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).
Wheelbase and chassis modifications for the Bentley III to improve passenger space.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 82\4\ scan0302 | |
| Date | 26th May 1936 | |
| GRY.{Shadwell Grylls} We are making two lengths of wheelbase Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} and Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} From E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} c. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} X200 Rmes/HP.26.5.36. Bentley III. We have been carrying on the general scheme for Bentley III chassis, and in connection with this a little while ago we mocked up the design of the wells for the rear passengers feet, which had to be somewhat restricted to get a cross in the frame. We have reached the conclusion however that these wells are not good enough, and we have, therefore, decided that it is necessary to alter the cruciform member to an "A" frame and make up frame stiffness by the use of boxed crossmembers. This will give us all the room we want at the rear, and enable us to move the rear passengers forward in company with the front. The scheme as we now have it relative to the present Bentley allows for the following dispositions:- Radiator - Moves forward 5". Engine - Moves forward 6". Driver - Moves forward 5". This leaves 1" for sound insulating dash. Rear passengers - move forward 3". This arrangement leaves 2" more room in rear compartment, plus about 2" which can be gained if required on shape of front seat squab, making 4" in all. This also improves rear entrance between seat and door pillar by 2". We now have to decide whether to shorten the wheelbase 3", or leave it as now 10 ft 6 ins. We have already added a tail extension on the gearbox of 6" to keep propeller shaft present length with present wheelbase, and as we are just on the limit for | ||