Teflon washers

[Batman]

After my scouts district race we tossed around the idea of going to the MA. I felt like we would prolly be bottom dwellers of the scout oil division. After 6 runs we averaged 2.503 on a 35' besttrack.

But after reading the rules I realized washers were legal. I know there are too many variables to give definative answers, but in general, what gains would one see if installing washers? His car had automotive paint, I sanded smooth, 3000 grit and added wax before his district race. Would have done more but didnt get car back from paint until day before the race.

Any thoughts?

 

[BulldogRacing]

you should run MA's. The kids love it. When you are first starting out it's fairly common to have huge gains in speed because there are many things yet to be improved. I say start doing and applying all the tricks you can and see where you land. You might be surprised!

 

[B_Regal Racing]

I know there are too many variables to give definitive answers, but in general, what gains would one see if installing washers?

Washers (or any type of friction plate) provides a smooth surface for the wheel hub to rub against, should the wheel touch the body. In theory, a 3 degree cant of the rear axles will ensure the wheels migrate towards the nail head, but still, its nice insurance. Paint is not as slippery as a teflon/PTFE/delrin product. How much more speed you would get is anyone's guess, but I do not know of anyone running without some sort of friction plates.

 

[Batman]

Sooooo most people run plates on all 3? I was thinking only the FDW, but maybe it helps out of the gate on the rears. Interesting!!!!! Being our first year, but second car, I have a very strong desire to break under 3.0sec.

 

[B_Regal Racing]

It is very possible to run under 3 seconds, but to be fast, at least by league standards (any league), you really need to race. Hope to see you in next month's race, but in your quest to be fast, the first person you will beat is me. /images/boards/smilies/bawl.gif

 

[CivilWarTalk]

Sooooo most people run plates on all 3? I was thinking only the FDW, but maybe it helps out of the gate on the rears. Interesting!!!!! Being our first year, but second car, I have a very strong desire to break under 3.0sec.

If you've spent enough time on the forum, you'll be able to break 3 in the oil class.

Last year was our first try at MA, we were under 3.0 with a no fender graphite car, so it's not really unrealistic to think if you follow the basic guideline you'll find on this forum, and take the time to do a clean and precise job, you'll be in the trophies!

 

[Batman]

I just want to break 3.0 and make a decent showing! I am a freak when it comes to detail, still just trying to figure which details are the ones to obsess over! LOL

I realize our second car prolly has no real shot at any trophy. Just hoping to not look like a chump!

 

[Batman]

So which is better and why? Teflon or delrin?

 

[Pinewoodguy]

I prefer delrin. Wet sanded then buffed shinier then a gem stone!