Effect of Track Width on Suspension Geometry

Effect of Track Width on Suspension Geometry

Author
Discussion

Nick1point9

3,917 posts

181 months

Friday 19th April 2013
quotequote all
On the subject of handling, as opposed to grip, you'll need a wider steering rack.

If you simply increase the track rod length then you have effectively moved the steering hard points in board and this will lead to increased bump steer.

TheLastPost

1,150 posts

142 months

Friday 19th April 2013
quotequote all
Nick1point9 said:
On the subject of handling, as opposed to grip, you'll need a wider steering rack.

If you simply increase the track rod length then you have effectively moved the steering hard points in board and this will lead to increased bump steer.
yes Already covered by my first post, though.

Nick1point9

3,917 posts

181 months

Sunday 21st April 2013
quotequote all
TheLastPost said:
yes Already covered by my first post, though.
That'll teach me to skim. At least I didn't make an even bigger fool of myself by getting it wrong!

guitaraholic

Original Poster:

11 posts

147 months

Monday 29th April 2013
quotequote all
Does the car's wheelbase also play a role when considering suspension geometry?

TheLastPost

1,150 posts

142 months

Monday 29th April 2013
quotequote all
It can, yes.

Wheelbase dictates longitudinal weight transfer. Obviously, it also has a direct bearing on Ackermann geometry.

guitaraholic

Original Poster:

11 posts

147 months

Monday 29th April 2013
quotequote all
The reason I asked, the SLC's cousin, the Superlite LMP, uses the same hubs as the SLC, the car has a 78" width, but a 114" wheelbase (vs 104 for the SLC). The car is about 200lbs lighter than the SLC, and is about an inch lower. However, the geometry would be set up for a 78" wide car.

The weight distribution for both cars are pretty close as is the height c.o.g. From what I've read on the testing of the LMP, is it's a record breaking monster, can't wait to see it in action. Getting back on subject, all things considered would the suspension swap still be optimal if....

... Track width of SLC was modified (add 4") to be exactly that of the LMP
... Attachment points of the SLC were exactly replicated to that LMP
... Use LMP control arms

Yes, will still have to figure out the Akerman, but I think that's a lot easier than trying to get roll center's and such.

TheLastPost

1,150 posts

142 months

Monday 29th April 2013
quotequote all
guitaraholic said:
...all things considered would the suspension swap still be optimal if....

... Track width of SLC was modified (add 4") to be exactly that of the LMP
... Attachment points of the SLC were exactly replicated to that LMP
... Use LMP control arms
I don't know. Send me a full set of drawings and set-up information for both cars and a cheque for about £5K and I'll report back to you. smile