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).
Required improvements and concerns for car 115-WJ, belonging to the Prince of Wales.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 52\4\ Scan102 | |
| Date | 12th December 1929 | |
| FOR MR H.S. MR JLE. {J. Lee Evans - Chassis Test Manager} MR PW. 6261 U X4117. EP {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} 2/H2.12.29. re. 115-WJ. PRINCE OF WALES. With further reference to our EP {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} 3/HSC.11.29. I certainly consider that we should take advantage of the fact that the car will be available in about a month's time. Although the car, from a chassis point of view, can be considered generally good, there are several features which should be improved before we can be satisfied that we have done the best possible in view of the importance of this owner. The Coachbuilders should have dealt with the complaints raised by us as far as possible in the limited time at their disposal, but cannot have had time to make a 100% job. The points for our concern are as follows:- (1) "Jellying" front of chassis - as already reported. We should have no trouble in demonstrating this on another complete car, which should be investigated and the "cure" applied to 115-WJ when available. (2) Performance, although passable standard, is not particularly good. Again, although a fabric type body, it may be heavier than anticipated. Speedometer did not give as "liberal" a reading as appears to be the case with other cars ( larger tyres fitted since chassis left works). Speedometer on his previous R-R was particularly "liberal". (3) Overheating and Fumes in body - In the front seats this was very unpleasant. The front floorboards were certainly a bad fit, and open gaps were prevalent - a job taken up with the coachbuilders. More than normal shutter opening was required to maintain normal water temperature. Fan belt and circulation appeared in order, but am doubtful of radiator efficiency (fixed after chassis delivered from Works). Again there may be insufficient free outlet of air from under the bonnet (special boxes fixed under the body floorboards). Louvred bonnet may be found necessary, but should be avoided if at all possible. CONTD:- | ||