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).
Project plan outlining the staged development of an engine and transmission for a new Battle Cruiser Tank.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 144\4\ scan0182 | |
| Date | 10th December 1940 | |
| SECRET. TANK PROJECT. ENGINE Stage 1 -- Bench Test Leyland Meteor engine to run on test bed with Kestrel carbs and 5 1/2 to 1 c/r.{Sir Henry Royce} Endurance tests detonation on Pool petrol with high intake temperatures. Stage II -- Tank Test Leyland Meteor engine to run in a Mk.VI. tank with maximum number of standard pieces to prove system installation and power weight ratio. Will be run in conjunction with present standard tank transmission if R.R. not ready. May be Stage 1. engine adapted. Stage III -- Type Test Final engine, crankcase cast-iron, all accessories installed in Mk.VI. drives and couplings arranged for R.R. transmission and steering. Man Hours to fabricate reduced as far as possible. TRANSMISSION Stage 1 R.R. syncromesh gearbox arranged to couple up with Merlin engine and Wilson steering. Stage II R.R. syncromesh box arranged with R.R. steering and final Meteor engine installed in Mk.VI. tank with mechanical controls. Stage III As Stage II. but with hydraulic or pneumatic remote control of clutch and gearbox shift. Battle Cruiser Tank. Final Battle Cruiser Tank designed round R.R.-Leyland engine and transmission unit, 5" lower behind fighting compartment, higher rate suspension, infantry tank armour, wider track. | ||