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).
Comparing the suspension and ride comfort of cars 81-RF and 87-RF, and requesting further tests.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 71\3\ scan0420 | |
| Date | 17th April 1928 | |
| copy to W. Hives S/W EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} Copy to:- Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} Hm.{Capt. W. Hallam - Head Repairs} HO. X8950 OWR15/GM/17.4.28. Re: 81-RF and 87-RF. These two cars are practically identical in weight and in weight distribution. They are of the same type. The springs fitted, according to our records, are practically identical with the exception that the offside front spring of 87-RF is 50 lbs heavier than that of 81-RF. 87-RF has, generally, given great satisfaction with regard to its comfort in riding, whereas 81-RF has has been always the reverse. As 87-RF is now at the Works and as certain small items of work are required on 81-RF, it has been decided to send it to W. also, in order that a very careful comparison of the riding of these two cars may be made by all the parties interested in this question of suspension so that we may possibly arrive at some reason why one car is so much better than the other. It is important that 87-RF should not be delayed owing to these tests as it is urgently required for work, but the question of the return of 81-RF is not so urgent. It has been suggested in another memo referring to 87-RF that the springs should be taken apart, greased and shock dampers checked etc. etc., but it is thought advisable that the preliminary tests at all events with these cars should be made before this is done. The mileage of the two cars is very approximately the same both having done between 4,000 and 6,000 miles. 81-RF wholly in England and 87-RF practically wholly in France. Would you please arrange for these tests to be carried out and a report forwarded in due course on the conclusions reached OWB. p.p. OWB. Shj. | ||