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).
Performance and limitations of 4-wheel brakes, comparing them to customer expectations and competitor standards.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 73\2\ scan0162 | |
| Date | 20th December 1923 | |
| To CJ. from Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. to BJ. c. to Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} c. to Rg.{Mr Rowledge} c. to PH. x9940 Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}1/LG20.12.23. x9770 x9940 BRAKES - AND EAG-1 ENGINE. During our recent visit to WW. it was evident that R.{Sir Henry Royce} was more satisfied with the 4-wheel brakes fitted to the two cars which we took there than we were. This may have been due to R.{Sir Henry Royce} not having the opportunity of trying the brakes over a wide range of conditions, or it may be that the Expl: Dept: have set too high a standard and expect too much from these brakes. In order to show up some of the weaknesses, it was necessary for us to demonstrate a rough application of the brakes. This, R.{Sir Henry Royce} was inclined to consider, was unfair. We consider that when the cars are in customers hands, the brakes will receive this treatment and worse. Again, brakes fitted to other makes of car do not behave in this manner. We explained to R.{Sir Henry Royce} that we did not think Sales would accept cars with brakes as I demonstrated them to him. We should like it confirmed by Sales what they expect from 4-wheel brakes. Are they prepared that the first brakes to be fitted to the existing 40/50 HP. chassis will have limitations. Our standard for 4-wheel brakes is mostly obtained from the Hispano. We can at any time let Sales have a car fitted with contd:- | ||