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).
Unstable steering issues, particularly when driving on tram lines, and proposed solutions.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 20\2\ Scan052 | |
| Date | 27th January 1920 guessed | |
| -2- We have confirmed further tests on this matter this week-end, with our covered body test car, and Mr. Maddocks reports as follows:- "Car was tried for unstable steering. It is very disconcerting when running on tram lines which are the same track as car, particularly when lines are sunk below the road. Can quite understand it making people "windy" if by force of circumstances one is bound to run in the tram tracks. I have never noticed this unstable effect so much before, probably because I have never deliberately tried for it, and also because one subconsciously avoids running in tram tracks, and crosses them at as wide an angle as possible. I am certain that the effect complained of is not altogether due to the front of the car, but is partly due to the rear springing. Have the split springs got anything to do with it? The pivot lean feels satisfactory - steering "returns" well and has no tendency to "dive". We are going over the steering of this car and making sure that it is correct in all respects. We are also preparing a set of rear springs which are not split. Before making this change, however, we are anxious to have your opinion of this car as it is, as I feel sure that the matter is one which requires our urgent attention. (can also has latest split from - ready for you 5.30 tonight as arranged) I should be glad if you will follow up the matter experimentally. EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} | ||