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).
Engine running difficulties, safety fuel properties, and a planned trip to Detroit to research independent suspension.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 173\2\ img268 | |
| Date | 16th March 1934 | |
| -2- The slow running and starting difficulties have been increased by the overlap but they have solutions, and have idled at 150 R.P.M. with 112° overlap when the throttle vlave was close to the inlet valve. The safety fuel has an octane of at least 90 without lead they still assert, and in fact give it 95 using a series 30 Ethylene Gas Corp. test engine operated 600 R.P.M. with coolant 600°F.{Mr Friese} Its flash point is 125°F.{Mr Friese} Cleveland open Cup Method. Obviously the whole thing wants carefully comparing with what we can do now with our normal engine before one can decide whether the development is worth while but the N.A.C.A. report 471 gives sufficient information for this to be done. I have a note from HIC. that you 'phoned him re our return. Whether we come on the "Antonia" or the "Berengaria", we reach England on the 27th. I feel that when I get back to Detroit I may be able to get invaluable information on independent suspension as by then G.M. should have compared the Chrysler with their own jobs. It may be that four additional days will make considerable difference as to the information obtainable. That is the position. One cannot stay continuously in Detroit without wearing out one's welcome; as it is I feel I have presumed on good nature. The information we have to give is not in any way comparable with that which we expect to receive: we are fortunate to get away with it. Ha/Rn.{Mr Robinson} | ||