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).
Technical memo discussing the issues and compromises related to using soft suspension springs on the Ph.lll model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 95\3\ scan0199 | |
| Date | 30th December 1935 | |
| x346 FILE Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Les.2/JH.30.12.35. Suspension Our original experiences with Ph.lll having very soft springs has shown that really soft springs are the only solution for the critical rear seat passenger sitting right over the back axle. The reasons why we could not continue using such springs were:- (1) Throw up on hump back bridges. (2) Lack of wheel movement. (3) Ground clearance. (4) Rolling on corners. (5) Violent braking. (6) Sideway shake. Ph.lll suspension will still be a compromise; the softer front springs and the better weight distribution are responsible for the improvement in riding compared with Ph.ll. The softer springs being possible owing to the fact that:- (a) The lateral control of the front wheels from linkage system greatly improved the steering selectivity. (b) The front braking torque is not taken by the spring. (c) An anti-roll rod is used to prevent rolling on corners. We are quite certain however that we shall have to fit still softer springs front and rear in order to satisfy the town owner, who sits over the back axle. This can be done for individual customers by making the car unsuitable for violent driving. | ||