Charting DFW weight vs tuning for standard wheelbase/stock setup

[ScoutDadinVA]

Does this exist? if so please post or point me to where it does, i'd be curious to look at. Specifically has someone done the empirical testing of optimal times for a given DFW weight given a tuning over 4feet. So something like Tuning on the Y and weight on the X. Obviously a slope of -1 but curious on the curvature.
Thanks!

 

[ScoutDadinVA]

Does this exist? if so please post or point me to where it does, i'd be curious to look at. Specifically has someone done the empirical testing of optimal times for a given DFW weight given a tuning over 4feet. So something like Tuning on the Y and weight on the X. Obviously a slope of -1 but curious on the curvature.
Thanks!

I know Scott Acton did some experiments decades ago but nothing with railrunners.

 

[Loud2ns]

Does this exist? if so please post or point me to where it does, i'd be curious to look at. Specifically has someone done the empirical testing of optimal times for a given DFW weight given a tuning over 4feet. So something like Tuning on the Y and weight on the X. Obviously a slope of -1 but curious on the curvature.
Thanks!

I don't think there is a chart because there are so many variables involved with how much steer a particular car needs. For me it all boils down to experience over the years and I still get it wrong every once and a while.

 

[T-Bone Racing]

Every car is different. If there was a chart, it would save a lot of tuning, but since every car has a different set up, it’s hard to predict exactly how much weight you’ll always need on the DFW or how much steer you need to run. The more you test and tune your car, the more you will figure out the exact weight you’ll need on the DFW and the exact steer you’ll need.

 

[ScoutDadinVA]

Thanks T-Bone and Loud2ns. Ok makes sense. I thought perhaps someone had charted this for maybe a car with a standard set of measurements and design for a say a basic ladder build with a standard wheelbase. But yes agree many variables. Asked as I was curious if I could try .5o inches COM next year at the pack event with hopes to win district. I may not have a test track so didn't know if I should risk it. figured tune to 5 inches over 4ft and cross fingers.

 

[Loud2ns]

Thanks T-Bone and Loud2ns. Ok makes sense. I thought perhaps someone had charted this for maybe a car with a standard set of measurements and design for a say a basic ladder build with a standard wheelbase. But yes agree many variables. Asked as I was curious if I could try .5o inches COM next year at the pack event with hopes to win district. I may not have a test track so didn't know if I should risk it. figured tune to 5 inches over 4ft and cross fingers.

You talking an adult car or a scout car? I typically have my kids go more conservative on their weighting than my cars. I'll let it all hang out on mine because I don't care if I lose because of a tank slapper!

 

[ScoutDadinVA]

Scout car. After winning the pack in 2021 and underperforming in 2022 he wants a big W and is eager to learn new tools and techniques. So an adult/scout hybrid might be best.

 

[DerbyDad4Hire]

The only true method is a consistent track and timer. There are too many variables.

 

[DerbyDad4Hire]

It doesn't matter who is building the car, scout or Dad, the build is the same. If the drill is good then 2oz behind the rear wheels and the rest in front. Steer the car 3 inches over 4 feet to be safe and they will always be fast if you are prepping them right and using the right products.

 

[ScoutDadinVA]

It doesn't matter who is building the car, scout or Dad, the build is the same. If the drill is good then 2oz behind the rear wheels and the rest in front. Steer the car 3 inches over 4 feet to be safe and they will always be fast if you are prepping them right and using the right products.

Thanks John! Great advice to remember for the next build.