23 OCTOBER 1926, Page 27

Accessories at the Show

'racer; is no section of the Motor Show which possesses a 'greater attraction than that devoted to accessories. It interests everyone who owns or who would like to own a car. And certainly there is plenty to see, because there are no fewer than 831 separate firms exhibiting in this one section alone, as well as 21 tire manufacturers, as compared with 98 firms which are showing cars, , Apart from its interest, it possesses a very real educative .value. The dissected carburetters, magnetos, Sparking plugs, !and the thousand and one inventions which are essential in the building of the car are set out in the most alluring manner. 'Things hidden in the complete ear are laid bare, furnishing a great education in the constructional detail of automobile engineering. Do you want to know how the magneto func- tions ; how the petrol is converted into gas by the carburetter ; how the self-starter acts ; how the gears engage ? All these, and a thousand and one interesting things besides, are at your Command.. Sparking plugs which flash with diamond brillianCy even after being immersed ;.. magnetos firing with the -rhythm of the spheres ; mascots grotesque and artistic ; novelties in road warning devices ; speedometers and an Increasing number of bumpers are but a few of the interesting things to sec.

One of the most valuable modern developments in connexion with motoring is the great improvement which has been effected, in accessories. There are many gadgets, of course, which are pure luxuries and appeal only to thewealthy motorist. But the keynote of the 1927 accessory is utility.

One of the most useful is the wind-screen wiper, which with the ever-increasing traffic is a real necessity. It is essential that whatever the weather the driver shall always have a clear view of the road. There are many excellent types— some operated by hand, others by electricity, and others again by wind pressure. The rear wind-screen is now seen upon nearly every four-seater car. It is difficult to realize that it is not many years ago since wind-screens were unknown. Another useful innovation is pneumatic upholstery, adding greatly to the comfort of the passengers and almost entirely eliminating road shocks. Shock absorbers of all shapes and kind and suitable for every make of car are now available.

Much attention has been paid during the last twelve months to the problem of headlight dazzle, and many practical devices have been introdUced, several of which may be seen at this week's show. Headlight dimmers, dipping headlights, and specially constructed lenses are among the solutions of this problem--Ta very real problem to Whizzed-users.