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).
Steering lever failures, stress calculations, and proposed emergency solutions.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 153\4\ scan0164 | |
| Date | 25th August 1943 | |
| Chassis Steering-general To By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} from Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} c. to Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Wym.{G. Harold Whyman - Experimental Manager} Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}9/JH.25.8.43. re Steering Lever Failures. Many thanks for By.1/EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}2.8.43. and attached memos. from the U.S.A. It is apparent that America can throw very little light on the subject. From calculations, results of which have already been sent to you, it seems that the stresses in the drop arm are approx. twice those in the equivalent lever on the front pan. We recall reducing the drop arm lever section in an effort to introduce a degree of elasticity into the steering system equal to that of the LaSalle gear which was so successful when applied to our cars. Results would indicate that we went too far. Yc. will appreciate that this elasticity is required only on cornering when the side steering tube springs have become choc-a-bloc. In order to keep valuable cars on the road we are proposing to produce some levers of increased section in a material as nearly equivalent to our piece time specification as possible. These levers will be shot blasted. Such an emergency policy is necessary as the stock of original levers is almost exhausted. We shall welcome the opportunity of studying your design for a spring drive to the drop arm, which can be looked upon as a longer term solution. Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} As requested we are returning herewith the American correspondence. | ||