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).
Potential adoption of new internal-geared transmissions and associated experimental designs.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 156\4\ scan0028 | |
| Date | 15th January 1929 | |
| OYL.R.1.15.29 X1511 January 15th, 1929. TO: Mr. Beaver cc - Mr. Burton Mr. Southern FROM: Mr. Olley RE GEARBOX Summary. The new internal-geared transmissions give a combination of silence and easy gear-changing, which is not obtained with any other design with which we are familiar. They are obviously meeting with an enthusiastic reception from the American public, who will not use a gear if it is either noisy or difficult to engage. They are being rapidly adopted on American cars. We propose to obtain experimental boxes for trial as soon as possible, subject to Mr. Royce's approval. Experimental Design. We are negotiating with J.W. Pearson, one of the patentees, for a suggested layout of a gearbox of the new internal-geared type, which would be suitable for use in our chassis. We have in mind to try out this type of box if possible, in order to see whether it actually comes up to the claims which are made for it, when used on a large car. When Mr. Pearson's suggestions are received, we shall take up the matter further with England. In the meanwhile it would be well probably to acquaint England with the present situation on gearboxes in the U.S. Mr. Royce has already received designs of one form of this gearbox, as used on the Durant, and has received particulars of other forms, so that he is fully acquainted with the subject. Adoption. We have not however brought to the attention of England the widespread adoption of this design or its modifications. It is reasonable to assume that by the end of 1929 half the American cars, and more than half the cars above $1500, will have internal-geared easy-changing gearboxes. -continued- | ||