ISSN 0159-4583

Quidvis recte factum quamvis humile praeclarum* PR^CLARVM The Federal Journal of the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia. No. 2-92. April, 1992

5 “i

94 FW Neil Collins (N.S.W.)

Coast to Coast by Ghost

* Whatever is rightly done, however humble, is noble. — Royce, 1924. Car magazine (November 91) tested the ‘In town, the Bentley is the firmest rider... Road noise Bentley Turbo R against the Mercedes-Benz 600SEL, is so magnificently isolated that those big Avon the Jaguar Sovereign 4.0 and the Lexus LS400 to find Turbospeeds might as well be riding on cotton wool for ‘the world’s best car’. Victory went to the Bentley. all the noise that drifts up through the Wilton...’ Here are some extracts... ‘Special mention ‘This... ‘Blower Bentley’ has must go to the Bentley’s cockpit...’ performance aplenty.’ ‘...Bentley’s high and wide armchairs the most ‘Where it scores... is throttle response... comfortable... Connolly hides so soft, so fragrant, yet so it’s probably the most refined turbo powertrain on the hard wearing. Eleven hides go into each Bentley... road. And when you want more urge on the move, the ‘The quality of the woodwork, the richness... of the Turbo R delivers. leather... the componentry, make the Bentley’s cockpit ‘...the Bentley is the... high-speed express, by far the most elegant of surroundings.’ hand-crafted and the fruit of the labours of a small but talented group of engineers and artisans.’ ‘The Bentley is in a different world.’ ‘A world of unmatched cabin comfort, beautiful ‘Turbo R’s are hand-made.’ craftsmanship, superb quality materials.’ ‘The engines are hand-assembled... Even the final drive is hand-assembled, craftsmen cutting and ‘There is nothing else in the world lapping the gears.’ like a Turbo R...’ ‘Steering feel at speed best in the class. Its agility ‘... suspension... is the most high-tech ROLLS on winding secondaries is superior... The Bentley also ... by virtue of its adaptive damping.’ scores thanks to its wonderful braking stability... ‘The Bentley... has marginally more composure on aiinti-dive geometry...’ testing back-roads... aided by its extraordinarily competent chassis. It also has wonderful steering, IR ROYCE communicative no matter what the speed.

Why not test drive the world’s best car? York Motors ‘Driving the Turbo R is such a special experience.’ 101 William Street, Sydney 2011 You are invited to make an appointment with... Telephone (02) 331 3377 PJLECLARVM The Federal Journal of the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia.

Issue No. 2-92. April, 1992 PRAECLARUM (ISSN 0159-4583) is published six times per year by the Rolls-Royce Owners Club of Australia.

Subscriptions: PRAECLARUM is available to non-members on a subscription basis at $30.00 per year (within Australia), $50.00 per year overseas air mail. Such subscriptions carry REGULAR FEATURES no membership privileges.

Change of Address: Club members should notify their Branch Secretary in the first instance to advise non-reoeipt of an issue or change of address. Subscrbers should notify From the Editor 1996 Despatch (see below).

Contributions: Articles, letters and/or illustrations for From the Federal President 1997 publication should be sent to the Editor, address below.

Whilst every care is taken to check information published in Around the Branches PRAECLARUM, no responsbility can be accepted for errors, either typographical or factual. Views expressed by the Editor and contributors are not necessarily those of the Club. 1991 South Australian Branch Christmas Picnic 1998

EDITOR, layout, design, typesetting: Book Reviews 2005 Martin Bennett, 'Allambi', RMB3310, Ghost Chatter Goulbum, N.S.W. 2580 2008 'Phone/FAX (048) 29 7140 Market Place 2010 DESPATCH: Eric and May Goudie, 25 Cowper St., Ainslie, A.C.T. 2602 (06)248 5183 ARTICLES FEDERAL OFFICE BEARERS: Coast to Coast by Ghost PRESIDENT: Russell Rolls, P.O. Box 140, South Yarra, Vic. 3141 (03) 420 9444(w) 867 1592(h) New South Wales Branch member Neil Collins could have rested on his laurels after driving his 1920 SECRETARY: Wendy Friezer, Silver Ghost from London to Beijing in 1990. Instead he 19 Keston Ave., Mosman, N S W. 2088 (02) 267 1455(w) 969 5834(h) entered it in the 1991 'Great American Race’, coast to coast across the United States. 2000 TREASURER: Gilbert Ralph, 2 Baxter Crt., Mt. Waverley, Vic. 3149 V.I.N. Unravelled (03) 685 6000(w) 807 4501 (h)

REGISTRAR: John Fittler, Martin Bennett de-mystifies the current 17-digit chassis 12 Boonara Ave., Bondi, N.S.W. 2026 number system, the Vehicle Identification Number 2006 (02) 30 5131

BRANCH SECRETARIES: Front Cover Photo: Australian Capital Territory There can be little doubt that no other Silver Ghost has been driven in modem St. John Herbert, 9 Titheradge PI., times as far or through as many countries as 94FW, New South Wales Branch Chapman 2611 (06) 288 0647 member Neil Collins ’ 1920 tourer, seen here in Colorado on the ‘Great American Race'in June, 1991. New South Wales Judith Merlin, 31A Terry Rd., Denistone 2114 (02) 808 3329

Queensland Brian Brannelly, 50 Dunsmore St., Kelvin Grove 4059 (07) 356 4963

South Australia (Acting Secretary) Melanie Sandford-Morgan, 2 Alexander Ave., Klemzig 5087

Victoria Robin Hickman, P.O. Box 330, Vermont 3133 (03) 874 4266

Western Australia Kelvin Ferris, 53 First Avenue, Rossmoyne 6165 (09)457 3845 1996 praeclarum

for the 1992 cars (of which there is a full and Best Pre- and Post-War Cars and From the Editor explanation in this issue) commence at were seen as serving only to discourage 40001 (Corniche IV and Bentley Conti­ further appearances at Federal Rallies of nental), 42001 (Bentley Continental R), recent previous winners. Instead of pre­ 1992 Model Range 44001 (four-door saloon models) and vious winners being effectively 80001 (Touring Limousine). prevented from winning again it was de­ The 1992 Rolls-Royce and Bentley cided to encourage their further range of motor cars includes two new Company difficulties appearances at Federal Rallies by bor­ models, a revised and redesignated ex- rowing a concept from the RREC and isting model and a number of adopting a “Masters’ Class”. This class Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiasts specification changes. The two new will be open to the last three years’ Best the world over will be concerned at the models are the Bentley Continental R Pre-War and Best Post-War Cars and financial problems with which the Com­ (described in PRAECLARUM 3-91) and Overall Winners. pany is currently beset due to the the Silver Spur II Touring Limousine. The continuing recession in the two major Corniche convertible receives the elec­ Since the Masters’ Class will be an markets for Rolls-Royce and Bentley tronic ride control (described in extremely prestigious award, being in ef­ cars, the United States and the United PRAECLARUM 6-89) that has been part fect the “winner of the winners”, it has Kingdom. World sales tumbled from a of the specification of the saloon models been decided to adapt the Rolls-Royce near-record 3,333 cars in 1990 to 1,731 since the 1990 model year, and a new Motor Cars Ltd Trophy for this award. in 1991 — a twenty year low. Some 35% self-latching power-operated hood sys­ The Best Pre-War Car award, the former of the workforce, around 1,700 jobs, in­ tem with heated glass rear window. The purpose of this Trophy, will take the form cluding most of the specialist and highly model designation becomes Corniche IV of an entirely new trophy. skilled people at Mulliner Park Ward, in recognition of these changes. The have been laid off. The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd Tro­ specification of the companion Bentley phy for the best car in the Masters’ Class Continental convertible is similarly re­ News reports suggesting that Rolls- will be awarded for the first time at the vised but the model designation remains Royce Motor Cars Ltd is seeking to Ballarat Federal Rally in September this unchanged. resolve its difficulties by attracting invest­ year. All Best Pre-War, Best Post-War ment in the Company by a foreign car The following new technical features and Overall Winners at the 1989 (Broken builder, though largely groundless, are apply to a//models in the range, including Hill), 1990 (Leura) and 1991 (Perth) Fed­ disturbing to enthusiasts. Although as eral Rallies are invited to enter for this those referred to above. A new 4-speed much as £150 million could be needed Trophy. automatic transmission with overdrive for the development costs of a new top gear, a two-piece propeller shaft and model range, with entirely different bod­ revised final drive, new fuseboards and ies for Rolls-Royce and Bentley models, 1961 Concours a diagnostic socket, refinements to in­ a recent press release from parent com­ struments and controls, a new automatic pany Vickers refutes plans for a sell-off As a reminder of how old our Club is, ride control unit with revised settings, and and expresses confidence in the ability the photograph below was taken at the a new motorised central door locking of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to recover 1961 Victoria Branch Annual Concours system. A remote locking function is now from its trading difficulties. d’Elegance, which was held at Rowville standard for all markets. on the 26th November of that year. Who I could not put it better than Eric Bar- can identify the two gentlemen, both of The 1992 Rolls-Royce and Bentley rass, Editor of the RREC’s fine journal whom are still active members, and the model range is as follows: the BULLETIN, who wrote "The largely car? There will be a small prize for the factless columns of the press recently, first correct answer to arrive on the Edi­ Rolls-Royce concerning the future of Rolls-Royce Mo­ tor’s desk. To make it easy, it will not be Silver Spirit II tor Cars Ltd, made little impact. The necessary to identify the dog. Silver Spur II Rolls-Royce motor car will not lie down. Corniche IV Whatever we as a Club can do to support Martin Bennett Silver Spur II Touring Limousine the Company, we will." Needless to say, Bentley that goes for the RROC of Australia, too. Eight kJ Mulsanne S Masters Class Mulsanne S (long wheelbase) r F Turbo R Among the judging changes adopted Turbo R (long wheelbase) by Federal Council in Perth, following Continental recommendations from the Federal Continental R Judging Sub-committee, was the aboli­ tion of previous winner penalties. These The Vehicle Identification Numbers •W were formerly applied to Overall Winners F’5'1 2-92 1997

From the Federal President

1992 Federal Rally experienced. I quote from Vickers Chair­ To add to the Company’s woes man Sir David Plastow’s report: speculation continues that Vickers may be prepared to sell Rolls-Royce Motor Rally Director Victor Steiner advises “World-wide demand for our cars in Cars Ltd. Understandably, this has that preparations are well in hand for this 1991 fell by some 50% compared with given rise to much concern amongst year’s Federal Rally in Ballarat. 1990. It is cold comfort indeed that the Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiasts. sales of other high-priced luxury cars The Victoria Branch has decided to Lyn Brau, the 20-Ghost Club Chairman, should have suffered a similar fate. addressed this issue in the latest 20- vary the format of the Rally this year to Ghost Club Record. The following is an include a series of both technical and "It is my great regret that so many extract from his report: non-technical seminars on the Friday. I loyal and hard-working people have had have no doubt that these seminars will to leave our employment in the long-term "If ownership of the Company chan­ generate significant interest. interests of Rolls-Royce MotorCars. The ges, some careers and lives will certainly task for the management at the Crewe Also, “Waggon Trains” are being or­ change too, and that is regrettable. But plant has been demanding. However, the ganised from both Sydney/Canberra and thinking of the matter more impersonab- considerable restructuring of our motor Adelaide to the Rally. These will follow ly, it will not be the end of the world. One car operations has reduced by many is reminded of similar happenings in the scenic, leisurely routes and enable mem­ hundreds of cars the output level at which past. When the W.O. Bentley Company bers to make a true motoring holiday of the business can break even. the Rally. This is especially the case failed in 1931 the marque was retained by none other than the Rolls-Royce when the post-Rally tour of Tasmania is "At the same time, much work has included. If you can afford a few extra Company, and today it is highly been done to change significantly the respected and still being made. No-one days please do sign up for one of these working practices and manufacturing can imagine for a second that Rolls- and enjoy some really fine Rolls-Royce methods at Crewe, achieving great im­ and Bentley motoring. It is hoped that Royce cars will not likewise continue to provements in efficiency. Because we be made because they are respected all some W.A. members will join the firmly believe in the long-term success Adelaide run and likewise Queensland over the world and the marque is there­ and profitability of the business, we have, fore a very valuable asset. However, members the Sydney/Canberra run. during 1991, maintained our research Thus all Branches are covered. other distinguished cars in the past, and development expenditure at 1990 Hispano Suiza, Duesenberg, Bugatti and levels. This investment means that, There has been considerable interna­ Packard, to name only a very few, are no when market conditions improve, the tional interest in the Ballarat Rally, longer produced, but even those great business will be able to exploit very ef­ particularly from R.R.O.C. Inc. members names lacked the power and prestige of fectively the upturn in demand. in the United States. 'the greatest car in the world’. Although the global economic climate is bad today “In spite of the many serious problems The entry forms will be issued shortly. it is not so bad that Rolls-Royce will be faced by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars during Be sure to keep September 18-21 free, allowed to follow them. In the future there 1991, two new models were successfully as well as the week leading up to that may be more yen, dollars or marks in the launched during the year. In March, the weekend if you intend to join one of the Company’s financial structure but these Bentley Continental R was presented to Waggon Trains — and don’t forget the great cars will continue to grace the universal acclaim at the Geneva Motor Tasmania Tour, which promises to be a world's highways, and there is no reason Show. This 2-door coupe is the first really magnificent motoring experience! to think that the Company will cease to Bentley with a unique body shell since support clubs such as ours which help to the 1950s. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd preserve the Company’s proud traditions regardless of the ultimate owners.” “In the autumn, the Rolls-Royce Tour­ ing Limousine was launched across The 1991 Annual Report of Rolls- These are sentiments to which, I am Europe and then the United States, at­ Royce Motor Cars Ltd’s parent company sure, we can all relate. Vickers PLC has recently been issued. tracting huge interest. The incresed Unfortunately it makes sobering read­ length and headroom in the car, plus a Happy Motoring, ing. Trading conditions for Rolls-Royce whole range of exceptional luxury fea­ Russell Rolls Motor Cars were the most difficult ever tures, makes it the world’s ultimate limousine.” 1998 PRAECLARUM

Around the Branches

S.A.

Christmas Picnic, Sunday December 15th, 1991 1

We met at the Avenues Tavern car park at Stepney where pleasantries were exchanged among a steadily increasing number of fine cars and fine people.

Liz Poland, Graham Cornish (over from Melbourne) and I were first off the mark at the instigation of Branch Presi­ Oliver Mayo’s 1925 Twenty (GPK43) carries extremely unusual 1932 coachwork by Vanvooren. dent Rory at the wheel of his ever One of the more unusual features, for a pillarless saloon, is a division between front and rear improving 1921 Silver Ghost (8CE) Brad­ seats. bury tourer. It really is a superb motorcar and is running beautifully. A brace of classic Bentleys — Dick Perkins' 1958 S1 Continental by H.J.Mulliner (BC26EL) and Peter Graham's 19274Vz litre. We moved along Payneham Road to the intersection where once stood the Duke of Wellington Hotel and the Payneham Post Office where traffic lights halted us alongside an STA Volvo bus. It was amusing to spot the bus driver, suddenly aware of the long bonnet abreast of him, open his window to better appreciate the sight and sound alongside. ♦ft F ZiMl Along the Lower North East Road we cruised to the Glynde, where we right- turned to head for the Hills along Montacute Road, through Newton, Mon- tacute, Cherryville, past the remains of the once Vice-Regal Marble Hill man­ sion, Ashton, Summertown, Uraidla, Brian Macmahon's 1934 20/25 (GED11). The close-coupled sports saloon body is by Gurney through the serene scenery of Piccadilly Nutting — a firm renowned for the handsome lines of their coachwork Valley to “Woodhouse”, our venue for the day.

Some precipitation occurred on the speedy run up the Hills (Liz and Graham copping some washing about in the back seat) but considerately held off for the rest of the day. Enjoyable conversations, lunch and lubrication of vocal chords fol­ lowed.

We had a few less R-Rs and Bentleys than last year’s picnic but a gathering of 29 is still a sight to be seen. Included was a trio of stars newly “out of the wood­ ■ 11 ■ work”.

Gavin Sandford-Morgan brought along Oliver Mayo’s 1925 Twenty 2-92 1999

(GPK43) with 1932 Vanvooren pillarless sports limousine coachwork. This exotic creation makes maximum visual impact. Apart from the remarkable styling it is novel to see a car minus central door pillars yet fitted (most neatly) with a division. The new black and dark green paintwork suits it eminently.

The 1933 Phantom II Continental (26MY) Thrupp & Maberly sports saloon originally purchased by the late Capt. T.E. (later Sir Tom) Barr-Smith, which saw war-time service with the Australian Army, and was for years owned by the late Frank Hannan, made its first mobile □1 032 ’ appearance for a long time. It has been beautifully restored by proud owner, Brian Hallows. David Heuzenroeder's 1951 Silver Dawn (SDB114). This model was originally contrived as an export car with Nth. America in mind, but many were built with right hand drive for other important Brian Macmahon bought a 1934 export markets, like Australia. 20/25 (GED11) in London in the early 70s. This too made its restored debut at our picnic, a lovely Gurney Nutting sports saloon in black with maroon side panels. i;.

In addition to this trio was another car which has been under wraps for rather less time than those above. This is the ■r J/ 1935 20/25 (GBJ51) with graceful, cream Hooper sports saloon coachwork which Peter Cox sold about a year ago to Andrew Hogarth.

>■ * Another thoroughly enjoyable day was had by our enthusiastic Branch. ... ■ ' * Morning rains had given a lush freshness rW/m - • 1' to the native trees and undergrowth The Silver Shadow two-door cars by H. J. Mulliner, Park Ward are elegant and timeless—so much which set off the elegant cars to the best so that the convertible version, with only minimal detail changes to the coachwork, is still made effect for the 113 picnickers present. today. This is Brian Farren Price's 1966 two-door saloon (CRH1344).

John Bull Below, left and right: Brian Hallows' newly restored 1933 Phantom II Continental Thrupp & Photographs by John Bull Maberly sports saloon (26MY). Very striking, very desirable. 2000 PRAECLARUM

Coast to Coast by Ghost

— the final lap of Big Red’s around the world journey

by Neil Collins (N.S.W.)

ots MPIA At II I -—- I /Fl I \ Portland • 1 HIC HI AND

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/ \ < X ,1 >1 N / *• , GILNWXJD( ' \'• _/ ^SPRINGS Pf i< r SI CHARLES rr NORFOLK •----- i Evansville COLORr AIX) Oakley Imh’l , L ASHEVILt-t ( SPRINGS * RALElGli r NASilVILLt Charlotte' ..J.. .rrtihi I Chattanooga \ INTERSTATE BATTERIES • Lunch -LLC * OVERNIGIET

If there could be any such thing as an start so it was not possible to spend much instruction sheets to maintain various Jinary Silver Ghost, New South Wales time practising timed runs in the car. I speeds with only a stop watch and the Branch member Neil Collins’ 94FW isn’t was fortunate to have as my navigator speedometer to assist. Navigation was one! Following Neil’s incredible drive Jack Christianson from Chicago. Jack without the benefit of an odometer. Cal­ from London to Peking (Beijing) in this spent the day before the rally with me culators were also prohibited so an wonderful old car, vividly described in practising acceleration and deceleration enormous amount of mental arithmetic PRAECLARUM 1-91, he drove ‘Big Red’ times on the back roads of Norfolk. We was required of the navigator to enable across the United States in the Great were told that this was the least amount the various average speeds to be calcu­ American Race. This means that 94FW of preparation taken by any of the lated. To maintain the speeds it was has now been driven by Neil virtually entrants. Apart from a brief trip of 100 necessary to drive the car very hard at around the world — except for the wet miles last September in Australia, I had times. ‘Big Red’ took it in its stride. The bits! not driven Big Red' since the end of May more I drive Ghosts the more I marvel at 1990 in Beijing. the engineering of these fantastic cars. In 1919 when L.M.Bergen ordered 94FW it is unlikely that he could have A warm-up rally was organised for The Race started on June 22nd from imagined that over seventy years later it Friday June 21st. After visiting Norfolk Norfolk. We crossed the starting line at would be driven around the world. Naval Base the rally ran through the 10.30 a.m. as the heavens opened. The Having completed the drive from London countryside on the outskirts of Norfolk. initial run along the freeway to link up with to Peking in 1990, it seemed that the We managed to come 4th in our class, the back roads was quite easy, however 1991 Great Race across America was an which came as something of a surprise we were soon in heavily wooded country ideal opportunity to complete the around considering limited sleep and minimal in blinding rain. We were later told that the world journey. preparation. four inches of rain fell in four hours. For­ tunately, by the time we reached the first Due to business commitments in Syd­ The object of the Great Race is to stop at Roanoke Rapids, the rain had ney I arrived at the starting point in arrive at various destination points at subsided. The small community of Norfolk, Virginia only two days before the precise times by following daily issued 2-92 2001

Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina turned on a grand welcome for the entrants.

The afternoon run to Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, was relatively uneventful although by now I had learnt i I ’ ■ that in an event like this you do not have much chance of observing the scenery. .-4 For the next twelve days and 4,300 miles the scenery consisted of the speedometer and the road — preferably one eye on each.

It should be explained that this race had several categories — essentially one I1J| for pre-1920 and another for 1920-1940 vehicles. There were various classes At the start, Norfolk, Virginia. and an overall winner based on the com­ bined final two days’ totals. To be eligible and coleslaw then travelled on to Nash­ the bitumen and onto the dirt. With the for the final two days run, two “Did Not ville. The highlight of Nashville was the assistance of my muscular navigator we Finish” (DNF) were allowed in the pre- biggest steak and steak knife I had ever changed the wheel and made the start on 1920 class and one DNF for the seen. The knife was big enough to kill a time. 1920-1940 class. In fact, due to the dinosaur. I managed to purchase the heavy rain and other factors, four cars knife from the restaurateur as a souvenir The route to St. Charles was quite “Did Not Finish” on the first day. of the South. No time for country music interesting. A lot of twisting country roads — we had travelled 440 miles in the day. and long undulating stretches through On our second day we departed from the plains of Missouri. Memorable motor­ Raleigh and proceeded to Ashville, NC. The next stage was Nashville to St. ing. St. Charles is a wonderful old fur I was assured by the navigator that the Charles, Missouri. In the three days so trading town. It has been beautifully scenery was beautiful. We made a brief far we had no mechanical problems other maintained with interesting craft and gift stop at the Charlotte Fairgrounds for than the flat battery. The spare wheels on shops. Next time I hope to visit them. We lunch then to Spartanburg, South ‘Big Red’ are chained to steel support came 5th in our class on this day, having Carolina for a brief stop. Leaving Spar­ brackets. The keys having been mislaid travelled 380 miles. tanburg 'Big Red’ had a flat battery. The in transit, I decided before leaving Nash­ friendly Spartanburg residents kindly ville that it would be a good idea if I broke At 6.30 a.m. we departed St. Charles gave us a push start. Moments after leav­ the lock holding one of the wheels just in and passed through Boonville on the way ing Spartanburg the heavens opened case we had a flat tyre. How lucky can to Independence for lunch. It should be again. We arrived at Ashville in one piece you be? Shortly after leaving the hotel, noted that to depart at 6.30 means get­ looking like a pair of drowned rats. We travelling to the start at 55mph a rear tyre ting up between 4.30 and 5 a.m. to allow came second in our class and we in the went bang. I managed to get 'Big Red’ off time for a calibration run to warm the top twenty overall, having covered 370 miles in the day. On the road in North Carolina.

Leaving Ashville at 6 a.m. we started to climb a fairly steep mountain covered in fog. At one stage we could just see the radiator. It reminded me of a similar prob­ lem in Turkey the year before but at least this time we had guard rails. We climbed to about 5,000 feet and, I was reliably informed, passed some magnificent scenery. Coming down the other side of the mountain was a little more exciting as the brakes became hot. Although we managed to descend safely, a 1907 Buick had its brakes so hot it caused a fire, destroying the timber wheel spokes.

We stopped for lunch at Chattanooga, Tennessee. After a quick look at the famous train we devoured fried chicken 2002 PRAECLARUM

bbs»

Between Colorado Springs and Frisco, Colorado. tyres and check the speedo accuracy for T-shirts and other souvenirs of the Race. then to Salina. It was incredibly hot — the day’s run. (A special speedometer It is a little like a travelling circus with the high 90s F — long stretches of road, a had been fitted especially for the Race.) finish line arch, media van and the en­ very long day covering some 450 miles. tourage moving from town to town each The organisers coordinate towns day. The cars and crew were announced We were met in Salina by Roger Mor­ along the way for pit stops each morning as they came through the finish arch. I rison who had been contacted on my and afternoon as well as lunch stops. A guess we were the circus performers. behalf by Elaine and Rudy Rosales after prize is given to the town providing the an S.O.S. call for a split rim. Roger kindly best hospitality and the organisers have From Independence we headed for loaned me a spare wheel and tyre which a travelling caravan selling programmes, Topeka, Kansas for the afternoon stop was very useful as one of our split rims disappeared in the desert during one of Colorado Springs, Colorado. our other flat tyre episodes.

The next day we left at the almost civilised time of 7.30 a.m. for a 450 mile drive to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Again long, flat roads into a strong head UMtT wind with the temperature still in the high 35 90s. Unfortunately we miscalculated our fuel consumption and ran out. We were carrying jerry cans, but refuelling caused us to lose time and put us out of conten­ tion for the day. It is interesting how competetive events like this get you in. When we left Norfolk I thought to myself that just to finish would be enough — I won’t worry too much about the competi­ tion, the other crews having practised together and know the ropes — I'll just 2-92 2003 take it easy. Now here I was kicking myself for not stopping to refuel sooner, costing us a place finish on the day.

The lunch stop was at Oakley, Kan­ sas, then on to Cheyenne Wells, Colorado. More long, straight roads, no doubt beautiful wheat country but some­ what dangerous as we had to dodge several tractors on the road as it was coming on to harvest season. We would come over a rise and see the road disap­ pearing into the distance. Very tiring and monotonous driving. Colorado Springs was a welcome sight. Not only is it a beautiful oasis, it also allowed the only day off on the whole race. Frisco, Colorado. When Jack telephoned me early next morning to suggest practising (checking it started to rain again. We managed to ceived the most amazing welcome from the speedo and doing some calibration keep very close to our times despite the several thousand people. While not as runs) I suggested that he might like a conditions and remarkably we won our large as Urumqi in China, nonetheless game of golf as I was going to sleep all class for this day. overwhelming. day. I am not that competitive. The next morning we left the hotel at As previously mentioned, to be eligi­ The Race restarted at 8 a.m. on June Glenwood Springs at 5.30 for a 6.30 ble for the final series (called ‘The Grand 29th after the very welcome break. The start. We drove through the very pretty Championship Run”) two DNFs were al­ route went through the Air Force Acad­ countryside with long runs down the lowed. As we had been having a little emy then through beautiful pine tree mountain, this time without rain. With this trouble with the clutch brake on the latter covered hills which I noticed out of the event not all the day comprises timed stage into Ogden, I decided to take a corner of my eye. We started to climb sections. There are also transit zones. DNF on this section. We took a leisurely over the Rocky Mountains (up to 11,000 This was the only time we really had the drive up the Interstate to Boise, Idaho feet). The car ran like a top. The engine opportunity of enjoying the scenery al­ arriving at 1.30 p.m. The countryside temperature did not go over 85° C. At though we found we had to average more was fairly monotonous, broken by occa­ only one stage did I have to go into than 50 miles per hour on most transit sional rock outcrops reminding me of the second gear. I lost count of the number sections. On the first two stages we were old John Wayne movies. I was expecting of modern cars and trucks on the side of going extremely well but lost another tyre an Indian attack at any time. Real cow­ the road with bonnets open cooling off on the third stage. Changing wheels lost boy country of vast open plains. overheated engines. As I said before, us two minutes on this leg and we fin­ these Ghosts are wonderful cars. ished up 5th on the day. The overnight From Boise we enjoyed the latest start stop was at Ogden, Utah where we re- of the Race, departing at 10 a.m., as it There was still snow on the mountain tops. This is picture postcard country. I Between Frisco and Leadville, Colorado. would love to travel in this area when I do not have to spend all my time watching the speedo. At the top of the climb the heavens opened and it was almost like tropical rain. It was a bit hairy coming down the mountain, particularly as 'Big Red’ has only two wheel brakes. By the time we reached the lunch stop at Frisco the rain had stopped and we devoured a magnificent chicken and rib lunch. It might sound as though I am obsessed with food, but after driving for two months in Russia and China food has become more meaningful.

From Frisco we encountered some twisting sections on very narrow roads which were particularly dangerous when 2004 PRAECLARUM

j

Wheat country. Near Boise, Idaho.

was only 310 miles to Richland. We forests with winding roads, and through last day was not as we had expected and stopped at Baker City, Oregon which is a National Park. Some day I would like to we ended up 6th in our class. on the old Oregon Trail for lunch of stew re-visit this area when I don’t have to and salad (waggon trail food). The peo­ keep my eyes on the road. A 20 minute Overall it was a fantastic adventure ple were in pioneer dress complete with lunch stop to eat “Dinosaur Ribs” from an but much harder work than I had envis­ waggons and horses. Despite only 20-30 extremely large beast. The afternoon run aged. The event was well organised, minutes being allowed for lunch stops, was an absolute pot pourri of driving, however the nature of the event was each crew had a host assigned from the from fast sections, blind turns, switch- such that very little time was available to local community. Our host at this particu­ back roads through forests — which was meet many of the other competitors. At lar stop was the most remarkable. A quite confusing, with cars going in all night the competitors were so tired that delightful girl in her early twenties whose directions. Probably the most exciting but after a quick bite to eat they went off to handshake managed to crush my hand dangerous day’s driving apart from the bed. Most mornings it was necessary to as well as my navigator’s. Definitely a rainy days through wooded areas early be up by 4.30 - 5.30 a.m. For someone wood-chopper grip. I am sure this girl in the rally. considering the event in the future it would have been capable of pushing 'Big would not be recommended for those Red’ to the next stop. We arrived in Olympia to find we were wanting to enjoy the scenery or the ca­ in 3rd position in our class, just a fraction maraderie of a group of people, but as a We arrived at Richland, Washington behind 2nd place and 13th overall. En­ test of a car (or more particularly the State hot and tired at 6 p.m. in 6th place, countered a little drama as a spare tyre I crew) it is a great event. having missed a huge detour sign. This had forwarded had gone missing. Just was the final day of general competition the sort of thing I did not need the night As with the London to Peking Chal­ before the Grand Championship two day before the final day. We retired at mid­ lenge, 'Big Red’ came through with flying finishing run for which we had now quali­ night to arise at 4.30 a.m. colours, although I’m not sure the driver fied. will ever be the same again. I wore out a After a quick coffee in the carpark we brand new pair of driving gloves in the Grand Championship Run headed off to what was expected to be a twelve days of driving, but apart from a very hard day. The previous day had few blisters, no other damage. been the most intense of the trip. The last Arose at 4.30 a.m. for the first stage day turned out to be an anti-climax. The 'Big Red’ is now one of the few if not from Richland to Olympia, Washington. stages were through wooded areas with­ the only Silver Ghost to have been driven out anything like the maze-like course of around the world in one piece. She is now Again I was told that we travelled the previous day. The whole thing was safely back in Sydney and after a wash through some of the prettiest country in over in three hours. We felt confident we and service and a new set of tyres will be America. Some very steep hills with had done well. After being taken to the ready for her next adventure. ‘jF switchback roads. On one or two occa­ staging area we were directed to the sions I did peek over the side to see five Myrtle Edwards Park on the waterfront in or six cars zig-zag down the hills. After Seattle. Unfortunately our result on the this we were in flat country again through 2-92 2005

Jld. - !e : W? I«I s I s I * nI) Book Reviews 8 II f I IL i I I p, - s I

crept in. Both in the main text and in the by the RREC rather than by the publish­ photograph captions Her Royal ing house bearing his name and which Highness’s 1967 long wheelbase Silver he founded. Shadow (built some two years before any such model was made available to the The number of photographs is truly general public) is described as being prodigious — in excess of 540 — many unique in having opening front quarter- from the archives of the Sir Henry Royce lights. In fact, all early Silver Memorial Foundation, others from the “Royal Rolls-Royce Motor Cars ” by Shadow-series cars prior to air condition­ files of coachbuilders. It is difficult to es­ Andrew Pastouna. Published by Osprey ing becoming standard equipment had cape the feeling that the best of these Publishing, London. 223 pages, 190 this feature. went into previous Dalton books and illustrations, including 18 in colour. rather more recently taken photographs, £25.00. Rolls-Royce cars were not used by many in the ubiquitous Club Rally en­ the reigning monarch as State cars until vironment and some of downright poor Andrew Pastouna is known to millions after the first Phantom IV (4AF2) was quality, have found their way into this who have ever tuned in to British Forces delivered in 1950 to the then Princess one. Several cars owned by RROC of Broadcasting Service. This, his first Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh. Australia members are illustrated. book, is about his first love — fine motor This event began a process of virtual cars in the service of the Royal Family. complete ousting from the Royal Mews In order to help put the pre-war Phan­ He has the rare honour of owning cars of the rather ponderous Daimlers which toms into the perspective of their time, originally in the service of heads of state were the previously favoured marque. In contemporary sales brochures and im­ and which have carried members of the his fine book Andrew Pastouna eloquent­ pressions of the motoring press for each Royal Family. They include BLW92, the ly reveals the full story. Very strongly of the three models are reproduced, 1954 Silver Wraith Hooper landaulette recommended to all lovers of the marque though the choice of a very early Pill which has appeared in two recent edi­ — particularly as a percentage of the catalogue showing the pre-production 4- tions of PRAECLARUM. royalties on sales goes to the Sir Henry carburetter engine risks misleading the Royce Memorial Foundation. uninitiated. As in previous Dalton books, This book does him great credit, being complete lists of the cars are included, carefully researched and beautifully il­ M.I.B. curiously omitting the AJS and AMS lustrated with a fascinating variety of Polls - Royce series left-hand drive Plls. The chassis The Derby period photographs, including plenty of Phantoms cards at The Hunt House were consulted interior views, designers’ wash and line to compile this information, comprising drawings and copies of official docu­ chassis number, coachwork, coach­ ments relating to the cars. Two rather builder, completion or Guarantee disturbing photographs are included. effective date, original U.K. registration One shows Prince Charles looking quite number and original owner or remarks unruffled behind the smashed window of (but not bothl) for each of some 5,000 a royal Phantom V after a beer bottle had o14VRCNCC DALTON cars. The lists include useful cross refer­ been thrown at it during a visit to the north “ROLLS-ROYCE The Derby Phan­ ences with illustrations in earlier Dalton east of England, and another showing toms” by Lawrence Dalton. Published books, but not with other sources, and the hastily-repaired result of a piece of by the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club, there are no details of present owners or concrete dropped from a multi-storey U.K. 437 pages, over 540 illustrations. whereabouts. building onto possibly the same Phantom £30.00. in Northern Ireland. There is also a The Dalton books are all fine publica­ remarkable page of photographs illust­ This is the latest in a long and distin­ tions and with the reservations alluded to rating the resourceful manner in which guished line of books by Lawrence above, this one is also recommended. the huge Phantoms are loaded and Dalton, undoubtedly one of the most suc­ M.I.B. stowed on the Royal Yacht Britannia. cessful authors in the Rolls-Royce motor car field. “The Derby Phantoms” is Both books reviewed here are available One of the best royal customers of another typically comprehensive Dalton directly from the RREC Club Shop, The Hunt Rolls-Royce has been Princess Mar­ book, covering the Phantoms I, II and III House, Paulerspury, Northamptonshire garet, and it is here that the only factual in a similar format to that of his earlier NN12 7NA, United Kingdom, and will no doubt error in the book, as far as I can tell, has become available in our own Club Shops in publications. It is the first to be published due course. 2006 PRAECLARUM

V.I.N. unravelled

— the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number system de-mystified

by Martin Bennett

From time to time owners of current gave a great deal more information with V.I.N. Like the American RROC we use series cars (“current” in this context the attendant disadvantage, from the the five digit serial number prefixed by meaning any Silver Spirit or derivative point of view of Rolls- Royce and Bentley three letters, being the 3rd, 5th and 10th model) have written or telephoned to enthusiasts who are accustomed to digits of the full V.I.N. This gives us the query either the chassis number or year short, easily remembered chassis num­ marque (Rolls-Royce or Bentley), model of manufacture attributed to their car in bers, that the number now had no fewer or body type and year. In the example PRAECLARUM. Most of these queries than 17 digits. used in the table (which is, incidently, the arise from our use of an abbreviated form first Silver Spirit II) our abbreviated form of the full 17-digit number, for fairly ob­ The Vehicle Identification Number would become ASL31001. To add some vious reasons, and because the year system was clearly described, together confusion, if you are looking back quoted is that indicated by the year letter with its history, by Hugh Young in his through older Club publications it is worth digit of the full number rather than the article “The True Story of the 17-digit bearing in mind that we once used the year of first registration, which for V.I.N.” in PRAECLARUM 3-84. Since 12th digit (‘H’ for right-hand drive) instead reasons that I will explain later can differ then, however, the system has become of the 10th, but this was rather pointless by as much as three years. more complicated and in fact now con­ from an information point of view since all veys even more information about an Australian delivered cars are right-hand When the Silver Spirit range of motor individual car, which is appropriate given drive! cars was introduced in October 1980 the the increasing complexity of the Rolls- opportunity was taken to simultaneously Royce and Bentley model range. For The 10th digit, the year letter, indi­ introduce an entirely new system of example, the original letter for body type cates the model year for which the car chassis numbering for all models. The made no provision for the future intoduc- was built. Confusion, as well as the system used for the previous Silver tion of new variants of the standard potential for disputes years later, arises Shadow range differed from earlier chas­ saloon, so that when the Bentley Eight because cars have not necessarily been sis numbering systems in that was introduced in 1984 the 5th digit of the sold and registered in the year indicated Rolls-Royce and Bentley models were V I N. (see table) made no distinction by the year letter, particularly in times of integrated into a single system and in the between that model and the Silver Spirit economicdownturn. For example, during fact that more information about an in­ or Mulsanne. Since the 1987 model year, the 1982/3 recession a considerable dividual car was revealed by its chassis however, this has been rectified. number of new Rolls-Royce and Bentley number (see PRAECLARUM 1-91, cars in Australia remained unsold for two p.1801). The 1980 system, however, For Club purposes we abbreviate the years or more.

W _ or ft. I I \! W — r I A.! P I I 7 = 11 V i m V'V SEX* SM W B ^11 D E 2-92 2007 *SCAZS00A7LCH31 001 *

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

1 & 2 SC - World manufacturer identifier Prior to 1987 model year:

3 Marque: A = Rolls-Royce B = Bentley 6 Engine type:

4 = Type L410 engine 4 "Line": Y = Camargue P = Phantom VI Z - All 8 - Bentley Eight other models O - Other 5 Model/body type: 7 1 = Carburetters S = Saloon (including all standard wheelbase saloons prior to 1987 model year) 2 - Fuel injection

N = Long wheelbase (no division) T = Turbo

L = Long wheelbase with division O = Other

C = Two-door saloon From 1987 model year:

D = Convertible 6 & 7 00 = Naturally aspirated, fuel injected

J = Camargue (discontinued 1986) 01 = Carburetters (Phantom VI only) M = Phantom VI Limousine 02 = Catalyst equipped T = Phantom VI Landaulette 03 = Turbocharged, catalyst equipped New codes phased in from 1987 model year: 04 = Turbocharged, non-catalyst

E = Bentley Eight 8 Restraint system code (U.S. requirement) F = Bentley Eight (long wheelbase) 9 Check digit (0 - 9 or X). Used to ensure the VIN R = Bentley Turbo R is correct and to foil would-be VIN forgers.

P = Bentley Turbo R (long wheelbase) 10 Model year: A = 1980, B = 1981, etc., omitting I.OandQ. L=1990, M = 1991,N = 1992,etc. X = Silver Spur/Bentley Mulsanne Limousine

M = Phantom VI (including Landaulette) 11 Factory: C - Crewe, W = Willesden (PVI only)

B = Bentley Continental R (1992) 12 H = Right-hand drive, X = Left-hand drive

W = Silver Spur II Touring Limousine (1992) 13-17 Serial number (began at 01001 in 1980)

Opposite page: Locations of the Vehicle Identification Number, four-door cars. Bold type Indicates locations on Australian specification cars. A - Left-hand frontdoor closing pillar (U.S.A, specification cars). B - Left-hand side of windscreen surround (Canadian and U.S.A, specification cars). C - Left-hand front door hinge pillar (Canadian, Middle East and U.S.A, specification cars). D - Left-hand engine compartment valance (Australian specification cars). E - Right-hand engine compartment valance (All cars). F - Right-hand frontdoor hinge pillar (other than Canadian, Middle East and U.S.A, specification cars). G - Right-hand side of luggage compartment (Swedish specification cars). 2008 PRAECLARUM

view of February 13th, 1992 which re­ a fine of up to $100,000 or five years ported as follows: imprisonment and confiscation of illegal exports by the Commonwealth. "Federal Police are investigating the appearance in a Sotheby’s London auc­ 1606 restoration news Faking it tion of a $1 million lot from Australia. “The investigation, which is of special Keith Wherry has written to advise The Times (London) of November concern to all vintage and veteran car that progress on the restoration of his 12th, 1991 reported that an American car owners, will seek to establish whether 1910 Silver Ghost 1606 continues (see collector was awarded £60,000 dam­ the lot, a 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, Ghost Chatter 1-91). The basic body has ages in the High Court, eight years after is an illegal export.” been constructed, painted and trimmed being sold a "1913” Silver Ghost that and is awaiting completion of the chassis turned out to be a later car. The Movable Cultural Heritage Act, restoration to enable the rear mudguards which is administered by the Department to be constructed and the original run­ It was reported that the collector suc­ of the Arts, Sport, the Environment and ning boards, windscreen, etc., to be cessfully sued Coys of Kensington for Territories, requires that an export permit rebuilt. fraudulent misrepresentation after he be obtained for objects of road transport discovered that the car was a 1922 made in Australia before 1930 or in use The major work to the chassis has model worth half the amount he paid for in Australia before 1920 and provides for now been completed and the frame is in it. The judge said "This cannot be a case of innocent misrepresentation. I’m sure beyond reasonable doubt that the false representations were made knowingly.”

Well known Silver Ghost authority Jonathan Harley had told the court that a plate with the 1913 chassis number 2513 had been fitted to the car and the real number filed off the front cross member.

There have been instances in Austra­ lia of late Silver Ghosts being dressed up to appear superficially as much earlier cars, complete with replacement chassis number plates. One of these, in the guise of 1913 chassis 2678, recently turned up at an auction in the U.K. According to the auction catalogue this car offered "Truly splendid Edwardian-period motoring”. The body for Keith Wherry’s 1911 Silver Ghost chassis 1606 nearing completion at Peter Lamb's Robert McDermott of Melbourne, who workshop near Sydney... owns the real 2678, successfully per­ ...and the chassis being prepared for painting and reassembly at R.A.McDermott & Co's special suaded the auction house to withdraw Silver Ghost facility in Melbourne. the car from the sale. The point of all this is, of course, that one cannot be too careful when either buying or selling a Rolls-Royce car, particularly a Silver Ghost.

Movable Cultural Heritage &

In his regular column in PRAE­ CLARUM 5-91 Federal President Russell Rolls referred to discussions at Federal Council on the Movable Cultural Heritage legislation and its implications for owners of old motor vehicles. Any doubts about the relevance of this to our movement would have been dispelled by an item in the Australian Financial Re- 2-92 2009 the paintshop. Re-assembly of the res­ tored components was expected to start late in January and Keith hopes to have the completed car ready within the next two to three months, so we can look forward to seeing this fine early Silver Ghost on the road soon.

2104 —more

In Ghost Chatter 3-91 Gavin Sandford-Morgan described his rescue of 2104 from Port Kenny, South Australia. The “Victorian collector” who now owns the car is Garry Dubois, who has written to point out that, although 2104 with original owner Alfred Saunders at the wheel, looking much more dignified than it did Gavin did not say so, it is a genuine in the two photographs in ‘Ghost Chatter' 3-91. The tourer coachwork, by Barker, is very typical London-Edinburgh car. It has the large of that fitted to London-Edinburgh type chassis and present owner Garry Dubois will naturally be carburetter and other features of that replicating this body as part of his restoration. Note the Rudge Whitworth wire wheels. variant and the chassis cards are en­ dorsed “duplicate of 1701” (the standard car pictured is indeed 40522 but the Rolls-Royce terminology for the London- New home for 22NK Heavy Twenty mentioned is wrongly Edinburgh type chassis) and “chassis to numbered. It should be 40506. The parts Malcolm Johns, who owned his first be ‘London-Edinburgh’ type.” that John Fasal has in England could be Silver Ghost at the age of 16, has pur­ from either car, although I’ve established Ian Irwin (A.C.T.) sent Garry a chased the 1923 Barker tourer 22NK. that the body remains, assuming them to photograph of a hitherto unidentified The list of previous owners of this car be from the same car, have Heavy London-Edinburgh Silver Ghost taken in reads like a Who’s Who of Silver Ghost dimensions and are in any case unlike Sydney with two gentlemen in the car. owners — Peter McGrath, Jack Jeffrey, 40522, so the parts are more likely to be 2104’s chassis records indicate that the Laurie O’Neil, etc. Malcolm says that he from 40506. The flat steering wheel was first owner was not Sir Hugh Denison, but first tried to buy 22NK in 1958. The as­ standard on 1906 Heavies too and the Alfred Saunders, a George Street, Syd­ king price was a firm £550, but Malcolm oblong radiator badge was introduced in ney jeweller (though a Mr Denison is only had £500. So he tried to borrow the late 1905 so one has to use other mentioned in the records during the other £50 from his father, who declined methods to distinguish types.” period of Mr Saunders’ ownership). After on the grounds that the car had bald tyres tracing Mr Saunders’ daughter to Salis­ and a tatty hood! The purchase price this bury in the U.K., Garry took the photo 2082 to Canberra time around was considerably higher — there and showed it to her. She identified even after taking into account inflation the car as 2104 and Mr Saunders as the 1912 Silver Ghost Roi des Beiges over the ensuing thirty four years! gentlemen at the wheel! tourer 2082 has been purchased by John Burns, an active member of the A.C.T. Few Silver Ghosts in Australia have So Garry is now fortunate enough to Branch. We look forward to seeing this original English coachwork. The Barker have a good photograph from which to car at Club events. John tells me that he coachwork fitted to 22NK is not only ex­ build a replica of the original body, which intends taking it to Ballarat in September tremely original but also exceptionally is very typically L to E in appearance and for the Federal Rally and hopes to join the elegant and characteristic of that was apparently built by Barker, the chas­ 'Waggon Train’ and drive it down there. coachbuilder’s work of the period. The sis cards indicating that the chassis was only jarring note was that the mudguards were early 1960s replacements to a dif­ delivered to that firm on December 13th, 58TM 1912. ferent style. However, the original 'guards were located at McDermott’s in Garry assures us that we can look Victoria Branch member John Smith Melbourne and duly purchased. forward to seeing the car restored and on requires information on previous owners the road in the not too distant future. of his 1924 Silver Ghost, 58TM. Any This is another car that we hope to see reader who can help, please contact on the ‘Waggon Train’ to Ballarat for the 40522 — more John, whose address is: Federal Rally in September — good practice for the Alpine in Austria next 128 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, year! Tom Clarke writes from Tokyo about Ferny Creek, the New Zealand 4 cylinder 20 h.p. cars Victoria 3786 Martin Bennett referred to in 'Ghost Chatter’ 5-91: “The 2010

Market Place ROLLS-ROYCE OWNERS' CLUB CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Cars For Sale Cars For Sale Cars For Sale

1929 Phantom II (99WJ) complete Vintage 1952 Silver Dawn (SKE44) Black with beige chassis. Many thousands of dollars expended interior, big boot, manual gearbox. 196,726 on numerous new parts and complete rebuild miles. Requires brake and radiator repairs. of engine, e.g. blocks rebored/resleeved, new $45,000. Fred Engish (03) 584 9372 whitemetal bearings throughout, etc. Engine ready to reassemble. New exhaust system, tyres, etc. Original Australian delivery long chassis complete with body sub-frame. Full history, chassis cards, etc. Most essential 1956 Silver Cloud I (SZB71) Countryman tools including ‘C spanners, etc. Excellent Saloon by Harold Radford (see book Rolls- opportunity to acquire a genuine Vintage Royce by Martin Bennett pp. 118,119.) Dark Rolls-Royce chassis at a reasonable price. green with green interior. 153,404 miles. $45,000 ono. Tony Ward (02) 363 1422 (w) Requires restoration. $35,000. Fred Engish 451 9697 (h) (03) 584 9372 1952 Bentley R-type Continental (BC12A) Two-door fastback sports saloon by H.J.Mul- liner. Grey (originally Traffic Blue) with tan interior. Manual gearbox, kilometre speedo (estimated 258,922km). Engine, clutch, gear­ box and front suspension overhauled by Kel- low Falkinerin 1974. Further work required on coachwork, brakes and rear suspension. 1960 Silver Cloud Ils (SWC548 & STB332) Refer following publications: Bentley R-type Both in superb condition bodily and mechani­ Continental by Stanley Sedgwick p.41, Rolls- cally and are air conditioned. Price includes Royce by Martin Bennett p.73 photo 116 and three Melbourne Metropolitan Hire Car PRAECLARUM 77-6 pp.300-303. $240,000. 1939 Wraith (WKC10) Park Ward sports licences. $150,000. Ian Edwards (03) 876 3064 saloon. Complete rebuild over the past 15 Fred Engish (03) 584 9372 years. Body, paint, upholstery, engine, 1959 Bentley S2 (B322AM) White with Bur­ radiator, gearbox, differential, brakes, tyres gundy leather. Electric windows. Engine and and wiring. 91,000 miles. A very smooth car gearbox in excellent order. Very good overall in terms of performance, reliability, driving condition. Long reg. $36,500 ono. Geoffrey pleasure and appearance. Reluctant sale as May (03) 822 2266 or mobile (018) 39 3614 another restoration project looms. Offers around $90,000. PaulSzuster(08)271 0884(h) 1962 Silver Cloud III (SCX191) Sage Green 373 3557 (w) over Smoke Green with beige interior. Electric windows, air conditioning. Excellent condi­ 1953 Bentley R-type (B152TN) Very rare tion. 113,809 miles. $80,000. Fred Engish James Young saloon. John Vawser just run­ (03) 584 9372 ning in thorough engine overhaul. 3,000 miles since extensive body and mechanical atten­ tion. Poor paint and interior require urgent attention. Many new spares and tyres. $28,000. John Nevell (066) 52 3185 (w) (066) 51 1554(h)

1956 Silver Cloud I (SWA148) Olde English 1951 Silver Dawn (SDB124) Garnet. Only White with Burgundy interior. New carpet and 1989 Bentley Turbo R (BRK27121) British 63,000 miles since new. Excellent condition. headlining. Meticulously maintained. racing green with green interior. Still under Original tools and handbook. Forced sale due $47,000. Geoffrey May (03) 822 2266 or warranty,only46,000 k.m. Magnificent motor to illness. $59,000. Jim Schofield (08) 332 3269 mobile (018) 39 3614 car. Excellent value. $215,000. Maurice Brockwell (09) 274 6598.

INFORMATION: Classified ads must be PHOTOGRAPHS: May be B & W or colour. COST: Ads are free to members who do not factual and accurate. Persons mis­ The subject matter area of photographs for regularly deal in sales or service of Rolls- representing cars, parts or services will be inclusion in ads should preferably be no Royce & Bentley cars. Others are charged denied further advertising. Ads for cars for larger than 11 cm. measured horizontally. $15.00 for a non-commercial ad of sale must include chassis number and as­ DEALERS: Parties dealing in motor cars reasonable length. Photographs to accom­ king price. Ads are edited to conform to a must, where required by law, quote their pany an ad are included free of charge to standard format and may be condensed or dealer’s license number and comply with all members, $15.00 for others. Cheques rejected at the discretion of the Editor other statutory requirements relating to their made payable to RROC must accompany without discussion or explanation. advertising. advertising copy. Send ads to:

Martin Bennett, ‘Allambi’, RMB 3310, Goulburn, N.S.W. 2580. ’Phone/FAX: (048) 29 7140 Deadlines: 21 st of the month preceding the month of publication. Wanted To Trade Parts Wanted Literature Wanted

1980 Silver Shadow II (SRH40588) low For 1950 Mk VI: complete differential with or Wanted: 'A History of Rolls-Royce Motor mileage, excellent condition. Wish to trade for without axles and/or individual parts, e.g. Cars, Volume 1, 1903-1907’ by C.W.Morton. complete Silver Ghost suitable for restoration. crown wheel and pinion, spider gears, etc. Carl Stockton (02) 319 7286 (all hours) Lachlan Ely (03) 879 3993 (w) 874 3280 (h) Noel Semmens FAX: (09) 389 1900

My 1922 20 h.p. tourer (41G8) is missing quite Services Accessories For Sale a few parts and as it is the earliest known production Twenty in existance it must be Interior Woodwork Refurbishers, specialis­ restored. The parts required are: set of wire Early 1920s ’SIRRAM’ picnic set in black ing in: French polishing, Hi Tech laquering, wheels, set of mudguards, radiator shutters, leatherette covered box containing spirit veneer repaired/replaced, broken sections rocker gear, fan and brackets, crank handle, lamp, kettle, teapot, sandwich boxes, crock­ repaired, dry rot areas restored, woodgraining coil, magneto, Autovac, shock absorbers, lug­ ery, beakers, cutlery, salt & pepper shakers, on metal. Musical instrument maker by trade, gage carrier, bonnet catches and handbook. tea & sugar containers and wicker covered 1959-75; Automotive Interior Woodwork Keith Ross (067)44 1322 bottles. Over 40 items. Complete and un­ Repairer by choice, 1975-present. J.E. & L.J. Nicholls, 21 Chippewa Ave., damaged, appears hardly used. $800. Wai For 1950 Mk VI: right-angle drip plug from Mitcham, Vic. 3132. ’Phone (03) 874 1329 Maynard, 2 Delungra Ave., Clifton Springs, centralised chassis lube system on lower yoke Vic. 3222. (052)53 1665 bearing; Set of locks and levers for boot dust blind; tool for adjusting o/h tappets; bakelite­ handled screwdriver; 2 smaller spanners. Parts For Sale Interior Trimming carried out to exacting Alex Lynch (03) 822 1476; FAX (03) 822 1085 standards using authentic Rolls-Royce and coachbuilders’ materials and methods. For 1912 Silver Ghost chassis 2082: CAV G- 20 h.p. 3-speed centre change gearbox. Good Repairs or complete replacements. Connolly type headlights, CAV switchbox and veteran condition. $800. Bill Davies (02) 771 2227 hide upholstery, headlining, Connolly re­ rear view mirror. John Burns (06) 254 5495 colouring, carpets, heelpads, etc. McMillan 1933 roadster body by Martin & King to Prestige Car Repairs (02) 744 5111 suit Phantom II. $7,500. Ray Bow-George For Silver Ghost: steering wheel - can swap for good PI steering wheel. Temperature gauge, (018) 44 8647 (mobile) Complete Interior Woodwork restoration thermostat. Jeremy Greene (09) 457 2629 and refurbishing. Broken wood and veneer 20 h.p. rear axle assembly, virtually com­ repaired. Exacting standards and authentic plete but less springs. $2,000. John Reis For Derby Bentley: pair of ‘B’ logos for centre finishes — no over-restoration. McMillan (03) 528 6480 (h) pod of Lucas R.100 headlamps. Can swap for Prestige Car Repairs (02) 744 5111 ’RR’ type. Jeremy Greene (09) 457 2629

PRJECLARVM For Sale Display Advertising 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II Long Wheelbase Saloon with Division. If your business is associated in any way with Rolls-Royce Chassis No. LCB56 and Bentley motor cars, or if you are offering that special car for sale, you could benefit from the impact of PRAECLARUM display advertising. Your message will reach well over 1,000 Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiasts Australia-wide, in New Zealand and elsewhere. The Club will benefit, too. You can submit your advertisement in camera-ready form or it can be typeset to your requirements on the PRAECLARUM typesetting system at no additional charge.

Our rates are: Full Page - $410 A rare opportunity to purchase a Long Wheelbase Silver Cloud. Half Page - $230 Elegantly finished in gleaming black with perfect burgundy hide QuarterPage- $130 interior. Superb interior woodwork with elaborate cabinetwork to the To enquire or book space, please contact: rear compartment. Fitted with electric division glass and many other Martin Bennett, luxury features. Offered for sale on behalf of owner at $70,000. ‘Allambi’, Please contact Michael Pallier on (02) 331 3377 RMB3310, Licensed Dealer 428 Goulburn, NSW 2580 York Motors

'Phone/FAX: (048) 29 7140 101 William Street, Sydney 2011 WeX Sole distributors for Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars in N.S.W., Qld. and the A.C.T. 2012

Quality without compromise

■

'vj

hB

S’Y#* Mg I I H I Newly created body under construction for 1912 Silver Ghost, a copy of a Portholme design as fitted to the Radley Alpine car.

GARRY DUBOIS AUTOMOTIVE CRAFTSME

24 Cremorne Street., Richmond, Victoria 3121. ’phone (03)428 9622; FAX (03)4282139

We now cater for all models Rolls-Royce and Bentley — mechanical and body. Coffee and chat any time! 2013

BRUCE R. ROSS PTY. LTD. 340 PENNANT HILLS ROAD, PENNANT HILLS, N.S.W. 2120 Phone: (02) 484 1239, 484 1253, 484 1254, 484 4419 Fax No.: (02) 980 6592 Rolls-Royce & Bentley - Spares and Service 'V EXCHANGE ENGINES it1 Rolls-Royce Bentley Silver Wraith Mk VI o Silver Dawn R-type Silver Cloud 1 SI ‘ Silver Cloud II & III S2&S3 a . Silver Shadow I & II T & T2 F." • A /1 y a W

(I' EXCHANGE WATER PUMPS ALL POST WAR MODELS. EXCHANGE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS WHEEL CYLINDERS Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Silver Dawn Silver Cloud Bentley EXCHANGE HYDRAULICS Mk VI SHADOW & T. SERIES R-type Accumulator Spheres S-type Accumulator Valves EXCHANGE DIFFERENTIALS Hydraulic Pumps J Rolls-Royce Master Cylinder Silver Wraith Rear Height Control Ram ■ Silver Dawn Rear Height Control ValvesB Silver Cloud Solenoid Valves Silver Shadow Distribution Valves Bentley Brake Calipers Mk VI R-type S-type T Series

EXCHANGE MANUAL GEAR

■ BOXES Rolls-Royce Bentley Silver Wraith Mk VI 'U ;- ; Silver Dawn R-type

/ EXCHANGE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Rolls-Royce Bentley Silver Cloud I SI Silver Cloud II & III S2&S3 __ Silver Shadow I & II T & T2 Extensive Range of Spare Parts for all models 2014

Newly manufactured parts ex-England

Silver Ghoet: Manifold (late plain type) Carb throttle spindie (RME52822) Bentley 31/2/4 Vc Kingpin (RMF9845) Rear hub (early) Carb valve spindle (aux throttle, RM E51218) Aluminium wheel disc (outer) Phantom I: Kingpin (early - RMF51888) Carb valve seating (RME54502) Steel inner disc Flywheel boh (tapered - RMG70265) Kingpin lower bush (early - RMF5O915) Cam follower yoke (RME50227) Overdrive unh (RMC00042) Phantom II: Kingpin (late) Cam follower guide cover (RME50229) 20/25,25/30, Bentley 31/2/4V4: Kingpin (RMG775O4a) Carb float chamber top (RME50951) Timing gear idler retaining nut (RME50071) Crankdamper spring plate assembly Kingpin bush (lower - RMG76245) Carb float needle valve (RME54O48) Dynamo brush cover (RMD50595) Crankdamper compression spring Kingpin upper bearing race (RMG77240) Carb float needle valve seating (RME50584) Dynamo/fusebox hah wingnut (RMF7156) Crankdamper drive spring (large & small) Crankdarrper spring piate asserrtoly (RME 71439a) Carb fitter retaining nut (RME50536) Rocker shafts Aluminium wheel disc (outer) Oil pump drive shaft (RME50568) Crankdamper centre driveplaie (RME76619) Cap for float needle valve (RME50586) Wheel spoke All Small Horsepower: Crankdamper retaining nut Crank sludge trap ((RME50083) Clutch lining Oil pump driveshaft thrust bearings (compris­ Crankdarrper compression spring (RME81931) Front axle brake shaft Overdrive unh (RMC00041) ing 1 off RME50301a & 2 off RME50302) Sump plug Crankcase main bearing boh (RME50110) 20/25: Wraith: Front axle brake shaft Conrod boh (RME50759) Cylinder block (3 & 4 stud carb) Cam follower Cam follower spring Hub cap screw (RMG2767) Carb float feed valve cap Bentley Mk WR-type/Silver Dawn: Valve spring (RME80242) Luggage carrier Outer disc retaining ring (chromed) Overdrive unh (RMC00043) Front brake pull-off spring Exhaust brackets, front and rear 25/30: Steering wheel Rocker shaft (RME77709) Oil pump drive shaft (RME50568) Overdrive unh (RMC00042) Replacement panel parts Rocker shaft bush (RME7713) 20 h.p., 20/25: 20/25,25/30: Silver Cloud/S Series: Luggage carrier Crankshaft oil seal plate (RMC00045) Front axle brake shaft Replacement panel parts Continental front damper operating shaft Carb float chamber top (RME 54O46d) Bentley 31/fc: Australian made door and boot seals 20 h.p: Carb needle & jet (slow running) Front axle brake shaft Silver Shadow/T Series (Inc Series II): Water jacket retaining screw (RMF7341) Carb needle & jet (high speed) Front axle brake shaft spring (Ih/rh) Replacement panel parts Brass nozzle for water port (RME3O225) Carb plug under high speed jet (RME53150) Front hub bearing retention ring Cylinder head rear end plate (RME51659) Cap for starting carb (RME51849) Front brake camshaft Manifold (early finned type) Carb plug under starting and low speed jet Cam follower spring

BONGALEA PTY LIMITED (TI a i)

BOSCH FUEL INJECTION & ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEMS Service & Tuning Complete Vehicle Maintenance ■ Servicing -Tuning Authorised Inspection Station - Bosch Computer Engine Diagnosis I AML

AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS 43 CHARD ROAD, BROOKVALE, N.S.W. 2100 licensed vehicle repairer No. 131781 a.c.n. ooo 253127 TELEPHONE: 938 1301 - 905 3507 • 939 7129 FAX: 905 0260

SALES, SERVICE, SPARE PARTS, COACHWORK & RESTORATION EVERY ASPECT OF WORK CARRIED OUT TO THE MOST EXACTING STANDARDS

* Unequalled skills and extensive research facilities to ensure absolute technical authenticity.

* Meticulous attention to detail.

* Unsurpassed stocks of rare parts available for restoration cars. R. A.McDermott & Co Sales * Service * Repairs * Spares * Restoration 120 STURT STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE, VICTORIA, 3205 Telephone (03)682 3483; Facsimile (03)6867821 LMCT 4141 2015 Classic Car Insurance that's affordable. Veteran,vintage,classic and sports car owners Laid-up cover or full compre- Pre-1940 Features: hensive, quality insurance with vehicles k • Agreed value Shannons might not cost as fl FROM A •Choice of repairer much as you think. fl ■ • One windscreen or window Shannons recognise that fl glass replacement per year enthusiasts take care of their $80 excess free vehicles and pass the savings on • You keep the salvage up to 1970 to you. (modifieds up to 1960) Phone Shannons for a free quote • Personal effects cover on your insurance now. • Standard pre-1940 vehicles excess free • $5,000,000 legal liability • Prompt claims settlement • Australia wide service centres.

SHANNONS

Keeping‘ vehicles on Australian roads

Head Office, Victoria New South Wales South Australia Weston Australia Queensland Northern Territory 321 Warrigal Road, 48 Sailors Bay Road, 6/212 Brighton Road, Suita 1,4 Canning Road, P.O. Box 485, 9259 Bagot Road, Cheltenham, Vic., 3192 Northbridge, N.S.W., 2063 SomertonSomerton Park,Park, SA, 50445044 Kalamunda, WA, 6076 Moorooka, Old., 4105 Coconut Grove, N.T., 0810 Phone (03) 584 7268 Phono (02) 958 7886 PhonePhone (08)(00) 294204 90009000 Phono (09) 2571289 Phons (07) 892 2770 Phono (089) 15 2477 Fax (03) 583 9475 Fax (02) 958 7841 FaxFax (08) (08) 294 294 9995 9995 Fax (09) 257 1 289 Fax (07) 892 4319 Fax (089) 85 5583 Veteran, Vintage, Classic, Sports and Modified Insurance Specialists McMillan Prestige Car Repairs Pty Ltd

Quality prestige work now all under one roof.

Our new, larger, more conveniently located buildingon the corner ofQueens Road and Regatta Road, Five Dock (opposite the Veteran Car Club of Australia) is superbly equipped for all coachwork repair, repainting, restoration, detailing and interior trimming, with all these operations now under one roof.

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Our new postal address: 25-27 Regatta Road, Five Dock, N.S.W. 2046 Telephone: (02) 744 5111 or 744 5242; Facsimile: (02) 744 5517 GOULPRESS PRINTERS, GOULBURN (048) 21 1761 Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. NBH 1893 Lodoement Office: Ainslie 2602