car to sink deeper. Open the throttle only far enough to keep the engine from stalling and engage the (hitch slowly. The chances are that this method will procure traction. “I’ve always held that it is the duly of a driver of a, motor car to see that his wind-screen is not blurred. It is no defence to an accident for a driver to say that ins view' was obscured by rain or mist on the wind-screen.'’ —Mr H. Y. Wtddowson. S.M., in a collision case in the Magistrate's Court the other day. ’the surprising development of motor traction in Now Zealand is shown by recent figures covering the Hawke's Bay province, in which, with a population of 60,92 b people at ilie last census, over 10,CC0 vehicles are registered. Allowing for the increase in population since the census, this gives every half-dozen people one motor vehicle, and indicates:; a proportion of motors to people that is probably surpassed in very few nans of the world.