Hand position - IAM dogma question
Discussion
Had a questions asked of me today about hand position. I know what I would do, and what I think, but it was in the context of an IAM test, so wanted to know if anyone knew what the IAM dogma was on it.
Long left-hand corner. Big wheel, driver using pull-push. Correct deflection for corner is found when steering wheel is 180 deg off centre -- ie when both hands reach dead bottom on pull-push.
What does IAM do with them then? Back to top together? Back to 10-2?
For my part, I'd split them, across the wheel 8-2. But then I'd probably have fixed inputted my way there anyway.
Long left-hand corner. Big wheel, driver using pull-push. Correct deflection for corner is found when steering wheel is 180 deg off centre -- ie when both hands reach dead bottom on pull-push.
What does IAM do with them then? Back to top together? Back to 10-2?
For my part, I'd split them, across the wheel 8-2. But then I'd probably have fixed inputted my way there anyway.
I have to say that sounds like one of those questions designed deliberately to pick holes in something. There is an apparent contradiction in the question and the use of the word 'dogma' belies an ulterior motive from the questioner. Why would a "long left hand bend" need that much steering input?
Anyway, given the situation as described and taking it at face value I would use pull-push in such a way that my hand finished at approx 9-3 across the wheel for the duration of the turn.
Anyway, given the situation as described and taking it at face value I would use pull-push in such a way that my hand finished at approx 9-3 across the wheel for the duration of the turn.
7db said:
But then I'd probably have fixed inputted my way there anyway.
Me too. If my hands were going to pass 12/6 "o'clock". I'd have fed the wheel and ended up with a ten to two or quarter to three position.
But that's me. I suspect IAM advice would be to always feed the wheel and "rest" at ten-to-two/quarter-to-three.
I have discovered a significant disadvantage in fixed input steering on road recently - trying to alter your signals in a curve... Its not often necessary and is usually indicative of an earlier cock-up but its not good...
mefoster said:
I have to say that sounds like one of those questions designed deliberately to pick holes in something. There is an apparent contradiction in the question and the use of the word 'dogma' belies an ulterior motive from the questioner. Why would a "long left hand bend" need that much steering input?
No ulterior motive -- a friend of mine has his IAM test next weekend and asked me for advice. I'd like him to pass. I don't think there's much to benefit from picking holes in dogma. But then I'm not an IAM member.
There's no dogma. Whatever steering technique you use should be such that it aids smoothness and car control. On the road, of course, control can include remaining able to use the steering column controls.
There are a number of ways of achieving this. One method is pull-push. This is generally what IAM Observers advise, because it's what they know and works well. It also avoids crossing your arms, which is an unhelpful habit because of airbags! However, pull-push isn't the sole acceptable method. Pull-push, fixed input and projected steering all have their place. Provided you are safe, smooth and in control, there should be no dogma.
However, I would strongly advise your friend discuss this with his or her IAM Examiner before the start of the test. Examiners generally ask if candidates have any questions before starting, which people commonly do. That way, his or her mind will be at ease about what the Examiner is looking for.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
There are a number of ways of achieving this. One method is pull-push. This is generally what IAM Observers advise, because it's what they know and works well. It also avoids crossing your arms, which is an unhelpful habit because of airbags! However, pull-push isn't the sole acceptable method. Pull-push, fixed input and projected steering all have their place. Provided you are safe, smooth and in control, there should be no dogma.
However, I would strongly advise your friend discuss this with his or her IAM Examiner before the start of the test. Examiners generally ask if candidates have any questions before starting, which people commonly do. That way, his or her mind will be at ease about what the Examiner is looking for.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
I don't think you get there. Your planning, experience and skill would tell you with this long LH bend that you had enough lh steering. Your rh shouldn't end up at the bottom and should settle at 2 or 3 o'clock depending on your preference. Then depending on the time to keep the lh lock on, your lh could slide back up to 9 or 10.
Graham
Graham
Whenever using "push-pull" the hands will generally reach a position that is "comfortable" so in this scsnario the hands would normally recover to what is the most comfortable position. Haven't tried this one myself yet but sitting here at the PC and "miming" I guess I would hold it at 20 to 2. I'll try it later.
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