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).
Customer complaints of 'back lash' noise in Synchro Mesh Gear Boxes for the 20/25HP & Phantom II models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 15\5\ Scan351 | |
| Date | 3rd November 1932 | |
| x7310. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c/o By c/o Wou. c/o BR from Mx.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} Mxx/T3.11.32. SYNCHRO MESH GEAR BOXES 20/25HP & Phantom II x5310 x7310 We are having to deal with some criticism and also complaints from customers of the "back lash" in the drive when running on third and top gear - particularly the third gear. We have satisfied ourselves that the noise comes from the Synchro Mechanism and the gears connected therewith - furthermore, the parts in question are to the drawing limits. This point you will remember we commented on when we tried the Experimental 10,000 miles car and later when cars were being produced. There is quite a variation in the amount of noise between one car and another depending on the production of the various parts involved i.e. whether they are to the minimum or maximum limits. You have warned us of the dangers of attempting to reduce these clearances but we feel we must bring the matter again to your notice in view of the complaints that are being received. Mx{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} [Signature] | ||