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).
Summary of design alterations and developments across various vehicle components.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 91\1\ scan0121 | |
| Date | 18th October 1935 | |
| -2- Engine Unit. We have had two major pattern alterations to the existing casting, one to improve the water passages and the other because we discovered that a larger slipper wheel was necessary. The final pattern also incorporated an improved engine mounting. Valve Gear. [Handwritten note: Revert to Phantom] We have had two complete types of silent tappets. It was found necessary to [alter - crossed out] the eccentric ratio in order to prevent the valves sticking. Flywheel & Clutch. We have made two complete types of clutch, and have made 3 designs of flywheel. The last alteration was due to us finding it necessary to put more inertia on the flywheel to improve chunking in the gearbox, slow running, etc. Carburetters. It has been found necessary to make two lots of carburetters, requiring different patterns, during development. Connecting Rods, etc. We have had two types of connecting rod, two types of bearings, 3 types of pistons. Suspension. The front suspension has of course been turned upside down a number of times. This was a new development and we think we have been remarkably fortunate in getting through to the present state without more alterations being necessary. During development we have had two complete types of outer casing, various modifications of the attachment to the frame, and the internal pieces have been altered a number of times. We have also had various lengths of wishbone, and two types of 'Y' piece. Steering. We started off with the worm and nut steering, which we found was unsuitable. We found that the LaSalle gave very satisfactory results, and since then we have been endeavouring to reproduce this steering to our own designs; so far we have not been successful. We have, however, made a lot of parts and are still carrying out experiments. | ||