How much steer is too much steer

[NeedforSpeed]

So I haven't posted in a while but we are getting ready for districts and I can't find an answer on by searching so I'll just ask.....

We always run 3-4 in of steer over 4 ft. That seems to be the general rule. However I think that is a lot and I feel like I'm burying the car in the rail. We ran 2.5in over 4 ft and had no wobbles at all. I know that each car is different and a test track is needed to find that out but I don't have that luxury. Just tell me if my thought of the least amount of steer possible without wobbles is flawed.

I know you guys have a big race tomorrow but hopefully your cars are sent in and you're bored and wanting to help a novice like me....

 

[GravityX]

Your idea is not flawed. Running less steer is a fine line between wobbles and no wobbles. The car is affected by traffic and how much the car next to you is "throwing" air at your car. It's a gamble not knowing what the car next to you is going to do to your car. One thing I can guarantee, you will be questioning every adjustment you make until the day of the race, and then again afterward.

 

[NeedforSpeed]

Thanks Gravity. You are correct about questioning everything. I do that as well. Longer wheelbase this year so I may be able to get away with less steer.

 

[LightninBoy]

My answer here assumes you are asking about scout racing, not league racing.

Its a matter of risk. A little oversteer will cost you a little. Wiggles will cost you a lot. For scout racing on an unknown track, I'd never recommend going under 4 inches of steer. I follow that rule myself even if I know from track testing that the car is stable with less steer.

 

[TRE]

If you are running stock axles I would definitely go over 4 inch of steer

 

[bracketracer]

For scout racing with stock axles I have the kids set theirs at 5" in 4'. Like LB said, too much steer only costs you a couple thousandths, the wobbles are tens of thousandths.
To echo GX, you never know what's going to be next to your kid's car in a heat, and when Little Johnny Railbanger draws the adjacent lane, well, look out!
You also never know about the guys setting up the track. Maybe they think that track joint is good enough but your wheel catches on it and sends the car into the wobble of death.
Chances are that if you didn't win, it wasn't because you had an extra inch of steer.

 

[NeedforSpeed]

OK guys I trust you. Setting for 4in over 4ft. It is scout racing with scout axles. I know the track and have raced on it a few times. The guy does a pretty good job setting it up. Its a 40ft freedom track.

Watched some of the races tonight. One day I'll send some in and let you guys whoop up on me. haha

 

[TRE]

if its a freedon track 4 is safe