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).
Main bearing failures in Bentley chassis, discussing the issue, potential recall, risks, and costs.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 90a\6\ Scan170 | |
| Date | 11th January 1938 | |
| P.Dec 262 To Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}, Hc., BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer}, & Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} C. to MX.{John H Maddocks - Chief Proving Officer}, La.{L. A. Archer}, Hd.{Mr Hayward/Mr Huddy} MHU.1/HJ.11.1.38. BENTLEY MAIN BEARINGS. Hall's Chassis E.110-LS. The Test Department report that the above chassis was received for some complaint and it was decided to examine the Main Bearings since this Chassis was one of the 78 fitted with Main Bearings in A.C.2 Material. Upon examination the Bearings, particularly the thrust, showed signs of seizure. This is, we understand, after running approximately some 200 miles in the Customer's hands. According to records these Bearings were examined before the Chassis was delivered and were then satisfactory so the partial seizure has occurred since the Chassis was delivered to the Customer. It has therefore been decided to change the Bearings over to A.C.7. This will necessitate cleaning up the Main crank Journals because they show signs of wear. In view of this a decision should be made as to what action is to be taken with regard to the remaining 77 Chassis which we are given to understand are, with the exception of 12, now in Customers' hands. To examine the Bearings and change over to A.C.7 on the outstanding Chassis would involve the Company in expenditure of £24. 2. 0d. per Chassis or a Total on 77 Chassis of £1855.14.0d It is true there are a number of Chassis in Customers' hands, Raymond Mays and others, that are apparently satisfactory, which makes it difficult to decide what action should be taken but against these should be taken into account the failure on Bentley 110-LS, and the failures on test a short time ago which necessitated the complete hold-up of Production for the purpose of changing over all Main Bearings on Bentley Chassis which were then on test. Having regard to all circumstances it may be decided to take a risk and deal with complaints as such arise. There is of course the risk of a major failure which would necessitate the replacement of crankcase, etc., but such risk of failure may be regarded as remote. A detailed statement of Costs would be :- Labour ....... £9. 14. 0d. 125% Factory Charges..... £12. 3. 9d. Material ....... £2. 4. 6d. Total Cost per Car ....... £24. 2. 0d. RHU. | ||