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).
Series of proposals for economy and efficiency improvements on car components for model J. 3.
| Identifier | WestWitteringFiles\V\March1931-September1931\ Scan126 | |
| Date | 17th April 1931 | |
| COPY. FROM DA{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} C. to WOR.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} C. to me. HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} ORIGINAL. SECRET. re. JAPAN 111. DA{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/EV{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}2/M17.4.31. X5770- We would suggest that the following proposals be considered on the grounds of economy and efficiency for J.{Mr Johnson W.M.} 3. REAR END OF CAR. We suggest that the number of standards be reduced and the most frequently used be given priority in consideration. If for technical reasons it is permissible we suggest two standards only. (1) For maximum bodied cars wheel or wheels carried permanently at the side, and a combined rear apron and luggage grid at the rear. We believe a grid which would fold away into the apron could be made of strip metal, and so be much more economical than the present tubular one. (2) A wheel or wheels only at the rear for sporting cars. It is a fact that we have as standard a wheel and grid at the rear which ties up the design and makes our appearance compare less favourably with other cars. SIDE WHEEL CARRIER. We suggest that the design of the side wheel carrier be reconsidered and that a single sheet steel pressing might be more economical than the tubular construction. APRONS. We suggest that these be considered in 22 SWG. gauge steel using electrically spot welded joints instead of rivetting, and that they be coated internally with some compound to avoid drumming. FRONT WINGS. We suggest that these might be carried down to the inside of the frame at the front instead of the outside, as at present. By so doing the wing valance forms part of the apron, so making the apron small and simple. HEAD LAMPS. We suggest that we consider the standardisation of lamps, and in this connection we look at the Rotax as fitted to the Talbot, as these we believe are better looking than the Lucas Biflex. FLOORBOARDS. We suggest that we consider whether we should attempt a design to avoid framed wooden chassis boards as these we feel must be costly. For example we might have a metal frame filled in with wood. We suggest that the boards be treated to avoid creaks, rattles, and drumming. (1) | ||