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Downton Tour: Experimental Department.

This really was the "Top Secret" heart of Downton. Daniel Richmond would spend time in here with his most trusted employees developing new products both for Downton and for BMC. Most of the development work on BMC's alloy A series replacement X9 engine was just one of the projects born in here

 

The picture opposite depicts Daniel Richmond (middle) with Ray Shepard (right) & James Tosen (of Motor left). Examining the Downton developed 8 Port fuel injected A Series that was used in the late 60's in both the works Racers & Rally cars.

Much of Downtons income derived through work they did either directly or indirectly for BMC. Often BMC would farm "specialist" projects out to Downton to keep them away from "prying eyes".

The Experimental Department was equipped with a full range of equipment including Heenan & Froud dynamometer (pictured) as well as a Tacalemit Rolling road in the adjoining shed.