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).
Review of fitting and assembly criticisms and production department remarks for a Bentley 50 semi-floating axle.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 111\4\ scan0046 | |
| Date | 16th July 1938 guessed | |
| SEMI-FLOATING AXLE - BENTLEY 50 Fitting and Assembly Criticisms Raised Expl.Dept. Production Dept. Remarks 1. The gears can only be set for correct backlash and preload on the bearings by trial and correction, since preloading the bearings alters the backlash. Question of necessary setting tackle is being investigated, and scheme prepared. 2. The bridge for the pinion nose bearing has a very poor location, and we suggest that further advantage be taken of the bore in the axle casing by providing a longer spigot in the bridge piece. In the event of undue fidgeting it may be desirable to specify the use of fitting bolts. Further mods. requested in order to eliminate necessity for separate bridge piece, so that it may be produced integral with bearing track, also requested that bridge piece spigot bore & an axle casing be made circular to facilitate diamond boring. 3. The number of taper pins securing the spring brackets appears to be excessive, and we recommend that the quantity be reduced. Experiments in progress to eliminate reaming of taper pin holes, and drive pins tightly into parallel holes. 4. The lock plate for the pinion bearing retaining nut should incorporate a number of tabs to facilitate locking. This plate would be more efficient if produced in a thicker gauge of material, since the present piece appears inadequate. It is hoped to dispense with lock plate and nut in question entirely by locating drive flange on splines instead of taper. This would enable bearing to be trapped by drive flange retaining nut. 5. No provision is made for lubricating the axle shaft outer bearings. Is it assumed that the initial packing of grease will suffice during the life of the car? We would point out that should failure of this bearing occur it cannot be replaced without turning the pressed-on sleeve off the axle shaft. Shrunk on sleeve will complicate replacement of wheel bearings in service. Admittedly bearings rarely fail with present full floating axle, but duty is more onerous on B.50. semi-floating axle & failures may be more frequent. | ||