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).
The acceptance tests and potential issues of the 4¼ Litre Bentley production model.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 82\4\ scan0263 | |
| Date | 25th February 1936 | |
| [Stamp] c. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} GRY{Shadwell Grylls} X200 EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}20/MH.{M. Huckerby}25.2.36 re 4¼ LITRE BENTLEY (PRODUCTION) --------------------------------- The above are now going through their acceptance tests before delivery. The improvement in acceleration and general performance over the 3½ litre is very marked and, as a Bentley, judging from the general impression we have formed of present customers, should go well. The following should be considered as possible troubles or criticisms.- (1) Harshness and "throbbing" on acceleration is more marked. This, we take it, is to be expected with the increased torque, as the engine mounting, etc. is the same as before. (Also compares with Experimental cars previously reported similarly). Floorboard and body clearance to engine unit is more than ever important. Scuttle and dash and body damping, and isolation, are also important. For high speed engine work there seems to be definitely less "fussy periods"; also we now appear to be clear of flywheel whistle periods. Boom periods (probably body effects) still take place - chiefly between 3000-2000 engine r.p.m. (2) The detonations from the engine do not seem to be any worse in comparison to the 3½ litre, but it is certainly felt that T.E.L. type fuel should give better results, also from the point of view of the engine running smoother. It is noted that this type of fuel is used on Experimental cars and on the 10,000 mile test. If this fuel is recommended it should be made clear to all customers and also in our Instruction Book. [handwritten note] Should it be used on test. The engine slow running and idling cannot be considered good - if anything is a little worse than the 3½ litre. | ||