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).
Outlining points of reference for investigating the American trend in independent front wheel suspension design.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 173\1\ img040 | |
| Date | 12th January 1934 | |
| To Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} from E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} E.L/HP.12.1.34. c.c. Mr. Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} Bnr re American trend in design. While Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} is in U.S.A. we should like him to take a particular interest in the independent front wheel suspension which is being taken up by a number of the popular American makes and which allows the engine to be placed over what is virtually the position of the front axle. The particular points of reference we would mention are: (1) The amount of saving in wheelbase effected. (2) The effect of weight distribution and riding. (3) The periodicity of the front suspension and degree of damping required, also the form this damping takes. (4) The general arrangement of the steering layout, and whether the almost horizontal steering columns shown on some examples are found practical. We should say the upper rim of the wheel would seriously hamper vision. (5) The general construction of the nose shields, radiator assembly etc. and accessibility of engine unit. (6) The value attached to the particular geometry of the suspension which allows the vertical track of the wheels to remain constant. The "Airflow" Chrysler DeSoto and Plymouth are examples of the cars to which we refer. E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} | ||