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).
Letter discussing the removal of rear engine feet on a 40/50 HP car, the resulting improvements, and subsequent safety concerns.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 14\5\ Scan234 | |
| Date | 2nd September 1931 | |
| RECEIVED 1931 SEP 6 Y 7005. To Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} Copy to R.{Sir Henry Royce} Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} DY{F R Danby} re 40/50 HP. 58-GN. Sg{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}11/E2.9.31 You will remember that the above car suffered very badly from the roar, noise and fuss. This was very considerably improved by the removal of the rear engine feet in the early part of this year. I thought you would be interested to know that the improvement is so great that, when I was abroad this year, it never made itself sufficiently prominent to remind me that it had been an annoying feature on this car - and this despite the fact that I did very considerable mileage and some fast running and mountain climbing. I am, however, a little disturbed in my mind in regard to this matter because I understand that the whole weight at the rear is taken by two 3/8" bolts which are fixed through the cross tube at that point, and it alarms me very considerably to think of what would have happened if these bolts gave way. I should very much like to hear from you on this subject and have your recommendations as to whether these bolts can and should be reinforced or whether the diamond mounting should be fitted. I should be glad if you would let me know how many P.II's have been treated in a similar way and at the same time have your recommendations in regard to those cars as well. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} | ||