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).
Unstable steering tests, particularly when running on tram lines, with discussion on the effect of rear and split springs.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 71\3\ scan0216 | |
| Date | 26th January 1920 | |
| Contd. -2- EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}4/F26.1.20. We have confirmed further tests on this matter this weekend, with our covered body test car, and Mr. Maddocks reports as follows:- "Car was tried for unstable steering. It is very disconcerting when running on tram lines which are the same track as the car, particularly when lines are sunk below the road. Can quite understand it making people "windy" if by force of circumstances one is bound to run in the tram tracks. I have never noticed this unstable effect so much before, probably because I have never deliberately tried for it, and also because one subconsciously avoids running in tram tracks, and crosses them at as wide an angle as possible. I am certain that the effect complained of is not altogether due to the front of the car, but is partly due to the rear springing. Have the split springs got anything to do with it ? The pivot lean feels satisfactory - steering "returns" well and has no tendency to "dive". We are going over the steering of the car and making sure that it is correct in all respects. We are also preparing a set of rear springs which are not split. Before making this change, however, we are anxious to have your opinion on this car as it is, as I feel sure that the matter is one which requires our urgent attention (car also has latest split pistons and ready for you at 5-30 as arranged). I should be glad if you will follow up the matter experimentally. EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} | ||