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).
Improvements to the 'worst features' of the 20 HP and Phantom models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 47\1\ Scan355 | |
| Date | 20th October 1926 | |
| To BJ. from Hs {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} /Rm. {William Robotham - Chief Engineer} c. to R. {Sir Henry Royce} Wor. {Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} c. to E. {Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} DA. {Bernard Day - Chassis Design} c. to BY. {R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} X4117 Hs {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} /Rm {William Robotham - Chief Engineer} 2/LG20.10.26. 20 HP. AND PHANTOM "WORST FEATURES". X5770 BJ19/E5. 8. 26. X5770 With reference to BJ15/E18.10.26. The present position of the undesirable features enumerated in this memo are :- (1) Phantom Suspension. The only thing that is being done for the present cars is the addition of hydraulic dampers and balloon tyres which have been standardised. These will considerably improve the high speed riding over bad roads. The method of deciding the correct springs for the cars has been revised with beneficial results. There is no prospect of a revolutionary improvement in low speed riding comfort on the present Phantom model. The method of selecting the correct springs appears to have very materially reduced the number of complaints. (2) Explosions in the Phantom Silencer and desirability of more positive throttle control by the governor. The main improvements being tested are :- (a) Ball bearing throttle spindle. (b) Ball bearing governor lever (Sch. 820) These will improve the throttle control and reduce banging in the silencer. They will not eliminate the latter fault. (3) Further improvements in the steering, including rattle of the controls in steering column - Phantom. An anti rattle device for the controls has been standardised to overcome the rattles in the steering column. Weaker side steering tube springs and low geared worm have been standardised to provide a xx deal with road shocks. A new axle has been standardised to provide a lighter steering when shunting and to permit of the use of balloon tyres. Hydraulic dampers have been fitted to deal with high speed steering wobbles. Further improvements with regard to joggles and shocks are under consideration. (4) Water boiling indicator - Phantom and 20 HP. This has been standardised on both cars and should shortly be available on production. contd :- | ||