Rolls-Royce Archives

Rolls-Royce Experimental Archives: Box ExFiles\Box 25\2\        Box Selection

IdentifierEntry
Scan001 Article from 'The Motor' magazine explaining the principle, operation, and components of the Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension system.
View original record The Motor 25 3rd February, 1914. THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION. The Principle of Dual Activity for Both Shock and Recoil Absorption. ONE does not need to be a particularly brilliant observer of…

Scan002 Instruction sheet for an alteration to hydraulic shock absorbers and the addition of related parts.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 s) (XX. 564. 15.10.13) E.P. 5170. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. INSTRUCTIONS. 17514 To: O.O. Order No. Customer's No. Re: Alteration 5524 Date: Feb 5th 1914 Please note above Alteration to XL.O.P.…

Scan003 Instruction to postpone the ordering of hydraulic shock absorbers for chassis 58 N.A.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 B) (XX. 364. 15.10.13) E.P. 5170. 17564 ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. INSTRUCTIONS. To: H.C. O.O. Date: July 9th 1914 Order No. Customer's No. Re: [strikethrough] Shock Absorbers for Chassis 58…

Scan004 Instructions to test Houdaille Absorbers and springs with extra camber on experimental chassis 58NA.
View original record R.R. 235 A (150 H) (V.V. 430. 26.1.14) G. 0209. COPY. R2/P.16.2.14. COPY. To Da. from R. Copy to J. Copy to Wor. Copy to Na. RE EXPERIMENTAL CHASSIS 58NA. Similar to 2704. Da5/G9214. & file x1100.…

Scan005 Extract from a letter by Mr. Ionides discussing a methodology for testing suspension improvements.
View original record X. 1152. Extract from Mr Ionides' letter of 25.2.14 in X.948. "I think it important that the spring damper connection, The slit lower leaves, and possibly the Houdaille damper, be all tried…

Scan006 Fitting of Houdaille shock absorbers, with an urgent memo from 'C.S.' to use them on trial cars.
View original record X1152 Houdaille Shockabsorbers. see ha2/34314. in X948 To be fitted to a car for Mr Ionides. also see sheet attached to above for description of H.S. absorbers. C.S. says. 'We should get some…

Scan007 Instruction sheet for an alteration concerning hydraulic shock absorbers and fuel tank fitting.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 s) (VV. 82. 18.11.13) E.P. 5398. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. INSTRUCTIONS. To: OO Order No.: Customer's No.: Re: Alteration 5695 NS/IX Please receive LOPF 3719 Hydraulic Shock absorber "Ø If 18…

Scan008 The ordering and fitting of Houdaille shock absorbers for the London Trials Car.
View original record ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR," DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (FOUR LINES). Re London Trials Car - 1CA EP22/T/L11314. With reference to the Houdaille shock absorbers which…

Scan009 Standardization of one-way hydraulic shock absorbers for the rear of the car.
View original record R.R. 235 a (190 H) (V.V. 585. 23.2.14) G. 9365. X/1152 To Da. from R. Copy to J. Copy to Wor. for Hy. Copy to Mr Ionides. Copy to Ha. Copy to E. R3/P 18. 3. 14. COPY. Our experience with Shock…

Scan010 Letter detailing changes made to the latest types of Houdaille Suspensions.
View original record 225a (150 H) (V. V. 681 12-8-14) G 0414. DCD/DS 25th March 1914. Messrs. Rolls Royce Ltd., Nightingale Road, D E R B Y. Dear Sirs, Ref. N.A.7/1B.20314. Thanks for your letter of the 20th inst.,…

Scan011 Page two of a letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Company detailing a design change to their suspension system.
View original record R.R. 295a (150 H) (V. V. 681 12-3-14) G. 0414. -2- The other change is in the method of preventing the liquid passing through the hole in the fixed shutter on the recoil of the Car Springs; as shown…

Scan012 Attached letter from Houdaille Shock Absorber people and a revised section of their absorber.
View original record R.R. 657. (100H) (VV. 586. 23.2.14) E.P. 6076. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. ENCLOSURE No 386 TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR," DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (FOUR LINES). Names and Indicating letter.…

Scan013 Instructions for fitting Houdaille rear shock absorbers to car 1926, noting the total weight of the parts.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 a) (VV. 300. 5.1.14) E.P. 5714. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. 19663 INSTRUCTIONS. To: Mr Werner Date: 30-3-1914 Order No. Customer's No. Re: "Houdaille Shock Absorbers" - X1152 One pair of rear…

Scan014 Internal routing slip memo regarding the return of a letter concerning Houdaille Shock Absorbers.
View original record R.R. 657. (100H) (VV. 586. 23.2.14) E.P. 6076. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR," DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (FOUR LINES). Wor/Mcsl3/B31314. Names and Indicating letter.…

Scan015 Instruction to fit a pair of Houdaille rear shock absorbers to a chassis for a bumping test.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 s) (VV. 300. 5.1.14) E.P. 5714. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. INSTRUCTIONS. 19672 To: Mr Winger [text is crossed out] Order No. Customer's No. Re: "Houdaille Shock Absorbers" x 1152 3.4.1914 One…

Scan016 Customer's inquiry about Houdaille Shock Absorbers.
View original record C O P Y. X1152 Rolls-Royce Limited, 14-15, Conduit Street, DH13/DN24414. London. W. S/W 2.4.4.14. re Mr. Silvertop. re Houdaille Shock Absorbers. -------- This gentleman was in our Showrooms this…

Scan017 Internal inquiry regarding the recommendation of Houdaille Shock Absorbers for a customer.
View original record R.R. 657. (100H) (VV. 659. 9-3-14) E.P. 6166. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR," DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (Four Lines). [Routing List] Names and indicating letter.…

Scan018 Testing of Houdaille Shock Absorbers in the Experimental Department.
View original record R.R. 235A. (150 H) (V.V. 782 27.3.14) G. 9442. Wor/Mcrl/B28414. Re Houdaille Shock Absorbers. X.1152. D. 28-4-14. B.P. In reply to your memo M10/DR25414, we wish to state that we now have a set of the…

Scan019 Requesting an opinion on Houdaille shock absorbers due to numerous enquiries.
View original record R.R. 657. (10M) (VV.771. 26.3.14) E.P. 6273. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: 'ROYCAR,' DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (Four Lines). M21/DR1514. Names and Indicating letter. A Mr.…

Scan020 Clarifying which type of hydraulic shock absorbers, Houdaille or R.R., should be fitted to chassis 58NA.
View original record R.R. 235A. (150 H) (V.V. 782 27.2.14) G. 0442. Wor/mcr8/B1514. Re Hydraulic Shock Absorbers. X.235. Mr Matthews 1.5.14. In reply to your query as to whether Houdaille or R.R. hydraulic shock absorbers…

Scan021 Note regarding experiments on rear Houdaille shock absorbers.
View original record X1152 Experiments added to 58 Ya. extract from Orm 19696/2514 in x1100 (Rear) Houdaille Shock Absorbers.

Scan022 Note detailing the fitting of Houdaille hydraulic shack absorbers to the rear springs of chassis 58 NA.
View original record FITTED TO CHASSIS 58 NA ON 26. 5. 14. X. 1152. The Rear Springs are fitted with Houdaille hydraulic shack absorbers. [Watermark: DICKINSON BOND] [Watermark: 120+]

Scan023 Instruction note regarding an alteration to 'HOUDAILLE' shock absorber fittings and associated drawings.
View original record R.R. 300 (6 s) (VV. 577. 20.2.14) E.P. 6065. 21804 ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. INSTRUCTIONS. To: W Mercer Order No. 6201 Re Customer's No. Date: June 6th 1914. Stamp: W.M. 9 JUN 1914 Please note above…

Scan024 The status of experiments with Houdaille shock absorbers for a customer's car.
View original record R.R. 661 (20 H) (XX. 35. 30/6/13) Bm. 720.2349. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR, DERBY." TELEPHONES: 476 (FOUR LINES). Names and Indicating letter, Initial of person…

Scan025 Suitability of fitting Houdaïlle Shock Absorbers.
View original record ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: 'ROYCAR,' DERBY. TELEPHONES: 476 (FOUR LINES). Re Houdaïlle Shock Absorbers. X.1152 [Initialed Hy.] 17-6-14 A customer - E.H.Broadhurst - wrote…

Scan026 Virtues of a component for high-speed touring and racing cars, contrasting with its use on a town car.
View original record shocks from potholes at low speeds. Their chief virtue is that they hold the car steady, and stop bouncing when travelling at high speeds. Their chief use would be on racing or high speed touring cars…

Scan027 Containing Mr. Haldenby's report on experiments with Houdaille shock absorbers.
View original record Wor/Mcr7/B18614. Re Houdaille Shock Absorbers. X.1152. Mr. Plumpton. 18.6.14. In reply to your memo, Wor/HS27/M17614, we give below Mr. Haldenby's report. "The experiments are still in progress but I…

Scan028 To the Experimental Dept. requesting a report on the performance of Houdaille Shock Absorbers for Mr. Silvertop.
View original record ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, 14 & 15, CONDUIT STREET, LONDON, W. TELEPHONES: 1654, 1655, 1656 (GERRARD) TELEGRAMS: "ROLHEAD," REG., LONDON. Names and Indicating letter. Initial of person addressed. A Mr.…

Scan029 Explaining the company's position on Houdaille Shock Absorbers.
View original record Wcr/Mcr3/B24614. Re Houdaille Shock Absorbers. X.1152. W/S 24.6.14. In reply to your memo DH3/DN23614, we wish to explain the position with regard to Houdaille Shock Absorbers as follows:- The…

Scan030 The design of the springing system on modern chassis compared to earlier models without shock absorbers.
View original record Wor/Mcr3/B24614. contd. -2- Our own springing is so designed on the modern chassis that we obtain the best result without shock absorbers, whilst on the earlier cars our tests showed that the friction…

Scan031 Houdaille Shock Absorbers and the forwarding of a report on them.
View original record R.R. 647 (100 H.) (U.C. 859-1-5-14.) B. & H. 1924. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, 14 & 15, CONDUIT STREET, LONDON, W. TELEPHONES: 1654, 1655, 1656 (GERRARD) TELEGRAMS: 'ROLHEAD,' REG., LONDON. DH2/DH27614.…

Scan032 Extract from Warwick's report on vehicle 58NA, regarding rear springing after a 3080-mile run.
View original record R.R. 235a (150 H) (W.W. 276. 13-3-14) G. 6547. June 29th 1914 X. 1152. Extract from Warwick's report on 58NA, run 3080 miles. Did not experiment with these connected and disconnected, but am under the…

Scan033 The failure and removal of Houdaille Shock Absorbers from chassis 58NA.
View original record Wor/Mcr10/L10714. R. 10-7-14. We attach herewith a list of experiments fitted to chassis 58NA. The Houdaille Shock Absorbers have been removed because on the extreme bump the levers got into a…

Scan034 Cancelling experiments on Houdaille Shock Absorbers based on a finding from Mr Royce.
View original record Wor/Mcrl5/L11814. RE HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. X.1152 Da. 11-8-14. Hy. The following is an extract from Na.c. Mr Royce's memo R3/P 31.7.14 :- "We find this is an undesirable adjunct to "our ordinary…

Scan035 Lever for Houdaille Shock Absorbers and the cancellation of an associated experiment.
View original record Wor/Mcr14/L14814. Re Houdaille Shock Absorbers. X.1152 Order Office. 14-8-14. As requested by you we have sent into the Stores the Lever which has worked slack, to be despatched to your instructions.…

Scan036 Proposal from Mr. Colin Defries to test a set of shock absorbers.
View original record R.R. 950s. (20 T) (S.H. 326. 31-1-21). Rm. 2/6/15. X 1152 B.J. Sg27/EW/25.4.21. Houdaille RE: SHOCK ABSORBERS. Our friend - Colin Defries - is, as you will see from the attached papers, anxious that…

Scan037 Correspondence on a Houdaille shock-absorber and whether it should be tested.
View original record x1152 To Hs. from BJ. BJ13/H26.4.21. Copy to Sg. [STAMP: RECEIVED] I attach correspondence concerning a Houdaille shock-absorber, which was sent to us through Mr. Sidgreaves. Please let me know…

Scan038 Cover note attaching a further letter from Mr. Defries regarding Houdaille Shock absorbers.
View original record P.R. 959s. (20 T) (S.H. 326. 31-1-21). Bm. 2/6/15. X1152 Houdaille Shock absorber S/W. Hs. Sg3/BW/27.4.21. Referring to BJ13/H26.4.21. I attach further letter from Mr. Defries re this matter, which…

Scan039 Tests and fitting issues with the Houdaille Shock Absorber.
View original record X.1152 BJ. from Hs. Hs1/LG28.4.21. X1152 THE HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBER With reference to your BJ13/H26.4.21 and to correspondence attached re the above. Some years ago we carried out tests with the…

Scan040 Requesting Mr. Royce's feedback on Houdaille shock absorbers.
View original record X1152 S/W. Hs. Sg2/BM/14.5.21. X1152 RE: HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. Referring to your Hs1/LG28.4.21. and the last paragraph. We should be interested to hear what Mr. Royce said on this subject. Sg.…

Scan041 Drawing of Houdaille shock absorbers for potential fitting to an experimental car.
View original record W/S. To Sg. from Hs. Hs2/LG19.5.21. X1152 RE. HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. Referring to your Sg2/BM14.5.21. Can you please obtain for us a drawing of the present Houdaille Shock Absorber. We want to see…

Scan042 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. to Mr. Hives regarding hydraulic suspensions and trade terms.
View original record The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co., Ltd. Attached Slip Text: TRADE TERMS. Unless a Ledger Account has been previously opened, a Trade discount is allowed off current List Price of 25%, Carriage…

Scan043 Letter discussing a suspension type for the chassis, proposing tests and enclosing blueprints from Wolseley.
View original record -2- Springs) and connecting up with the frame. For Rolls Royce cars I think you would find the Chassis type most suitable, and certainly easier to fit, in fact if you standardised them, the extra…

Scan044 Page 2 of a letter from D. C. Defries regarding Houdaille hydraulic suspensions.
View original record TELEPHONE NO. : 6266 MAYFAIR (2 LINES). THE MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION D. C. DEFRIES GENERAL AGENT FOR THE SALE OF MOTOR CARS AND ACCESSORIES. TELEGRAMS: "STAUNCHEST, WESDO, LONDON." HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC…

Scan045 Copy of a customer testimonial letter regarding a new suspension system.
View original record COPY. 22nd April,1921. Dear Sir, With regard to the suspension recently fitted by you to my Rolls Royce speed model, I am very impressed with same and I think it only right to tell you my opinion.…

Scan046 Letter concerning Houdaille Shock Absorbers, directing the recipient to the sole concessionaire for a sample.
View original record Hs MAY 21 1921 RECEIVED X1152 S/W. Hs. Db14/BM/20.5.21. [purple triangle stamp] RE: HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. Replying to your Hs2/LG19.5.21. we attach herewith, various advertisements referring to…

Scan047 Article reprinted from The Autocar discussing an extended experience of Houdaille shock absorbers, also known as spring checks.
View original record A Great Appreciation of a Great Invention. Reprinted from The Autocar June 24th, 1916 Spring Checks. An Extended Experience of Houdaille Shock Absorbers on Two Cars. AS we have frequently had occasion…

Scan048 Reprint of a 'Daily Mail' article reporting on a prolonged test of Houdaille hydraulic shock and recoil absorbers by Mr. John Prioleau.
View original record HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION SHOCK AND RECOIL ABSORBERS Report after a prolonged test by Mr. John Prioleau in the Daily Mail October 12th, 1920 IT IS NOT OFTEN THAT I HAVE A CHANCE OF GIVING A NEW…

Scan049 Letter to Colonel D.C. Defries requesting drawings for the Houdaille Shock Absorber.
View original record X1152 HS7/LG. Colonel D.C. Defries, 41 New Bond Street, London W.1. 27th. May. 1921. Dear Col. Defries, RE. HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBER. Could you please supply us with drawings showing the main…

Scan050 Letter from D. C. Defries requesting the return of a Wolseley Blue Print for reference purposes.
View original record X.1152 D. C. DEFRIES GENERAL AGENT FOR THE SALE OF MOTOR CARS AND ACCESSORIES. HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS FOR MOTOR CARS. SOLE CONCESSIONAIRE. TELEPHONE No. : 6266 MAYFAIR (2 LINES). TELEGRAMS:…

Scan051 Letter regarding the return of blueprints and difficulties fitting Houdaille Shock Absorbers to a 40/50 car.
View original record X1152 Hs4/LG. 6th. June, 1921. D.C. Defries Esq., 41 New Bond Street, London W.1. Dear Sir, We are returning to you herewith Blue Prints which you kindly loaned to us, Re. Houdaille Shock Absorbers.…

Scan052 Letter from the sole concessionaire for Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions regarding the testing of a set.
View original record X1152 TELEPHONE NO. : 6266 MAYFAIR (2 LINES). MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION C.D/R.D. D. C. DEFRIES GENERAL AGENT FOR THE SALE OF MOTOR CARS AND ACCESSORIES. TELEGRAMS: "STAUNCHEST, WESDO, LONDON." HOUDAILLE…

Scan053 Letter from the sole concessionaire for Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions regarding fitting the product to a Rolls-Royce car.
View original record X1152 D. C. DEFRIES GENERAL AGENT FOR THE SALE OF MOTOR CARS AND ACCESSORIES. HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS FOR MOTOR CARS. SOLE CONCESSIONAIRE. TELEPHONE NO. : 6266 MAYFAIR (2 LINES). THE MOTOR…

Scan054 Letter from the sole concessionaire of Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions regarding testing and improvements to the product.
View original record X1152 TELEPHONE NO. 1. 6266 MAYFAIR (2 LINES). THE MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION D. C. DEFRIES GENERAL AGENT FOR THE SALE OF MOTOR CARS AND ACCESSORIES. HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS FOR MOTOR CARS. SOLE…

Scan055 Design, performance, and materials for various types of shock dampers.
View original record To Hs. from R. c. to OJ. X1152 R1/M29.12.21. X.672 X.1152 - SHOCK DAMPERS. X.3461. Regarding scissors pattern, I do not think this as good as that used on the front of the 40/50. It was the original…

Scan056 The difficulty of fitting standard Houdaille shock absorbers to the 40/50 chassis and a request for a solution from the manufacturer.
View original record W/S Sg. from Hs. X/1152 Hs2/T2.6.22. RE HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. We find it is impossible to fit the standard Houdaille shock absorbers to the rear of the 40/50 chassis. In order to allow for…

Scan057 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co Ltd regarding the testing and fitting of their suspension systems.
View original record X1152 TELEPHONE: MAYFAIR 6267 TELEGRAMS: HOUDAILLE·PHONE·LONDON. THE MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION Co LTD., Sole British Makers and Concessionaires of the Patent HOUDAILLE…

Scan058 Letter from a suspension company comparing their hydraulic system to a friction type and offering a set for testing.
View original record this car and removed your friction type. The writer was particularly interested in examining these latter which appear to be nothing more or less than a form of brake which simply have the effect of…

Scan059 Letter concerning the fitting of Houdaille shock absorbers to a 40/50 HP chassis.
View original record X1152 Hsl/LG. 26th. July 1922. The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspn: Co.Ltd., 41 New Bond Street, London W.1. Dear Sirs, In reply to your letter of the 25th.inst. We have gone carefully into the question of…

Scan060 Letter requesting a set of four shock absorbers for testing on an experimental 40/50 HP chassis.
View original record contd:- -2- We strongly recommend, that when you are fitting up your shock absorbers to the rear of our 40/50 HP. chassis, you arrange the fittings so that they are fixed in the position shown on the…

Scan061 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co Ltd regarding testing their suspensions on a chassis.
View original record X1152 THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION Co LTD Sole British Makers and Concessionaires of the Patent HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS FOR MOTOR CARS. TELEPHONE: MAYFAIR 6267. TELEGRAMS:…

Scan062 Letter discussing the technical specifications for fitting suspension systems, lever arms, and brackets.
View original record - 2 - length of arm as shown in your blue print you would, with the maxi- mum compression or maximum rebound, have contact between the ro- tating impellor and the stationary re-acting member and…

Scan063 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. regarding the fitting and adjustment of their suspension systems.
View original record Continuation from The HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION Co. [Stamp: REC'D JUL - 3 1924] trouble being that for refilling or adjustment it is a little difficult to get at, but refilling is only necessary…

Scan064 The fitting, testing, and pricing terms for Houdaille suspensions on various car chassis.
View original record - 4 - and it has presented no difficulties to the coachbuilder. You would, of course, find it a far cheaper fitting to bolt straight to the chassis frame and doubtless if you standardise you would,…

Scan065 Continuation of a letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. regarding their services and product workmanship.
View original record Continuation from The HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION Co. - 5 - our services are entirely at your disposal. Moreover if you cared to dismantle such pair of Suspensions as you did not fit to the chassis…

Scan066 Hand-drawn diagram showing an end view of an axle casing with lugs for a 1922 model.
View original record End view of axle casing showing lugs cast on axle casing. 1922 Rolls Royce. Axle drive shaft Ball Stud. 1 1/2" x 3/8" mild steel. 6" long before it is bent.

Scan067 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co Ltd to Rolls Royce regarding a price reduction for hydraulic suspensions.
View original record X1152 COMPRESSION CHAMBER REBOUND CHAMBER TELEPHONE: MAYFAIR 6267 TELEGRAMS: HOUDAILLE-PHONE-LONDON. THE MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION Co LTD Sole British Makers and…

Scan068 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. following up on suspension tests and advocating for their standardisation.
View original record X1152 TELEPHONE: MAYFAIR 6267. TELEGRAMS: HOUDAILLE PHONE LONDON. THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO LTD Sole British Makers and Concessionaires of the Patent HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS FOR…

Scan069 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co., Ltd. enquiring about fitting components to a new Twenty model.
View original record I am wondering if you have fitted them yet to the new Twenty as I am sure this would make a very great difference to it. Yours very truly, THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO., LTD. [Signature]…

Scan070 Cover note forwarding a communication from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. regarding shock absorbers.
View original record X/1152 Hs. from ROY. ROY14/MG28.2.23 Attached is a communication from the Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. dated the 27th instant, from which you will see they are somewhat perturbed at our…

Scan071 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. regarding pricing for suspensions and brackets.
View original record Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions have been recently fitted to the following cars:— H.M. Queen Alexandra's Daimler H.R.H. The Prince of Wales's Rolls Royce H.R.H. The Duke of York's Armstrong Siddeley…

Scan072 Promotional booklet for Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers, including a publication on 'How Motoring Shocks Affect the Nervous System'.
View original record HOUDAILL HYDRAULIC SHOCK ABSORBERS THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION COMPANY LTD. 41 New Bond Street, London, W.1 Telegrams: Houdaille, Phone, London Telephone: Mayfair 6287 Apply for 20-page…

Scan073 Urgent request to settle the account for Houdaille Suspension shock absorbers.
View original record Hs. X/152 Wd/Dn4/HP10.5.23. Re Houdaille Suspension. U R G E N T. Please note that we have received a request from this Firm that the matter be settled forthwith, and they ask for our cheque to settle…

Scan074 Requesting the return of two pairs of Houdaille Shock Absorbers to the makers.
View original record X1152 To Wd. from Hs. c. to Dn. O.O. c. to Chat. c. to BP. Hs14/LG10.5.23. We are sending into the Stores :- 2 pairs of Houdaille Shock Absorbers. Will the O.O. issue the necessary instructions for…

Scan075 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions regarding fitting their shock absorbers to cars, referencing the Prince of Wales's vehicle.
View original record X1152 Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions are fitted to the following cars:— H.M. The King's Daimler H.M. Queen Alexandra's Daimler H.R.H. The Prince of Wales's Rolls Royce H.R.H. The Duke of York's…

Scan076 Promotional letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. regarding their shock absorbers.
View original record THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION The great feature of this testimonial, however, is that Mr. Fisher informed us that he got in touch with you saying he wanted some Shock Absorbers fitted to the rear…

Scan077 Customer feedback letter expressing thanks for an offer and praising the performance of a suspension system.
View original record Oct 26th /23. 118 Pevensey Rd Eastbourne R J Paken Esqr Dear Sir Many thanks for your letter of the 24th. It is awfully good of you to offer us one of you new pattern Hipers. We shall be in town again…

Scan078 Letter discussing fitting parts to the rear springs of a car and inquiring about local accommodation for a family visit.
View original record W.I. to have them also fitted to the rear springs & no doubt his Chauffeur Mr Roffey will be bringing the Car along in the course of a few days. I have thought of bringing my wife & baby boy of 2…

Scan079 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. enclosing a customer testimonial for their shock absorbers.
View original record Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions are fitted to the following cars:— H.M. The King's Daimler H.M. Queen Alexandra's Daimler H.R.H. The Prince of Wales's Rolls Royce H.R.H. The Duke of York's Armstrong…

Scan080 Testimonial letter from R. J. Hope regarding the performance of Houdaille Shock Absorbers on a Rolls-Royce.
View original record Copy. HOPE, HARTOPE & COMPANY. Chemical Manufacturers. Refiners of HIGH GRADE LUBRICATING OILS & GREASES. Head Office:- 43, Gower Street, LONDON. W.C.1. 22nd November.1923. The Houdaille Hydraulic…

Scan081 Proposing to decline an offer from the Houdaille Company for the standardisation of their shock absorbers.
View original record X/152 from ROY. c. to Hs. ROY8/MG14.12.23 Attached is copy of a communication from the Houdaille Company making a special offer for standardisation of their Shock Absorbers. I propose advising them we…

Scan082 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. quoting a price for their hydraulic shock absorbers for standardisation.
View original record Copy of Letter. ....................... From: THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO. LTD. 41, New Bond Street LONDON W.1 C.D/R.D 10th December, 1923 Messrs. Rolls-Royce Ltd. Nightingale Road, DERBY.…

Scan083 Page 2 of a document from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. regarding the efficiency of their shock absorbers.
View original record - 2 - We have claimed for the past 13 years that the efficiency of Houdailles never varies. This is, of course, a fact and is due to the Houdaille master patent; Automatic Recuperation of the working…

Scan084 Potential testing and adoption of Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension systems.
View original record X1152 from ROY. c. to Hs. ROY8/MG22.2.24 The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension people are still really keen on our testing our Houdailles, and have written this day as attached. Would you care to try a…

Scan085 ROY regarding a communication from Houdaille and a query about acquiring a set for an experimental or shop car.
View original record X/152 Hs. from ROY. ROY10/MG3.3.24. Attached is a further communication from the Houdaille people, dated the 28th ultimo, in reply to mine of the 27th (copy attached). Would you care to have such a…

Scan086 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions encouraging Rolls Royce to test their shock absorbers.
View original record Houdaille Hydraulic Suspensions are fitted to the following cars:— H.M. The King's Daimler H.M. Queen Alexandra's Daimler H.R.H. The Prince of Wales's Rolls Royce H.R.H. The Duke of York's Armstrong…

Scan087 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. discussing the performance and reliability of their suspension systems.
View original record -2- first installed. We tell you very definitely not only that such would be the case, but that other than very occasionally putting a little fresh Castor Oil into the recuperator chamber, no…

Scan088 Letter to Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. declining to test their shock absorbers for standardisation.
View original record Copy of Letter. Ref: ROY4/MG27.2.24. Your Ref: C.D/D.S February 27th.1924. Messrs. The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co.Ltd. 41, New Bond Street, LONDON W.1 Dear Sirs:- Houdaille Shock Absorbers…

Scan089 From Roy discussing the trial of modified Houdaille Shock Absorbers.
View original record Hs. from ROY. X1152 ROY12/MG20.7.25. Houdaille Shock Absorbers The Houdaille people write as copy attached. In view of the modifications they have since made to their Shock Absorber, would you care to…

Scan090 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. discussing a new hydraulic shock absorber model.
View original record Copy From: THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO.LTD D.C.D./D.S 41, New Bond Street, LONDON W.1 15th July 1920 Messrs. Rolls Royce Ltd. DERBY Dear Sirs, Ref: ROY14.MG.17.7.25. Re Shock Absorbers. We…

Scan091 Instructions on the maintenance and features of shock absorbers and connecting rods.
View original record - 2 - We ask you also to bear in mind that once you have fitted these shock absorbers and regulated them on the first road run, they will never require any attention other than the refilling of the…

Scan092 Trial of a hydraulic shock absorber to address high-speed steering wobbles.
View original record To Hs. from DA. X/1152 DA1/M1 8. 8. 25. HIGH SPEED STEERING WOBBLES. X.457 X.1152. We believe you are trying, or have tried, a shock absorber working horizontally, and either coupled to the cross…

Scan093 Tests to eliminate high-speed steering wobbles using hydraulic dampers and Houdaille shock absorbers.
View original record R.R. 493a (50m) (D.B. 175 25-9-24) J.H.D. EXPERIMENTAL REPORT. To R. from Hs/Rn. c. to CJ. BJ. c. to RG. E. c. to DA. BY. c. to Wor. x1152 Expl. No. REF HS Ral/LG27.8.25. HIGH SPEED STEERING WOBBLES.…

Scan094 Testing shock absorbers, comparing standard units with Houdaille dampers, and further trials with balloon tyres.
View original record R.R. 493a (50m) (D.B. 175 25-9-24) J.H.D. EXPERIMENTAL REPORT. -2- Expl. No. REF: Hs/Rml/LG27. 8. 25. shock absorbers is difficult to ascertain without an extended test under all road conditions. From…

Scan095 Determining the effects of synchronized out-of-balance front wheels on wobbles.
View original record R.R. 493a (50m) (D.B. 175 25-9-24) J.H.D. EXPERIMENTAL REPORT. -3- Expl. No. REF: Hs/Rnl/LG28. 8.25. in connection with your suggestion that when both front wheels are an equal amount out of balance,…

Scan096 Requesting tools and parts to fit Houdaille shock absorbers to a Morris-Cowley car for examination.
View original record E.R. 235A (100 T) (S.H. 159. 11-8-20) G. 2800 41152 TO HS. FROM DA/EV. DA/EV1/M29.8.25. re. SHOCK ABSORBERS. We have bought some Houdaille shock absorbers to examine their construction, and now Mr.…

Scan097 The reliability and effectiveness of Houdaille hydraulic dampers for steering.
View original record EXPERIMENTAL REPORT. To R. from Hs. c. to CJ. BJ. c. to RG. E. c. to DA. BY. c. to Wor. Expl. No. REF: Hs1/LGA.9.25. X1152 STEERING - HYDRAULIC DAMPERS. 4457 The Experimental Dept. do not recommend…

Scan098 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co Ltd confirming the dispatch of Berk-shire shock absorbers and brackets for a Phantom model.
View original record CODES USED: BENTLEYS. The only known method of Automatically adapting Motor Car Springs to the varying conditions of road surfaces. Add 25% to the life of Tyres by always keeping the Wheels on the…

Scan099 Letter regarding the dispatch and fitting instructions for new British-made Berk-shire Hydraulic Shock Absorbers for testing on a Phantom Model.
View original record MOTOR EXHIBITION OLYMPIA CODES USED: BENTLEYS The only known method of Automatically adapting the Car Springs to the varying conditions of road surface. Add 25% to the life of the car By always…

Scan100 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. about fitting shock absorbers to a 40-50 HP model.
View original record -2- Shock Absorber, neater fittings could be incorporated. Rear: The shock absorbers for the rear fitting will have 7" straight lever arms, the connecting rod being of our latest design, and this rod…

Scan101 Blueprint diagram for adapting a Berkshire hydraulic suspension to a 40/50 chassis without further drilling.
View original record ADAPTING A BERKSHIRE H/S to a 40/50 Rolls Royce without further chassis drilling FRONT Existing Con: Rod. Instrument is mounted on a special (plate made to template) which utilizes the rear bolt of…

Scan102 Blueprint for adapting a Berkshire Hydraulic Suspension to a 40/50 chassis.
View original record ADAPTING A BERKSHIRE H/s to a 40/50 ROLLS ROYCE without further chassis drilling FRONT Existing Con: Rod. Instrument is mounted on a special (plate made to template) which utilizes the rear bolt of…

Scan103 Blueprint for adapting a Berkshire M/S to a 40/50 model by altering the existing rear bracket.
View original record ADAPTING A BERKSHIRE M/S. to a 40/50 ROLLS. ROYCE by altering existing rear bracket. REAR. Stay at this point moved to inside Rear petrol tank stay position of lever, car, unloaded Instrument is…

Scan104 Blueprint for adapting a Berkshire hydraulic suspension to a 40/50 model by altering the existing rear bracket.
View original record ADAPTING A BERKSHIRE H/S. to a 40/50 ROLLS. ROYCE by altering existing rear bracket. REAR. Stay at this point moved to inside. Rear petrol tank stay. position of lever, car unloaded. Instrument is…

Scan105 Testing of Berkshire hydraulic shock dampers from the English Houdaille Co.
View original record To Hs. from Da. X1152 Da2/M5.9.25. HYDRAULIC SHOCK DAMPERS. X.1152 X.8520 Mr. Hardy has arranged for the Houdaille people to send you a complete set of the Berkshire hydraulic shock dampers which are…

Scan106 Letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co Ltd regarding the despatch of shock absorbers and brackets.
View original record CODE USED, BENTLEYS X1152 TELEPHONE: MAYFAIR 6267. TELEGRAMS: HOUDAILLE, PHONE, LONDON. THE SOCIETY OF MOTOR MANUFACTURERS & TRADERS LTD THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO LTD Sole British Makers…

Scan107 Letter confirming the dispatch of shock absorbers and brackets for a Phantom model.
View original record X1152 CODES USED: BENTLEYS. The only known method of Automatically adapting Motor Car Springs to the varying conditions of road surfaces Add 25% to the life of Tyres by always keeping the Wheels on…

Scan108 Requesting the return of Berkshire shock absorbers to be replaced with the latest Houdaille pattern.
View original record X1152 X.1152 To WDMs. from Hs/Rm. Hs/RmA/LG11.9.25. We have received a complete set of Berkshire shock absorbers (4), and in addition an extra pair for the front. We prefer the original Houdaille…

Scan109 Return of two Berkshire shock absorbers to the makers.
View original record To Mr. Chatwin Stores. c. to Wd/Ms. V1152 Hs/Rm5/LG11.9.25. Herewith two Berkshire shock absorbers. These are being returned to the makers. The O.O. are dealing with the matter. Hs/Rm.

Scan110 New experimental Phantom hydraulic shock damper for the front axle.
View original record To BY. from DA. c. to CJ. Hs. L1152 DA2/ML1.9.25. NEW PHANTOM HYDRAULIC SHOCK DAMPER. X.8520 X.1152. Herewith we send N.sch.2052 shewing the hydraulic damper for the front axle. This shock absorber is…

Scan111 Despatch of Houdaille Front Shock Absorbers and improved washers.
View original record Hs. from ROY. X1152 ROY22/MG14.9.25. The Houdaille Shock Absorber people are despatching, tonight, a pair of Houdaille Front Shock Absorbers, as supplied to the Public to-day. At the same time they…

Scan112 Solutions for high and low-speed steering wobbles and the development of new shock dampers.
View original record Handwritten: X1152 To CJ. from R. c. to Hs. c. to EY. c. to Da. c. to PN. c. to CWB. STEERING. R7/M14.9.25. X.8430 X.457 X.1152. Regarding the high speed steering wobbles we have reported what we are…

Scan113 Testing and setup of various shock dampers for Phantom and 20 HP models.
View original record To Hs. from DA. c. to CJ. BY. c. to EP. PN. +1152 DA3/M23. 9. 25. SHOCK DAMPERS. X. 8520 X. 4046 X. 1152 X. 235 Referring to your visit to WW. yesterday, as reported elsewhere the first move is to set…

Scan114 Bump test performed on Derihon, Houdaille, and Berkshire brand shock absorbers.
View original record To Hs/Rm. from Hs/RB. X1152 25.9.25. SHOCK ABSORBER - BUMP TEST. X1152 X8520 X4046 Derihon, Houdaille & Berkshire. Bump drum speed 120 - 130 r.p.m. 2" cams at 180°. Shock absorbers run for the…

Scan115 The performance and comparison of different types of shock absorbers, focusing on overheating and oil leaks.
View original record contd :- -2- DERIHON. (1) Cooling water on n/s absorber 15 mins. run. Did not lose efficiency and oil leaks almost negligible. )2) No cooling. 15 mins. run - n/s absorber. Efficiency lost but not as…

Scan116 Returning and ordering different types of hydraulic shock absorbers.
View original record X1152 To ROY. from Hs. c. to Mr. Chatwin. Hs1/LG14.1.26. X1152 X832 We are sending into the Stores :- 4 Berkshire xxx Hydraulic Shock Absorbers. 2 Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers. Will you please…

Scan117 Design flaws of Houdaille type shock absorbers and the development of a new hydraulic type.
View original record To HK, Paris. from Hs. +1152 Hs3/LG23. 2. 26. SHOCK ABSORBERS. +832 HK7/MM6. 2. 26. With reference to the shock absorbers of which we have received prints. This shock absorber is of the Houdaille type…

Scan118 Full description of the Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension system, a self-compensating shock and recoil absorber for motor cars.
View original record All Road Shocks Eliminated. The Tyres Cling to the Road. FULL DESCRIPTION OF THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION (PATENTED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD) :: Or Self Compensating Shock and Recoil Absorber FOR…

Scan119 Brochure for the Houdaille patented hydraulic, compensating & recuperative suspension system.
View original record Top Section: Left Panel: JUST as the Hydraulic Buffer is the only means of smoothly checking the recoil of modern guns, so are the HOUDAILLE PATENT HYDRAULIC SUSPENSIONS the only means of…

Scan120 Promotional leaflet featuring customer testimonials and illustrations for Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers.
View original record Column 1: absorber fitted to quick-firing Guns; the main purport of the Houdaille is automatically to adjust the strength and flexibility of the springs to the varying road conditions or weight…

Scan121 Compilation of private, trade, and press testimonials regarding the Houdaille hydraulic suspension system.
View original record A Few Private, Trade and Press Appreciations. The HOUDAILLE Hydraulic Suspension or Self Compensating Shock and Recoil Absorber for MOTOR CARS. SOME METHODS OF FITTING TO AXLE AND CHASSIS OF ANY CARS…

Scan122 Correspondence with The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Company about shock absorbers.
View original record Hs. from ROY. ----------------- X1152 ROY3/AG16.10.26 ----------------- Re copy of letter from The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Company, and pamphlet attached. Presumably you are not interested in…

Scan123 Letter from Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd. regarding a new Commercial model suspension.
View original record Copy From: THE HOUDAILLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION CO.LTD. C.D/D.S 41, New Bond Street, LONDON W.1 13th October 1926 Messrs. Rolls Royce Ltd., D E R B Y Dear Sirs, We enclose herewith particulars of the…

Scan124 Promotional leaflet for Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers for commercial vehicles, detailing their function and application.
View original record Panel 1: Houdaille (SAY "HOO-DYE") Hydraulic Shock Absorbers [Sectional drawing of the shock absorber mechanism] IMPELLOR REGULATING ROD Sectional Drawing showing their Action and how they perform…

Scan125 Advertising leaflet for Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers for Commercial Vehicles, including a free trial offer.
View original record NEW MODEL Houdaille (SAY "HOO-DYE") Hydraulic Shock Absorbers for Commercial Vehicles A MONTH'S FREE TRIAL Houdaille Hydraulic Shock Absorbers have, during the past 14 years, conclusively proved…

Scan126 Letter to The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co. Ltd declining to test their new commercial model hydraulic suspension.
View original record Ref: ROY2/AG16.10.26 Your Ref: C.D/D.S October 16th.1926 Messrs. The Houdaille Hydraulic Suspension Co.Ltd. 41, New Bond Street, LONDON W.1 Dear Sirs, Thank you for your letter of the 13th instant,…

Scan127 Letter regarding Houdaille Shock Absorbers, contrasting the American and French manufactured designs.
View original record X1152 SW HS/ Oy5-L-2227 February 2, 1927. Mr. F. H. Royce, Rolls-Royce, Ltd., London, England. (Copy for attention of Mr. Hives " " " " Mr. Haldenby " " " " Mr. Beaver " " " " Mr. Nadin " " " " Mr.…

Scan128 The performance of American Houdaille shock absorbers compared to French instruments on various cars.
View original record -2- With regard to the general claim of superior workmanship, several New York importers of the Mercedes and other Continental cars, replace the French by American instruments immediately on receipt…

Scan129 Letter from Houde Engineering comparing American-built and French-built Houdaille instruments.
View original record HOUDE ENGINEERING CORPORATION Buffalo, New York January 31, 1927 Mr. Maurice Olley, Rolls-Royce of America, Inc. Springfield, Mass. Dear Sir: As per request of Mr. B. D. Shultz for the comparisons…

Scan130 Comparison of the design and operation of French and American shock absorber instruments.
View original record Mr. Maurice Olley. -2- Inasmuch as all air or gas must rise to the top of the instrument, we gain several advantages by our construction: Elimination of all air as desired. Separates dense fluid from…

Scan131 To Mr. Maurice Olley detailing the reliability and advantages of American-built instruments over French ones.
View original record Mr. Maurice Olley. -5- During the past six years we have been building instruments and we would say that the ones built during the first year were not worth their weight in scrap. However, they have…

Scan132 The concluding page of a letter to Mr. Maurice Olley from the Houde Engineering Corp.
View original record Mr. Maurice Olley -4- The above are some of the principal comparisons of the two instru- ments. We are mailing you, under separate cover, one of our Brochures which will describe in detail the…

Scan133 Requesting a pair of Houdaille shock absorbers to test their effect on high-speed wobbles.
View original record To OY. from Hs/Rn. X1152 Hs/Rml/LG16.2.27. HOUDAILLE SHOCK ABSORBERS. With reference to OY5/E2227. We are rather interested in the transverse arrangement of Houdaille. If it is possible to obtain a…

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