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).
Road test notes and feedback on the performance and issues of vehicle 27-EX.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 19\5\ Scan138 | |
| Date | 22th December 1930 | |
| COPY. Hg/Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} X8992. EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}20/22.12.30. 27-EX. Did not notice any distinct piston knock, hot or cold, but engine rather noisy. Grating noise from oil tank (when hot) - general rattle and rumble on the road. Torque reaction not bad but booms bad 20-25 and other speeds. (effect T.R.). Tappet or valve clicks higher speeds (? valve springs or valve or tappet action). Carburation poor - true aggravated by low temperature, but consider not made of best low speed jet and intermediate speeds too strong. If considered best compromise, should like to have a go at it. Will not suit R, not up to our present standard. Clutch pedal not free (on boards). May be cause of difficult gear change or clutch stops too fast - will not suit R.{Sir Henry Royce} "Drags" on gear box. Gears. - not bad - generally quiet but double note thin whine. Springs - should say about right for full load full speed bad uneven roads. To compare 26-EX. and suit R.{Sir Henry Royce} advise weaker. What is present buffer clearances, two up. Otherwise holds road well and good control - better for front control than 26-EX. Why?. Steering very good but inclined to be a bit tacky lower speeds. (cross steering load? too high. What is it?). Steering wheel spokes not set correct angular position. Car seems particularly bad for vibration and groans over cobble stones or paving. Tyre pressures low?. Brakes effective but squeaks and groans - bad at times. Is GWH.{George W. Hancock - Head Chateauroux} scheme fitted?. Steering controls - very neat but dangerous to handle - cannot easily be worked with palm of hand. Ones fingers get trapped with wheel spokes (more clearance required). Has been general request to fit speedometer where clock now fitted - appreciate this on this car and 26-EX. Body. - awkward to get in back seats. Doors should open other way or guard over rear wing. EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} | ||