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).
Performance and issues of a vehicle after a 10,000-mile test.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 5a\2\ 02-page375 | |
| Date | 20th January 1931 | |
| Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}✓ C. to Wcr. C. to Sc. X5840. MX{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer}4/EC20.1.31. Re. 18-G-4 - 10,000 MILES TEST. Report on above after 10,000 miles. Car excellent for absence of drumming or booming periods. Performance seemed poor both high speeds and acceleration at all speeds, the latter point was no doubt affected by the low temperature maintained by thermostat control of radiator shutters. Engine smoothness and general quietness good. In my opinion the appearance of the car is rather spoilt by the new type bonnet. The edges of the two nearside doors abut and cause a knock on poor road surfaces. ENGINE. There is rather a noticeable squawk which is intermittent and appears to be from the valve mechanism. The low inertia spring drive appears satisfactory. GEARBOX. Gears and side shaft good - when oil in gear box is cold it is extremely difficult to move the change speed lever. AXLE. Generally quiet. STEERING. Generally good for freedom and absence of "joggles" but car was not good for stability at high speeds, inclined to sway. CLUTCH. - Good. BRAKES. - both hand and foot squeak badly after a period of rest, there is also a squeak from the foot brake mechanism. Foot brake "thuds" when applied sharply. The absence of "clanking" when brake released is very pleasing and a great improvement. STARTER GEARS rather noisy, no doubt have been damaged by accidental depression of starter pedal while engine running - this happens occasionally on chassis on test and on this car the risk of accidental operation of starter pedal is greatly increased by the proximity of foot operated headlight control switch. | ||