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).
10,000-mile test in France for a Phantom III 32-EX Close-Coupled Saloon by Park Ward.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 91\1\ scan0386 | |
| Date | 14th August 1936 | |
| To SG.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} c. to WOR.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} c. to E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} c. to Ey. c. to Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} c. to EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} c. to MX.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer} c. to Cx.{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager} c. to RHO. c. to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} X3009 109/1 HS{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/GWH.{George W. Hancock - Head Chateauroux}1/JH.14.8.36. Phantom III - 32-EX. Report on 10,000 Miles Test in France. Close-Coupled Saloon - Park Ward. Our first impression on first receiving the car was a feeling of insecurity at speed, with the steering not at all stable. The car continually dived to the right and left on the road when being braked. The front braking seemed too powerful and would make one wonder what would happen if a sudden application was made. The suspension appeared to be too light and allowed the car to float, and had the effect of bouncing after a "Hump Back" had been taken. This was traced to the control unit poundage being low and was subsequently rectified, and when the car left France, these faults were hardly apparent. The Bearbox was poor and hardly justified our previous efforts at Shardlow to make it something like a Rolls-Royce production. Speaking generally, the engine was good and gave a good acceleration and plenty of power when required, although it was disappointing that one had to open the throttle full before a good getaway could be obtained. This invariably produced a roar from the air silencer, but on the whole the engine unit was smooth and responded readily to the controls. Various conditions of heat somewhat effected the driver, as for instance the under-scuttle heat was frequently uncomfortable, and the heat from the throttle pedal could be felt through the sole of the shoe. Following is a detailed report on the car during its 10,000 miles. | ||