Hello Allan,
Thank you for the tip about the objects being spreader bars. Is the photograph you are referring to about the Ford's with the spreader bars? Accessed November 24, 2016 from
https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/127758
ID number 127758
Collection type Photograph
Object type Black & white
Physical description Black & white
Description AUSTRALIA. LORRIES, 3-TON BREAKDOWN (AUSTRALIAN) NO.3A. FORD. THREE-QUARTER REAR VIEW, LEFT SIDE.
Was the Ford a Marmon-Herrington conversion with tandem axles? Was it then even more modified into a 6 x 6 configuration?
I found a site last night that showed what kit was fitted to and stored in the CMP version of the twin boom Holmes or Gar Wood cranes. It was that extensive that the kit took up more space than the truck itself when it was spread out on the ground as a display. I just realised I did not save the link ...
Kind Regards
Lionel