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 performance and issues with the car's lighting and coachwork.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 97\4\ scan0184 | |
| Date | 23th November 1938 | |
| -13- RM{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/IMW.{Ivan M. Waller - Head of Chateauroux}/S/R.23.11.38. Reverse light switch LOP.DW.236. PD.168. This was satisfactory and most useful. It should, however, be taken from the side and tail circuit as there is no need for it to light in daytime. Interior light only one not turned off by master switch. This was found to be a better arrangement than previous systems. Regarding the instrument lamps we suggest that this be placed in the side and tail circuit, in order that the solenoid need not be re-set every time the lamps are required. Coachwork. The body stood up well and the mountings, including the rear diagonal stays, were satisfactory. Rattles developed from the window mechanisms, particularly the O.S.R. The centre winding windscreen was much appreciated and found to give the most desirable and easily controlled type of ventilation for rear as well as front seat passengers so far experienced. It also tended to eject any fumes whereas the side window no-draught ventilators draw them in. There were two objections, lack of rigidity when open, and wind noise. Both these should receive attention. The noise could, we think, be improved by deletion or modification of the horizontal lip at the lower inside edge of the screw. The pressed steel dash was rigidly attached to the frame to stop side shake. This introduced noise and harshness and is receiving design and experimental investigation. The seats were badly shaped. Air cushions were fitted in the front squabs. These are not satisfactory as nobody, including sales and private owners ever bothers to maintain them at the correct pressure nor should they be expected to do so. The body was moderately good for wind noises after rubber strips had been fitted round the doors. The bonnet flapped about at the bottom rear corners and was heavy and awkward to open and close, and the paintwork had cracked. This is to be replaced by the Rover type on future cars. RM{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/IMW.{Ivan M. Waller - Head of Chateauroux} | ||