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).
Recommendations for reducing the weight of the Spectre engine by changing component materials.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 96\4\ scan0001 | |
| Date | 4th July 1934 | |
| To RHC.{R. H. Coverley - Production Engineer} from E/JNR.{Charles L. Jenner} c. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} (text crossed out) SpectreCodename for Phantom III Engine Weight Reduction. On the second SpectreCodename for Phantom III engine we ought to endeavour to bring about some reduction in weight. We recommend that cylinder liners - 12 off - be made in austenitic steel, copper plated and nitrided and made much thinner. Please refer to LeC.4022. In regard to the six tappet blocks which are in cast iron, we should like these made in aluminium piston metal RR.53 alloy, there is adequate lubrication at this point which should ensure no undue wear taking place on the tappet thrust surfaces. The following pieces can be instructed in magnesium:- Wheelcase - 1 off. Oil Sump. - 1 off. Clutch Casing (top) - 1 off. Clutch Casing (bottom) - 1 off. Clutch Casing - 1 off. Rocker Covers. - 2 off. Although our recent experience with rocker covers has been disappointing when made in magnesium, we think the experiment is worth trying again in conjunction with the hydraulic tappets. Distributor body - 2 off. Ignition Governor Body - 2 off. Tappet Covers. - 2 off. Oil Filler. - 1 off. Oil Level Indicator - 1 off. Oil Pump Casing - 1 off. Oil Pump Cover. - 1 off. Flywheel Rear End Cover - 1 off. Oil Strainer Spider - 1 off. Oil Cleaner Casing. - 1 off. Oil Cleaner Cover. - 1 off. Relief Valve Casting - 1 off. Carburetter Body - 4 off. Air Valve Pot - 4 off. | ||