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).
20 HP starter motor failures and issues with propeller shaft and sliding joints.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 47\2\ Scan409 | |
| Date | 24th November 1930 | |
| -2- Starter Motor Failures 20 HP. In the first place I tackled the Cricklewood Dept. as regards the condition of the cork washers they had in stock. I found them to be a poor selection and told them they had no business to keep corks which were not suitable but they replied that the Works had sent them as being O.K. I told them that if a thing is wrong when received, it should be returned - not fitted to cause further trouble. We have since then taken up the question of corks supplied with Mr. Royce (O.G.), and the result is that both at the Works and Depots the storing of the corks in the stores has been at fault. They should be kept in a damp place so that they retain the sponginess, otherwise they become hard and useless. A Depot Sheet has now been instructed with regard to the storing of the corks. The question of recurrent failures of the old type starter motor I have taken up with BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} with a view to deciding what is the best thing to do. We are of the opinion that it would be better to fit the present starter motor, therefore BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} has gone thoroughly into the matter with regard to costs and the possibilities of the change over. I understand he will shortly be able to bring to your notice these complete suggestions. M.{Mr Moon / Mr Moore} Wyer. Propeller Shaft, Mechanics Joints. The case as-stated received attention re the seizure of the fulcrum pins. x We are not having many complaints of this nature. The chief complaint is loss of oil. We have therefore altered the reading in the Instruction Book so that attention to oiling is now 2500 miles instead of 3000. Wyer's suggestion of using cork washers we do not agree with because it would mean alterations to design and also cork washers we find very unsatisfactory. The suggestion of the fitting of the chrome leather washer we are paying attention to and BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} has already got a scheme out for this to be spring loaded without any alteration to the design. This should allow a better fitting leather washer. x We are endeavouring to get it fitted for the next 10,000 miles test.x We do, however, think that as we have had a 100% job with this joint, slight irregularities may be taking place in the fitting up of the joints which could be avoided. Sliding Joint. We agree that oil leaks out of this joint, but the work this joint has to do makes us very careful in respect of instructing owners re less oiling. Attention is being paid to the job. The Knots lubricators fitted are a special | ||