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).
Notes from a meeting discussing development progress on axle casings, engines, and addressing issues with clutches, brakes, and steering.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 30\1\ Scan099 | |
| Date | 17th January 1935 | |
| Notes of Meeting. Sg{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}11/B17.1.35 - S - It was also considered that we should have a lower gear which means a new axle casing, but it was thought that we could use the centre part of the axle casing which has been designed for Wraith. E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} will, therefore, go ahead with the design work in connection with the new head so that it can be tested experimentally as quickly as possible. In view of the pressure of work in connection with SpectreCodename for Phantom III etc. and the fact that so much of Wraith is based on SpectreCodename for Phantom III (engine excepted), it was considered advisable to ease up on Wraith - otherwise we might be doing valuable and expensive work which, as the result of SpectreCodename for Phantom III tests would have to be scrapped. The work, however, in connection with Wraith engine should go ahead. E's memo. to Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} of the 14th says that we/shall have sufficient instructions issued by the end of January to get the engine unit running on the bench. Worst Features on 20/25HP. Clutch slip. The fabric on the driven member is being tested on 21-G-IV, was also tested on 4-B-IV and will be tried on some more Bentley cars to get experience. Brake squeaks and inefficient. The Hancock shoes for the back are going to be standardised on "H" Series. Steering heavy and joggles. The Marles steering on 21-G-IV effects considerable improvement but E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} does not approve of the design. He will, however, see the strip of this after 21-G-IV's test in France. Performance. Easier Change Gearboxes. No developments since last meeting but the question of being able to operate the synchromesh gearbox from the steering column on a relay principle is still under consideration. | ||