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).
Harsh operation of a fabric clutch and suggesting potential improvements.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 74\2\ scan0261 | |
| Date | 23th September 1919 | |
| R.R 235A (100 T) (S.F. 575. 16-4-19) G.{Mr Griffiths - Chief Accountant / Mr Gnapp} 2354 X. 3439. R1/G23.9.19. To EH. from R.{Sir Henry Royce} Copy to CJ. " " BN.{W.O. Bentley / Mr Barrington} " " DA.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} " " EFC. " " PN.{Mr Northey} " " HN.{F. C. Honeyman - Retail orders} RE CLUTCHES. X.2631. X.682. X.3439. X.3657. We found the fabric clutch on 49 GB working harshly. It appeared very dry and if it was lubricated before leaving Derby it would appear that it is not oil retaining, and this may be the reason why the clutch on 7 CA is so good, and the one on 49 GB. not very good, if not, an examination of different clutches should be made. One would naturally look at the condition of the fabric surface, whether it is tight or loose, hard or soft, condition and quality of oiliness, the absence or presence of friction in the actuating mechanism and the strength of the clutch spring. I do not think it is a question in all cases of accuracy. I have suggested per-forating the cone so that the oil can get thoroughly through into the fabric - this may be better or worse. We should like to know if you have improved the lay-out of the operating mechanism, as it will slightly reduce the friction, and if you could fit a bearing on the operating shaft opposite the small lever, either a smaller diameter hardened bush, or a Hyatt roller bearing, or a small ball bearing - see sketch. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||