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).
Policy document discussing the fitting of thermostats to American versus European cars, comparing bypass systems and shutters.
| Identifier | WestWitteringFiles\F\April1921\ Scan43 | |
| Date | 25th April 1921 | |
| Handwritten Top: R: philosophy on THERMOSTATS - BYPASS or SHUTTERS ORIGINAL. 40/50 POLICY HS{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/D25/4/21. R^a Springfield Derby To H.I. from R.{Sir Henry Royce} Copy to R.A.H. H.S.L. H.S. ✓ (For the attention of C.Y.) x3563 x3678 Typed Body: RE THERMOSTATS - (BY4/P18/4/21) The fitting of thermostats to American cars was in accordance with American practice. They were carried out in the same way as the best American practice at the time that they were requisitioned, namely, like the Packard and Cadillac. *I think it is unreasonable for the American Company, who now prefer not to fit these, to expect Derby to take the 168 thermostats which they have and do not need.* Derby should only be considered to take these if they suit their convenience, which cannot at present be decided. I always preferred that the thermostats should operate louvres, which also seem now to be preferred by Springfield, but we adopted the bye-pass system as being the only one possible in the time. I still believe it would be better for the thermostats to be fitted, but for the risk of freezing up the radiator. There seems an equal objection to the use of thermostats being, however, fitted as regards the loss of alcohol, if this is used in the cooling water. Perhaps Mr. Olley will explain. We are continuing to fit the thermostats to European cars; this seems an illogical situation. Handwritten Bottom: Not really, when allowance is made for USA R.{Sir Henry Royce} winter conditions. Stamp: RECEIVED 27 MAY 1921 | ||