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).
List of modifications to reduce the production cost of the Wraith model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 148\5\ scan0134 | |
| Date | 24th December 1936 | |
| GRY{Shadwell Grylls}- tora laco 1260 To Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} and Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}By.RHO.MS. -DR- E.3/HP.24.12.36. re Wraith - Cost of Production, The following is the list of modifications in hand to enable us to reduce cost of production of Wraith below the estimated figures submitted uptodate by Rb.{R. Bowen} (1) Gearbox modifications resulting from cost examination of Phantom III gearbox. (2) Simpler radiator construction and no steam valve. (3) Modified auxiliary drives on engine. (4) Flywheel with integral starter ring. (5) Rear dumb iron modifications issued. (6) Simpler hand brake mechanism. (7) Cheaper rear axle tubes. (8) Various small mods. as follows:- Cheaper petrol filter using Olive joints, no retention scheme for change gear gate bolts. Oilite bush, and no central lubrication for servo balance lever bearing. All the above are being pushed forward as rapidly as possible, with a view to getting them on the second Wraith chassis to be built. In addition to this we are keeping in daily touch with HPS{Horace Percy Smith - Experimental Factory Mgr} asthe Wraith pieces are being made, and cooperating with this department in an examination of the production costs on each piece. E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} | ||