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).
Report from France detailing disastrous test results including brake shudder, a bent steering tube, and a suspected twisted axle.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 82\3\ scan0204 | |
| Date | 14th April 1935 | |
| K200a HOTEL DE FRANCE CHATEAUROUX. Indre. France. 14th April 1935. To Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} From G.W.H. 5 B IV. We have received your Memo.Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} IO/KW of the 12/4/35. We were aware that the Fan bracket was made in Magnesium, but understood that a request for that material had been asked for. With regard to the engine Maximum revs., we have had no indication that the valves are bouncing, and so far have not been able to prove what is the cause, of no increase in speed. Re ROAD SPRINGS. The springing in the front has not altered with running, and as we reported we have made a temporary change to the Springs sent out, which were originally fitted. The result however has been disastrous. The first application of the brake produced a violent shudder which again bent the cross steering tube and the steering was absolutely unselective. We very much suspect that one side of the axle has wrung its neck, but before saying so definately we shall have it tested in Paris. The Car as it is, is unsafe to drive so we are obtaining an axle from Paris by rail. The front brakes have become a 100% efficent, and under these conditions the axle is simply being twisted round upon the brake application. This is at 60 MPH. From our tests the 14 inch drums are hopeless. with the present ratio of leverages. G W Hancock. G.W.H. | ||