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).
Arguing against the use of cast iron crank chambers due to concerns about weight, performance, and brand reputation.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 103\2\ scan0241 | |
| Date | 24th April 1931 | |
| HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} ) FROM R.{Sir Henry Royce} BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} RG.{Mr Rowledge}) (At Le CanadelHenry Royce's French residence.) SECRET. R3/M24.4.31. X5000 Copy to SG.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} WOR.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} J.{Mr Johnson W.M.} 3. CAST IRON CRANK CHAMBERS. The somewhat doubtful arguments in favour of the above will not apply to J.{Mr Johnson W.M.} 3. except cheapness, (and even this can't be much when Austin gives aluminium.) I fear the weight in many ways. We in England do not keep castings down to weight, but like drop forg- ings they grow heavier. I certainly would not add to our reputation unless it were decidedly better in performance and repairs. (A bad bore means nearly a new engine.) Weight in this position is bad for steering and pitching. We must not lower our chances of sales. Person- ally I would not buy a first class car with a heavy engine. The matter will be carefully considered. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||