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).
Chassis design, dimensions, and comparisons with the Phantom model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 16\7\ Scan131 | |
| Date | 21th December 1928 | |
| contd :- -2- length we can get one wheel at the back, and probably - with little or no increase - front dampers. In this we give 3" for extra length of front springs. In SG{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}'s memo. of 21.12.28 present Phantom with one wheel at back is 17' 2". Two wheels at the back undoubtedly make the overall length great, but we must not blame SS.{S. Smith} for that. The pattern of frame allows us if we wish to carry 2 wheels and luggage at the back, but there is less need to do this with this chassis than with present Phantom : [Diagram with text] 149 1/2" i.e. a few inches less than long Phantom. 24" Our LeC. measurement of EAC. 7. 33" which as far as I remember is same as SS.{S. Smith} (1) We have economised slightly in pedals and bonnet. (2) We have given extra body space so that B. steering and high seats can be dispensed with. (3) The latered springing gives life, lubricating, and weight distribution advantages, and enables better support of body and weight behind. DA.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} will kindly check if what I say is right, and find the dimensions of cars we have to compete with. We must go ahead. I can only think of altering by alternative shorter frame. SS.{S. Smith} chassis under equal conditions is not worse than any other big cars. There are big motorcars, private and public, and commercial, which are much longer. We are only different from our present Phantom by the springs. We cannot do any longer with cantilever springs or with short springs. You do not wish for a shorter bonnet, and you must have a fair length of scuttle. My impression is that there is no need to hesitate about SS.{S. Smith} chassis. If buyers do not like the length with 2 wheels at the back let them have only one fitted, and for long distance touring adopt one of the following alternatives : 1 side carrier. 3 spare inner tubes. 1 spare cover strapped to spare wheel } My preference. contd :- | ||