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).
High speed steering wobbles for the 40/50 model, detailing potential causes and remedies.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 28\4\ Scan241 | |
| Date | 22th May 1925 | |
| 4457 To Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} from Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}2/LG22.5.25. 40/50 STEERING. 4457 x.3465 Referring to Brl/H20.5.25. At the moment we have no definite cure for high speed steering wobbles. This matter is being investigated at the present time in the Expl: Dept: because we have realised for some time it would be likely to cause complaints. The experience so far shows the following to be vital points to observe to reduce the tendency for steering wobbles :- (1) Balance of tyres and wheels. These must be in absolute balance. (2) Tyre pressures. We have found that with increase in tyre pressure the wobbles are put up to a higher speed. If attention is given to this point it may be possible to put it up to such a speed that the car seldom reaches. (3) Front shock absorbers. Extra friction in the front shock absorbers will tend to reduce steering wobbles. (4) Extra friction in the steering pivots will reduce the effect. The reason that high speed steering wobbles are being discussed amongst owners and drivers is because it is a frequent complaint on a large number of modern cars. The reasons [strikethrough] we can give so far for the complaint being manifest are :- (a) The introduction of front wheel brakes which has lowered one of the periods of the axle on the springs. (b) The introduction of low pressure tyres. We will let you have further information on this matter as soon as it is available. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} | ||