Is there a reason not to weight the rear fenders?

[Guest]

Hey fellas,

I am just wondering your thoughts on rear weighted fenders.

Could one not cut a steel pipe to add weight in the area around the rear wheels that would not add to the wind resistance? After all there is only so much space back there to hide things.

Or would the raised weight destabilize the car?

Or is it that the weight being raised up over the wheels is less effective than low and concentrated and does not make up for the slimmer profile?

Thanks,

 

[GravityX]

I've tried this approach but in a different manner than you describe. COM was very aggressive on this car. I couldn't manage to get any speed out of the car, 2.98xx times. Not saying it can't be done, I just had no luck with it so far.

 

[OPARENNEN]

It is easy to put 12 tungsten cubes both in front of the rear axle and another 12 behind.
After that, buy some thin lead sheets ( use either 1/64th or 1/128th thickness).
After everything else is done, the car should be slightly under weight.
Cut a piece of sheet lead to the exact weight to bring the car up to 5 oz. You can use ordinary scissors to do this.
Now while you are testing, using tape at first, move the lead piece forward or backwards until you get the right com.
In my case, I really don't worry about the com, I just move the leac piece back and forth until I get the fastest time.
Then, glue or use that silver tape to hold the lead on the bottom permanently.
INCIDENTLY, it is better the have the weight as far to the underside of the car as possible, rather than on the top side.

 

[Guest]

Hey O,

Thanks to you and Gravity for the response. I am trying to make a car with a lower profile than 1/4". I realize that it is not recommended but...

I think I have the body pretty stiff at about .09", but it is of no use if there is a .25" bump near the rear wheels.

I was considering using the weight as a spoiler, floating over the body between the rears.

The fenders could do two jobs this way, or maybe just defeat their own purpose.