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).
Suspension, radiator mounting, and steering systems for future models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 154\1\ scan0095 | |
| Date | 27th January 1934 | |
| - 2 - with conventional springing, both with pronounced transverse pivot lean, both shewing the same defect of heavy steering when parking or turning right angle bends. We are therefore very keen to try reverting to the standard angle of transverse lean. With regard to the radiator mounting, we agree that the amount of radiator movement should be considerably increased and we should like to eliminate this movement altogether now that we have a strong rigid cast dashboard, by controlling the top of the radiator from the dashboard with either a simple triangulation or cross tie rods. We are looking into the question of doing this experimentally on 27-EX as it should eliminate the factor of radiator movement as well as bestow other advantages in connection with the elimination of bonnet knocks and the fitting of the bonnet. We rather doubt whether we can make a scheme suitable for adoption on such a long bonnet as 27-EX, but we are definitely hoping to utilise this scheme as standard on the SpectreCodename for Phantom III. We think it must be taken for granted that any novel system of suspension will demand intensive developments before it is brought to the stage where it can be fairly compared with standard schemes of springing which have years of development behind them. Personally I think the biggest point we have to consider fundamentally about our own scheme is the question of tyre wear and I would suggest that as soon as we have overcome some of the more immediate defects of springing and steering it would be advisable to make a test for tyre wear. I was very interested to note Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} says the Americans are using the full Marles Steering. I can confirm after long experience with this type of box that it is very good indeed, the only defect noticed being a tendency to tighten up after long runs in summer weather. It is likely that we shall want a steering which does not lose efficiency when the oil is squeezed out from between the working surfaces. E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} [Signature] | ||