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Shift from 3-speed to 4-speed gearboxes due to buyer preference and plans to apply the change to the 40/50 HP model.


Identifier  ExFiles\Box 71\3\  scan0185
Date  19th October 1925
  
To CJ. from R. {Sir Henry Royce}

X.8920

R4/M19.10.25.

My dear CJ.

(Ms. for your information. CJ.)

EXPERIMENTAL WORK. X. 8310
X. 5310 X. 8920

Referring to your CJ7/E16.10.25., and the mention of a 3-speed gearbox, we had no idea of using one. It was pressed by me when coachbuilders rushed for central change, where 4-speed control is inconveniently clumsy. Also weight, cost, and low geared back axles, made we think that 4-speeds were an unnecessary complication.

It is now agreed that buyers prefer the 4 speed box, and in the 20 HP. we have overcome some of the objections of bulk, and weight and hope to apply this type soon to the 40/50 HP.

Yours ever,

R. {Sir Henry Royce}
  
  
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).


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