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).
Report comparing performance, costs, and component updates for Wraith and Bentley V models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 161a\3\ scan0005 | |
| Date | 6th January 1939 | |
| -4- BY.1/G.6.1.39. WRAITH. PERFORMANCE IN RELATION TO BODY WEIGHTS. CONT'D.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary} Comparison of the performance has been made of Mr.Bennett's previous car GBA.4. with that of WXA.27. 42 1/2 cwts. GBA.4 is a 20/25 HP. weighing 37 1/2 cwts, which is 1 cwt. lighter than the average for this series. COST. Under this heading we think figures are now available for the 1ST 100 in 'B'. GEARBOX. In order to check up on the reliability of the gearbox we have now completed 125 hours running and shown that the new 1st. motion shaft is up to its duty. WHEEL DRIVERS. Whilst we have materially improved the life of the driving dogs in the rear axle by using a case hardened material for the driver, we have not eliminated wear and this part will have to be looked upon as a replacable item. If and when the semifloating axle is proved to be satisfactory this trouble will be overcome. Wear becomes appreciable at 20,000 miles, a substantial advance over 25/30 and Bentley. BENTLEY V.{VIENNA} Before proceeding to deal with the various criticisms and development proposals, it is desirable to put on record the fact that this car represents the best effort which we have made so far in the direction of an excellent ride, which is not detracted from by the high speed performance of the car nor does it reflect upon its controllability adversely. This aspect of the matter was particularly emphasized by Lx. in his report and is worthy of mention, as it also represents the expressed opinion of everybody who has so far driven it. The 3rd car of this type has been on the road for a fortnight, and appears to be promising. The weather has been very inclement and not satisfactory for accurate work. DISTRIBUTORS. Work is being done to co-ordinate the characteristics of the RR. and the Delco governor. PISTONS. The special form of piston, having a raised portion fitting into the combustion chamber, has been under test for detonation comparisons, and is now being transferred to the road on 7.B.V. The scheme in | ||