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FSAE Wings (was: Student Project)

To: "team.net" <autox@autox.team.net>, <Gemery@aol.com>
Subject: FSAE Wings (was: Student Project)
From: Scott Mitchell <scott@fortner.com>
Date: Thu, 4 Mar 99 14:48:32 -0500
George Emery wrote:
>       For some reason I seem to recall that there were some FSAE cars that
>were equipped with wings that were attached to the suspension rather
>than the chassis, and for some reason this was considered illegal for
>Solo II? 
>
>       I'm not flaming here, I'm just honestly curious about FSAE designs. And
>why, in what is  effectively an unlimited class, that active aerodynamic
>aids aren't allowed. I understand why sucker cars aren't allowed, but
>what about unsprung wings?

Wings are a subject of constant debate in the Formula SAE community. As 
you suggest they are an awful lot of weight/drag for those little 600 cc 
motors to drag around.  It is my opinion that once a team has a well 
sorted turbo motor, wings are a benefit. 

I was on Virginia Tech's team while in school. Our one Aerospace Engineer 
on the team didn't think they were worth it. But after we left they have 
put wings on. The drivers liked the wings it made the car more stable and 
seemed to improve times a bit.

As for suspension mounted wings, I've never seen them on a FSAE car 
(doesn't mean it hasn't happened). And I don't think it is illegal... 
yet. I suggested it to our team a couple times, but no one took it up.


Scott Mitchell
70 Lotus Europa S2  (life after FSAE)
89-93 VTFSAE

"And it's that grin as the driver rolls off the course into the embrace
of a grid full of those who understand and appreciate what has just been
completed, no matter what time appears on the clock, that none who have
not visited this fellowship can know." - Rocky Entriken



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