Probably time for another update… Still back logging events from 2010, but want to proceed linearly to help me with my thought process.
2010 was very much a teething year as we tried to get the bugs worked out of the new chassis and start building speed. I’m going to focus primarily on the build aspect rather than our racing program, as the car is still very much a work in progress as we use the data collected on stage to make modifications.
Here’s what we learned in 2010:
- The car performance was mixed on stage… overall very balanced, but needs refinement
- Cornering and grip was terrific for a 2wd platform, partially thanks to the heavier engine in the nose.
- Braking needs to be switched to a manual system -- it is very much over boosted, and has an all or nothing feel. Work as begun on fabbing a new manual system.
- We had a massive issue with spark dwell that greatly affected performance in our first two rallies. Once that was fixed straight line speed was dramatically improved.
- Solid motor mounts = really bad idea in rally
- Engine has good low end torque, but needs more power above 5000 RPM
- Need to fab coolers for *.*
- We need thicker gear oil
- Engine fires suck.
- Apparently it’s not a ‘race car’ unless we rice out the exterior…
- Could stand to lose a few more lbs (both car and occupants)
- Needs dyno time… I developed the spark map from the seat of my pants; it’s good but not great.
So yea, 2010… Mid way though our intended season, disaster struck on stage.
About 2/3 the way though SS1 at NT3, the engine suddenly changed pitch, and the car started shaking. We at first suspected we lost a coil, since they were acting up recently and decided to press on to the finish. About 1 mile later, very bad things started to happen:
I’ll let the pictures tell the story:
OMG TIME TO RALLY, NOTING BAD WILL EVAR HAPPN111
WHEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
...................
OH F***
I think this might be more than mighty putty and a 45 minute service can handle...
So yea, this is what running at max race load with a spun bearing can do! (in case you were ever wondering). Basically the entire bottom end grenaded and in the process started the engine on fire...
Mess.... Mess everywhere!
So, things being what they were, and other project cars screaming for attention, we decided to shelve our rally plans for the time being and regroup over winter.
Stay tuned for the 2011 rebirth!