Suggested changes to an oil level and draining scheme, comparing it with American practices.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 75\2\ scan0023 | |
| Date | 14th August 1925 guessed | |
| -2- The only changes which we suggest in the present scheme would be: (1) Operation of the cock from the right hand side of the car, outside the bonnet, this being the same side as the breather. (2) Arranging the operation with no "click" but with a return spring so that the driver cannot leave it open. (3) Putting the cock on the right hand side of the crankcase instead of the bottom so that it cannot be damaged by frozen snow or stones. A pipe could be used extending inwards to the middle of the crankcase so that the level would not be upset by the slope of the car. (4) Using the words "Crankcase oil level" instead of "Crankcase oil drain" on the plate. It is interesting to note that specifications of the Packard Eight recently published, of which cuttings are enclosed for Mr. Royce's attention, show that they have copied the Rolls-Royce drain cock very closely, even to the swinging cover over the nozzle. The only alternative scheme in America, which we know of, and which is worth considering, is the "dipping stick" used on the Buick. As against our scheme, this (a) Wastes less oil (b) Does not mess up the garage floor but (c) Requires opening the bonnet (d) Is liable to drip on the mudguards, etc. (e) Is not very accurate for our small change of oil level It does indicate the quality of the oil, but, since the stick gets splashed up while the engine is running, it is necessary to wipe it and insert a second time to get the level correctly, and this is liable to get dirt into the oil. Oil drain cock While dealing with this subject, it may be pointed out that the easier draining of crankcase is receiving a great deal of attention by American manufacturers. The regular draining of oil every 500 miles in winter and 500 to 1000 miles in summer is being successfully campaigned by the oil companies and automobile manufacturers, and there is an undoubted demand amongst owners for easier draining. | ||
From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).