FV future #3 Transmission
Posted: October 12th, 2016, 11:01 pm
3nd of a Series
Okay we have just had a successful event (SCCA Runoffs) where we established our class as the largest formula class there, and attracted new blood from karting, one of whom is the son of a Indy 500 winner.
To keep FV relevant, and yet also a entry level class, I want to propose some changes and discuss the pros and cons. I would like to keep each thread factual and focused. If there is another idea we can break it off into its own thread.
The threads must be self-policing.
If someone writes something that does not belong to the thread - DO NOT RESPOND.
If the person feels their point is valid they can pm me to start a new thread, or they can start their own. Hey, I can dream can't I?
Okay, for idea # 3.
The proposal is that FV adopt a fixed transmission – that is with a fixed series of ratios.
Reasons:
In general, there are 4 combinations of transmissions that could be built easily:
1. Short-Short (1.26 3rd)
2. Short-Long (1.22 3rd)
3. Long-Short (1.26 3rd)
4. Long-Long (1.22 3rd)
Most racers have settled on the Short-Long, while FFirst I believe is using the Long-Short. Most Vintage groups might be using the Long-Short as their engines do not rev as high so they need the extra gearing.
Advantages –
1. Less cost for driver entering FV
2. If we pick the right box, it will lower revs at top end (MAYBE)
3. Less changing of gearboxes means more time to do other things
4. Turnaround time between certain races is now possible.
Disadvantages
1. The gears we pick may not lend themselves to certain tracks
2. The fixed set may not be as “fun” to drive
3. Engines and exhaust may have to be returned for more midrange torque. (I need input from engine and exhaust builders to see if this is a show stopper – most other classes using a fixed transmission use a fixed engine and manifold.
Please let me know your feelings, experience and if you would support a fixed ratio gearbox.
If the results are positive, then they can be submitted to the new ad hock committee or put up for a class vote.
Chris Z
Citation #23
061987
Okay we have just had a successful event (SCCA Runoffs) where we established our class as the largest formula class there, and attracted new blood from karting, one of whom is the son of a Indy 500 winner.
To keep FV relevant, and yet also a entry level class, I want to propose some changes and discuss the pros and cons. I would like to keep each thread factual and focused. If there is another idea we can break it off into its own thread.
The threads must be self-policing.
If someone writes something that does not belong to the thread - DO NOT RESPOND.
If the person feels their point is valid they can pm me to start a new thread, or they can start their own. Hey, I can dream can't I?
Okay, for idea # 3.
The proposal is that FV adopt a fixed transmission – that is with a fixed series of ratios.
Reasons:
In general, there are 4 combinations of transmissions that could be built easily:
1. Short-Short (1.26 3rd)
2. Short-Long (1.22 3rd)
3. Long-Short (1.26 3rd)
4. Long-Long (1.22 3rd)
Most racers have settled on the Short-Long, while FFirst I believe is using the Long-Short. Most Vintage groups might be using the Long-Short as their engines do not rev as high so they need the extra gearing.
Advantages –
1. Less cost for driver entering FV
2. If we pick the right box, it will lower revs at top end (MAYBE)
3. Less changing of gearboxes means more time to do other things
4. Turnaround time between certain races is now possible.
Disadvantages
1. The gears we pick may not lend themselves to certain tracks
2. The fixed set may not be as “fun” to drive
3. Engines and exhaust may have to be returned for more midrange torque. (I need input from engine and exhaust builders to see if this is a show stopper – most other classes using a fixed transmission use a fixed engine and manifold.
Please let me know your feelings, experience and if you would support a fixed ratio gearbox.
If the results are positive, then they can be submitted to the new ad hock committee or put up for a class vote.
Chris Z
Citation #23
061987