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).
On the comparative road testing of a Derby cabriolet and a London demonstrating car, focusing on ride harshness and suspension adjustments.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 72\3\ scan0041 | |
| Date | 1st August 1924 | |
| To Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from BJ. Copies to CJ. R.{Sir Henry Royce} [Handwritten] 49410 BJ1/HZ.8.24. On Friday morning at Gerrards Cross over the usual course we tried the Derby cabriolet with front wheel brakes, together with our 40/50 h.p. London demonstrating car. There was a very distinct difference very notice-able on the back seats, the Derby car being harsher at speeds under 30 m.p.h. In the evening we drove it to Frinton, and found that it was comparatively comfortable in the driving seat, but harsh in the back seats. During the week-end, Commdr. Briggs saw Mr. Royce, who suggested that the harshness might probably come from the nip on the back springs, which would probably improve after the car had been used for some time. It was therefore suggested that we should try front brakes, strong front springs and heavy front axle on the London demonstrating car. Commdr. Briggs made experiments in varying the shock-absorbers, and although they had appeared to be the same in both cars, as far as could be judged by standing on the step and swaying the cars, there was an undoubted improvement by slacking off the shock-absorbers on the Derby car. H.{Arthur M. Hanbury - Head Complaints}, CWB., Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} and BJ. tried the two cars again at Gerrards Cross last night, and found that slacking the shock-absorbers on the Derby car so considerably improved it that there was not a great deal of difference in the riding of the two cars, taking into consideration that the upholstery on the cabriolet was not as good, and the back was more upright, than on the London car. I am trying the cabriolet from London to Wargrave and back, as I have to visit the Chairman, and I shall then be able to ascertain what it is like at higher speeds. We still think it is advisable to make a final trial if possible on the London demonstrating car fitted with front wheel brakes, springs and axle, although the front wheel brakes need not be connected, as we only want to try the effect of the extra weight and springs. Please, therefore, let me know as soon as possible how soon this arrangement can be effected, to enable us to try the London car with these alterations. B.J. | ||