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).
Secret letter to The British Power Boat Co. about a Merlin engine's potential marine application.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 175\1\ img008 | |
| Date | 26th May 1941 | |
| BOAT 18 26th May, 1941. Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}2/RH.{R. Hollingworth} G.{Mr Griffiths - Chief Accountant / Mr Gnapp} Selman Esq., The British Power Boat Co., Ltd., Hythe, SOUTHAMPTON. SECRET. Dear Selman, I have been developing a Merlin engine for use in tanks and this is now going into production. It is being made by Leyland Motors. I know that Mr.Spurrier of Leylands, was rather interested to know whether there might be any application for this engine in a boat. On 72 octane fuel it gives 600 H.P. and we should expect 750 H.P. on 87 octane. It weighs 1170 lbs. and its length is that of a Merlin with the supercharger and reduction gear removed. If it is of any interest, I can send you an installation drawing. The distance from the centre line of the crankshaft to the lowest part of the crankcase is only 8½". I have to admit that the prospect of getting any quantities of this engine at the moment, are not bright, but it will be interesting to know whether it had a marine application. Yours faithfully, | ||