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).
Car spring performance, loading, and ride quality for various models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 67a\1\ scan0052 | |
| Date | 5th January 1926 | |
| - 2 - CWB1/EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}/5.1.26. contd. 5. Contd. and is demanding very much lighter rear springs. I would very much like to know how the proposed new springs for his car compare with those at present, or just recently fitted to a standard production car of the same weight and seating accomodation. In the case of 11-EX 1900 lbs. and 2000 lbs. springs are fitted. The weight of this car equipped is 50 cwt., C qrs., O lbs. I consider the springing of this car is comfortable under the two extreme conditions of driver only and driver and passenger in the front seats, four persons and some luggage in the back of the car. I would like to know how these springs compare with those recently fitted to standard cars of this weight and accomodation. 7. Whatever may be the theoretical loading of the springs onthe 40/50 and on the 20 HP., there is no question whatsoever that the feeling of the springs is softer and the amount of motion of the springs is greater and the period of the springs is slower in the average 20 HP. car than on the average 40/50 HP. car. The only criterion of good springing is the impression of the riding of the car by the owner, and the impressions of the average 40/50 springing at present are that the springs are hard, that they do not flex sufficiently under ordinary conditions, and that period is too quick. I am quite certain that the feeling regarding these springs is not due to side shocks. The principal effect is a violent push in the back when riding over any obstacle, or falling into a pothole, and in putting forward views on this matter every point of view has been considered. As regards the action, it is not suggested that springs which are considered to be stressed too highly should be fitted, but it is considered that springs which are stressed as highly as is considered desirable should be fitted in all cases, i.e., that we should always work towards the lightest possible springs, and that only an average load reasonable for each particular type of body should be allowed for calculating the load to be carried. I consider that we ourselves should settle these loads Contd. | ||