Weaknesses Revealed
The RAC has issued its analysis of breakdowns observed throughout 1949. It reads as follows:
1. Power Unit
(a) Ignition .. 2,105 No. of cases .. 23.13 Percentage
(b) Carburation .. 1,025 No. of cases .. 11.26 Percentage
2. Engine
(a) Cylinder and Pistons .. 430 No. of cases .. 4.72 Percentage
(b) Valve Mechanism .. 95 No. of cases .. 1.04 Percentage
(c) Valves .. 95 No. of cases .. 1.04 Percentage
(d) Lubrication .. 100 No. of cases .. 1.10 Percentage
(e) Water Circulation .. 315 No. of cases .. 3.46 Percentage
(f) Crankshaft .. 60 No. of cases .. .66 Percentage
(g) Engine (not stated) .. 335 No. of cases .. 3.68 Percentage
(h) Starting .. 140 No. of cases .. 1.54 Percentage
(i) Bearings .. 455 No. of cases .. 5.00 Percentage
3. Transmission and Brakes
(a) Clutch .. 525 No. of cases .. 5.77 Percentage
(b) Gearbox .. 345 No. of cases .. 3.79 Percentage
(c) Universal Joints and Propeller Shafts .. 164 No. of cases .. 1.80 Percentage
(d) Brakes .. 89 No. of cases .. .76 Percentage
4. Back Axle
(a) Axle Shaft .. 1,455 No. of cases .. 15.99 Percentage
(b) Differentials .. 55 No. of cases .. .60 Percentage
(c) Bevels and Worms .. 54 No. of cases .. .60 Percentage
5. Front axle
Front Axle and Steering .. 335 No. of cases .. 3.68 Percentage
6. Road Wheels
Road Wheels and Suspensions .. 372 No. of cases .. 4.09 Percentage
7. Lighting
Lighting .. 73 No. of cases .. .80 Percentage
8. Accidents
Accidents .. 380 No. of cases .. 4.18 Percentage
9. Petrol
Run out of Petrol .. 119 No. of cases .. 1.31 Percentage
Totals: 9,101 No. of cases .. 100.00 Percentage
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