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).
Meeting notes on chassis design, testing setbacks, jacking systems, and an experimental Bentley car.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 30\1\ Scan082 | |
Date | 21th December 1934 | |
Notes of Meeting - 2 - Chassis No.3 is on order and we are proceeding with the design for Ward the body for No.4. With regard to the close-coupled Continental saloon it was agreed that this would not be 6" shorter than standard as even the standard had a 2" shorter wheelbase than the other Phantom, and it was considered desirable to retain the standard wheelbase so as to have better balanced doors. With reference to the chassis for bumper test, this has unfortunately had a setback because the braking tests have shown certain weaknesses in the frame and the front axle pins which means a certain amount of alteration, and this in turn has delayed the date by which the next experimental chassis will be ready, but everybody appreciates the importance and work is being pushed on as rapidly as possible. Re Front Appearance. Nos.3 and 4 will be built with the vertical radiators and dummy covers will be provided to show the appearance with the slanting radiators. Re Better Jacking System. The Experimental Dept. have had the hydraulic system fitted to 5-B-IV with a view to obtaining some experience. Scheme for Tools. As per previous Minutes this is being worked on and we hope to have it on one of the early experimental chassis. The three chassis will be fitted with the pull-up type of brake lever with a view to improving the entrance on driver's side. BENTLEY. Experimental Car 5-B-IV. As the result of discussions on various other matters, it was agreed that a new list should be prepared of points to be fitted to this car before it goes to France, bearing in mind the fact that we want the car to get away to France not later than the end of January. | ||