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).
Design, weight reduction, and production of a body sub-frame for the India 3 model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 104\3\ scan0056 | |
| Date | 12th June 1928 | |
| to [REDACTED] from Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} copy to [REDACTED] [REDACTED] ORIGINAL X5380 SECRET INDIA. BODY SUB-FRAME. INDIA 3. We send herewith N.Schs.2614, 2623 & 2626. shewing most of the particulars of the body subframe for India 3. N.Sch. 2630. will follow in a few days. By using our system of three supports each side we have been able to reduce the weight of the subframe from 98lbs. to about 55lbs. whilst the strength remains adequate and the rigidity sufficient. Owing to the reductionn in the torsional deflections of the chassis frame we are able to use this system of suspension. The main support under the centre of mass is rigid, whilst the forward and aftermost supports are semi-flexible. We see no reason why the weight of the subframe should not be entirely saved in the construction of the body. We agree to the subframe and its brackets being made of mild steel and welded up for the experimental cars. If ever we put them into production pressings should be used. We wish Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} to put three frames in hand immediately. So far we have settled on two bodies as follows:- (1) An enclosed cabriolet with fixed roof having six seats and a sliding division. This is normally a body for the "Upright Column" but will now be on the only steering,i.e. Revised Raked Column. (2) A two door saloon to fulfill Mr.Royce's requirements. We propose visiting Sales to discuss the purchase of these bodies very soon, but there is little use in so doing until Derby is ready to supply the subframes. Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} | ||