Automobile accessories reviewed
Radiator Decanters
A novel idea from Ken Rudd of Ruddspeed Ltd., Ford Aerodrome, Sussex, is a decanter in the shape of classic car radiators. Those available at present are the Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Bugatti, but it is planned to include others, including the Jaguar S.S.100, as soon as possible. The decanters stand about 8 in. high and are exact replicas of actual radiators. The knowledgeable will no doubt recognise the Bentley as that from a 3-litre, which is normally supplied in a chrome finish but can also be supplied with a dark green grille and with a nickel-plated finish. The Rolls-Royce is the Phantom III type and is also chrome plated, but can be supplied nickel-plated if required. The Bugatti is available with a chrome or black anodised core, and is also available in brass instead of chrome or nickel. The capacity of the bottle contained within the radiator core is a quarter bottle. They are priced at £7 7s. each for the Rolls-Royce and Bentley, and £6 6s. for the Bugatti. This includes purchase tax and postage in England and postage to the U.S.A. The radiators come in a handsome presentation box. They can be obtained direct from Ruddspeed or from most jewellers.
New brake bleed valves
An ingenious and time-saving replacement for the conventional brake bleed nipple is being marketed by Patent Development Co., 26A, Winfield Way, South Ruislip, Middlesex. The bleed valve is fitted in place of the normal bleed nipple and has a spring-loaded brass core which is held in place onto the seat of the valve, thus preventing the loss of brake fluid. For bleeding the system the nipple is unscrewed one turn, then the brake pedal can be pressed; this lifts the valve and contaminated fluid is separated out. On release of pressure the valve snaps shut, thus preventing dirty or aerated fluid being sucked back. The advantage of the PBV bleed screws is that one man can bleed the system quickly without having to bother with the rubber tubing and glass jar method. Prices for most cars are 16s. 6d. for a set of four.