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).
Faulty steering and severe shaking in a 3.5 Litre Bentley when driven on Belgian pavé roads.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 87\5\ scan0143 | |
| Date | 6th July 1934 | |
| Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} C.BY Wor{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} Sm X250 EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}18/MH.{M. Huckerby}6.7.34 re 3 1/2 Litre Bentley - Faulty Steering on Belgian Pave Roads B-88-AH - M.Delacroix, Brussels As discussed with you today, we have received a report from our tester Jackson (who is dealing with the modifications of the above) to the effect that the customer has made complaints of the violent reaction transmitted through the steering set up by the Belgian pavé roads; also that the whole front of the car sets up a shake, which was also having its effect on the coachwork. Jackson tested the car and confirmed this trouble, and described it as "intolerable" and severe joggle from 8 m.p.h. upwards, although at very high speeds the position is improved, whereas on a stretch of good concrete road the steering, etc. is quite satisfactory. Jackson is also informed that when our demonstration car was in Belgium the people who tried it commented on the same thing. My experience of handling cars (not R.R) on these pavé roads in Belgium is that it is impossible to take them with any speed as the surface is so bad as to shake the car to pieces unless definitely slowed down. We are instructing Jackson to make a test with lower tyre pressures. We understand, however, that you agree there is this fault and we have nothing further to offer. We are, however, asking Jackson whether there are any cars which are satisfactory in this respect and, if so, what are the particular constructional features which he considers overcome this trouble. It would appear, however, that this is a matter which requires your attention, as evidently this experience confirms your opinion that this type of car is unsuitable for the Belgian pavé roads. EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} RB{R. Bowen} | ||