lbagnall-frer2.jpgAs 1957 ended, the world marvelled at Russia’s achievement with the very first launchings of man-made satellites. (For those that can remember, they were Sputnik I and II, in October and November respectively). It was also a time when the UK had a growing number of materials handling manufacturers; in summer 1957, there were no less than 24 companies producing powered models, and more than double this amount making pedestrian powered trucks.

Despite a 7% bank rate, 1958 began full of optimism for the further expansion of the materials handling culture. Over the past year, not only had there been major progress in the adoption of new technology on forklift trucks, operator safety and comfort was now also starting to become a big issue. Torque converters and other forms of automatic transmission were now being used on many I.C. models, and more powerful hydraulic braking systems were being developed to simplify the driver’s operational control.

One of the many companies to make use of this type of technology was Hyster of America, which introduced a new and simplified torque converter. This was named `Hystamatic` drive and used on their UC 30 and YC 40 models. In January 1958 the company announced the option of a 154 hp, V8 Chrysler engine, with a matching torque converter, for its 15,000 to 20,000 lb capacity trucks. These larger units were fitted to give better performance in rough unimproved yard areas and/or adverse winter weather conditions. Also launched at this time were the model S100A of the `Spacesaver ` Series` and models H60B, H70B and H80B of the `Challenger Series`. These latter three forklifts replaced models XA60, VA70 and ZA80 respectively.

The Suez Canal reopened on April 30th after causing 18 months of fuel supply difficulties, allowing tankers from the Middle East to use the short cut to Europe once again. This coincided with the news from Coventry Climax of a new 4,000lb counterbalance forklift. The new truck was fitted with a diesel (IGD) or petrol engine (IGP) and became part of their new `Universal` range. This range also included three battery driven models, with 2,000lb (IGET), 3,000lb (IGEF) and 4,000lb (IGE) lifting capacities. All these machines were given model identification letters beginning with ‘IG’ to signify a particular date. For those not familiar with the Coventry Climax code, these stood for Inter Geophysical year.

Also in Britain, Lansing Bagnall launched a new, electric, pedestrian operated counterbalance onto the market with the model designation `FOEP 2. This replaced the model PF. In addition, the company’s first rider seated reach truck was introduced in May 1958 at the Mechanical Handling Exhibition in Earls Court. Also battery powered, the machine was called the `FRER 2 and was capable of lifting 2 tons. With tilting mast and full free lift, Lansing Bagnall claimed this machine to be the first of its kind in the world. As if designed to challenge this statement, Wessex Industries of Poole England launched their first rider seated reach truck at the same show. Among its main features were a tilting mast, full free lift and large cushion tyred wheels. Called the Wrigley Heavy Duty reach truck, it had a lifting capacity of 3,300lbs.

To be continued

By James Brindley, Director, National Fork Truck Heritage Centre

Comments are closed.