[968Syncro]

So, I was wondering, and often think I wish I knew so much more about our 968s and auto technology. So I figured this topic might be interesting. My number one I’d like to know more about is:



Suspensions:

- How spring rates and compression profiles affect handling.

- Shocks! How much shock resistance is needed? What is the interplay with springs.

- Sway bars

- Control arms: how does the geometry help keep the contact patch on the ground.

- Unsprung weight, sure less is better, but how important is it compared to other factors?

- Why does it seem like trial and error and folklore, why don’t we have a computer program that can let us define our car, make changes and accurately define how the car will perform?



What is your desire to know more?

- Combustion? How does piston crown shape affect power? Do those super duper handy dandy new fangled spark plugs really have a benefit, and for which combustion chamber shapes?

- Lubricants?

- Exhaust? Why an overly free flowing exhaust can decrease performance? (Study Chemical Engineering and Physics)

- Tires, which ones really are better, why the compounds make a difference, how can we tell without trying?

- Paint and paint detailing?

- Audio systems?

- Synchronizers? Who really knows how the syncros work in the trans?

- Airflow? Does a freshly waxed car really go faster?

- Or in other words, fuel = $, and so $ are used only to overcome wind resistance and various forms of friction? (setting aside inertia).

- Wear and tear? How to keep the rubber and plastics fresh?

- Hybrids? The new hydrid power technologies.

- Torque converters?

- Continuously variable transmissions?

- Metallurgy?

- Electrics? Why did they convert from 6V to 12V cars?

- Other drivers? Why are there so many people on the road who appear to have no idea they are sharing the road with other cars?

- Automotive history?

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[DaveN]

That's a mouthful! I think that is why we are all here and is the main purpose of this forum. Most of what you question can be distilled from the billion or so posts from the last 6 years <img src="/forum/images/smilies/968/smile.gif" class="smilie" alt="" />

Now is there was on one right answer, yea, that's it!

I can tell you that we went from 6V to 12V due to heavier current draws. The impracticality of 6V to carry a large current without increasing (read engorged) the gauge of the wires. All the components, gauges, electric motors, circuits etc would be substantially larger as well which didn't figure into the advancement and refinement of the modern auto.

I do miss being able to vary the speed of my wipers but turning on my lights or radio <img src="/forum/images/smilies/968/rolleyes.gif" class="smilie" alt="" />

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Cloud9...68]

Yes, that is quite a list. I'm with you in that suspensions are my number one area of interest, and the subject I know the least about. I just started reading a book called "High-Performance Handling Handbook," by Don Alexander, and it seems very good so far. Don't bother with "Competition Car Suspension," by Allan Staniforth, unless you have ambitions of designing and building a race car from scratch.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Lim Yong]

I am interested in air flow....primarily under car and cooling...thanks

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.