Tuning out subpar track widths.

[TroubledWaters]

Hello, I'm working on a car build. The car itself isn't important since it's so far from what it started at. As a rundown, it's probably going to be about 2500lbs with double wishbone independent suspension front and rear and same size wheels and tires all around. Front engine, rear wheel drive. Probably close to 50/50 distribution, might end up slightly rear heavy when complete.

My problem is with the components I'm working with, the front track width comes out to 56.5"/143.51cm and the rear track is 57.5"/146.05cm. I could modify the rear wheel tubs to allow me to bring in the rear track width, but would prefer not to in order to keep a stock appearing interior. The front already has control arms and everything so it would be more expensive to widen, and I rather not use wheel spacers in order to keep the scrub radius where it's at.

This will be a street driven car, with occasional track use. Is the difference in track width going to be a real hamper on handling characteristics, or is it small enough to be tuned out with anti-roll bar, spring, and damper settings? Fun and comfort are the main factors, we're not concerned with being first on race day, but we don't want to be last either.

 

[GregLocock]

I wouldn't sweat it. You'll have slightly more oversteer all things being equal, but if you can soften off the rear springs or sway bar then that will more than make up for it. In this case it's all about the lateral load transfer distribution, the more load transfer at the front the more understeer, which despite what the boy racers think, is a good thing. Soft rear springs will also help with traction out of corners.

Cheers

Greg Locock


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