The Mepward power unit, as designed for use on a pedal bicycle
The scooter engine, which is of the two-stroke two-port type, has very small external dimensions. The latest pattern Fellows magneto is fitted, the miniature size of which is in keeping with the remainder of the engine, and this can be mounted in different positions around the crank case. A steel cylinder is used, having a bore and stroke of 54 x 51 mm. (116 c.c)..."
"Lubrication is on the petroil system. A petrol tank, however, is not included in the outfit, as the
disposition of the engine necessitates many variations in design. Steel stampings are used both for the
connecting rod and flywheel.
The second model, suitable for pedal cycles, is similar in construction to the scooter engine, with the exception of the position and method of mounting the magneto. In this case it is held by spring bands to the bottom of the crank case, which latter differs from the first design, inasmuch as both main bearings are made integral with the casting, whilst one side is held to the remainder of the crank case by means of bolts."
Source: The Motor Cycle, January 22nd, 1920.
Mepward Taxi Cab
"The second new taxicab is the Mepward, which is being handled by Coppen, Allen and Co., of 143-145, Great Portland Street, This cab chassis has under the guidance of London W.1. been designed a number of owner-drivers, who have suggested various improvements which might be embodied, and which they have found necessary as a result of running cabs of other makes on the London streets.
The power unit has four cylinders, ... cast en bloc. The cooling water is circulated by a centrifugal pump driven off the magneto shaft. A silent ehain is employed for driving the timing gears, and the ignition is by a Thomson-Bennett magneto. The oil pump is submerged in the sump, and is of the vane type driven by spiral gears from the camshaft. Oil is delivered to the main bearings and the big-end troughs.
Four speeds forward and a reverse are provided by the gearbox, and a foot brake is mounted at the rear end of the gearbox. The drive to the gearbox is through a leather-faced cone clutch, and from the gearbox by a tubular ... shaft to a bevel-driven rear axle of the full floating type." ~ Commercial Motor, 15th March 1921
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