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).
Modifications and feedback on the Goshawk 4-speed gearbox.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 6\4\ 04-page019 | |
| Date | 10th December 1924 | |
| To HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} from R.{Sir Henry Royce} c. to CJ. BJ. √5310 R3/M10.12.24. GOSHAWK 4-SPEED BOX. X.4247 X.5310 X.5770 We have seen this on a car at WW. and think it will prove quite good. A few points require modification because of the four wheel brakes and servo, and servo operating shaft. There are also a few modifications in production which will make the lateral movement easier. This slight sticking is caused by the jaws in the various sliders not being timed exactly to each other, and to the gate, and more clearance should be given, otherwise the handling seemed quite good, especially it is noticeable the ease of operating the reverse. This and the shortness of the box due to our special combination is we think an achievement and renders the 4-speed box less objectionable. Personally I think 4 speeds are too many gears but with heavy bodies it may be thought preferable by many in hilly districts. The side levers instead of central change I think are preferable and we have partly got over the objections to this by placing the levers rather more forward than usual which helps to make a RR. side door possible. Mr. Stent is at present moving the speedometer drive which appeared to be too far from the centre line of the car, and too near the foot brake mechanism. Mr. Hardy is providing the necessary modifications to the box casting, and shewing the servo and other particulars for fitting four wheel brakes. A memo. was sent to Derby a few days ago with reference to the corrections we thought necessary from our previous observations on this box before erection. In connection with these side levers we have decided to put the brake lever as near as possible to the frame, at the bottom, in the same way as we have modified the 40/50 for the RAC.2. This is to avoid as far as possible the runner of the body and the body underframe. I drove the car 20 miles and I think it will be found that most English people will prefer the side levers. The coachbuilders should not object seriously to these, owing to the small amount of room we have asked for to clear them. Naturally this box is somewhat more expensive than the 3-speed box but I think in spite of this, owing to the opinions prevailing, this type should be made our standard. We are just completing the few remaining particulars for the 3-speed central lever box with servo which I understand Sales are now asking for, R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||