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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).
Investigation of issues with a gearbox and propeller shaft.

Identifier  ExFiles\Box 97\4\  scan0176
Date  23th November 1938
  
-5-

RR/IMW.{Ivan M. Waller - Head of Chateauroux}3/R.23.11.38.

Gearbox 2.B.III.

There was no occasion to dismantle the box in any way during the mileage in France. The overdrive became somewhat noisy. Oil leaked along the first motion shaft into the clutch housing. The gear lever became stiff to move through the gate owing to accumulation of dirt at the base of the lever. A shield is required. The remainder of the troubles, enumerated below, were present from the start, and have been the subject of design and experimental investigation.

(1) Synchromesh ineffective and inconsistent in operation.
(2) Bottom gear noisy.
(3) Light squeal on engagement of second gear.
(4) Light servo squeaks. RAD.13 lining.
(5) Gear lever clatter in gate with engine movement.

The speedo drive seized during the preliminary running. This was put right and gave no further trouble. The new damper control unit was satisfactory and constant in action and was arranged to provide a range of 0 - 30 lbs./sq.in. pressure.

Propellor Shaft. Hardy Spicer divided shaft. LOP.GB.3849. FB.48, 85, 103.

A period existed around 50 m.p.h but this would not ordinarily be noticed. The centre bearing was quiet and gave no trouble. The rear universal joint failed at 11,242 miles. There were marks showing that the joint had come solid owing to insufficient angularity, but no conclusive evidence that the failure was due to this; overload was the more likely cause. A new rear joint with the angularity increased to 2° was fitted and was in good condition after 6,550 miles. The rear 3/8" flange bolts were reversed and fitted with 1/4 thickness nuts and spring washers, during this mileage.
  
  


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