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).
Importance of a quiet gear change from second to first, and the decision not to proceed with the current synchromesh arrangement on new models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 15\5\ Scan270 | |
| Date | 1st April 1932 | |
| X7310. H/S X7310. XS-310 To R.{Sir Henry Royce} from Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} Copy to WGR. Copy to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} Copy to BH. re Synchromesh Gearbox. Sg{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}10/EPS.4.32 With further reference to Sg{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD}14/E21.1.32 and the question of the importance of changing speed quietly from second to first, we discussed this matter further at Derby yesterday and we were unanimously of the opinion that, if this point becomes known on our P.II and 20/25, we shall be subject to severe criticism and would be in a very awkward position when owners asked us to demonstrate how it could be done. We definitely came to the conclusion that we ought not to go ahead with the new models, J.III, "Peregrine" and Bentsport with such an arrangement. I hope you have been well enough to make the personal test which I suggested of changing from second to first with the car in motion, and I feel sure you will agree with the views expressed above. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} | ||