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).
Spectre engine unit detailing a failed big end bearing, piston knocks, tappet clearances and requests for modifications.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 4\1\ 01-page137 | |
| Date | 22th October 1934 | |
| To RHC.{R. H. Coverley - Production Engineer} 44694 Ha/Swdl.{Len H. Swindell}9/KW.22.10.34. We have returned No. 2 SpectreCodename for Phantom III unit to you, No.5 big end bearing (lead bronze) having failed. These bearings have run 30 hours since the whitemetal mains were fitted, making a total of 66 hours. Piston knocks since fitting Aerolite pistons are noticeable when cold, B.2 being the worst of several on B. side, but these become almost inaudible as the engine warms up. A.{Mr Adams} side pistons appear O.K. The plungers on B. side self-adjusting tappets have .0015 to .002 diametrical dia. in their housings, with selective assembly by W. Trayner. Will you please have the same job carried out on A.{Mr Adams} side plungers. In order to overcome valve bounce up to 4500 r.p.m. in conjunction with the above clearances, we have used E.85317 valve springs packed up by .100 thick washers. This almost does on some bring the springs choc-a-bloc in the full open position. Will you please instruct that a set of springs with extras be made as soon as possible with a free length of 1.730, otherwise E.85317. The seat loading should be 85 lbs. Although liberally greased, the splined engine drive is developing considerable backlash. If possible, this should be rectified before the unit goes in the car. Ha/ L.H.Swindall. | ||