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).
Development updates for the 20/25 HP and Wraith models, including engine, chassis, and steering modifications.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 30\1\ Scan239 | |
| Date | 21th October 1935 | |
| - 6 - 20/25 h.p. Rolls-Royce The matter of improved steering is proceeding, and this is already fitted on Wor{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager}'s car. It was agreed not to introduce 17" wheels until the bigger engine was available, so as not to have two changes, which are always disturbing from S. and Agents' points of view. It was agreed to proceed with the standardisation of a hypoid axle as soon as possible, also a geared starter motor which is necessary for the big bore engine, and, to offset the expense of these, to delete the magneto when the big bore engine is introduced. 21-G-IV This car with big bore engine is due to return to France in about two weeks' time. Further modifications are in hand for the big bore engine, one of which is a turbulent head. Wor{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} is arranging to look into this job, and see how soon it can be produced. HX was instructed to go slow with engines of 20/25 "M" series. Springing of 20/25 R-R Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} suggested fitting softer springs of a different rating to 21-G-IV in an endeavour to get improved suspension on the 20/25 with the present scheme. WRAITH S. were asked to try and arrange for the loan of a V.8 Cadillac of the up-to-date type. The proposal to scale down the P.III chassis with a view to fitting it in the first instance with a big bore 6-cylinder was to be put into effect. This partly redesigned chassis with big bore engine will have the Wraith gearbox, which will automatically bring into effect the second speed synchro-mesh. The chassis will also take the V.8 engine, but will not take the Straight Eight unless the wheelbase and bonnet are increased in length. In that event the bonnet and scuttle, i.e. the distance from front edge of radiator forward side to the windscreen, would be only 2" less than that of the P.III. | ||