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).
Mechanical failures and maintenance on a vehicle, including gearbox issues and routine service requirements.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 144\4\ scan0125 | |
Date | 11th September 1940 | |
- 2 - Cont'd.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary} Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}S/ML.11.9.40. Actually, at the outbreak of war, we had six new design gearboxes approaching completion. Since the original gearbox ran 50,000 miles before gear failures occurred, the final box, which has at least 20% greater tooth strength, should have a satisfactory factor of safety. MECHANICAL FAILURES. A report was issued by Waller dated 10.8.39, showing that the car required no replace- ments after 15,000 miles in France. Since then, we have renewed the water pump bearing. The rear springs have suffered from overloading and have lost cambre but this is due to abuse and not to use. The hand-brake, which is of obsolete design, is not now functioning satisfactorily. MAINTENANCE OF TUNE & ROUTINE SERVICE REQUIREMENTS. The engine has not been decarbon- ised, nor have the tappets been re-set. There is no sign of a rebore being required nor are there appreciable piston knocks. Recently, the oil consumption has averaged over 1,000 miles to the gallon on the Belper 'bus work. The brake drums were skimmed out at 30,000 miles and the linings have been renewed twice. The petrol tank has been punctured by some unknown obstruc- tion. The body rattles a bit but there has been no personnel available in the Service Department since the war began, to give the car even normal service attention. - Continued - | ||