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).
The failure and urgent replacement of AC.2 bearings on Bentley chassis.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 114\3\ scan0043 | |
| Date | 5th December 1938 | |
| W/S. (S). c. GWH.{George W. Hancock - Head Chateauroux} (K). BY.18/G.5.12.38. BENTLEY CHASSIS WITH AC.2 BEARINGS. Referring to H.16/H.2.12.38. I am thoroughly convinced from the examination of the bearings referred to in BY.6/G.30.11.38. that we cannot safely leave any cars on the road fitted with AC.2 bearings, the cause of the failure is clearly outlined in BY.6/G.30.11.38. and I intended to convey in that memo information to the effect that there was no need to pursue the idea of examining the bearings taken from engines whose drivers were high speed enthusiasts. Since writing you I have discussed the matter with both Ed.{J. L. Edwards} and Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/CWH. who are both in agreement with my conclusions, and concur in the view that it is dangerous to leave any AC.2. bearings in service, they should be changed as quickly as possible as failure is not the result of wear but reduction of bearing clearance by ageing, the failure being sudden and complete, caused by bearing seizure resulting from diminished bearing clearance by ageing. Will you therefore kindly arrange to carry on with the arrangement by which cars are sent in for attention as quickly as possible. BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} | ||