Bedford Horsebox

History

1932 BEDFORD HORSEBOX Bodywork by Vincents of Reading RD3923 The first Bedford Commercial vehicles were produced in 1931 in Luton by Vauxhall, now part of General Motors of the U.S. of A. These were 2 ton models; the WHG and the long wheelbase WLG, and they were based on the old Chevrolet models assembled at Hendon and later at Luton. The Bedfords were considerably more refined, however and featured full pressure lubrication for main and by end bearings and a four main bearing crankshaft. This early Bedford WLG chassis from the first year of production has an elegant coach-built Horsebox by the celebrated manufacturers Vincent?s of Reading and has accommodation for two horses and has folding seats at the rear for upto four grooms. The body is panelled in hardwood and the interior is furnished in cream and fitted out with padded supports and is entered by a folding side ramp, with an additional glazed door at the rear for personnel. The price for the long WLG chassis with 27 h.p. six cylinder engine was ?210 and the total cost of the finished vehicle was nearly twice this amount. RD 3923 was owned until recently by John Mold of Reading, the well known collector of all things Bedford, and he spent a large sum of money to return this early Bedford chassis with such distinctive and unusual bodywork to its present superb condition. The chassis has a 4 speed ?crash? gearbox and surprising effective rod brakes, and is fitted with dual rear wheels, for which tyres are still readily available. The electrical system has been converted to 12 volts, making starting much easier, also greatly improving the lights. Parts for these historic vehicles are readily available from ?Bygone Bedford Bits? of Dorset, and of course Road Fund tax is free. For a vehicle of this age no ?plate? is required, nor is an MOT test certificate needed. Altogether a most unusual and historic old commercial vehicle with tremendous style and nostalgic appeal, but also one with considerable possibilities for use in the horse world. With a couple of thoroughbred horses and some suitably attired grooms, this would make a sensational ensemble at any racecourse or trials arena.