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).
Stiffness of front springs in relation to car body weight and 4-wheel brakes.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 73\3\ scan0190 | |
| Date | 14th August 1924 | |
| To Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from R.{Sir Henry Royce} c. to CJ. c. to BJ. c. to PN.{Mr Northey} X9940 S E C R E T. R1/M14.8.24 E.A.C. X9410 [crossed out] X9940 RE FRONT SPRINGS & 4-WHEEL BRAKES. It has occurred to me that the 25% stiffer front springs may only be required on the light open cars, and that springs of this stiffness should be the minimum fitted to any car, but it is possible that instead of strengthening the springs for the extra weight of the heavier bodies, we need only do so a much smaller percentage, or only after we have passed the minimum strength. Against this idea however there would be considerable confusion arise through different initial camber which would be required on the same springs when such springs have to carry a heavier load on the front, and also against this idea is the fact that the stress in the front springs is governed by the stresses required to skid the wheels. It would naturally increase with the extra weight upon the axle. You might test out the above idea, but I am inclined to think that the wisest policy will be to have all the springs with the same initial camber and the same working position, and increase their rating exactly in proportion to the load they have to carry. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||