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).
Complaint letter to Mr. Cowen regarding an engine or clutch issue, described as a 'thump' and 'judder'.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 90\4\ scan0038 | |
| Date | 25th April 1936 | |
| COPY Eastgate House, Bourne, Lincolnshire. 25.4.36 Dear Mr.Cowen, My 4¼ was delivered safely here yesterday. However, I regret to say something is definitely wrong with the engine or clutch unit. You will no doubt remember that when I returned from Monte Carlo I sent in a list of points for attention in connection with the car. Amongst the points I mentioned that the engine was rough and that the engine "thumped." When I tried the car thoroughly today this symptom was far worse and it is now extremely bad. I cannot think it is anything to do with main or big end bearings because the oil pressure is very steady. However I am equally convinced it is something to do with the crank assembly. By this I mean could it be something to do with the crank vibration damper or failing this something in the clutch assembly? I am rather surprised this was not noticed before the car was sent back to me. Admittedly it is considerably worse than when the car was delivered to you but the symptom mentioned is the same as the one I complained of. Whatever else you find wrong I am sure the clutch is not what it should be. It is very "juddery" and to accentuate this I put the car in gear (stationary) put the hand brake on and slipped the clutch very slightly. The "judder" under these conditions was far worse than it should be. You will appreciate I am most anxious for the car to be as perfect as I know she can be. I am equally anxious not to be without the car longer than necessary as my racing season is now in full swing and it is impossible for me to be without the car. I propose arranging for my friend | ||