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).
Letter discussing cylinder corrosion and piston 'freezing' issues in exported cars before despatch.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 145\1\ scan0241 | |
| Date | 6th January 1938 | |
| 1229. Is this true? TELEPHONE WHITEHALL 1010. CAXTON HOUSE EAST, WESTMINSTER, LONDON, S.W.1. 6th January 1938. S. H.{Arthur M. Hanbury - Head Complaints} Grylls Esq., Rolls Royce Limited, DERBY. Dear Mr. Grylls, Some time ago Mr. Russell Sharp raised a question in regard to exported cars, particularly in connection with treatment of cylinders before despatch. I mentioned to him at the time that after extended tests with lanolised and other oils, the Air Ministry had come to the conclusion that pure Mineral Oil was the most satisfactory, both for running-in engines before despatch and for adding to the cylinders before turning over and packing. One of the troubles that was very severe a few years ago was the driving of cars over short distances from the final test to the Packing Department, when, due to cool running conditions, corrosion was set up in the cylinders, due to moisture conditions, and it is often now the practice to tow cars for short distances, rather than drive them. The same remarks apply in regard to moving cars about the Works over short distances, where it is inconvenient to move them by hand. Also I understand that some time ago General Motors had a good deal of trouble in connection with exported cars, particularly those fitted with cast-iron pistons, due to the "freezing" of the pistons in the cylinder bores, due to corrosion. I was led to understand at that time that the trouble was more severe in those countries where alcohol-treated fuels are employed. I should be glad to discuss this feature further with you at your convenience, if it is of importance under present conditions. With kind regards, Yours sincerely, OTJ ND | ||