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).
Test report on graphite bronze clutch facings for the 20/25 HP model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 129\4\ scan0009 | |
| Date | 9th October 1937 | |
| To Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} from Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/NRC.{N. R. Chandler} c. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} c. Nx. Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/NRC.{N. R. Chandler}10/MH.{M. Huckerby}9.10.37. 1110 GRAPHITE BRONZE CLUTCH FACINGS 20/25 HP. MADE BY THE CLEVELAND GRAPHITE CO., OHIO. A supply of these facings, suitable for the 20/25 with R.R. clutch, has recently been received. They are entirely metallic, and are made to the same drawing as the woven asbestos facing which they replace, and operate direct on to the R.R. steel driven plate. A pair were fitted to 17-G-IV on Sept. 22nd., and although the same thrust springs were used, there was no slip, and the engagement was smooth and silent. The car was run for a week by Service Dept., and reports were entirely satisfactory. On Sept. 29th. the car was handed to Experimental Dept., and 1000 starts from rest on 2nd. speed were made at the rate of about 52 per hour. 351 miles being covered at an average of 18.5 M.P.H. The drivers were instructed to make fairly quick starts but without excessive deliberate slipping, and the clutch remained free from slip and silent throughout, although latterly there was a slight suggestion of jagger when starting on 2nd. On Oct. 4th. I took the car 50 miles, giving the clutch severe treatment by repeatedly starting on top with engine racing, gear changing at speed against full throttle, and generally giving it much worse punishment than it would receive from the worst possible type of driver. Followed by three starts from rest on the 1 in 3 part of Green Hill, Wirksworth. | ||