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).
To Cadillac discussing alterations, performance issues, and specifications of an independent suspension system on test vehicle 27-EX.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 173\1\ img100 | |
| Date | 25th January 1934 | |
| To Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}; from Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Les.{Ivan A. Leslie} c/o.{Mr Oldham} Cadillac Motor Car Coy., Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Les.19/KW25.1.34. Independent Suspension. -------------------- re the above. We were very interested in your information 27-EX is now ready for some alterations. We are proposing to do the following (a) Remove buffer springs; (b) Divide the X. steering tube into 3 pieces so that the length of the outer pieces are similar in length to the triangular brackets. This will be like the SpectreCodename for Phantom III; (c) Reduce the transverse pivot lean from 4° to that of a Phantom II. (2.5°) by fitting slightly shorter bottom links. This will give a wheel angle of 11°. At the moment we find there is not nearly enough movement on the main spring before the buffer springs are reached. 27-EX has the following road wheel movements :- Bump Buffer clearances = 3.500" Stop = 4.900" Re-bound buffer = 2.360" Stop = 3.500" Initial road wheel deflection = 12" On the road we find continual discomfort is felt from riding on the buffer springs. Can you get hold of figures for the wheel movement of the Cadillac ? We imagine 5" to 6" will be necessary with 12" initial deflection. We shall order some stiffer springs. We also find by using pointers attached to the suspension that on left hand bends the offside wheel goes on to the bump buffer spring and the nearside on to the re-bound buffer spring. Consequently the riding is always harsh on corners. Right hands bends have the opposite effect. The periodicity of 27-EX is 73 per min. front and 68 rear. | ||