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).
Unresolved issues with the 3.5 Litre Bentley Production Chassis, including drive groan and oil leaks.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 3\6\ 06-page098 | |
| Date | 7th December 1933 | |
| Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} [C. F.{Mr Friese} N. - Strikethrough] [Woyd - Strikethrough] XUM73. EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}3/MH.{M. Huckerby}7.12.33 re 3 1/2 LITRE BENTLEY PRODUCTION CHASSIS --------------------------------- I have now tested and accepted two of the above and, as discussed with you, there are still a few features as previously reported for which cures do not as yet appear to have been applied, as follows :- (See EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}3/MH{M. Huckerby} 29.9.33) (1) Drive 'Groan'. This was a feature which, you will remember, I raised objection to on the first 15 cars (refer EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}3/MH.{M. Huckerby}29.9.33), at which time you pointed out this was the best that could be done and did not consider customers would object to same. This 'groan' was only objectionable on covered body cars and was not noticeable on open body cars. I was very pleased to report that when testing the saloon Bentley B-15-AE the alteration to the clutch spring drive coupling had, to my mind, cured this trouble. I am rather disappointed to find that when trying the second Bentley production car even when testing with an open body there is a drive 'groan' period which although not pronounced, can be distinctly picked out, and I am informed that this is the best that can be done by the spring drive coupling adjustment. (on your instructions) I trust the matter is having your close attention, as I again take the view under the circumstances that when the chassis is fitted with a covered body this drive 'groan' will be an objectionable feature. (The present shows the importance of our final acceptance test features, which we are now making.) (2) Engine Whistle. This feature, I understand, comes from the flywheel, and although not objectionable is not cured or appears to be any different to that experienced on the first 15. (3) Oil Leaks from Engine. This is still a noticeable feature as regards the valve cover joint. (4) Engine Pick up Performance at Low Speeds. This cannot yet be called 'snappy' until higher engine revs. (5) Oil Pressure Failure on Braking. This still seems to be similar to our previous complaint on the first 15. | ||