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).
The condition of various electrical components after mileage tests, including switches, distributors, and condensers.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 97\5\ scan0188 | |
| Date | 31th March 1939 | |
| -3- RM{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/RC.{R. Childs}2/JM.{Mr Morley}31.3.39. Main Switch. DCB.129 30,300 miles. The mounting strap to D.486 which is secured to the carcase by rivetting was found to be loose. Main contacts pitted and discoloured, which is to be expected, where no carbon is used for taking the arc at break. No trouble experienced. We do not intend to standardise this type of switch, a new switch to DCB.1308 of the solinoid type, and provided with carbons, is coming along. A.C. Distributor - DU.426. The condition of the above unit after 29,843 miles was found to be as follows:- Distributor Head. - good. The Rotor Blade. - was found to be loose on its bakelite holder. This should be corrected. The rivetting of the blade to the holder is weak and should be improved. This remark applies equally to that in the DCH.835 type of distributor. An improvement would be made by using a thicker blade. Very little wear due to sparking had occurred. Rocker Block. wear .0045". This is good considering that the cam surface was found to be dry, and the remaining grease hard. Light traces of scoring are apparent on the cam surface. The governor shaft bearing was found to be dry and worn. This was evidently due to lack of lubrication. A small oil hole is provided for lubricating this bearing and is located in the base of the contact breaker chamber. We suggest that this be marked with red paint, and referred to in the instruction book. The condition of the spring drive and governor was found to be good in every respect. Condenser. Satisfactory - capacity .224 Micro-farads. Delco Remy Distributor. This distributor was fitted for special tests and ran 2,799 miles. Condition good. | ||