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).
Customer complaints and proposed solutions regarding the actuation of the reverse gear mechanism.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 66\4\ scan0161 | |
| Date | 16th March 1922 | |
| EV. {Ivan Evernden - coachwork} from EP. {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} c. to Hs. {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. to Sft. {Mr Swift} X3322 EP {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} /3/Hl6.3.22. Re. Trouble of Actuating Reverse Gear Mechanism. -------------------------- Although we have been able to obtain satisfactory consideration from our customers to the effect that the reverse gear can be manipulated satisfactorily if properly handled, there is a general feeling that it is awkward to engage, and unless properly engaged is dangerous, in so far as it flies out in some cases causing a nasty jar to the driver, should his hand happen to be in close proximity to the change gear lever. In order to reduce this complaint to a minimum, we have spent considerable time in getting the reverse gear actuating mechanism to work correctly and freely. A number of gear boxes have received attention on test for this complaint, and a certainly feel that an alteration to drawing and instructions should be issued to advantage for the working parts of the reverse gear mechanism in the change gear box to be fitted up much freer than they are at present. It is possible, according to drawings, for the reverse gear sliding shaft to have .001" clearance in the supporting bearings. I suggest the limits of these features be reduced so that at least twice this amount is obtained for moving parts, such as the guide saddle etc. and toggle mechanism should also receive similar attention. Could it not be arranged for the bearings of these guides to be reamered in position on the gear box. EP. {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} | ||