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).
Conference minutes discussing scuttle ventilation, steering column positions, and wing clearances.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 76\2\ scan0205 | |
| Date | 26th April 1917 | |
| R.R. 235A (500 T) (S.D. 408. 26-4-17.) Bm. 2/156/13. Conference No: 6. - 2 - generally and it was agreed that observations should be made as to booming in the future. Messrs. Barker will experiment with the next two limousines that will be ready, in regard to this. (5) Ventilation of Scuttle. X.819 Lord Herbert Scott explained the importance of efficiently ventilating the space behind the dashboard, and Messrs. Barker are experimenting with a neat form of ventilator of the full width of the windscreen, arranged immediately below the windscreen, somewhat on the principle followed on American cars. It was explained by Messrs. Barker that the present ventilator on the top of the scuttle is somewhat unsightly and endeavours are being made to arrange for efficient ventilation without spoiling the appearance of the scuttle. Mr. Evernden did not know what had been done at Derby with reference to altering the pedals, levers and slots in the floorboards, suggested by Mr. Royce (See Minute No. 3 of Conference No: 3 held at Conduit St.{Capt. P. R. Strong} on June 19th 1919.) (6) New Steering Column Positions. X.3465 The matter of the new steering column positions, in conjunction with the long chassis, was discussed. It was the unanimous opinion of the Conference that recommendations should be made to Mr. Royce to abolish the present "A" steering on short chassis and use in its place the long chassis with "B" steering. This will mean a bigger proportion of the long chassis than if the present "A" and short chassis were retained. With reference to the "C" in "D" position proposed by Derby as the future standard in place of the two present "C" and "D" positions, this is a matter which should have very careful consideration by the Coachbuilders before Derby standardise it, as it is believed that the proposed "C in D" column will not be suitable for many tall drivers. The general opinion of Barkers and Sales Dept. was that the present positions of the "C" and "D" columns should not be departed from at present. (7) Wing Clearances Messrs. Barker complained that the wing clearance denoted on the Rolls-Royce coachbuilders' drawings was excessive, observing that when Parsons Chains are fitted, for use in snow, the speed of the car would not be great, consequently the wheels did not move through the maximum bump. The Coachbuilders consider that the front wing clearance is altogether excessive and the rear wing clearance is more than is necessary, the excessive clearance spoiling the artistic effect of the car. It was pointed out that Barkers and other really first-class Coachbuilders may follow the clearance demanded by Derby, whereas a less well-known Coachbuilder may ignore Derby's clearance, and provide less clearance and an improved appearance of the car. (Cont'd.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary}) | ||