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).
Persistent and annoying squeak from the butterfly exhaust valve on the New Phantom model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 66\2\ scan0130 | |
| Date | 4th December 1925 | |
| To Hs. {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from BJ. Copy to PN. {Mr Northey} BJ9/H4.12.25. 48230 Butterfly Exhaust Valve on New PhantomCodename for PHANTOM I. The following is a copy of memorandum PN {Mr Northey} 4/DN2.12.25:- "It appears inevitable, in spite of frequent oiling, that this butterfly valve develops a very high-pitched squeak every time that the accelerator pedal moves down or up, which of course, in traffic is hundreds of times in a few minutes. This squeak soon gets on a driver's nerves and prevents any possible appreciation of the beauties of the car which otherwise might be felt. All our trials cars suffer from this. When in Paris recently, M. {Mr Moon / Mr Moore} Kellner asked me what that terrible squeak was. The butterfly valve had been oiled only three-quarters of an hour previously. I understand the modification is being tested, involving the use of water heating for the carburetter instead of by exhaust gas, but I feel very strongly that something ought to be done before this modification becomes standard, in order to reduce the distinct discomfort many owners will be suffering to the Rolls-Royce discredit. This really is an urgent matter." Can you kindly let us know when we may expect a cure for this squeaking to be found, and when cars will be delivered without the squeak? B.J. | ||