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).
Design alterations and delays in output due to various vehicle faults.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 75\1\ scan0126 | |
| Date | 26th March 1920 | |
| Bn.{W.O. Bentley / Mr Barrington} from Ep.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} c. to Wr. c. to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. to Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} c. to BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} EFC X 3426 RE ALTERATION IN DESIGN AND DELAY IN OUTPUT+ With reference to my discussion with you on this matter today, there are a number of points which can be brought forward as faults of the car, and on which we shall no doubt receive complaints whilst in the hands of customers. At the same time, I quite appreciate that we cannot claim that these are stopping deliveries, so long as we are all cognizant of the fact that they are the best we can do, and that we have made the best of the present design. I think the following, however, are important features which should have urgent attention, so that Cars can be turned out in a better condition than at present:- 1. Slipper Drive for Starter. The above is unsatisfactory as explained. With the present design they will not grip sufficiently for the motor to start the engine, but on the contrary will seize up and then act as a solid drive. 2. Unstable Steering. This is a feature which we cannot consider we have cured, even although plain rear springs are fitted. 3. Knocks from pistons. etc. We still have trouble with these on test, and considerable delay in output is caused by curing same, and even then we have no confidence that the engines will remain satisfactory in this respect whilst in customers' hands. 4. Dynamo and Drive - too noise. 5. Improved Oil Supply to Engine Gears. This, as explained, should help us to obtain satisfactory gears without the present expense and delay, and the engines will certainly be maintained in a better condition in this respect if this improved oil supply is arranged. 6. Breakage of 6/30's Wire. Contd. RECEIVED. | ||