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).
Practice of holding clutches out, their lubrication, and materials.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 74\2\ scan0256 | |
| Date | 27th August 1919 | |
| R.R. 235A (500 T) (S.D. 408. 26-4-17.) Bm. 2/156/13. To BN.{W.O. Bentley / Mr Barrington} from R.{Sir Henry Royce} c. to CJ. c. to BJ. c. to JCR. c. to HM.{Capt. W. Hallam - Head Repairs} c. to OY. c. to PH. c. to PN.{Mr Northey} R5/G27.8.19. RE CATCH FOR HOLDING CLUTCH OUT. X.3439. With reference to the holding out of the clutches with a piece of wood, this practice did not originate with me or was ever recommended by me. I do not think it was ever adopted or recommended by Derby, but is in my impression entirely a London practice. I do not believe it does much good, and the clutch should work quite satisfactorily without it. I do not agree with spending any time on a catch, the chassis already having too much complication. Moreover, it is not a thing to easily arrange satisfactorily. I have always recommended the lubrication of clutches, and found good engine oil quite satisfactory for the purpose, but a harsh mineral oil would not be likely to give satisfaction. In connection with this matter, it will be remembered that many years ago we were the only people to lubricate a clutch of our pattern. Any clutches not giving satisfaction will, we think, be found to be fitted with leather which has become hard. The cotton fabric covering introduced by us, is a distinct improvement, it remains in better condition much longer, and is much less liable to be damaged by slipping. To enable the changing of gears to be performed more easily, avoid thick and heavy oil in the gearbox, and also an Contd. | ||