Product Details

In 1935, Thompson Brothers of Bilston, England introduced an unusual three-wheeled aircraft refueller for servicing light aeroplanes at civil aerodromes and during World War II many later variants were manufactured for military use. It was powered by a Ford 10hp petrol engine with a three forward speed and one reverse speed gearbox and a chain driven rear axle. The three-wheeled, low slung design made it easier to get close to aircraft for refuelling. The left side tank carried 500 gallons of petrol and the right side tank carried 50 litres of oil. Each tank had its own pump driven by a power take off engaged by levers in the cockpit and each was equipped with an indicator gauge, hose and nozzle. At least 20 examples are known to survive worldwide with museums and private owners today.