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).
Failure rates of different engine coupling types on the Phantom II.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 15\4\ Scan071 | |
| Date | 25th August 1930 | |
| C O P Y Aug. 25, 1930. To: Mr. Burton From: Mr. Harger Copy to Mr. Beaver Mr. Olley RE: Engine Coupling - Sec. 6020 Acknowledging your memo of August 18 regarding England's decision to change couplings on the first 93 Phantom II. We have investigated our current troubles with this unit, and find the following since Jan. 1, 1930: Flat type coupling with rivets, chassis 1701 - 2000 6 failures. This is probably due to the fact that the majority of these cars are passing or nearing the end of the guarantee period and customers are being charged for replacement. Flat couplings with screws, 2001 - 2400 16 failures. This is by far the worst of the lot. Bulged coupling 2401 on. We have received no complaint reports covering failure of this type since January 1. Mr. Gariazzo remembers only one case of trouble and this was due to loose bolts. Long Island Service Test advise that they are not bothered with the bulged coupling. In view of the record which present production type has so far established, we do not feel it worth the expense to design a revised spider for the English Cantilever pin. It is also interesting to note that some of the FR cars fitted with bulged fabrics have reached considerable mileage without trouble. M.C.H. MCH/L Copied Aug. 26/30. M | ||