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).
Introduction of four-wheel brakes, including the creation of an instruction leaflet, driver warnings, and training recommendations.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 73\3\ scan0082 | |
| Date | 17th June 1924 | |
| X9940 To CJ. from HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}4/LG17.6.24. X995 X9940 FOUR WHEEL BRAKES. Referring to CJ3/E5.6.24. A leaflet is being prepared for the Instruction Book giving particulars of the method of adjustment and lubrication in connection with the adopted 4-wheel brake system. This will be submitted to Sales before it is sent out. We agree that we should issue a warning explaining the dangers of being run into from behind when 4-wheel brakes are used. We feel also that drivers should be warned of the dangers of the front wheel skid and when it is possible for it to occur. We think that they should also be warned against excessive braking on a corner because of the possibility of the steering being affected. We recommend we make a definite rule that the driver or owner of the car, after it has been fitted with 4-wheel brakes, should be taken out by one of our men, shown how they should be used and the possible discomfort which can be caused to passengers when they are not used properly. A driver has got to forget all his previous experience with braking and retarding of the 40/50 car. If he uses the four wheel brakes in the same manner as he uses the two-wheel brakes he can easily pitch his passengers completely off their seats. Once, however, he has got used to them we think there is little danger of this occurring. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} | ||