This is about the differences between FV and FST pros and cons. (as asked.) If the mention of FST disturbs you just don't read it.Terry Abbott wrote: Maybe start a NEW thread about what the differences are between the two and NOT in the committee news section.
FST:
1. 1600 engine, counter balanced crank, W-110 Cam, aftermarket rods allowed (I-Beam, H-Beam with minumum weight) stock 34 Bocar carb, with restrictor plate, allowed dry sumped engine with 2 stage dry sump pump . (Minimum weights and other specs in rules.)
Pro: Price New under $4000.
Pro: Rebuild $ about the same as FV, but history indicates that logevity between rebuilds is better with FST. (Counterbalanced crank keeps bearings living longer and the better a/f mixture from the carb keeps the valves/head cleaner longer.
Pro: Engine oil temps 10 to 30 degrees cooler. Oil pressure consistant.
Pro: All parts readily available from many vendors and manufactures.
Con:. Due to cam lift we have seen more bent/broke push rods and rocker tip wear. But we have pretty much solved this with legal aftermarket stuff.
Con: Very few parts from the 1200 engine are transferable. FOr all practical purposes the FV engine would have to be sold.
Con: Dry sump tank plumbing can be problematic (space) in an existing FV, but we have found a way in all cars so far.
2. Long box transaxle only.
Pro: No changes from track to track
Con: Short box must be changed or sold, etc.
3. Front Beam is Ball Joint type. Shocks towers can be removed. Shocks can be mounted inboard or outboard.
Pro: Beams much lower price
Pro: Readily available multipoe vendors
Pro: Camber/Caster adjustments in 5 minutes.
Con: Conversion effort. Probable nose fiberglass work.
4. DIsc brakes 4 wheels
Pro: reliabilty and maintenance costs/time.
Pro: Ease of conversion
Pro: Safety. No spindle/drum breakage
Pro: No backing plates required
Con: Conversion cost.
5. Rack and Pinion steering allowed.
Pro:/ Con: No performance advantage, a bit lighter.
6. Car weight 1125 lbs. (Most all drivers will require ballast to make minimum weight.)
7. Hoosier 60A FF Spec tire.
Pro: Tires cheaper and last up to a full season.
8. Wheels (See rules for weights and dimensions.) The front tracking width dictates the offset.
Pro: Multiple types, (aluminum, steel), multiple vendors. (from $55 up)
Con: They're bigger The car MIGHT not fit your trailer if you have a small one.
The net: The FST is about 2 to 4 seconds a lap faster than a comparable Vee. Top speed probably 5 mph more than an FV at most tracks. Peak wheel HP ~72+ verses ~52+ Significant low end torque/HP improvement.
Yes, I am biased, but I put everthing in here I know of. For all practical purposes the only real con: with FST is the initial conversion costs/time. The BIGGEST positive by far is the new parts availabilty and EVERY component engine or otherwise is cheaper at thru multiple vendors.