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).
Test report detailing performance issues with the engine starter, exhaust, brakes, oil pressure, and general engine characteristics.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 65a\2\ scan0237 | |
| Date | 9th February 1929 | |
| - 3 - EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}6/H9.2.29. (8) Engine Starter. The working of this was quite reliable during the tests. Although there does not seem to be any gear crashing, the engagement and disengagement is rather noisy, and the gear noise while the engine is being turned is distinctly noisy compared with the present Phantom. The latter features, however, are not of any serious consequence so long as the starter is definitely reliable. The question of starting up the engine when running out of petrol is a feature which we take it is receiving attention. (9) Exhaust. This is still objectionable for boom and rumbling on retard for high engine speed work. Tinny noise from exhaust on pick up from slow speeds ( more noticeable when cold) exists as with present Phantom. There was also a certain amount of spitting in the exhaust on the retard, which was also a feature with 18-EX and 19-EX, and worse in this respect than the present standard Phantom. (10) Brakes. These were not very effective, but improved with use, but began to groan badly on pull up, as was similarly experienced on 18 and 19-EX. The hand brake was also not so effective as our present standard. (11) Oil Pressure. This still fails when the car is retarded, similarly as 18 and 19-EX. (12) Engine. Slow running - this seems rather unreliable, but shows promise of being quiet. There are slight signs of valve rattle at 48 - 50 mph. but valve mechanism quietness generally better than Phantom. Did not notice any bad oil leaks from the engine. Have those complained of from the rear crankshaft bearing and the tappet cover been attended to? In starting up the engine cold there were slight signs of piston knocks only, and certainly much better in this respect than 19-EX. We still suggest, however, that consideration should be given on this engine for a scheme of extra oil supply to the cylinders for starting up purposes. CONTD:- | ||