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).
Modifications and proposed improvements to the Bentley steering joint.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 87\5\ scan0201 | |
| Date | 13th May 1936 | |
| x250 GRY{Shadwell Grylls} see me HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} RHC.{R. H. Coverley - Production Engineer} Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} E.9/HP.13.5.36. re Bentley Steering Joint. Referring to standardisation sheet X.250 date 3.4.36, there are certain objections to the proposed modification to the Bentley steering joint. The square on the end of the ball pad does not prevent the incorrect assembly of which we have had a sample, namely the pad being put in 180° wrong. Further, the bedding surface for the pad formed by four milling cuts is not likely to be satisfactory. In view of these objections, the increased cost and the fact that the steering joint requires attention in a number of other respects, I do not propose to sign this sheet. We have issued a modified design, N.Sch.4797 for the front end, and N.Sch.4800 for the rear end, possessing the following advantages:- (1) fixed ball pad located by an eccentric turned feature, avoiding milling and providing flat face for bedding, also assembly can positively be only one way. (2) ball pin provided with lengthened engagement to avoid incorrect assembly, and with longer taper to ensure a sounder job. (3) Spring loaded ball pad provided with formed lug, to ensure correct assembly. Formed lug is also used to provide face for sheet metal mud shield. (4) Joint fitted with sheet metal mud shield in place of leather gaiter, representing a considerable saving on cost and improving protection and appearance. We have already done some running with these metal shields. We should like to have the above schemes tested out as soon as possible. It has been suggested that the type of joints produced for Phantom III, which represent an appreciable | ||