Ford Thames Trader

 

They used to run interstate in these "Sputniks" or Sputties as they were called....pretty good truck ,Ford 330 diesel ,5 speed crash box and a #3 Eaton diff.

I think they were the favourites of the car carrier guys usually named Luigi. They seemed to specialize in the bottom of the line trucks on a pretty tight budget -Traders, old round cab Commers, Austins etc. I also seem to remember the carriers with rickety frames made in the backyard from waterpipe.

Here is one delivering cars to my Dad's Tweed Head Holden Dealership branch.

 

Dad owned an old EJ. HRO-718 was the number plate. (brown, drums occasionally rusted on after heavy rain)... 
Apparently, I'd quickly fall asleep on the back seat resting my head on a beach ball.

One of the worst trucks ever to climb into. Almost had to be a gymnast.

Local tipper operator out of the local quarry had two with silly wheels fitted. Good payload and economical compared with his old F600.

Here's one with Victorian Railways

 

 

 





 

The badge in the centre of the grille I guess was the weight capacity, in this case 40cwt?? Available in 3, 4, 5 & 7 ton ratings, petrol or diesel.