Comments on the performance of the experimental car 18.G.4 after a 10,000-mile test in France.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 5a\1\ 01-page264 | |
| Date | 28th December 1931 | |
| Bs. {A J. Barnes - Assistant Manager} C. MX. {John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} C. MOT. SPLO/H28.12.31. X5770. Y5770. re. EXPERIMENTAL CAR - 18.G.4. With reference to my test of the above after its return from 10,000 miles test in France. The following are a few comments:- (1) Synchro-mesh change gear, third and top gear. This is a particularly good point, and a wonderful asset from the point of view of easy changing and a quiet third gear. There is a certain amount of black on the gears but normally, this should not be complained of. (2) The engine is particularly good for sweet running and yet has good acceleration and power. It confirms the experience we have already had in regard to the diamond engine mounting and also the fact that increased power can be given to the engine without any detriment-al vibration troubles. A point, however, which must be considered and dealt with, is that the engine vibration is certainly felt through the change gear lever, and as this lever is generally in contact with the driver, it makes itself pronounced as compared with the rest of the chassis. If the change gear lever cannot be isolated from these vibrations, as appears to be the case with the pedals and steering wheel, it should certainly be made so that it is quite clear of the driver. The inlet suction noise on this car seems rather a pronounced feature. Although it may be pointed out that this is worse than the standard, it appears worse as the engine in all other respects now seems so good. Detonations take place unless the ignition is run about 5 or 6 notches from the full advance. (3) Springing and steering. Generally free from pitching and holds the road well, but rather harsh rid-ing at low speeds over potholes. The front springs are certainly too weak as bumps, on the front buffers are evident, and it is not so much a question of re-bound as of dropping into potholes. Also the steering is inclined to wander, especially is this case at high speeds over uneven cambered road surfaces. CONTINUED: | ||
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).