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 testing, faults, and modifications of a starter motor from supplier Lucas.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 165\7\ img042 | |
| Date | 20th January 1950 | |
| -8- RM{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/RC.{R. Childs}1/PMA. 20.1.50. The motor was taken to Lucas and the fault pointed out to their Mr. Teague, chief inspector of starter and general production. A new armature and clutch was fitted, and we made certain that no foul existed between armature and pole shoes. The motor was brought back to Clan the same day and fitted to B.40. MK.I. No.3. for starting tests. After 6000 starts inspection revealed that a slight foul had developed between armature core and pole shoes at the rear end. The motor was returned to Lucas for their inspection. Serial No. 100. This motor was received from Lucas 16.11.49. and fitted to B.40. MK.I. No.3. engine for further starting tests. After approximately 4000 engagements excessive clutch slip developed. On examination we found that the armature had been fouling the poles. We also noticed that the phosphor bronze thrust pads on the pinion shaft lever were badly worn. We assumed that the excessive clutch slip was responsible for this wear. The motor was returned to Lucas for their examination. Conclusions. More work will have to be done on this motor before we can clear it for production. The following modifications have already been made by Lucas :- 1) Improved electrical circuit giving a much longer life to the relay contacts. 2) Greatly improved hinge for the relay armature. 3) More rigid relay mounting bracket. Cont'd..... | ||