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).
Issues with harsh fabric clutches, with suggestions for mechanical improvements to the operating mechanism.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 181\M11\ img225 | |
| Date | 29th September 1919 | |
| To Mr. F.H.R. From R.{Sir Henry Royce} Copy to Mr. E.W.H. E.F.C. H.H. ORIGINAL. RE CLUTCHES. We found the fabric clutch on 49 GW working harshly. It appeared very dry and if it was lubricated before leaving Derby it would appear that it is not oil retaining, and this may be the reason why the clutch on 7 CA is so good, and the one on 49 GW not very good; if not, an examination of different clutches should be made. One would naturally look at the condition of the fabric surface, whether it is tight or loose, hard or soft, condition and quality of oiliness, the absence or presence of friction in the actuating mechanism, and the strength of the clutch spring. I do not think it is a question in all cases of accuracy. I have suggested perforating the cone so that the oil can get thoroughly through into the fabric - this may be better or worse. We should like to know if you have yet improved the lay-out of the operating mechanism, as it will slightly reduce the friction, and if you could fit a bearing on the operating shaft opposite the small lever, either a smaller diameter hardened bush, or a Hyatt roller bearing, or a small ball bearing - PRESENT SKETCH [crossed out] LOCKS UP. [Diagram 1: A cam and lever mechanism connected to a pedal rod] Annotations on Diagram 1: SUSPICION OF FRICTION HERE ANY FRICTION IN THE MECHANISM MUST BE BAD PEDAL [Diagram 2: A lever pivot system] Annotations on Diagram 2: R.{Sir Henry Royce} LOCKS UP SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENT | ||