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).
Water leak in an aluminium cylinder head caused by tube oxidation.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 18\3\ Scan051 | |
| Date | 13th January 1930 | |
| Sèvres P/A 'E'" X 7960 Fsls/RW.13/1/30. Re: Aluminium Cylinder Head Tubes We have noted your Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/CM5/M.1/1/30. 83-WR (Rogers) has come in with 2 gallons of water in the crankcase, undoubtedly due to a leak from the water tubes of the cylinder head. We have not as yet tested the head under pressure, because we are modifying our testing rig for the purpose, but we are almost certain the trouble is due to oxidation of the tubes in the head. Those which can be seen from the inspection cover show signs to this effect, but the copper tubes of the cylinders do not appear to be affected. This is one of the engines which have been doped with Sodium Phosphate and was recently in for overheating, when we found the radiator almost entirely choked. We are in a position to recondition these heads, but before doing so, think it may be advisable to ascertain if it is not your intention to replace the aluminium or duralumin tubes with those made of copper. Kindly let us have your reply by return, as this trouble appears to be serious. Ps. RE | ||