AA Searchlight trailer- WW2 pics wanted

Darrin Wright · #1 31-01-10, 10:50

Today I found a "AA Searchlight Trailer LP" made by Ritonie Brothers of Auburn NSW. Can not make out th eserial numbers; however, the ARN is still painted on the back- 1226821. The trailer has a steerable front I beam axle, which has linkages from the drawbar, Tyres are a 6 stud, 9.00 x 18" assembly.
Had a look in my DMV book of Aust equipment but there is no pic or mention of this type of trailer.
Does anyone have a wartime pic of these trailers and what would have been carried in them?
Thanks

gjamo · #2 31-01-10, 11:25

Hi Darren,
Have a look at this past thread particularly the towbar setup and wheel size.
Graeme
http://www.mapleleafup.org/forums/sh...hlight=trailer

Tony Smith · #3 31-01-10, 14:21

Did you get a pic of the maker's plate, as there should be another number after the "LP". And the builders are Ritchie Bros, who were Carriage and Wagon builders for the NSW Railways. They also made 25pdr components and limbers in WW2.

Cowra Museum has a "LP No Mk 3" trailer, but that is only a 2 wheeled trailer. Serial number is RB201 (Also Ritchie Bros?). It contains a Ford V8 engine direct coupled to a 25Kva generator. Sweet looking thing, it has 2 exhaust pipes routed out the front panel.

Darrin Wright · #4 31-01-10, 21:41

Checked the makers plate, it is Ritchie Bros of Auburn (too much paint in the way).
The marking after the LP is "MK1".
Serial Number "RB132".
There is another stamping which appears to be 25.31945 (the stamping is very close together)- possibly the date? also has a C with arrow through it (arrow points up)
The generator trailer at Cowra has moved to collectors out from Wodonga (approx late 2007).