Test report on the 25-EX vehicle during trials in France, detailing handling, performance, and suspension characteristics.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 11\3\ 03-page523 | |
| Date | 1st September 1931 | |
| WBM C. HS. {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} 87941 EP {G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} 10/H1.9.31. re. 25-EX - TEST IN FRANCE. The various points in connection with this test were discussed with Rm. {William Robotham - Chief Engineer} , who was with us during the run, and opinions were generally unanimous as per his final log book report. Also Mr. report. I was certainly able to appreciate the value of the conditions of the test. When first riding in, or handling the car, I was concerned with the front frame jellying and steering bad joggles at speeds on anything but smooth roads, features which I consider worse than the standard. With further running, however, I was able to appreciate the smooth sweet running and yet powerful engine, also good all-round riding qualities and controllability of the car on the road, and consider the advantages of these outweigh the disadvantages referred to. It was not felt that the engine torque reaction dampers were working properly, as I could not appreciate that adjustments of same made any effect. As regards springing and steering, although a certain amount of "dithers" and "jars" were manifest at slower speeds over pot holes etc., the car could be driven over the various types of roads at any speed, and the driver and passenger feel quite safe and comfortable and not pitched or thrown about, which condition remained constant. I certainly take the view that the diamond engine mounting scheme and low rating springs are features we should establish owing to the marked advantages obtained. Also high compression head. Further investigation work is necessary on the engine torque reaction dampers and shock absorbers. (Hs {Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} /Rm. {William Robotham - Chief Engineer} has in hand). CONTINUED:- | ||
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).