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).
Standardization and performance of Mercury sparking plugs compared to Lodge plugs.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 50\2\ Scan049 | |
| Date | 18th April 1921 | |
| x4295. F.R. Dy.{F R Danby} from SF. C. to Gd. C. to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}23/F18.4.21. x4295. RE. MERCURY SPARKING PLUGS. We understand from you in conversation this morning that Mercury plugs are not to be definitely standardised until a further report is received regarding the plugs which have been procured for further trial, i.e. 500. We are of the opinion, however, that a further quantity should be obtained as we are having numerous complaints from customers of trouble with plugs, and feel that it is useless replacing their plugs with further Lodge plugs. We consider that they should be replaced in case of complaints, with Mercury. At the same time, we are anxious that we should use these plugs for test purposes and for running about on cars with which we are in touch. We are arranging to fix these Mercury plugs on trials cars and cars on test but have not yet been able to report on considerable running, but the running we have so far had rather confirms the recommendations made by the Exp: Dept. that these should be standardised, as the prospects are certainly such that they are no worse than Lodge plugs. If, in view of this information, you still consider the time is not ripe for definite standardisation and instructions being issued that no further cars should be delivered unless fitted with Mercury plugs, which I certainly advocate, please arrange to order a further quantity so that we can keep customers supplied in case of complaint, as above pointed out. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} RECEIVED 3 1921 | ||